50. Ptolemy's Gate by Jonathan Stroud

ISBN-13: 978-078683868-4 - Hyperion/Miramax, 2006

The Bartimaeus Trilogy Book Three

"Trapped for years on earth, Bartimaeus's energies are fast running out. His master, Nathaniel, is increasingly arrogant and unapproachable and will not listen to his pleas. But as war and unrest rock the magicians' government, Kitty uncovers secrets from Bartimaeus's past that might help change the world forever."

Just when you think you've got a grip on the plot, it twists and turns everything upside down. All the major players from the first two books gather for a final showdown and London will never be the same.

49. Black as He's Painted by Ngaio Marsh

ISBN: 0006138403 - London: Fontana, 1975

"The story concerns a visit made by the President of the Commonwealth nation of Ng'omwana, known as "Boomer" to his friends, to London. He insists on dealing with the London police through Alleyn, an old public school friend of his, rather than allowing Special Branch to work directly with him on his security. Special Branch is not happy at his unwillingness to co-operate with their wishes, particularly as the Boomer had survived an assassination attempt only a few months previously. And then the Ng'omwanan ambassador in London is killed at a reception early in the visit, apparently in mistake for the president."

Read more here.