Top 20 Best Books on Crime Fiction

Are you a fan of gripping tales of mystery and suspense? If so, you’ll love delving into the world of crime fiction through these 20 best books about crime fiction. From classic whodunits to gritty noir thrillers, these books will keep you on the edge of your seat as you follow detectives, private investigators, and criminals through twists and turns. Whether you’re a seasoned crime fiction aficionado or just dipping your toes into the genre, there’s something for everyone on this list. Get ready to be captivated by the thrilling plots, complex characters, and heart-pounding suspense found in each book on crime fiction.

20 Best Crime Fiction Books

The Girl on the Train

by Paula Hawkins

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping crime fiction book that follows the entangled lives of three women. Rachel, an alcoholic divorcee, becomes fixated on a seemingly perfect couple she sees from the train every day. When the woman, Megan, goes missing, Rachel becomes embroiled in the investigation, but her own memory lapses and alcohol-induced blackouts make her an unreliable witness.

The story unravels through the perspectives of Rachel, Megan, and Anna, the new wife of Rachel’s ex-husband. As the truth behind Megan’s disappearance comes to light, dark secrets and betrayals are revealed, leaving the reader questioning each character’s reliability.

Hawkins weaves a web of suspense and psychological intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final, shocking conclusion. The Girl on the Train is a thrilling book about crime fiction that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of obsession and deceit.

Gone Girl

by Gillian Flynn

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn is a gripping crime fiction book that takes readers on a dark and twisted journey. The story revolves around the mysterious disappearance of Amy Dunne and the subsequent investigation that follows. As the plot unfolds, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of deceit, manipulation, and shocking revelations.

Flynn’s writing is intense and captivating, drawing readers into the complex and disturbing world of the Dunnes. The characters are deeply flawed and morally ambiguous, adding layers of depth and intrigue to the narrative. The novel is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

Gone Girl is a book on crime fiction that delves into the complexities of relationships, the media, and the dark secrets that people hide. Flynn’s masterful storytelling and intricate plotting make this a must-read for fans of crime fiction and psychological thrillers.

The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a gripping crime fiction book that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows Alicia Berenson, a successful painter who is accused of murdering her husband and then suddenly goes silent, never speaking a word again. Theo Faber, a psychotherapist, becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind Alicia’s silence and takes on her case at a mental health facility. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia’s past and the events leading up to the murder, he unravels a web of secrets and lies that will leave readers stunned.

Michaelides masterfully weaves a tale of suspense and psychological intrigue, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The Silent Patient is a haunting and compelling book about crime fiction that explores the complexities of the human mind and the dark secrets that lie beneath the surface. With its shocking twists and intense atmosphere, this crime fiction book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good psychological thriller.

The Cuckoo’s Calling

by Robert Galbraith

The Cuckoo’s Calling, written by Robert Galbraith (pseudonym for J.K. Rowling), is a compelling book on crime fiction that follows private detective Cormoran Strike as he investigates the supposed suicide of supermodel Lula Landry. With the help of his resourceful assistant, Robin, Strike delves deep into the glamorous and dangerous world of celebrities, uncovering a web of secrets, lies, and deceit.

Galbraith’s masterful storytelling and intricate character development make The Cuckoo’s Calling a captivating book about crime fiction that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. The vivid descriptions of London’s seedy underbelly and the complex relationships between the characters add depth and realism to the narrative, drawing readers into a world of intrigue and suspense.

With its clever plot twists and engaging prose, The Cuckoo’s Calling is a must-read for fans of crime fiction, offering a fresh and exciting take on the genre that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Cormoran Strike series.

The Dry

by Jane Harper

The Dry by Jane Harper is a gripping crime fiction book that takes readers on a thrilling journey through a small Australian town plagued by drought and secrets. The story follows Federal Agent Aaron Falk as he returns to his hometown for the funeral of his childhood best friend, who is believed to have murdered his own family before taking his own life. As Falk delves into the investigation, long-buried secrets and resentments begin to surface, and the town’s dark past is brought to light. The dry, arid setting mirrors the tension and suspense that builds throughout the novel, creating an atmospheric backdrop for the unfolding mystery. Harper’s vivid descriptions and skillful storytelling keep readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the truth behind the devastating events. This book about crime fiction is a compelling and immersive read that will captivate fans of suspense and intrigue.

