John Grisham lists his top 7 favourite books

This is one of the 743 lists we use to generate our main The Greatest Books list.

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  • A Song For The Dark Times by Ian Rankin

    In this gripping tale, a retired detective finds himself drawn back into the world of crime and mystery when his estranged daughter calls him with troubling news about her missing partner. As he delves into the investigation, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that stretch back decades, challenging his perceptions of family and loyalty. Set against the haunting backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, the story weaves together themes of redemption, betrayal, and the enduring quest for justice, all while exploring the complex dynamics of personal relationships.

    The 15482nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • In The Valley by Ron Rash

    Stories and a Novella Based on Serena

    Set against the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains, this collection of stories delves into the lives of individuals grappling with the harsh realities of their environment and the complexities of human nature. Each tale is woven with themes of resilience, moral ambiguity, and the enduring spirit of the people who inhabit this rugged landscape. Through vivid prose and poignant narratives, the stories explore the intersection of past and present, revealing the deep-seated connections between the land and its inhabitants, and the enduring impact of history on their lives.

    The 15482nd Greatest Book of All Time
  • Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson

    A Story of Justice and Redemption

    This book is a profound work of non-fiction that focuses on the author's experiences as a young lawyer fighting for the rights of those wrongfully convicted or excessively punished. The narrative primarily revolves around the case of a black man sentenced to death for a crime he didn't commit. The author not only exposes the inherent racial bias and systemic flaws in the American criminal justice system, but also provides a compelling argument for compassion in the pursuit of justice.

    The 3585th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • All The Devils Are Here by Louise Penny

    Set against the enchanting backdrop of Paris, this gripping mystery follows Chief Inspector Armand Gamache as he delves into a web of secrets and lies after a shocking attempt on his godfather's life. As Gamache navigates the city's labyrinthine streets and uncovers hidden truths, he must confront his own past and the dark forces that threaten to unravel his family. With themes of trust, betrayal, and redemption, the narrative weaves a compelling tale of suspense and emotional depth, revealing the complexities of human nature and the enduring bonds of love and loyalty.

    The 14256th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • The Last Trial by Scott Turow

    In this gripping legal thriller, an aging defense attorney takes on one final case, defending a close friend and Nobel laureate accused of murder and fraud. As the trial unfolds, the courtroom becomes a battleground of moral dilemmas, personal loyalties, and the relentless pursuit of justice. The narrative intricately weaves together themes of friendship, integrity, and the complexities of the legal system, culminating in a dramatic and thought-provoking conclusion that challenges the boundaries of truth and justice.

    The 15482nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  • Deacon King Kong by James McBride

    "Deacon King Kong" by James McBride is a novel set in 1969 Brooklyn, where a drunken Deacon Sportcoat shoots a drug dealer named Deems Clemens in the courtyard of the Cause Houses housing project. The shooting sets off a chain of events that brings together a cast of characters from the neighborhood, including a young drug dealer, a church-going widow, a corrupt cop, and a group of elderly church women. Through their perspectives, McBride explores themes of race, religion, and community in a vibrant and humorous tale.

    The 4610th Greatest Book of All Time
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  • A Private Cathedral by James Lee Burke

    Set in the hauntingly atmospheric backdrop of Louisiana, this gripping tale follows detective Dave Robicheaux as he navigates a world filled with corruption, vengeance, and supernatural elements. As he delves into a decades-old feud between two crime families, Robicheaux encounters a mysterious hitman with seemingly otherworldly powers. The narrative weaves through themes of love, redemption, and the eternal struggle between good and evil, all while exploring the depths of human nature and the shadows that lurk within. With its rich, lyrical prose and complex characters, the story is a mesmerizing journey into the heart of darkness.

    The 15482nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
About this list

Express, 7 Books

John Grisham lists his top 7 favourite books

This list was originally published in 2025 and was added to this site about 1 year ago.

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