Mystery Books: Evergreen Collection of 20 Must-Reads

Are you a fan of the enigmatic world of mystery and suspense? Look no further, as we unveil the top 20 best books about mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re a seasoned detective novel enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the thrilling genre, these books on mystery are sure to captivate and enthrall you. From classic whodunits to gripping psychological thrillers, this carefully curated list has something for every mystery lover. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with twists, turns, and spine-tingling revelations as you dive into these captivating mystery books.

20 Best Mystery Books

The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a gripping book on mystery that follows the story of Alicia Berenson, a renowned painter who suddenly becomes mute after she is accused of murdering her husband. In an attempt to unravel the truth behind Alicia’s silence, Theo Faber, a forensic psychologist, becomes obsessed with uncovering the mystery behind her sudden muteness and the events leading up to the murder. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia’s past, he begins to unravel a web of secrets and lies that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.

This mystery book is a thrilling psychological thriller that will keep readers guessing until the very end. With its intricate plot and complex characters, The Silent Patient is a page-turner that will leave readers questioning the truth and the nature of silence itself. Michaelides has crafted a compelling and haunting tale that is sure to captivate fans of books about mystery and psychological suspense.

The Girl on the Train

by Paula Hawkins

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping mystery book that follows the story of Rachel, an alcoholic divorcee who takes the same train every day and becomes fixated on a seemingly perfect couple she sees from the window. When the woman from the couple goes missing, Rachel becomes embroiled in the investigation, but her alcohol-induced blackouts make her an unreliable witness. As the story unfolds, the reader is taken on a thrilling ride through a web of lies, deceit, and unexpected twists. The novel is a compelling exploration of the complexities of memory, truth, and the consequences of obsession. Paula Hawkins weaves a tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning pages to unravel the book on mystery. The Girl on the Train is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone who enjoys a tantalizing and suspenseful story.

The Da Vinci Code

by Dan Brown

The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown is a gripping book on mystery that follows symbologist Robert Langdon as he unravels a trail of ancient clues and enigmatic symbols. When a curator at the Louvre is found murdered, Langdon and cryptologist Sophie Neveu are thrust into a heart-pounding quest to uncover a secret that could shake the foundations of Christianity.

This book about mystery takes readers on a thrilling journey through the streets of Paris, as Langdon and Neveu race against time to solve the puzzle left by the curator. As they decipher codes, follow hidden messages, and dodge danger at every turn, they discover shocking revelations that challenge everything they thought they knew about history, religion, and the legendary figure of Leonardo da Vinci.

The Da Vinci Code is a mesmerizing mystery book that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page, with its intricate plot, unexpected twists, and thought-provoking exploration of ancient secrets.

Gone Girl

by Gillian Flynn

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn is a gripping book about mystery that follows the disappearance of Amy Dunne on her fifth wedding anniversary. As the investigation unfolds, the story takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The novel is a thrilling exploration of marriage, deceit, and the complexities of human relationships, all set against a backdrop of suspicion and doubt. Flynn’s masterful storytelling and deeply flawed characters make this mystery book a compelling and suspenseful read. The narrative is skillfully crafted, with alternating perspectives that add layers of intrigue and suspense. The novel has been praised for its dark and twisted plot, as well as its shocking and thought-provoking ending. Gone Girl is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a tantalizing and chilling psychological thriller.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

by Stieg Larsson

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson is a thrilling book about mystery that captivates readers from the very first page. Set in Sweden, the novel follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist as he investigates the disappearance of a young woman from a wealthy family. Along the way, he enlists the help of the enigmatic and brilliant hacker, Lisbeth Salander, who has her own troubled past and a unique set of skills.

As the two delve deeper into the case, they uncover a dark and complex web of corruption, family secrets, and violence. The book on mystery is a gripping and intricately plotted tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the truth alongside the compelling characters.

With its richly drawn characters, atmospheric setting, and shocking twists, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a must-read for fans of mystery and suspense novels. This mystery book is a riveting and unforgettable read that will keep you guessing until the very end.

