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.
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 RecommendationsGenres
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.
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.
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.
DownloadTo 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-
751. The Killer by Colin Wilson
The book delves into the psychological exploration of a serial killer, examining the mind of a man driven by a compulsion to murder. It presents a gripping narrative that intertwines the killer's internal struggles with the external investigation led by law enforcement. As the story unfolds, it reveals the complexities of human nature, the dark impulses that can reside within, and the societal factors that may contribute to such violent behavior. Through a blend of suspense and psychological insight, the narrative challenges readers to consider the fine line between sanity and madness.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
752. 120, Rue De La Gare by Léo Malet
A Nestor Burma Mystery
Set in wartime France, the story follows private detective Nestor Burma as he unravels a complex mystery involving murder and espionage. After being released from a German prisoner-of-war camp, Burma returns to Paris and is drawn into an investigation when a cryptic message leads him to a series of enigmatic events. As he navigates through a web of deceit and danger, Burma encounters a range of intriguing characters, each with their own secrets, ultimately uncovering a conspiracy that ties back to the mysterious address, 120, Rue de la Gare. The novel combines elements of noir and suspense, capturing the tense atmosphere of France during World War II.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
753. Blood Brothers by Ernst Haffner
Set in the tumultuous streets of 1930s Berlin, the story follows a group of destitute and disenfranchised youths who form a tight-knit gang to survive the harsh realities of poverty and societal neglect. These young men, bound by loyalty and desperation, navigate a world of crime, camaraderie, and fleeting moments of hope as they struggle against the oppressive forces that threaten to consume them. Through their journey, the narrative explores themes of brotherhood, resilience, and the search for identity amidst the chaos of a society on the brink of upheaval.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
754. He Who Whispers by John Dickson Carr
Set in post-war England, this gripping mystery revolves around a seemingly impossible murder that takes place in a tower. The story unfolds through the eyes of Dr. Gideon Fell, a detective with a penchant for solving the most perplexing of crimes. As he delves into the intricate web of secrets and lies surrounding the victim and the suspects, he encounters themes of betrayal, love, and revenge. The narrative is rich with atmospheric tension and clever twists, leading to a surprising and satisfying resolution that challenges the boundaries of logic and perception.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
755. The Chinese Orange Mystery by Ellery Queen
A Problem in Deduction
In this classic detective novel, a perplexing murder takes place in a peculiar setting where everything in the room is reversed, from the furniture to the victim's clothing. The renowned amateur sleuth is called upon to unravel this baffling case, which is further complicated by the presence of an enigmatic orange. As the investigation unfolds, a web of deception, hidden identities, and unexpected motives is revealed, challenging the detective's deductive skills and leading to a surprising resolution that hinges on the smallest of details.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
756. The Big Bow Mystery by Israel Zangwill
Set in the foggy streets of Victorian London, this classic detective novel unravels the perplexing case of a seemingly impossible murder. The story begins with the discovery of a man found dead in a locked room, with no apparent means for the murderer to have entered or exited. As the investigation unfolds, a cast of colorful characters, including a retired detective and a determined journalist, delve into the mystery, each with their own theories and motives. With a blend of suspense, humor, and social commentary, the narrative explores themes of justice and morality, leading to a surprising and thought-provoking conclusion.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
757. Final Curtain by Ngaio Marsh
In this gripping mystery, the renowned detective Roderick Alleyn is called upon to investigate a murder that occurs in the world of theater. The story unfolds as Alleyn, who is on leave from his duties in New Zealand, is drawn into the dramatic and often tumultuous lives of a theatrical family. As tensions rise and secrets unravel, Alleyn must navigate a web of jealousy, ambition, and betrayal to uncover the truth behind the murder. With a keen eye for detail and a sharp mind, he delves into the complexities of human nature, ultimately revealing the killer in a surprising and satisfying conclusion.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
758. The Tower Treasure by Franklin W. Dixon
In this thrilling mystery, teenage sleuths Frank and Joe Hardy embark on their first adventure as they investigate the mysterious theft of valuable jewels and securities from the Tower Mansion. With their keen detective skills and unwavering determination, the Hardy boys uncover a series of clues that lead them through a web of deceit and danger. As they delve deeper into the case, they face numerous challenges and unexpected twists, ultimately revealing the true culprit and restoring justice to their community.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
759. Memoirs De Vidocq by Francois Eugene Vidocq
The Principal Agent of the French Police Until 1827, and Now Proprietor of the Paper Manufactory at St. Mandé
