Down Among the Dead Men

Down Among the Dead Men follows Detective Steve Carella of the 87th Precinct as he investigates a series of murders in a major American city. The victims appear unconnected at first - their bodies discovered in different locations with different causes of death. The investigation leads Carella through the city's criminal underworld as he pieces together clues and interviews a range of suspects. His personal life becomes entangled in the case when someone close to him may have a connection to the murders. McBain crafts a police procedural that captures both the methodical nature of detective work and the complex relationships between law enforcement, criminals, and everyday citizens. The city itself emerges as a character, with its diverse neighborhoods and hidden corners playing crucial roles in the narrative. This entry in the 87th Precinct series explores themes of loyalty, justice, and the thin line between order and chaos in urban society. The story demonstrates how seemingly random acts of violence can reveal deeper patterns of human behavior and motivation.

Most reviews describe this as a straightforward police procedural that moves quickly but lacks the depth of other 87th Precinct novels. Readers highlighted the tight pacing, straightforward dialogue, and McBain's ability to capture the procedural aspects of police work. Several noted how it works well as a standalone story even within the series. Multiple reviews praised the climactic scene set in a cemetery. Common criticisms focused on the predictable plot and lack of character development. Some readers found the procedural elements too basic compared to later McBain works. Several reviews mentioned that the story feels dated, particularly in its portrayal of women characters. Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (239 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (32 ratings) LibraryThing: 3.7/5 (87 ratings) One recurring comment on review sites is that while this book serves as a decent introduction to McBain's writing style, other 87th Precinct novels offer more complex and satisfying mysteries.

The Black Echo by Michael Connelly A police procedural follows an LAPD detective investigating a bank heist linked to his past as a Vietnam tunnel rat.

The Last Good Kiss by James Crumley A detective searches for a missing author through bars and back roads while uncovering connections to an older missing persons case.

Darkness, Take My Hand by Dennis Lehane Two Boston private investigators track a serial killer with links to an Irish neighborhood's dark history.

The Guards by Ken Bruen A former Irish policeman turned private detective takes on a case involving drug dealers in Galway while battling his own demons.

Winter's Bone by Daniel Woodrell A teenage girl navigates criminal family networks in the Ozarks to find her missing father before the bank takes her home.

📚 "Down Among the Dead Men" was written in 1960 under one of Ed McBain's other pen names, Evan Hunter - his legal name which he adopted in 1952. 🚔 The book's title comes from a traditional English drinking song dating back to the 1700s, reflecting the dark undertones of the story. ✍️ Ed McBain (born Salvatore Lombino) wrote nearly 100 books during his career, including the screenplay for Alfred Hitchcock's "The Birds." 🏆 The novel is part of McBain's celebrated Matthew Hope series, set in Florida rather than his more famous 87th Precinct series which takes place in the fictional city of Isola. 📖 Unlike many of McBain's police procedurals, this book features a lawyer as the main character - a departure from his usual focus on police detective work.