An Unsuitable Job for a Woman

A Quiet Death. A Reluctant Detective. A Dangerous Truth.

An Unsuitable Job for a Woman by acclaimed crime writer P.D. James, reissued by Penguin Books in 1997, introduces readers to Cordelia Gray—an unlikely yet compelling private investigator navigating a man’s world. With intelligence, determination, and vulnerability, Cordelia steps into the shadows of a mysterious suicide that may be something far more sinister.

When the Case Becomes Personal

Left to run a struggling detective agency after her partner’s sudden death, Cordelia is hired by a powerful businessman to uncover the truth behind his son’s apparent suicide. As she digs deeper, she uncovers a chilling trail of secrets, privilege, and long-buried resentments. But the closer she gets to the truth, the more dangerous her investigation becomes.

A Trailblazer in Crime Fiction

P.D. James masterfully blends classic detective fiction with psychological insight, creating a protagonist who challenges conventions and refuses to back down. With its sharp prose, atmospheric setting, and tightly woven plot, An Unsuitable Job for a Woman is both a compelling mystery and a thoughtful exploration of gender, power, and justice.

Perfect for fans of cerebral crime fiction and pioneering female sleuths, this novel remains a landmark in the genre.