Buzz
Whenever I'm looking for a way to pass the time, I enjoy reading a captivating detective novel. I tend to jot down a list of suspects, their motives, and their alibis, challenging myself to solve the case before the end of the book. Sometimes I get it right, other times I'm completely off the mark. These stories are both puzzles – akin to crosswords or sudoku – and works of literature, filled with complex characters, psychological depth, and a reflection of society during a particular time. Creating this top ten list was no easy feat, and I don't expect everyone to agree with my selections. There’s the tricky balance between quantity and quality, and the contrast between British cozy mysteries and American hardboiled crime fiction. While some timeless classics were a must, choosing more modern entries was more difficult. In the end, I went with my personal preferences. These detectives are the ones who've provided me with the most enjoyable reading experiences.
10. Detective Inspector Thomas Linley
Inspector Linley is a British detective created by American author Elizabeth George. He holds the title of the eighth Earl of Asherton. He works alongside his Scotland Yard partner, Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers, who comes from a working-class background. In the third book of the Linley series, “Well-Schooled in Murder,” Linley and Havers investigate a murder at an elite British public school, which George describes impressively well despite being a non-British writer. George often spends time researching real locations across England, adding authenticity to her novels. Linley is a multidimensional character with flaws, and his relationship with Lady Helen Clyde develops throughout the series. In the BBC television adaptation “The Inspector Linley Mysteries,” Linley and Havers are portrayed by Nathaniel Parker and Sharon Small, respectively.
9. Kinsey Millhone
Kinsey Millhone is a private investigator created by American author Sue Grafton. She stars in the popular alphabet series, including titles such as “A Is for Alibi,” “B Is for Burglar,” and so on. She resides in an apartment in the fictional town of Santa Teresa, California, which is based on Santa Barbara and was created by writer Ross MacDonald. Kinsey is a single woman who enjoys running to stay fit and has the occasional fling. What draws me to these books is their entertaining nature, fast pace, and compelling plotlines. There's always a bit of action thrown in as well. As of now, there hasn’t been a film or television adaptation of these stories, but that could be an idea for the future.
8. Philip Marlowe
Philip Marlowe, a private investigator introduced by Raymond Chandler in 1939 with the novel ‘The Big Sleep,’ is a classic character in the hardboiled detective genre. With a tough, gritty persona, Marlowe is known for his vices, often indulging in smoking and drinking. His adventures take place in the dangerous streets of Hollywood, Los Angeles, where crime, drugs, and violence run rampant. Chandler’s protagonist, who also appears in ‘The Lady in the Lake’ and ‘The Long Goodbye,’ was inspired by Dashiell Hammett’s Sam Spade. The character has been portrayed by many actors, including Humphrey Bogart in ‘The Big Sleep’ and Powers Boothe in the ITV series ‘Philip Marlowe, Private Eye.’
Sam Spade, a private detective created by Dashiell Hammett, debuted in ‘The Maltese Falcon’ (1930). Though his story arc only spans a single novel and a few short stories, he remains one of the foundational figures in the hard-boiled detective tradition, influencing characters like Chandler’s Philip Marlowe. Spade is tough and fearless, running a detective agency in San Francisco alongside his partner, Miles Archer, who meets an early demise in the narrative. Spade's cynicism is tempered by a strong sense of duty, and the novel features a femme fatale central to the plot. Humphrey Bogart’s portrayal of Spade in the 1941 film adaptation remains iconic.
Sam Spade, a private investigator invented by Dashiell Hammett, made his debut in the 1930 novel ‘The Maltese Falcon.’ Although his appearances are limited to one novel and a few short stories, Spade remains a key figure in the hardboiled detective genre, serving as an inspiration for later characters like Philip Marlowe. A tough, no-nonsense investigator operating out of San Francisco, Spade is unafraid of violence and dangerous situations, yet retains a sense of honor and duty. His story also involves a femme fatale, and the character was famously played by Humphrey Bogart in the 1941 film adaptation.
Inspector Roderick Alleyn, a creation of author Ngaio Marsh, is a distinguished and sharp-witted detective featured in a series of novels. Known for his methodical approach to solving crimes, Alleyn, an officer of the law in London, is often praised for his intellect and composure under pressure. His investigations lead him into the world of high society, offering readers intriguing mysteries that blend traditional detective work with psychological depth. Throughout the series, Alleyn’s professional demeanor is complemented by his personal relationships and evolving character, making him a memorable figure in the detective genre.
Detective Chief-Inspector Roderick Alleyn, pronounced 'Allen,' is a British detective featured in thirty-two novels by New Zealand author Ngaio Marsh. His first appearance was in 'A Man Lay Dead' (1934), where a murder game takes a dark turn with an actual killing. Other notable works include 'Vintage Murder,' 'Artists in Crime,' and 'Overture to Death,' where the murder methods are particularly intriguing. As the younger sibling of a baronet, Alleyn embodies the archetype of a gentleman detective. He works for Scotland Yard, ultimately attaining the rank of Chief Superintendent. Society journalist Nigel Bathgate often assists him in his investigations. Initially a bachelor, Alleyn later marries painter Agatha Troy. Among the three actors who have portrayed him in TV adaptations, Patrick Malahide is the most recognized (as seen in the photo).
