The Greatest "Fiction, Crime, Prisoners" Books Since 1990
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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 '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.
Genres
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.
The "Prisoners" category of books typically includes stories that revolve around characters who are incarcerated or have been imprisoned at some point in their lives. These books may explore the harsh realities of life behind bars, the psychological toll of confinement, and the challenges of reintegration into society after release. They may also delve into themes of justice, redemption, and the human capacity for resilience in the face of adversity. Overall, the "Prisoners" category offers a glimpse into the complex and often overlooked world of those who have been incarcerated.
Countries
Date Range
Reading Statistics
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1. Mars Room by Rachel Kushner
The novel delves into the life of a young woman serving two consecutive life sentences plus six years at Stanville Women's Correctional Facility in California. Through her eyes, the narrative explores the harsh realities of the American prison system and the interwoven lives of inmates, shedding light on themes of poverty, violence, and the struggle for survival within a society that often overlooks the marginalized. The protagonist's past unfolds alongside her present incarceration, revealing the circumstances that led to her imprisonment and her attempts to maintain a connection with the outside world, particularly with her son. The story is a gritty and unflinching examination of the consequences of systemic injustice and the human capacity for resilience in the face of a life confined by bars.
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2. This Mortal Boy by Fiona Kidman
Set in 1950s New Zealand, "This Mortal Boy" tells the gripping true story of Albert "Paddy" Black, a young Irish immigrant who finds himself caught up in a tragic turn of events. When Paddy is accused of murder, his fate rests in the hands of the justice system and the public's perception of him as an outsider. As the trial unfolds, the novel explores themes of prejudice, class division, and the power of love and hope in the face of adversity.
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