The Greatest Crime Books of All Time

Click to learn how this list is calculated.

This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 759 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

Follow on:

What should I read next?

Get personalized book recommendations based on your reading history and preferences. Our algorithm analyzes your favorite books and reading patterns to suggest your next great read.

Get Recommendations

Genres

Crime

The "Crime" category of books typically includes stories that revolve around criminal activities, investigations, and the pursuit of justice. These books may feature detectives, police officers, or other law enforcement officials as main characters, as well as criminals and their victims. Crime novels often involve suspenseful plot twists and turns, as well as complex character development. The genre can encompass a wide range of subgenres, including mystery, thriller, and true crime, and may explore themes such as morality, ethics, and the human condition. Overall, the "Crime" category offers readers a thrilling and engaging look into the darker side of human nature and the justice system.

Add additional genre filters

Countries

Date Range

Filter books by their publication year. Enter the earliest year (Start) and latest year (End) to find books published within that period. Leave either field empty to search from the beginning of time or up to the present day.

Filter

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download

To download this list as a CSV file, please log in to your account. Once logged in, you'll be able to download the data for use in spreadsheet applications.

Login to Download
View: List Grid Table
Filter by: Genres Dates Countries
  1. 1. The Hunter by Tana French

    In a small village in the West of Ireland, Cal Hooper, a retired Chicago detective, seeks tranquility. As he settles into his new life, he forms a bond with Lena, a local woman, and mentors Trey Reddy, a troubled teenager. However, the peace is disrupted when Trey’s estranged father returns with an English millionaire, aiming to uncover gold in the area. As tensions rise, Cal and Lena are determined to protect Trey, but Trey is driven by a desire for revenge. This story delves into the complexities of loyalty, vengeance, and the sacrifices made for loved ones.

    The 57th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  2. 2. All The Colours Of The Dark by Chris Whitaker

    In the small town of Monta Clare, the disappearance of teenager Joseph 'Patch' Macauley sends shockwaves through the community. His best friend, Saint Brown, is determined to find him, even if it means facing heartbreak. Patch, meanwhile, finds himself in a dark room, where he meets Grace, a mysterious girl who becomes his beacon of hope. When Patch escapes, Grace seems to vanish without a trace, leaving him with only her voice and name. Driven by memories, Patch embarks on a relentless quest to find her, while Saint pursues her own mission to uncover the truth behind their abduction. As time passes, their intertwined journeys reveal a tale of love, obsession, and the pursuit of justice, even if it means risking everything.

    The 60th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  3. 3. The Last Murder At The End Of The World by Stuart Turton

    In a world where a deadly fog has wiped out civilization, a small island remains a sanctuary for its 122 villagers and three scientists. Life is peaceful until one of the scientists is found murdered, threatening the island's safety. The murder has compromised the island's security system, which keeps the fog at bay. With only 107 hours to solve the crime, the islanders face a daunting challenge: their memories of the night of the murder have been erased. As the clock ticks down, they must uncover the truth to prevent the fog from engulfing their last refuge.

    The 168th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  4. 4. Death At The Sign Of The Rook by Kate Atkinson

    In "Death At The Sign Of The Rook," a snowstorm traps a diverse group of individuals in a grand country house, setting the stage for a classic mystery. Among them are Jackson Brodie, a seasoned detective, and his partner, DC Reggie Chase. The house, Burton Makepeace, is steeped in intrigue, having lost a valuable Turner painting years ago, with the housekeeper, Sophie, vanishing the same night. Jackson is drawn into the mystery while investigating another theft involving a portrait, "The Woman with a Weasel," stolen from an elderly widow's home on the day of her death. The widow's carer, Melanie, is the prime suspect. As Jackson delves deeper, he must unravel the connections between these events and uncover the secrets hidden within the portrait. Meanwhile, the house hosts a chaotic Murder Mystery event, adding layers to the unfolding drama. With a convicted murderer on the loose nearby, Jackson must piece together the clues before the storm clears and the opportunity to solve the mystery slips away.

    The 188th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  5. 5. A Case Of Matricide by Graeme Macrae Burnet

    Malcolm Macarthur and the Murder of Bridget Macarthur

    In the quiet town of Saint-Louis, Inspector Georges Gorski is drawn into a perplexing case involving a local woman who fears her son, Robert, a novelist, is plotting her demise. The situation is complicated by the mysterious death of their dog and Robert's indifferent attitude towards his mother's claims. As Gorski delves deeper, visiting the family more frequently, he finds himself entangled in a web of suspicion and uncertainty. The boundaries between reality and fiction blur, challenging Gorski's perception of truth and pushing him to question the motives and relationships within the family. This psychological exploration examines the complex dynamics of guilt and the intricate dance between suspect and investigator.

