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48 pages 1 hour read

A Is For Alibi

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1982

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Book Brief

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Sue Grafton

A Is For Alibi

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1982
Book Details
Pages

308

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Santa Teresa, California • 1980s

Publication Year

1982

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

820L

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Super Short Summary

In A Is For Alibi by Sue Grafton, private investigator Kinsey Millhone is hired by Nikki Fife, a woman recently paroled after being wrongfully convicted of her husband's murder eight years prior, to clear her name and find the real killer, leading Millhone through a complex investigation involving themes of marriage dynamics, societal expectations, justice, deception, and wrongful imprisonment.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.0

200,588 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Sue Grafton's A Is for Alibi introduces private investigator Kinsey Millhone, captivating readers with its strong narrative and well-developed protagonist. The mystery is engaging, though some critics find the plot predictable. While Grafton's writing style is praised for its clarity and pacing, others note occasional character clichés. Overall, a solid start to a promising series.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Is For Alibi?

Fans of hard-boiled detective fiction will relish A Is For Alibi by Sue Grafton. Readers who enjoy Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep or Sara Paretsky's Indemnity Only will appreciate Kinsey Millhone's sharp wit, gripping investigations, and the intricate plots set in the California landscape. Perfect for those intrigued by complex, strong female protagonists.

4.0

200,588 ratings

66%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Kinsey Millhone

A private investigator in her early 30s, known for her professionalism and keen attention to detail, who navigates various investigations with resilience and independence, often challenging traditional gender norms.

A key figure whose quest to clear her name after serving time for her husband's murder drives the novel's primary plot, determined to prove her innocence and regain custody of her son.

The murder victim whose life and complex relationships underpin the narrative, influencing the story even after his death through the mystery surrounding him.

An attorney and close associate of Laurence, whose dual role as a potential ally and suspect contributes to the suspense, complicated by his romantic involvement with Kinsey.

Book Details
Pages

308

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Santa Teresa, California • 1980s

Publication Year

1982

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

820L

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