William DeAndrea

William DeAndrea (1952-1996) was an American mystery writer and television writer known for his intricate plotting and witty dialogue. He wrote over 20 novels across multiple mystery series and won three Edgar Awards from the Mystery Writers of America. His most acclaimed works include the Matt Cobb series, featuring a television network investigator, and the Niccolo Benedetti novels about an eccentric criminology professor. The Hog Murders (1979) brought him his first Edgar Award for Best Paperback Original, followed by additional Edgar wins for Written in Fire (1995) and Encyclopedia Mysteriosa (1994). DeAndrea worked as a television writer for ABC and CBS, contributing to soap operas and dramatic series. His non-fiction work Encyclopedia Mysteriosa became a standard reference work in the mystery genre, covering detective fiction from its origins through the modern era. Before his untimely death at age 44, DeAndrea served as the president of the Mystery Writers of America's New York chapter. His final novel, Fatal Reunion, was published posthumously in 1997.

Readers appreciate DeAndrea's complex mysteries and sharp humor, particularly in the Matt Cobb series. Reviews highlight his ability to craft puzzling plots while maintaining a light, entertaining tone. On Goodreads, fans note his "clever dialogue" and "satisfying twists." What readers liked: - Well-researched historical details - Fast pacing - Memorable characters, especially Matt Cobb - Intellectual challenge of solving alongside protagonists What readers disliked: - Some found earlier works less polished - Character development occasionally sacrificed for plot - Certain books feel dated in their cultural references Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: Average 3.8/5 across all titles - The Hog Murders: 3.9/5 (200+ ratings) - Killed in Paradise: 3.7/5 (150+ ratings) Amazon: Average 4.0/5 - Written in Fire: 4.2/5 - Encyclopedia Mysteriosa: 4.4/5 Reader quote: "DeAndrea excels at creating mysteries that challenge without frustrating - you feel smart trying to solve them." - Amazon reviewer

Killed in the Ratings (1978) TV executive Matt Cobb investigates a murder involving a children's show host and a political campaign.

Killed in the Act (1981) Matt Cobb must solve the death of a network vice president during a live television broadcast.

The HOG Murders (1979) Detective Sergeant Kim Lockett tracks a serial killer who leaves playing cards with his victims.

Cronus (1984) A tale of espionage following an assassin known as Cronus who targets other assassins.

Azrael (1988) Secret Service agent Morgan Stapleton investigates deaths connected to a presidential campaign.

The Manx Murders (1994) Professor Niccolo Benedetti solves a series of murders on the Isle of Man.

The Werewolf Murders (1992) Professor Benedetti investigates deaths that appear to be caused by a supernatural creature.

The Fatal Frame (1995) Detective Kim Lockett returns to solve murders connected to a photography studio.

Keep the Baby, Faith (1986) A domestic thriller about a woman protecting her child from unknown threats.

Five O'Clock Lightning (1982) A mystery set in 1927 involving the New York Yankees and organized crime.

Lawrence Block writes New York-based mystery series featuring recurring detectives, including Matthew Scudder and Bernie Rhodenbarr. His work contains elements of hard-boiled detection mixed with humor and complex character relationships.

Donald E. Westlake created multiple series under various pen names, focusing on crime capers and heist stories. His John Dortmunder series combines crime plots with comedic elements, similar to DeAndrea's lighter works.

Aaron Elkins specializes in mysteries featuring an academic protagonist who solves crimes using his expertise. His Gideon Oliver series centers on a forensic anthropologist who investigates murders through skeletal remains.

Bill Pronzini writes detective fiction featuring his "Nameless Detective" character in San Francisco. His work emphasizes traditional detective methods and careful plot construction.

Charlotte MacLeod developed multiple mystery series set in academic and artistic communities. Her Peter Shandy series combines elements of classic detective fiction with eccentric characters in a small college setting.