Big Little Lies

by Liane Moriarty

Big Little Lies is a gripping mystery novel by Liane Moriarty that delves into the lives of three women, each with their own secrets and struggles. Set in a picturesque seaside town, the story unfolds as a seemingly harmless school trivia night leads to a shocking and tragic event. As the community grapples with the aftermath, the lives of these women and their families are unraveled, revealing hidden truths, betrayals, and dark secrets.

The novel skillfully weaves together themes of friendship, motherhood, and the facades people present to the world, all against the backdrop of a compelling mystery. Moriarty’s writing is both witty and poignant, drawing readers into the characters’ lives and keeping them guessing until the very end. With its compelling narrative and well-developed characters, Big Little Lies is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a book about mystery and the complexities of human relationships.

The Cuckoo’s Calling

by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling)

The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling) is a riveting book on mystery that follows private detective Cormoran Strike as he investigates the supposed suicide of supermodel Lula Landry. The story takes readers on a journey through the glamorous and seedy underbelly of London, where secrets and lies lurk around every corner. As Strike delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and greed, leading to a shocking revelation that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Galbraith’s (J.K. Rowling’s) masterful storytelling and richly developed characters make this mystery book a compelling and immersive read. With its clever plot twists and intricate details, The Cuckoo’s Calling is a must-read for fans of the genre, and a captivating introduction to the captivating world of Cormoran Strike.

The Woman in the Window

by A.J. Finn

The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn is a gripping book about mystery that follows the story of Anna Fox, a woman who suffers from agoraphobia and spends her days spying on her neighbors through her window. When she witnesses a disturbing crime in the house across the street, she is plunged into a web of deceit and danger. As she struggles to uncover the truth, Anna’s own sanity and credibility come into question, making her a unreliable narrator and adding an extra layer of suspense to the story.

This mystery book is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the secrets hidden within the neighborhood. With its atmospheric setting and complex characters, The Woman in the Window is a thrilling psychological thriller that will leave you guessing until the very end. Finn’s masterful storytelling and clever plot twists make this a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery.

The Silent Corner

by Dean Koontz

The Silent Corner by Dean Koontz is a thrilling book about mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. This heart-pounding tale follows Jane Hawk, a determined and resourceful FBI agent, as she delves into a sinister conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of society. As she uncovers a series of disturbing secrets, Jane must navigate a treacherous web of deceit and danger, racing against time to unravel the truth before it’s too late.

Koontz masterfully weaves together an intricate plot filled with unexpected twists and turns, creating a sense of unease and tension that will leave readers eagerly turning the pages. The Silent Corner is a gripping mystery book that seamlessly blends pulse-pounding action with thought-provoking themes, delivering a truly unforgettable reading experience. With its compelling characters and gripping storytelling, this novel is a must-read for fans of suspense and intrigue.

The Dry

by Jane Harper

The Dry by Jane Harper is a gripping mystery book that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the small Australian town of Kiewarra. The novel follows Federal Agent Aaron Falk as he returns to his hometown for the funeral of his childhood best friend, Luke. The town is reeling from a devastating drought, and tensions are high as Falk begins to uncover the dark secrets hidden beneath the seemingly peaceful surface. As he delves deeper into the investigation, long-buried mysteries and betrayals come to light, and Falk is forced to confront his own troubled past.

The Dry is a compelling and atmospheric book about mystery that skillfully weaves together a present-day murder investigation with the haunting echoes of a decades-old tragedy. Harper’s evocative prose brings the arid landscape and the complex characters to life, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. With its intricate plot and richly drawn setting, The Dry is a must-read for fans of mystery and suspense.

The Couple Next Door

by Shari Lapena

The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena is a gripping book on mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. The story revolves around Anne and Marco, a young couple who are enjoying a dinner party at their neighbor’s house while their baby daughter is left home alone. When they return, they find the baby missing, setting off a chain of events that will test their relationship and reveal dark secrets.

