The Thursday turkey murders

Based on your book

The Thursday turkey murders

by Craig Rice

The Thursday Turkey Murders drops you right into the chaotic lives of con-artist photographers Bingo Riggs and Handsome Kusak. When a roadside mishap involving a turkey strands them in the seemingly sleepy Thursday County, Iowa, they see an opportunity to get rich quick by buying a turkey farm. Of course, nothing is ever simple for these two. What starts as a scheme to make a quick buck devolves into a hilarious, convoluted mess of small-town secrets, an old bank robbery, an escaped convict, and, naturally, a murder. This isn't a cozy mystery; it's a zany, fast-paced ride driven by its charmingly incompetent anti-heroes. The book's strength lies in its sharp, satirical wit and the sheer fun of watching Bingo and Handsome bumble their way through escalating trouble. Pick this up if you love mysteries that prioritize laugh-out-loud moments and quirky characters over traditional deduction.

10 Books similar to 'The Thursday turkey murders'

If Craig Rice's The Thursday Turkey Murders left you grinning, you'll find plenty to love in our curated list. We looked for that unique blend of screwball humor and clever mystery, where the dialogue sparkles and the characters, often charmingly flawed, drive the chaotic fun. Whether it's the witty banter of a sophisticated detective duo, the farcical mishaps of a gang of incompetent thieves, or a satirical peek into a specific world, these books share that distinctive, lighthearted approach to crime. They're for readers who enjoy a good puzzle, but also appreciate a generous dose of laughs and memorable personalities along the way.

We earn from qualifying purchases through our affiliate partners, including Amazon and Bookshop.org.

The Thin Man
The Thin Man

by Dashiell Hammett

This iconic mystery features the witty, hard-drinking, and charming detective duo Nick and Nora Charles, whose sophisticated banter and adventurous lifestyle mirror the dynamic between Jake Justus and Helene Brand. The engaging plot is secondary to the sheer joy of spending time with these delightful characters and their clever dialogue.

Fer-de-Lance
Fer-de-Lance

by Rex Stout

Introducing the brilliant, eccentric, and reclusive detective Nero Wolfe and his sharp-witted, active assistant Archie Goodwin, this book offers a masterclass in character dynamics. Fans of Rice's recurring trio will appreciate the clever dialogue, contrasting personalities, and unique partnership at the heart of the investigation.

Murder Must Advertise
Murder Must Advertise

by Dorothy L. Sayers

Lord Peter Wimsey goes undercover in a glamorous advertising agency, leading to a clever mystery infused with sharp social commentary and Sayers' characteristic wit. The blend of intricate plotting with a humorous, satirical look at a specific world echoes Rice's ability to combine a whodunit with a distinct and engaging atmosphere.

The Hot Rock
The Hot Rock

by Donald E. Westlake

The first in the Dortmunder series, this book is a masterclass in humorous crime fiction, following a gang of incompetent but persistent thieves attempting a complex heist. Fans of Rice's screwball humor, chaotic plots, and charmingly flawed characters will appreciate the lighthearted, witty, and often farcical approach to crime.

Amazon Gift Card

Not sure what they've already read?

Let them pick their next favorite with an Amazon Gift Card.

Shop Gift Cards

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The Lady in the Morgue
The Lady in the Morgue

by Jonathan Latimer

This Golden Age mystery features the hard-drinking, wisecracking detective Bill Crane, who navigates a complex murder case with cynical wit and a penchant for bizarre situations. The irreverent, often boozy tone and fast-paced plot are reminiscent of Craig Rice's unique blend of classic mystery with a more hardboiled sensibility.

Sweet Danger
Sweet Danger

by Margery Allingham

This Albert Campion adventure takes him on a quest involving a lost kingdom, ancient documents, and a charming, resourceful heroine. It offers a lighter, more adventurous tone than some of Allingham's later works, with plenty of wit and intriguing characters, appealing to those who enjoy Rice's blend of mystery and fun.

Partners in Crime
Partners in Crime

by Agatha Christie

Tommy and Tuppence Beresford, a married couple of amateur detectives, take over a detective agency and solve a series of cases mimicking famous fictional detectives. Their playful banter, adventurous spirit, and lighthearted approach to crime make this a perfect fit for fans who enjoy Rice's more humorous and character-driven mysteries.

The Code of the Woosters
The Code of the Woosters

by P.G. Wodehouse

While not a murder mystery, this Jeeves and Wooster novel perfectly captures the screwball comedy, witty dialogue, and chaotic situations that define Craig Rice's style. Bertie Wooster's endless predicaments and Jeeves's ingenious solutions provide pure, lighthearted entertainment that fans of Rice's humor will adore.

Envious Casca
Envious Casca

by Georgette Heyer

This classic country house murder mystery, set during Christmas, features sharp dialogue, a well-drawn cast of characters, and an intricate plot. Heyer's wit and ability to create a charming yet suspenseful atmosphere will appeal to readers who enjoy the Golden Age style with a strong character focus and a touch of glamour.

Always Leave 'em Dying
Always Leave 'em Dying

by Richard S. Prather

Introducing Shell Scott, a wisecracking private investigator who finds himself embroiled in a fast-paced, often outlandish mystery filled with colorful characters and snappy dialogue. The blend of hardboiled elements with a strong sense of humor and quick pacing aligns well with Craig Rice's energetic and witty style.