    The 190th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  6. 6. White City by Dominic Nolan

    A thrilling crime novel

    Set in 1952 London, "White City" explores a city grappling with the aftermath of war, where crime and poverty intertwine. The story begins with a daring heist, the largest in British history, leaving the city in turmoil. Two families are deeply affected when their fathers go missing on the day of the robbery. Addie Rowe, a young girl from Brixton, struggles to care for her sister amidst the chaos of her family's disappearance. Meanwhile, Claire Martin, living in Notting Dale, battles to keep her son Ray away from the city's dangerous influences. Her life becomes entangled with notorious figures like Dave Lander, a feared gang enforcer, and Teddy 'Mother' Nunn, a ruthless criminal leader. As the years pass, these characters' lives intersect in unexpected ways, culminating in 1958 when tensions rise in Notting Hill. The West Indian community faces violent threats, and the characters must confront their pasts and seek new futures in a city on the brink of change. "White City" weaves a tale of survival, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams amidst the shadows of London's underworld.

    The 190th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  7. 7. The Peepshow by Kate Summerscale

    A Journey into the World of Victorian Obsession

    In 1953 London, police uncover multiple bodies hidden at 10 Rillington Place, prompting a hunt for tenant Reg Christie and renewed questions about an earlier murder conviction. Kate Summerscale reconstructs the investigation, the lives of the victims, and the media frenzy that surrounded the case to examine how the killings and a possible miscarriage of justice unfolded.

    The 190th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  8. 8. The Cracked Mirror by Chris Brookmyre

    A Tale of Two Continents

    In "The Cracked Mirror," two unlikely detectives, Johnny Hawke and Penny Coyne, find their paths crossing in an unexpected mystery. Johnny, a tough LAPD detective, and Penny, a sharp-minded amateur sleuth from a quiet village, are drawn together by the death of a writer and a puzzling wedding invitation. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover a complex web of secrets that challenges their perceptions and tests their resolve. This intriguing tale blends elements of classic detective stories with modern twists, offering a captivating journey into the heart of mystery and truth.

    The 190th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  9. 9. Cherrywood by Jock Serong

    A Novel of Crime and Redemption

    **Cherrywood** is a captivating tale that weaves together two distinct timelines and locations. In 1916 Edinburgh, Thomas Wrenfether, a wealthy industrialist, embarks on an ambitious project to construct a paddle steamer from cherrywood in Melbourne, Australia. Fast forward to 1993, Martha, a disenchanted lawyer in Melbourne, stumbles upon The Cherrywood, an enigmatic pub that piques her curiosity. As she delves deeper, Martha uncovers intriguing secrets about the pub and its peculiar inhabitants. This novel explores themes of legacy, community, and reinvention, offering a rich and imaginative narrative filled with mystery and wonder.

    The 190th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  10. 10. Deep Water by James D. Bradley

    The Epic Struggle Over Dams, Displaced People, and the Environment

    "Deep Water" by James D. Bradley explores the profound connection between humanity and the ocean. The book delves into the ocean's role in shaping life on Earth, from its ancient history to its current significance as a source of solace and a crucial component of the global economy. As environmental challenges loom, the narrative weaves together science, history, and personal insights to examine the ocean's influence on every living being and the environmental crises we face. Through its exploration, "Deep Water" offers a fresh perspective on our relationship with the natural world and contemplates the future of our planet.

    The 298th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Wolf At The Table by Adam Rapp

    In "Wolf at the Table," the Larkin family of Elmira, New York, is forever changed when a young Myra Larkin encounters a mysterious man she believes to be a famous baseball player. That same night, a brutal crime occurs nearby, casting a long shadow over the family. As the years pass, the Larkin siblings scatter across the country, each chasing their own version of success. Myra becomes a prison nurse, while her sisters, Lexy and Fiona, navigate different social worlds. Alec, once a promising altar boy, becomes estranged and isolated, sending cryptic messages to his mother that hint at dark secrets. This gripping narrative delves into the hidden violence within a seemingly ordinary family and the lasting impact it has on their lives.

    The 304th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  12. 12. Black River by Nilanjana S. Roy

    Set against the backdrop of a small Indian village, this gripping narrative delves into the complexities of grief, justice, and the human spirit. The story follows the aftermath of a brutal crime that shatters the tranquility of the community, leaving its residents grappling with fear and suspicion. As the investigation unfolds, the novel explores the intricate web of relationships and secrets that bind the villagers, revealing the deep-seated prejudices and moral dilemmas they face. Through its vivid portrayal of rural life and the resilience of its characters, the tale offers a poignant reflection on the universal quest for truth and redemption.