Lapena expertly weaves a tale of deception, betrayal, and suspense, as the couple becomes entangled in a web of lies and intrigue. With each chapter, the reader is taken deeper into the mystery book, trying to unravel the truth behind the disappearance of the baby and the hidden motivations of the characters.

Full of twists and turns, The Couple Next Door is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone who enjoys a heart-pounding book about mystery.

The Girl Before

by JP Delaney

The Girl Before by JP Delaney is a gripping book about mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. This psychological thriller follows two women who both become entangled with the enigmatic architect of a minimalist house, Edward Monkford. As they each move into the stunning yet austere residence, they are required to abide by a set of strict rules that govern every aspect of their lives. However, as they delve deeper into the house’s history and Monkford’s past, they begin to uncover dark secrets that threaten to consume them. The novel alternates between the perspectives of the two women, building a sense of unease and tension as their stories intertwine. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and unexpected twists, The Girl Before is a compelling mystery book that will captivate fans of the genre. Delaney’s masterful storytelling will leave readers guessing until the very end.

The Thirteenth Tale

by Diane Setterfield

The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield is a captivating book about mystery that weaves a spellbinding tale of family secrets, tragic pasts, and the power of storytelling. The novel follows Margaret Lea, a biographer who is approached by the enigmatic Vida Winter, a famous author known for her elusive and ever-changing past. As Margaret delves into Vida’s life story, she discovers a web of long-buried secrets, including the mysterious thirteenth tale that Vida has never shared with anyone.

Set in a hauntingly atmospheric English countryside, The Thirteenth Tale is a beautifully written and intricately plotted mystery book that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its gothic undertones, complex characters, and a narrative that blurs the lines between truth and fiction, Setterfield creates a mesmerizing world where the power of storytelling takes center stage. This book on mystery is a must-read for anyone who loves a gripping and atmospheric tale that will keep them guessing until the very end.

The Secret History

by Donna Tartt

The Secret History is a captivating book about mystery that delves into the dark and twisted world of a group of eccentric college students. Written by Donna Tartt, this novel follows the story of a tight-knit group of classics students at a small New England college, who become entangled in a web of secrecy, deception, and murder. The protagonist, Richard Papen, is drawn into the inner circle of this enigmatic group, only to discover that they are hiding a dark and dangerous secret. As the story unfolds, the reader is taken on a thrilling journey of discovery, as the characters’ hidden agendas and troubled pasts are slowly revealed. Tartt’s masterful storytelling and richly developed characters make this book on mystery a gripping and unforgettable read. The Secret History is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thought-provoking and intricately woven mystery book.

The Snowman

by Jo Nesbo

The Snowman by Jo Nesbo is a thrilling book on mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Set in Norway, this gripping novel follows Detective Harry Hole as he investigates a series of gruesome murders where the killer leaves behind a snowman as his calling card. As the body count rises, Harry realizes that he is up against a cunning and twisted adversary who is always one step ahead.

Nesbo’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions bring the chilling Scandinavian setting to life, immersing the reader in a world of dark secrets and hidden dangers. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping you guessing until the very end. The protagonist, Harry Hole, is a complex and flawed character, making him both relatable and intriguing.

If you’re a fan of mystery books or enjoy a good psychological thriller, The Snowman is a must-read. It’s a page-turner that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

The Hound of the Baskervilles

by Arthur Conan Doyle

The Hound of the Baskervilles is a classic mystery novel written by Arthur Conan Doyle. This thrilling book on mystery follows the famous detective Sherlock Holmes and his trusty partner Dr. John Watson as they investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville. The Baskerville family is rumored to be cursed by a demonic hound, and as the eerie events unfold on the foggy moors of Devonshire, Holmes and Watson must unravel the secrets of the ancient Baskerville estate to solve the chilling mystery.

With its gripping plot, atmospheric setting, and clever twists, this book about mystery will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they join Holmes and Watson in their quest for the truth. Doyle’s masterful storytelling and the dynamic relationship between the two protagonists make The Hound of the Baskervilles a must-read for fans of mystery and suspense.

