John Verdon

John Verdon is an American novelist known for creating the Dave Gurney detective series, which began with his debut novel "Think of a Number" in 2010. His psychological thriller series has been translated into more than two dozen languages and has gained international recognition. Following graduation from Fordham University, Verdon built a career in New York City's advertising industry before retiring and relocating to the Catskill Mountains with his wife. During this period, he spent a decade crafting Shaker-style furniture while developing a deep appreciation for classic detective fiction from authors like Arthur Conan Doyle and Ross Macdonald. Encouraged by his wife Naomi, Verdon began writing his first novel, which would become "Think of a Number." The book's success led to multiple follow-up novels featuring Dave Gurney, a retired NYPD homicide detective who becomes entangled in complex murder investigations. The Dave Gurney series combines intricate puzzle-mysteries with psychological depth, establishing Verdon as a notable voice in contemporary detective fiction. His work demonstrates a particular focus on impossible-seeming crimes and the psychological elements that drive both criminals and investigators.

Readers highlight Verdon's complex puzzle-mysteries and detailed police procedures. Many note the intellectual depth of protagonist Dave Gurney and the methodical way he breaks down seemingly impossible cases. What readers liked: - Intricate plotting and clever solutions to locked-room mysteries - Technical accuracy in investigative details - Character development of Gurney and his relationship with his wife - The blend of psychological analysis with traditional detective work What readers disliked: - Pacing described as "slow in the middle sections" by multiple Amazon reviewers - Some found the detailed psychological analysis excessive - Later books in the series received criticism for repetitive relationship dynamics Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: - Think of a Number: 3.9/5 (28,000+ ratings) - Shut Your Eyes Tight: 3.9/5 (12,000+ ratings) - Let the Devil Sleep: 3.8/5 (8,000+ ratings) Amazon averages 4.3/5 across all books, with reviewers frequently praising the "intellectual challenge" of solving cases alongside Gurney.

Think of a Number (2010) Retired NYPD detective Dave Gurney investigates a series of murders connected to mysterious letters that predict their recipients' deaths with impossible accuracy.

Shut Your Eyes Tight (2011) Gurney tackles the case of a bride murdered on her wedding day, where the killer left behind a series of cryptic clues.

Let the Devil Sleep (2012) Dave Gurney becomes involved in a cold case about the "Good Shepherd" serial killer who targeted drivers on highways.

Peter Pan Must Die (2014) Gurney investigates the conviction of a woman accused of orchestrating her husband's murder during a political campaign.

Wolf Lake (2016) Four people who underwent hypnosis by the same psychiatrist die by apparent suicide, leading Gurney to uncover a complex conspiracy.

White River Burning (2018) Gurney investigates racially charged murders in a small town during a period of civil unrest.

On Harrow Hill (2021) A small-town murder investigation becomes complicated when witnesses claim to have seen the supposed killer, who was already dead at the time of the crime.

Michael Connelly writes police procedurals featuring retired LAPD detective Harry Bosch, who tackles complex murder investigations with methodical precision. His books focus heavily on investigative detail and the psychology of solving seemingly impossible cases.

Tana French creates murder mysteries featuring the Dublin Murder Squad, with each book focusing on a different detective's perspective. Her work combines intricate detective work with deep psychological examination of both the investigators and the cases they pursue.

Dennis Lehane writes crime fiction set in Boston, often featuring complex murder investigations and troubled investigators dealing with personal demons. His work explores the psychological toll of investigation while maintaining focus on detailed procedural elements.

Jo Nesbo writes the Harry Hole series about a Norwegian detective who specializes in tracking serial killers and solving complex murder cases. His novels feature intricate plots with multiple layers of deception and detailed exploration of investigative techniques.

Peter May creates murder mysteries featuring complex investigations in atmospheric settings, often incorporating detailed forensic elements. His work focuses on the methodical unraveling of complicated cases while examining the psychological impact on his investigators.