BOOK BRIEF

Body Work

Sara Paretsky
Guide cover placeholder

Body Work

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010

Book Brief

Sparkles iconBeta
Sara Paretsky

Body Work

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

443

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chicago, Illinois • 2010s

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In Body Work by Sara Paretsky, private investigator V.I. Warshawski delves into a complex case where a performance artist's controversial act leads to murder. Navigating Chicago's art scene and tangled personal histories, Warshawski uncovers deep secrets, risking her own safety as she seeks justice for those involved.

Mysterious

Gritty

Suspenseful

Dark

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.1

7,896 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Body Work by Sara Paretsky receives praise for its engaging plot and strong character development, particularly of private investigator V.I. Warshawski. Reviewers appreciate the book's exploration of relevant social issues. However, some critique the pacing as uneven, and a few find the narrative occasionally convoluted. Overall, it is a gripping addition to the mystery genre.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Body Work?

A reader who enjoys Body Work by Sara Paretsky is likely intrigued by gritty, feminist detective stories with complex characters. Fans of Sue Grafton's A Is for Alibi or Patricia Cornwell's Postmortem would appreciate Paretsky's intense plots and strong female sleuth, V.I. Warshawski, navigating crime and social issues.

4.1

7,896 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Body Work is a part of the V.I. Warshawski series, which features Sara Paretsky's iconic female private investigator known for her savvy and resilience.

Sara Paretsky is credited with transforming the image of women in crime fiction by introducing strong, capable female protagonists, with V.I. Warshawski being one of her most celebrated characters.

Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!

Body Work explores themes beyond the typical crime novel scope by delving into contemporary social issues, blending mystery with thought-provoking commentary.

Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!

Book Details
Pages

443

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chicago, Illinois • 2010s

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!