In the Woods

by Tana French

In the Woods by Tana French is a captivating mystery novel that delves into the complexities of human nature and the haunting secrets of the past. Set in a small Irish town, the story follows detective Rob Ryan as he investigates the murder of a young girl in a nearby woods. As he delves deeper into the case, he is forced to confront his own troubled past, including the mysterious disappearance of his childhood friends in the same woods decades earlier. The novel is a gripping exploration of psychological suspense, as Ryan’s personal demons and the present-day murder intertwine in unexpected ways. Tana French expertly weaves together the threads of the past and present to create a rich tapestry of intrigue and suspense. This book on mystery is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a compelling and thought-provoking mystery novel.

The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency

by Alexander McCall Smith

The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith is a charming and delightful book about mystery that takes readers on a journey to the heart of Botswana. The story follows the adventures of Precious Ramotswe, Botswana’s first female detective, as she navigates the complexities of solving cases in her community. With her keen intuition and sharp wit, Precious tackles a variety of cases, from missing pets to suspicious husbands, all while offering a glimpse into the culture and customs of Botswana.

This mystery book is not just about solving crimes, but also about the warmth of human relationships and the beauty of everyday life. Alexander McCall Smith’s vivid and evocative writing style brings the African setting to life, making readers feel like they are right there alongside Precious as she unravels the mysteries that come her way. The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency is a heartwarming and uplifting read that will leave readers eagerly turning the pages to see what mystery Precious will solve next.

The Secret Place

by Tana French

The Secret Place by Tana French is a captivating mystery novel that delves into the complex world of teenage friendships and secrets. Set in an elite Irish boarding school, the story revolves around a murder investigation involving two young boys. As Detective Stephen Moran and his colleague Antoinette Conway delve into the case, they uncover a web of lies, jealousy, and hidden emotions among the teenage girls at the school. The narrative cleverly alternates between the perspectives of the detectives and the girls, building tension and suspense as the truth slowly unravels.

This book about mystery is a compelling exploration of the intricacies of adolescent relationships and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. Tana French expertly weaves together a tale of betrayal, loyalty, and the dark underbelly of teenage life, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. The Secret Place is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a gripping and intricately plotted mystery.

The Shadow of the Wind

by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón is a captivating book about mystery that takes readers on a thrilling journey through post-war Barcelona. The story begins when a young boy named Daniel Sempere discovers a mysterious book called The Shadow of the Wind by an enigmatic author, Julián Carax. As Daniel delves into the book, he becomes obsessed with Carax’s life and works, leading him to uncover dark secrets and a web of mysterious events surrounding the author’s past.

Zafón weaves a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and redemption, as Daniel embarks on a quest to unravel the truth behind Carax’s life and the mystery that shrouds his literary legacy. The novel is rich in atmosphere, with its intricate plot and vividly drawn characters, immersing readers in a world of book on mystery and intrigue. The Shadow of the Wind is a mesmerizing and suspenseful read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Final Thoughts on Best Mystery Books

Exploring the world of Mystery through literature can be an exhilarating experience. The 20 best books about mystery offer a diverse selection of thrilling plots, complex characters, and unexpected twists that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re a seasoned mystery enthusiast or new to the genre, these books are sure to captivate your imagination and leave you craving for more suspenseful adventures.

Which book about Mystery is best?

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

  1. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
  2. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  3. The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown.

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

What are the best books to learn about Mystery?

For those looking to learn about Mystery, 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 Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
  2. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  3. The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown,
  4. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn,
  5. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson,
  6. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty,
  7. The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling),
  8. The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn,
  9. The Silent Corner by Dean Koontz,
  10. The Dry by Jane Harper

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

What are the best books about Mystery?

The best books about Mystery are:

  • The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
  • The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  • The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena,
  • The Girl Before by JP Delaney,
  • The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn,
  • Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Mystery 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 Mystery books of all time?

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

  • The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
  • The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  • The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson,
  • The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn,
  • and The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Mystery and continues to be influential today.