M come Male
by Sue Grafton
- First published 1996
- 295 pages
- Italian
Private investigator Kinsey Millhone is drawn into the affluent yet fractured world of the Malek family when she is hired to locate Guy Malek, the missing fourth son. Eighteen years prior, Guy vanished after being estranged from his wealthy family, and now his three surviving brothers cannot claim their substantial inheritance until he is found. Kinsey tracks Guy to a quiet town, discovering a man profoundly changed from the troubled youth his family remembers.
However, Guy's return to the Malek estate ignites old resentments and unveils a history of greed and betrayal. When the search for a missing heir escalates into a murder investigation, Kinsey must navigate a labyrinth of family secrets and dangerous rivalries, where loyalty is tested and the truth about Guy's past, and his present, becomes a matter of life and death.
However, Guy's return to the Malek estate ignites old resentments and unveils a history of greed and betrayal. When the search for a missing heir escalates into a murder investigation, Kinsey must navigate a labyrinth of family secrets and dangerous rivalries, where loyalty is tested and the truth about Guy's past, and his present, becomes a matter of life and death.
- Protagonist
- Female protagonist
- Where and when
- California
What readers say
4.10
74K ratings across the web 8 in 10 readers loved it
Readers largely found "M is for Malice" to be a strong and engaging entry in the Kinsey Millhone series, with many considering it one of their favorites. The book is praised for its intricate and compelling mystery, described as a classic-style whodunit that keeps readers guessing with surprising twists and a satisfying conclusion. Reviewers appreciated the plot's escalation from a simple missing persons case into something much larger and more complex. Kinsey Millhone's character development, including her emotional growth and evolving relationships, particularly with the welcomed return of Dietz, was highlighted as a significant positive. The novel also received commendation for its well-drawn secondary characters, entertaining action, and overall suspenseful narrative.
Despite its general acclaim, some readers expressed reservations. A few found the mystery's structure or resolution to be less sophisticated than desired. Kinsey's character drew mixed reactions, with some finding her initial emotional state difficult or her personality "bitchy," while others felt her investigative deductions were occasionally implausible. Critics also noted that the pacing could be slow in the middle sections, and some found the overall tone unpleasant due to the unlikable nature of many characters. Recurring series complaints, such as repetitive descriptions and explanations, were mentioned, and a few readers missed the presence of other beloved secondary characters or found the Kinsey-Dietz relationship unconvincing.
Overall, "M is for Malice" is widely regarded as a solid and enjoyable addition to the Kinsey Millhone series. It is particularly recommended for existing fans who appreciate Kinsey's evolving character, intricate family dramas, and a classic approach to detective work. Readers who enjoy a blend of character-driven storytelling with suspenseful investigative plots, and those who don't mind a slower pace in the middle to allow for character and relationship development, are likely to find this book a satisfying read that upholds the series' enduring appeal.
Despite its general acclaim, some readers expressed reservations. A few found the mystery's structure or resolution to be less sophisticated than desired. Kinsey's character drew mixed reactions, with some finding her initial emotional state difficult or her personality "bitchy," while others felt her investigative deductions were occasionally implausible. Critics also noted that the pacing could be slow in the middle sections, and some found the overall tone unpleasant due to the unlikable nature of many characters. Recurring series complaints, such as repetitive descriptions and explanations, were mentioned, and a few readers missed the presence of other beloved secondary characters or found the Kinsey-Dietz relationship unconvincing.
Overall, "M is for Malice" is widely regarded as a solid and enjoyable addition to the Kinsey Millhone series. It is particularly recommended for existing fans who appreciate Kinsey's evolving character, intricate family dramas, and a classic approach to detective work. Readers who enjoy a blend of character-driven storytelling with suspenseful investigative plots, and those who don't mind a slower pace in the middle to allow for character and relationship development, are likely to find this book a satisfying read that upholds the series' enduring appeal.
Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first.
Details & editions
- This edition
- Tea, 2003
- ISBN
- 9788878189836
- Language
- Italian
Original edition M is for Malice Originally published in 1996 · English · Macmillian
