Decent Crimes: a courtroom novel with craft and series promise

Published on June 02, 2026 | Translated from Spanish

Javier Melero publishes Crímenes decentes, a novel that combines a solid legal case with a well-defined protagonist. The work builds an accessible universe for those seeking straightforward entertainment. Its narrative structure, focused on the investigation and legal process, makes it a direct choice for fans of the crime genre. The book leaves the door open for future installments featuring the same character.

A crime novel cover: empty courtroom, dim light, robe and file on the table, a judge from behind looks at an open case.

The mechanics of the story: building the case and character 📚

Melero employs a classic narrative structure where the case develops through testimonies and evidence presented in an orderly fashion. The protagonist acts as the guiding thread, without major psychological frills but with functional coherence. The novel avoids confusing time jumps and maintains a steady pace. This technical approach, though predictable at times, ensures the reader follows the plot without getting lost in unnecessary subplots. The author demonstrates skill in dispensing judicial information.

When crime becomes a bureaucratic procedure 🕵️

The most curious thing about Crímenes decentes is that the murder almost seems like paperwork. There are moments when the protagonist spends more time describing the office coffee than the corpse itself. You start to think the real crime is the lack of suspense. But hey, if you're looking for a read where the bad guys confess before you finish the chapter and the good guys win without breaking a sweat, this is your book. Ideal for reading while waiting in line at the bank.