    The 531st Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. The Mysterious Case Of The Alperton Angels by Janice Hallett

    In "The Mysterious Case Of The Alperton Angels," a notorious cult convinced a young girl that her child was the anti-Christ. After the girl alerted authorities, the cult members took their own lives, and the girl and her baby vanished. Years later, true crime writer Amanda Bailey sees an opportunity to reignite her career by uncovering the now eighteen-year-old child's whereabouts. However, she faces competition from fellow author Oliver Menzies, who is equally determined to find the elusive individual. As they delve deeper into the mystery, Amanda and Oliver discover that the reality behind the Alperton Angels is far more sinister and complex than they had anticipated, drawing them into a story that could consume them both.

    The 531st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  14. 14. Victim by Andrew Boryga

    Javier Perez is a young man who has mastered the art of storytelling, using his tumultuous background to open doors to opportunities he never imagined. Growing up with a murdered drug dealer father and a single mother, Javi learns to navigate life with a hustler's mindset. His embellished life story earns him a scholarship to a prestigious university, where he dreams of becoming a renowned writer. As he climbs the ranks in the literary world, Javi's past remains a shadow, with only letters exchanged with his childhood friend, Gio, keeping him grounded. Gio, who has served time for gang activity, sees through Javi's facade and questions the authenticity of his success. When Javi's career takes off after a viral essay, he faces a dilemma: continue the charade or confront the truth. The tension between his fabricated identity and genuine connections threatens to unravel everything he's built. Will Javi's ambition lead to his downfall, or can he reconcile his past with his present?

    The 580th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  15. 15. Rat City by Jon Adams, Edmund Ramsden

    A History of Rats and Humans in Urban Environments

    In the 1960s, America grappled with rising crime and social unrest, often attributed to the pressures of overpopulation. Amidst this backdrop, John B. Calhoun, an ecologist-turned-psychologist, conducted experiments on rats to study the effects of crowding. Over three decades, he created "rodent utopias" where all needs were met except for space. As the rat populations grew, they exhibited extreme behavioral changes, leading to their eventual extinction. These changes, termed "behavioral sink," seemed to reflect the societal issues of the time. "Rat City" by Jon Adams and Edmund Ramsden delves into Calhoun's experiments and their implications on understanding personal space, public housing, and human nature. The book traces Calhoun's journey from rural Tennessee to urban Baltimore, exploring how his work influenced midcentury American thought. It provides a detailed look at the functioning and collapse of these rat cities, offering insights into the challenges of ecological and social pressures in a crowded world.

    The 580th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  16. 16. The Last Kilo by T.J. English

    "The Last Kilo" by T.J. English delves into the rise and fall of "Los Muchachos," a prominent cocaine trafficking organization in 1980s Miami. The story centers around Willy Falcon, a Cuban exile who transitioned from anti-Castro activism to becoming a key player in the drug trade. Falcon and his partners built a vast cocaine distribution network, amassing immense wealth and notoriety. As cocaine became a cultural phenomenon, Falcon's life was marked by opulence and high-stakes powerboat racing. However, the ensuing War on Drugs brought federal scrutiny, leading to Falcon's downfall and the disintegration of his personal life. The book offers an insider's view into the world of organized crime and the impact of the cocaine era.

    The 580th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  17. 17. Cuckooland by Tom Burgis

    The Unraveling of the West

    {"summary":"**Cuckooland** by Tom Burgis delves into a world where wealth and power dictate reality. The narrative follows Burgis as he uncovers a network of influence stretching from the Kremlin to Kathmandu, revealing how the elite manipulate truth to serve their interests. Through encounters with oligarchs and secretive sources, the book exposes the fragile nature of truth in a globalized world. It is a gripping exploration of how the powerful shape narratives around war, money, and authority, challenging the notion that truth is a shared commodity."}

    The 580th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  18. 18. Where They Last Saw Her by Marcie R. Rendon

    Quill, a Native American woman from the Red Pine reservation in Minnesota, is haunted by the past and determined to change the future. While training for a marathon, she hears a scream in the woods and discovers signs of a struggle. With the support of her friends and family, Quill embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of a woman from her community. As she delves deeper, she confronts the harsh realities of life on the reservation and the systemic issues that allow such tragedies to occur. Quill's journey is one of resilience and determination as she seeks justice and strives to protect those she loves.