The Snowman

by Jo Nesbo

The Snowman by Jo Nesbo is a gripping book on crime fiction that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This chilling thriller follows detective Harry Hole as he investigates a series of brutal murders in Oslo, Norway. The killer leaves behind a snowman at each crime scene, adding an eerie and sinister element to the story. As Harry delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that lead him to confront his own demons and fears. The tension and suspense build with each turn of the page, as Nesbo masterfully weaves together a complex and compelling narrative. With its atmospheric setting and well-developed characters, this book about crime fiction is a must-read for fans of the genre. Nesbo’s writing is sharp and evocative, drawing readers into a world of dark motives and twisted desires. If you’re looking for a gripping crime fiction book that will keep you guessing until the very end, The Snowman is the perfect choice.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

by Stieg Larsson

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a gripping book on crime fiction written by Stieg Larsson. The novel follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist as he teams up with the enigmatic hacker Lisbeth Salander to solve a decades-old disappearance case. As they delve deeper into the mystery, they uncover a web of corruption, deceit, and violence that reaches into the highest levels of Swedish society. The story is filled with suspense, intrigue, and unexpected twists that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Larsson’s masterful storytelling and complex characters make this crime fiction book a must-read for anyone who loves a thrilling mystery.

The Secret Place

by Tana French

The Secret Place, written by Tana French, is a captivating crime fiction book that delves into the intricacies of a murder investigation at an elite boarding school in Dublin. The story follows detective Stephen Moran as he receives a lead from a teenage girl about a year-old murder case. As Moran teams up with Detective Antoinette Conway to investigate the case, they find themselves navigating through the complex dynamics and secrets of the school’s students.

French’s masterful storytelling skillfully weaves together the perspectives of the detectives and the teenage girls, creating a gripping narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The Secret Place is not just a book about crime fiction, but also a compelling exploration of friendship, loyalty, and the darker side of adolescence.

With its rich character development and suspenseful plot, The Secret Place is a must-read for fans of crime fiction looking for a riveting and immersive story that will keep them guessing until the very end.

The Thirst

by Jo Nesbo

The Thirst by Jo Nesbo is a gripping crime fiction book that follows Detective Harry Hole as he investigates a series of gruesome murders in Oslo. As the killer targets women on Tinder dates, the pressure mounts for Harry to catch the perpetrator before more lives are lost. The novel delves deep into the psychological complexities of the characters, adding layers of suspense and intrigue to the story. Nesbo’s writing is intense and immersive, drawing readers into a dark and twisted world where the line between good and evil blurs. With its heart-pounding pace and unexpected twists, The Thirst is a chilling and captivating read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. If you’re a fan of books about crime fiction that are filled with suspense, mystery, and complex characters, then The Thirst is a must-read.

The Couple Next Door

by Shari Lapena

The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena is a gripping crime fiction book that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The story follows Anne and Marco, a couple who attends a dinner party next door, leaving their baby daughter at home. When they return, they find their baby missing, and the investigation that follows reveals dark secrets and shocking betrayals.

Lapena’s storytelling is filled with twists and turns, making it impossible to put the book down. The characters are deeply flawed and complex, adding layers of suspense and intrigue to the narrative. As the truth unravels, the reader is kept guessing until the very end.

If you’re a fan of crime fiction and enjoy a well-crafted mystery, The Couple Next Door is a must-read. Lapena’s skillful writing and masterful storytelling make this book a thrilling and intense ride that will leave you breathless.

The Girl Before

by JP Delaney

The Girl Before by JP Delaney is a gripping and intense psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Set in a stunning yet minimalist house designed by an enigmatic architect, the story follows two women who have lived in the house at different times, both entangled in a web of secrets, obsession, and danger.

This book on crime fiction delves into the minds of its characters, exploring their deepest fears, desires, and the dark mysteries that surround them. As the story unravels, the reader is drawn into a complex and twisted narrative that challenges perceptions of trust, control, and morality.

