There are a lot of contenders in my library of mysteries. Certain works by Thomas Perry, Michale Connelly, Lawrence Block, John Sanford, Robert Crais. And many others who belong on my hit list.
At the top, for me, is "The First Deadly Sin" by Lawrence Sanders. It's resonated with me ever since I first read it years ago. Dogged, plodding, never-quitting, Edward X. Delaney.
Although, now that I think about it, I may have to elevate "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo." I like tough girls.
Am I biased? Guilty as charged.
Paige