The book offers a captivating glimpse into the life of a man who transformed from a notorious criminal into the first director of the French Sûreté Nationale, laying the groundwork for modern detective work. Through a series of thrilling anecdotes and personal reflections, the narrative unveils his daring escapades, ingenious disguises, and relentless pursuit of justice, painting a vivid picture of 19th-century France's underworld. His unique perspective as both a former criminal and a pioneering detective provides an intriguing exploration of crime, punishment, and redemption, making it a compelling read for those fascinated by the complexities of human nature and the evolution of law enforcement.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
760. Recollections Of A Detective Police Officer by William Russell Waters
The Experiences of a Detective in the Metropolitan Police
Set in the bustling streets of Victorian London, this collection of intriguing tales follows the experiences of a seasoned detective as he navigates the complex world of crime and justice. Through a series of gripping narratives, the detective recounts his encounters with cunning criminals, mysterious disappearances, and the intricate web of human nature. Each story offers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of law enforcement during a time when the city was rife with intrigue and danger, showcasing the detective's keen insight and unwavering dedication to uncovering the truth.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
761. File No 13 by Émile Gaboriau
The Mystery of Orcival
In this gripping detective novel, a mysterious case unfolds as a young clerk named Prosper Bertomy finds himself accused of a shocking crime he insists he did not commit. As the investigation delves deeper, a web of deceit, betrayal, and hidden motives emerges, challenging the astute detective Monsieur Lecoq to unravel the truth. With each clue, the story weaves through the complexities of human nature and societal expectations, leading to a dramatic revelation that questions the very nature of justice and innocence.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
762. The Mystery Of Orcival by Émile Gaboriau
A Detective Story
Set in a quaint French village, this gripping detective novel unravels the perplexing murder of a wealthy countess, whose lifeless body is discovered in the serene gardens of her estate. As the local authorities grapple with the shocking crime, the astute detective, Monsieur Lecoq, is called upon to untangle the web of deceit and hidden motives that shroud the case. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering determination, Lecoq delves into the lives of the villagers, uncovering secrets and lies that lead him to a surprising and dramatic conclusion.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
763. Martin Hewitt, Investigator by Arthur Morrison
Set in the bustling streets of Victorian London, this collection of short stories follows the astute and unassuming detective as he unravels a series of perplexing mysteries. With a keen eye for detail and a methodical approach, the protagonist tackles cases ranging from thefts to murders, often outsmarting both criminals and the police. Each story showcases his logical reasoning and ability to see beyond the obvious, making him a formidable investigator in a world filled with intrigue and deception.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
764. Prince Zaleski by M. P. Shiel
and Cummings King Monk
Set in a mysterious and opulent Gothic mansion, the narrative follows an enigmatic and reclusive detective who is drawn out of his self-imposed exile to solve a series of perplexing and intricate mysteries. With a mind as sharp as it is unconventional, he unravels each case with a blend of intellectual prowess and an almost supernatural intuition, revealing the dark undercurrents of human nature and the complexities of the criminal mind. The stories are rich in atmosphere, blending elements of the supernatural with the cerebral, and offer a unique twist on the classic detective genre.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
765. The Sands Of Windee by Arthur William Upfield
Set in the vast, desolate Australian outback, this gripping mystery follows the astute and resourceful Detective Inspector Napoleon "Bony" Bonaparte as he investigates a perplexing murder case. When a man's body is discovered in the remote Windee Station, Bony must navigate the harsh landscape and unravel a web of deceit and secrets among the station's inhabitants. With his unique blend of Aboriginal and European heritage, Bony employs his keen observational skills and cultural insights to piece together the truth, revealing the hidden motives and unexpected twists that lie beneath the surface of this isolated community.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
766. The Wheel Spins by Ethel Lina White
Set against the backdrop of a European train journey, this gripping mystery follows a young woman named Iris Carr, who becomes embroiled in a perplexing disappearance. After befriending an elderly English governess, Miss Froy, Iris is shocked when the woman vanishes without a trace. As Iris struggles to convince her fellow passengers of the disappearance, she encounters a web of deceit and intrigue, leading her to question her own sanity. With suspense building at every turn, the story unravels a thrilling tale of deception, identity, and the relentless pursuit of truth.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
767. The Great Train Robbery by Michael Crichton
Set in Victorian England, this thrilling historical novel follows the audacious and meticulously planned heist of a train carrying a fortune in gold bullion. The mastermind behind the operation, a charismatic and cunning criminal, assembles a diverse team of accomplices, each with their own unique skills, to execute the daring robbery. As the plot unfolds, readers are drawn into a world of deception, intrigue, and suspense, where the line between law and crime blurs, and the stakes are as high as the risks. With its vivid depiction of 19th-century society and its intricate narrative, the story captures the essence of a bygone era while delivering a gripping tale of ambition and ingenuity.