    The 685th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  19. 19. The Murder Of Mr. Ma by John Shen Yen Nee, SJ Rozan

    A Chinese Detective Story

    In 1920s London, a reserved academic named Lao She finds himself swept into a world of intrigue and danger alongside the charismatic Judge Dee Ren Jie. The duo embarks on a thrilling quest to uncover the truth behind a series of murders targeting Chinese immigrants. Each victim is found with a distinctive butterfly sword wound, leading Dee and Lao through a maze of clues and suspects. As they delve deeper, they encounter a diverse cast of characters, from the city's elite to its underworld. With each step, the stakes rise, and the pair must unravel the mystery before they become the next targets.

    The 685th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  20. 20. The Murderess by Laurie Notaro

    A Novel of Suspense

    In October 1931, Winnie Ruth Judd arrives at the Los Angeles train station with trunks that draw the attention of a suspicious porter. Inside, the dismembered bodies of two women are discovered, and Ruth vanishes into the crowd. The ensuing manhunt and her eventual capture captivate the nation, turning the case into a media sensation. The story delves into the life of Ruth, a seemingly ordinary woman with a complex past, exploring themes of jealousy, addiction, and mental instability. As the trial unfolds, shocking revelations emerge, painting a portrait of a woman caught in a web of tragic circumstances.

    The 685th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  21. 21. Death In The Air by Ram Murali

    A True Story of a Serial Killer, the Great London Smog, and the Strangling of a City

    In "Death In The Air," Ro Krishna, an American with Indian roots, seeks solace at Samsara, a luxurious spa in the Indian Himalayas, after leaving a high-profile job under mysterious circumstances. The spa, a haven for the global elite, becomes the backdrop for a series of mysterious deaths. Ro, with his legal background and newfound detective skills, finds himself unraveling a complex web of secrets among a diverse group of guests, including a politician, a Hollywood star, a wealthy heiress, and a quirky yogi. As the body count rises, Ro must navigate this world of opulence and deception to uncover the truth.

    The 685th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  22. 22. The Collaborators by Michael Idov

    In "The Collaborators," a young CIA officer named Ari Falk finds himself in a moral and professional quandary following the loss of a key asset. Meanwhile, Maya Chou, a troubled heiress from Los Angeles, is reeling from the mysterious disappearance of her Russian American billionaire father. Their paths cross as they uncover a global conspiracy involving modern-day Russia, the CIA, and MI5. As they navigate this intricate web of espionage, Ari and Maya's journey takes them across the globe, from the bustling streets of Berlin to the quiet corners of Latvia and Belarus, and even to a 1980s Jewish refugee camp near Rome. Along the way, they encounter unexpected allies and adversaries, all while seeking answers to the complex geopolitical challenges of our time. "The Collaborators" offers a thrilling exploration of espionage, filled with sharp dialogue and vivid settings, as it delves into the shadowy world of intelligence and the choices that shape our world.

    The 685th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  23. 23. Broiler by Eli Cranor

    In the heart of Arkansas, two families find their lives intertwined within the harsh realities of a chicken processing plant. Gabriela Menchaca and Edwin Saucedo, both undocumented workers, face grueling conditions at Detmer Foods while grappling with personal hardships. When Edwin is unjustly fired by the ambitious plant manager, Luke Jackson, tensions escalate. Edwin's quest for revenge against Luke and his family sets off a series of events that reveal the stark power imbalances between the privileged and the oppressed. This gripping thriller delves into the struggles of those living on the fringes of society, painting a vivid picture of life in the American South.

    The 685th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  24. 24. Notes On An Execution by Danya Kukafka

    In a gripping exploration of the human psyche, the narrative delves into the life of a death row inmate, unraveling the intricate web of events and relationships that led to his impending execution. Through the perspectives of three women profoundly affected by his actions, the story examines themes of justice, redemption, and the haunting echoes of past choices. As the clock ticks down, the novel paints a poignant portrait of the complexities of morality and the enduring impact of violence on both victims and perpetrators.

    The 833rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  25. 25. Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice For Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto

    In this cozy mystery, a sharp-witted elderly woman named Vera Wong discovers a dead body in her tea shop, prompting her to embark on an amateur investigation. With her keen observational skills and a knack for giving unsolicited advice, Vera delves into the lives of her quirky customers, each harboring secrets and potential motives. As she unravels the mystery, Vera forms unexpected friendships and uncovers surprising truths, all while navigating the challenges of her own life with humor and determination. The story blends elements of mystery, humor, and heart, showcasing Vera's unique perspective and indomitable spirit.

    The 841st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download

To download this list as a CSV file, please log in to your account. Once logged in, you'll be able to download the data for use in spreadsheet applications.

Login to Download