5. Jules Maigret
Commissaire Jules Maigret is the sole detective on this list whose stories were originally written in French, not English. Though Belgian author Georges Simenon created him, Maigret is a Frenchman working in Paris. Maigret has set a record with seventy-five novels and twenty-nine short stories. He is often seen with a pipe, a penchant for heavy drinking, and a long overcoat. Unlike many other detectives of the Golden Age, Maigret's character is grounded in realism. His investigative approach mirrors that of an actual policeman: relying on teamwork, methodical research, and persistence rather than individual brilliance. Numerous TV actors have played Maigret, with Jean Gabin being the first and Bruno Cremer (pictured) being the most iconic.
4. Lord Peter Wimsey
Lord Peter Wimsey, a creation of British author Dorothy L. Sayers, represents the quintessential gentleman detective. For him, solving crimes is more of a pastime than a profession. In his second novel, 'Clouds of Witness' (1926), he is forced to act when his own brother becomes the prime suspect in a murder case. Wimsey is a well-rounded character, with a complex history. After being wounded in World War I, he was saved by his future manservant, Bunter, who later assists him in solving mysteries. Wimsey eventually falls in love with and marries Harriet Vine. He frequently collaborates with Chief Inspector Charles Parker from Scotland Yard. These novels remain highly regarded, not only for their intrigue but also for their insightful portrayal of British society during that time. Although Wimsey is a gentleman, he interacts with people from all walks of life, such as the farmer in 'Clouds of Witness,' who accuses him of having an affair with his wife. Multiple actors, including Ian Carmichael (pictured), have portrayed Lord Peter Wimsey, notably in a BBC series.
3. Sherlock Holmes
Sherlock Holmes, created by Arthur Conan Doyle, is the quintessential detective who solves mysteries through logical deduction. He is featured in only four novels, starting with 'A Study in Scarlet' (1887) and including the most famous, 'The Hound of the Baskervilles' (1902). In addition, he appears in fifty-six short stories, with personal favorites such as 'The Red-Headed League' and 'The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle.' Holmes is a firm believer in deduction: the idea that any problem can be unraveled if the correct information is available. Surrounded by less intelligent individuals, his companion Dr. Watson is a good observer who recounts the cases in detail but never reaches the correct conclusion independently. Inspector Lestrade, though not particularly bright, demonstrates persistence once he's on the right trail. Holmes' greatest rival, Professor Moriarty, appears in only two stories. As a private individual, Holmes is quite eccentric, using cocaine and remaining aloof from romantic entanglements, though he has feelings for Irene Adler in 'A Scandal in Bohemia.' Notable actors who have portrayed Holmes include Basil Rathbone and Jeremy Brett (pictured).
Honorable mention: Auguste Dupin (E. A. Poe), Father Brown (G. K. Chesterton), Adam Dalgliesh (P. D. James), Chief Inspector Wexford (Ruth Rendell), Chief Inspector Barnaby (Caroline Graham).
2. Hercule Poirot
Hercule Poirot first appears in Agatha Christie's 'The Mysterious Affair at Styles' (1920). A retired Belgian police officer who came to England as a refugee during World War I, Poirot solves cases using his 'little grey cells,' often without leaving his room. With his penchant for symmetry, order, and method, Poirot has the flair of a comic book hero. His best friend, Captain Arthur Hastings, often relies on intuition to solve cases but frequently assists Poirot through keen observations and accidental remarks. Poirot’s secretary, Miss Lemon, is highly efficient, though lacking the imagination of Hastings. Chief Inspector Japp of Scotland Yard is not particularly sharp, but Poirot often guides him in the right direction. Detective writer Ariadne Oliver, who mirrors Agatha Christie herself, places trust in female intuition. Poirot has become one of the most famous fictional detectives, having appeared in iconic novels like 'The Murder of Roger Ackroyd,' 'Murder on the Orient Express,' and 'Death on the Nile.' Actors who have brought Poirot to life include Albert Finney, Peter Ustinov, and David Suchet (pictured), who starred in the ITV series.
1. Miss Marple
Agatha Christie's Miss Jane Marple first appeared in a series of short stories published in a magazine, later compiled into 'The Thirteen Problems.' This elderly spinster possesses an extraordinary gift for amateur detective work, featured in twelve crime novels, including 'The Murder at the Vicarage' (1930) and 'The Body in the Library' (1943). Living in the quiet village of St. Mary Mead, she spends her time observing human nature, drawing parallels to people and events she encounters in village life, which aids her in solving countless mysteries. Her approach relies heavily on intuition and psychology. Initially dismissed by police investigators as a meddlesome old woman, they eventually come to realize she is always right. Personally, I once held similar biases against 'the old bat,' but after reading her stories, I became convinced she deserves a place among The Big Three of fictional detectives. She has been portrayed in films by Margaret Rutherford and Angela Lansbury, and on television by Helen Hayes, Joan Hickson (pictured), and Geraldine McEwan.