With its atmospheric setting, complex characters, and unexpected twists, this crime fiction book will appeal to fans of psychological suspense and anyone who enjoys a thrilling and thought-provoking read. The Girl Before is a haunting and evocative tale that will linger in your mind long after you’ve turned the final page.

The Woman in the Window

by A.J. Finn

The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn is a gripping and suspenseful book about crime fiction. The story follows Anna Fox, a woman suffering from agoraphobia, who spends her days spying on her neighbors from the confines of her New York City brownstone. When she witnesses a disturbing act through her window, she becomes embroiled in a web of mystery and deception. As Anna tries to uncover the truth, she must confront her own fears and unravel the secrets that lie within her own mind. With its intricate plot and unreliable narrator, this crime fiction book will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. The Woman in the Window is a chilling and atmospheric thriller that will appeal to fans of psychological suspense and twisty mysteries.

The Hound of the Baskervilles

by Arthur Conan Doyle

The Hound of the Baskervilles, a classic crime fiction book by Arthur Conan Doyle, is a gripping tale of mystery and suspense. Set in the eerie moors of Devonshire, England, this novel follows the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes and his trusty companion Dr. John Watson as they investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville.

As they delve into the case, they encounter a family curse, a monstrous hound, and a web of deceit that threatens the remaining heir, Sir Henry Baskerville. Doyle’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions bring the desolate moors to life, creating a palpable sense of danger and unease.

The Hound of the Baskervilles is a timeless book about crime fiction that has captivated readers for generations with its clever plot twists, complex characters, and atmospheric setting. This crime fiction book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling mystery that keeps them on the edge of their seat until the very end.

The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency

by Alexander McCall Smith

The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith is a delightful and heartwarming book about crime fiction that takes place in Botswana. The story follows Precious Ramotswe, a charming and astute woman who opens the first female-owned detective agency in the country. She takes on cases ranging from missing husbands to con artists, all while navigating the ups and downs of life in her community.

McCall Smith’s writing is rich with the sights, sounds, and culture of Botswana, immersing readers in the vibrant setting. The book offers a refreshing take on the crime fiction genre, focusing on the everyday mysteries and human connections rather than gritty violence and suspense. It’s a feel-good read that will leave you smiling and rooting for Precious as she uses her keen intuition and compassion to solve cases and help those around her.

Whether you’re a fan of cozy mysteries, heartwarming tales, or simply enjoy a good crime fiction book with a unique setting, The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency is sure to captivate you.

The Lincoln Lawyer

by Michael Connelly

The Lincoln Lawyer is a gripping book about crime fiction written by Michael Connelly. The story follows Mickey Haller, a defense attorney who operates out of the backseat of his Lincoln Town Car, hence the title. Haller takes on a high-profile case defending a wealthy client accused of assault, but soon realizes that there is more to the case than meets the eye. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of deceit, corruption, and danger that puts his own life at risk.

Connelly’s masterful storytelling and sharp dialogue keep readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Haller’s relentless pursuit of justice. The Lincoln Lawyer is a must-read for fans of crime fiction, legal thrillers, and courtroom drama. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and twists and turns, this book is sure to keep readers guessing until the very end.

The Alienist

by Caleb Carr

The Alienist by Caleb Carr is a gripping book on crime fiction set in 1896 New York City. The story follows Dr. Laszlo Kreizler, a criminal psychologist, as he teams up with a newspaper illustrator, a secretary, and two detectives to track down a serial killer who preys on young male prostitutes. The group uses the latest methods in forensic investigation and psychological profiling to hunt down the elusive murderer. The novel is a thrilling combination of historical fiction and psychological suspense, with an immersive portrayal of the gritty underbelly of New York City during the Gilded Age.