The 16523rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
768. Above The Dark Circus by Hugh Walpole
Set against the backdrop of a bustling and mysterious city, this novel weaves a tale of intrigue and suspense as it follows the life of a young artist who becomes entangled in a web of deceit and danger. As he navigates the shadowy world of high society and the underbelly of the city, he encounters a cast of enigmatic characters, each with their own secrets and motives. The story unfolds with a blend of psychological depth and thrilling twists, exploring themes of ambition, identity, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
769. The Big Clock by Kenneth Fearing
In this gripping noir thriller, a successful magazine executive finds himself ensnared in a deadly game of cat and mouse when he becomes the prime suspect in a murder investigation orchestrated by his own employer. As he races against time to clear his name, he must navigate a labyrinth of corporate intrigue, deception, and betrayal, all while being pursued by the very investigative team he leads. The narrative unfolds with relentless tension, exploring themes of power, identity, and the inescapable passage of time.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
770. The Case Of The Abominable Snowman by Nicholas Blake
In this intriguing mystery, private detective Nigel Strangeways is called to the remote and snow-covered Welsh countryside to investigate a series of bizarre events at a secluded artist's colony. As he delves deeper into the case, Strangeways encounters a cast of eccentric characters, each with their own secrets and motives. The tension escalates when a murder occurs, and Strangeways must unravel the tangled web of relationships and hidden truths to uncover the identity of the killer. With its atmospheric setting and clever plot twists, the story keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the final revelation.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
771. Death In The Wrong Room by Anthony Gilbert
In this gripping mystery, a seemingly straightforward case of murder takes a complex turn when a man is found dead in a room he had no reason to be in. As the investigation unfolds, the detective must navigate a web of deceit, hidden motives, and unexpected alliances to uncover the truth. With each clue leading to more questions, the tension builds, revealing a tale of betrayal and intrigue that challenges the very notion of justice.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All Time -
772. The Engagement by Georges Simenon
In this gripping psychological thriller, the story unfolds around a reclusive and enigmatic man named Mr. Hire, who becomes the prime suspect in a murder investigation. Living in a small, tightly-knit community, Mr. Hire is an outsider, both feared and misunderstood by his neighbors. As the police close in, the narrative delves into the complexities of human nature, exploring themes of isolation, prejudice, and the thin line between guilt and innocence. With an atmosphere thick with tension and suspicion, the tale masterfully captures the essence of a man caught in a web of societal judgment and his own mysterious past.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
773. The Man In The Net by Patrick Quentin
In a small New England town, a struggling artist finds himself ensnared in a web of suspicion and intrigue when his wife mysteriously disappears. As the community turns against him, he must navigate a labyrinth of deceit and betrayal to uncover the truth, all while grappling with his own inner demons and the unraveling of his once-idyllic life. The narrative unfolds with a tense blend of psychological drama and suspense, exploring themes of trust, perception, and the dark undercurrents that can lurk beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary lives.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
774. An Oxford Tragedy by J. C. Masterman
Set against the backdrop of the prestigious Oxford University, this classic mystery novel unfolds as a seemingly ordinary academic setting is disrupted by a shocking murder. The story follows the astute amateur detective, an outsider to the university, who is called upon to unravel the intricate web of academic rivalries, personal vendettas, and hidden secrets that lie beneath the institution's esteemed facade. As the investigation progresses, the detective must navigate the complex social dynamics of the university to uncover the truth and bring the perpetrator to justice, all while maintaining the delicate balance of academic decorum.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
775. A Pin To See The Peepshow by F. Tennyson Jesse
Set in early 20th-century England, this novel follows the life of Julia Almond, a young woman trapped in a mundane existence, yearning for excitement and romance. Her aspirations lead her into a passionate affair with a married man, Leonard Carr, which spirals into a scandalous murder trial. As Julia becomes entangled in a web of societal judgment and personal downfall, the story explores themes of desire, societal constraints, and the tragic consequences of seeking fulfillment in a world that offers little room for personal freedom.
The 15918th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or 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.
DownloadTo 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