A.C. Baantjer: The Dutch Master of Detective Fiction
A.C. Baantjer (1923-2010), a celebrated Dutch novelist, is best known for his compelling detective fiction, particularly the Inspector DeKok series. Baantjer’s own career as an inspector with the Amsterdam Police for nearly four decades lent an unparalleled authenticity to his writing. His intimate knowledge of the field enriched his novels, making them a staple in the detective fiction genre.
In addition to the famed DeKok series, Baantjer was a prolific writer of other fiction and non-fiction works in Dutch and maintained a daily column for a newspaper in the Netherlands. His unique blend of real-life police experience with engaging narrative styles captivated readers far and wide.
Baantjer’s first novel to be published in English was ‘DeKok and the Somber Nude,’ released in 1992. This marked the beginning of his international recognition, introducing English-speaking audiences to his intricate world of crime and investigation.
For those intrigued by classic detective tales, Baantjer’s books by order provide a captivating journey into the heart of Dutch crime fiction.
Other Authors You Might Like
Fans of A.C. Baantjer’s detective stories may also enjoy the works of Agatha Christie, known for her iconic Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple series. Similarly, the intricate mysteries crafted by Arthur Conan Doyle and the compelling police procedurals by Ian Rankin are excellent choices for aficionados of the genre.
Publication Order of Inspector DeKok Books
| DeKok and the Somber Nude | (1967) |    |
| DeKok and the Sorrowing Tomcat | (1969) | |
| DeKok and the Mask of Death | (1987) | |
| DeKok and Murder on the Menu | (1992) | |
| DeKok and the Corpse on Christmas Eve | (1993) | |
| DeKok and the Disillusioned Corpse | (1993) | |
| DeKok and the Dead Harlequin | (1993) | |
| DeKok and the Romantic Murder | (1993) | |
| DeKok and the Careful Killer | (1993) | |
| DeKok and the Brothers of the Easy Death | (1994) | |
| DeKok and the Corpse at the Church Wall | (1994) | |
| DeKok and the Dancing Death | (1994) | |
| DeKok and the Naked Lady | (1994) | |
| DeKok and the Dying Stroller | (1994) | |
| DeKok and the Deadly Accord | (1997) | |
| DeKok and Murder in Seance | (1997) | |
| DeKok and Murder in Ecstasy | (1998) | |
| DeKok and the Begging Death | (1998) | |
| DeKok and Murder by Installment | (1998) | |
| DeKok and the Corpse Return | (1998) | |
| DeKok and the Murder in First Class | (1998) | |
| DeKok and the Deadly Warning | (2003) | |
| DeKok and the Geese of Death | (2004) | |
| DeKok and the Murder in Bronze | (2004) | |
| DeKok and Murder on Blood Mountain | (2004) | |
| DeKok and the Death of a Clown | (2004) | |
| DeKok and Murder by Melody | (2004) | |
| DeKok and the Dead Lovers | (2004) | |
| DeKok and the Vendetta | (2004) | |
| DeKok and Variations on Murder | (2004) | |