The Alienist is a book about crime fiction that delves into the dark and twisted minds of both the killer and those who seek to stop him. The atmospheric setting, complex characters, and intricate plot make it a must-read for fans of crime fiction. Carr’s attention to historical detail and his skillful storytelling create a compelling and immersive reading experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Surgeon

by Tess Gerritsen

The Surgeon by Tess Gerritsen is a gripping book about crime fiction that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. The story follows Dr. Catherine Cordell, a trauma surgeon in Boston who survived a brutal attack by a serial killer known as “The Surgeon.” Years later, a new series of similar murders emerges, and Catherine becomes embroiled in the case as the only living victim of the original killer. As the investigation unfolds, the tension builds, and the reader is taken on a thrilling journey through the dark and twisted mind of a psychopath. Gerritsen’s expertly crafted prose and intricate plot make this crime fiction book a must-read for fans of the genre. With its well-developed characters and heart-pounding suspense, The Surgeon is a masterful example of the genre and is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

The Poet

by Michael Connelly

The Poet by Michael Connelly is a gripping crime fiction book that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This heart-pounding thriller follows reporter Jack McEvoy as he investigates the murder of his twin brother, who was found dead in his car. As Jack delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a string of similar deaths that leads him to a serial killer who is targeting writers. With the help of FBI agent Rachel Walling, Jack must race against time to catch the elusive killer before he strikes again.

Connelly’s masterful storytelling and crisp prose make The Poet a must-read for fans of crime fiction. The plot twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The novel is filled with suspense, intrigue, and a relentless sense of danger that will leave you breathless. If you’re looking for a book about crime fiction that will keep you up all night, The Poet is the perfect choice.

The Black Echo

by Michael Connelly

The Black Echo by Michael Connelly is a gripping crime fiction novel that follows the story of LAPD detective Harry Bosch as he investigates a case involving a body found in a drainage tunnel. The case takes Bosch into the dark underworld of Los Angeles, uncovering a web of corruption and deceit.

Connelly’s masterful storytelling and attention to detail bring the gritty streets of LA to life, drawing readers into a world of danger and intrigue. The novel is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

With its compelling plot and complex characters, The Black Echo is a must-read for fans of crime fiction. Connelly’s skillful prose and vivid descriptions make this book about crime fiction a thrilling and immersive read that will leave readers eagerly turning the pages until the final, satisfying conclusion.

The Big Sleep

by Raymond Chandler

The Big Sleep is a classic crime fiction book written by Raymond Chandler that introduces readers to the iconic private detective Philip Marlowe. Set in 1930s Los Angeles, the story follows Marlowe as he delves into a complex web of deceit, murder, and corruption. When he is hired by the wealthy Sternwood family to deal with a case of blackmail, Marlowe quickly becomes entangled in a dangerous world of crime, where everyone has something to hide.

Chandler’s gripping writing style and vivid descriptions bring the seedy underbelly of the city to life, as Marlowe navigates through smoky bars, glamorous mansions, and shadowy alleyways in pursuit of the truth. The Big Sleep is a thrilling and atmospheric book about crime fiction that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end, with its sharp dialogue, unexpected plot twists, and unforgettable characters. It’s a must-read for fans of hard-boiled detective stories and anyone looking for a compelling and immersive crime fiction experience.

Final Thoughts on Best Crime Fiction Books

Crime Fiction enthusiasts have a wide array of options to choose from when it comes to books about crime fiction. These 20 best books cover a range of subgenres within crime fiction, from classic detective stories to psychological thrillers. Whether you’re a seasoned crime fiction reader or a newcomer to the genre, these books are sure to captivate and entertain. Dive into these gripping tales of mystery, suspense, and intrigue, and get ready for a thrilling literary journey through the world of crime fiction.

Which book about Crime Fiction is best?

The best book on Crime Fiction can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  2. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn,
  3. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Crime Fiction?

For those looking to learn about Crime Fiction, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  2. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn,
  3. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
  4. The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith,
  5. The Dry by Jane Harper,
  6. The Snowman by Jo Nesbo,
  7. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson,
  8. The Secret Place by Tana French,
  9. The Thirst by Jo Nesbo,
  10. The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena

These books offer a range of perspectives on Crime Fiction, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Crime Fiction?

The best books about Crime Fiction are:

  • The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  • Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn,
  • The Girl Before by JP Delaney,
  • The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn,
  • The Secret Place by Tana French,
  • The Snowman by Jo Nesbo.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Crime Fiction are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Crime Fiction books of all time?

Choosing the best Crime Fiction books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  • Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn,
  • The Dry by Jane Harper,
  • The Secret Place by Tana French,
  • and The Girl Before by JP Delaney.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Crime Fiction and continues to be influential today.