A is for Alibi by Sue Grafton (1982)
Summary of the Book
A is for Alibi is a mystery novel written by Sue Grafton in 1982, the first book in her “Alphabet Series” of novels. The novel introduces us to the main character, Kinsey Millhone, a private investigator based in Santa Teresa, California. She is hired by Nikki Fife, a woman released from jail after serving 8 years for the murder of her philandering husband. Nikki is convinced she was framed and hires Kinsey to prove her innocence.
Kinsey begins her investigation, following a trail of clues that take her from the beaches of Santa Teresa, to the seedy Hollywood scene and finally to a shocking discovery that is at the heart of the case. Along the way, she meets a colorful cast of characters, including an ex-convict, a shady lawyer and a corrupt police officer.
The story is full of twists and turns, as Kinsey is forced to confront the truth about Nikki’s case and the secrets of her past. A is for Alibi is a thrilling detective story that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
Interesting Facts
A is for Alibi was the first book in Sue Grafton’s popular “Alphabet Series”. The series has gone on to become an international best-seller and has been translated into dozens of languages.
The novel was adapted into a television movie in 1989, starring Patricia Wettig and Stephen Lang.
The book was nominated for both the Edgar Award and Anthony Award, two of the most prestigious awards in the mystery genre.
Main Takeaways
- Investigation is key: Kinsey Millhone is a determined and sharp-witted private investigator. Throughout the novel, she uses her investigative skills to uncover the truth.
- Nothing is as it seems: As Kinsey investigates the case, she discovers that nothing is as it seems and that the truth can often be hidden in the most unexpected places.
- The Truth Will Out: The novel’s main theme is that truth will always prevail, no matter how hard someone may try to conceal it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is A is for Alibi about?
A: A is for Alibi is a mystery novel about a private investigator, Kinsey Millhone, who is hired by an ex-convict to prove her innocence in the murder of her husband. Kinsey must follow a trail of clues that lead her to the truth about the case.
Q: Who wrote A is for Alibi?
A: A is for Alibi was written by Sue Grafton in 1982. It is the first book in her “Alphabet Series” of novels.
Q: Was A is for Alibi made into a movie?
A: Yes, A is for Alibi was adapted into a television movie in 1989, starring Patricia Wettig and Stephen Lang.
Q: What awards has A is for Alibi been nominated for?
A: A is for Alibi was nominated for both the Edgar Award and the Anthony Award, two of the most prestigious awards in the mystery genre.