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. 851. Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich

    This book is a thrilling installment in a popular mystery series that blends humor, romance, and suspense. The story follows a bounty hunter protagonist as she navigates a chaotic mix of characters, including a notorious bank robber, a video game master with a hefty ransom on his head, and a flamboyant reality TV star. Amidst the chaos, she must solve a decade-old bank heist mystery, all while managing the antics of her eccentric family and friends. The narrative is fast-paced, filled with witty dialogue, and showcases the protagonist's tenacity and humor as she juggles professional challenges and personal dilemmas, making it a compelling read for fans of crime fiction with a comedic twist.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  2. 852. The Chamber by John Grisham

    This legal thriller delves into the life of a young attorney who faces the daunting task of defending his grandfather, a former Ku Klux Klan member sentenced to death for a racially motivated bombing. As the lawyer digs deeper into his family's past and the case, he confronts not only the legal system's complexities but also the entrenched racial prejudices and moral dilemmas surrounding the death penalty. Set against the backdrop of the American South, the narrative explores themes of justice, redemption, and the possibility of change, challenging the protagonist and readers to reconsider their views on punishment and forgiveness.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  3. 853. Cross Country by James Patterson

    A Alex Cross Novel

    In this gripping thriller, the protagonist, a seasoned detective, embarks on one of his most perilous assignments yet, chasing a ruthless killer across the globe. The journey takes him from the heart of the United States to the treacherous landscapes of Africa, where he confronts not only the physical dangers of his pursuit but also the moral dilemmas posed by a lawless land. As the body count rises, the detective is drawn deeper into a world of violence and depravity, challenging his principles and his resolve. This fast-paced narrative combines intense action with deep psychological insights, making for a compelling read that explores the complexities of justice and the human spirit.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  4. 854. The Street Lawyer by John Grisham

    This novel follows the transformative journey of a high-flying attorney who has a life-altering encounter with a homeless man, leading him to reevaluate his career and life purpose. Disillusioned with the greed and corruption he sees in the legal profession, he decides to leave his lucrative job at a prestigious law firm to work as an advocate for the homeless. Through his work, he confronts the harsh realities of poverty and injustice in the city, fighting against the systemic barriers that keep people on the streets. His journey is one of moral awakening, personal sacrifice, and the quest for social justice.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  5. 855. First Family by David Baldacci

    In "First Family," readers are plunged into a thrilling narrative that intertwines the lives of the President of the United States and his family with a complex kidnapping case. The story follows Sean King and Michelle Maxwell, two former Secret Service agents turned private investigators, as they are drawn into a high-stakes investigation after the niece of the First Lady is abducted. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover secrets that could not only destroy careers but also lives, revealing a sinister plot that reaches the highest levels of power. The novel is a gripping mix of suspense, political intrigue, and personal drama, showcasing the lengths to which people will go to protect their secrets and their power.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  6. 856. The Partner by John Grisham

    In this gripping legal thriller, a young partner at a prestigious law firm fakes his own death to steal ninety million dollars, sparking a global manhunt. The story unfolds as he starts a new life in Brazil, but his past quickly catches up with him when he is found and kidnapped. As investigators and his former partners close in, secrets unravel, revealing a complex web of betrayal, love, and redemption. The narrative takes the reader on a rollercoaster of legal battles, personal dilemmas, and the quest for justice, keeping them on the edge of their seat until the very end.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  7. 857. Worst Case by James Patterson

    A Detective Michael Bennett Thriller

    In this gripping thriller, a detective from the NYPD and an FBI agent team up to tackle a series of kidnappings that target the children of New York's wealthiest families. The perpetrator, driven by a twisted sense of justice, puts the victims through a bizarre test of moral integrity, threatening their lives if they fail to meet his standards. As the investigators delve deeper into the case, they find themselves racing against time to save the victims while grappling with their own personal demons and the ethical dilemmas posed by the kidnapper's motives. The tension escalates with each new abduction, leading to a climactic confrontation that tests the limits of their resolve and the strength of their dedication to justice.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  8. 858. Swimsuit by James Patterson

    This thriller revolves around the harrowing disappearance of a supermodel from a glamorous photoshoot in Hawaii, leading to a high-stakes investigation that uncovers a deeper, more sinister plot. The narrative follows a determined reporter and a grief-stricken father as they are drawn into a world of unimaginable horror, racing against time to uncover the truth behind the model's vanishing. As they navigate through a maze of deceit and danger, they are forced to confront a ruthless killer whose motives are as mysterious as they are deadly. The story masterfully combines elements of suspense, mystery, and psychological terror, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until its shocking conclusion.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  9. 859. Blood On The River by Marjoleine Kars

    A Chronicle of Mutiny and Freedom on the Wild Coast

    "Blood on the River" explores the riveting history of a massive slave rebellion in 1763 in the Dutch colony of Berbice, in present-day Guyana. The book delves into the extraordinary, yet nearly forgotten, events where enslaved Africans, led by a man named Coffy, rose up against their oppressors in a well-organized revolt. Drawing on previously overlooked primary sources, the narrative vividly reconstructs the complex socio-political landscape of the colony, the strategic planning of the rebels, and the brutal response from the colonial government. Through this detailed examination, the book sheds light on the resilience and agency of the enslaved, offering a poignant and critical reevaluation of resistance during the era of slavery.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  10. 860. The Faber Book Of Reportage by John Carey

    Voices from the Twentieth Century

    "The Faber Book of Reportage" is an anthology that brings together a diverse collection of eyewitness accounts from various moments in history, curated to give readers a firsthand look at events as they unfolded. Spanning from ancient times to the 20th century, the book includes vivid descriptions of historical events written by those who witnessed them, offering unique insights into human history. The accounts range from battles, historical milestones, and cultural revolutions to personal narratives that highlight the impact of significant events on individuals and societies. This compilation serves not only as a historical document but also as a testament to the power of observation and storytelling in shaping our understanding of the past.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  11. 861. Friends In High Places by Donna Leon

    A Commissario Guido Brunetti Mystery

    "Friends in High Places" is a mystery novel that follows the protagonist, a Venetian detective, as he investigates a case involving the suspicious death of a government official. The detective's inquiry leads him into a tangled web of corruption, real estate fraud, and high society connections in Venice. As he delves deeper, he must navigate the perilous waters of political influence and ethical dilemmas, relying on a few trustworthy allies in a city where appearances often hide darker truths. The novel combines a compelling detective story with a rich portrayal of Venetian life and politics.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  12. 862. Polar Star by Martin Cruz Smith

    In "Polar Star," the protagonist, a former investigator, finds himself working on a factory ship in the Bering Sea to escape his troubled past. His attempt at a quiet life is disrupted when he is thrust back into his old role as a detective after a crew member is found dead. Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, the novel weaves a gripping tale of murder, political intrigue, and survival, as the protagonist navigates the treacherous waters of international politics and his own personal demons to uncover the truth behind the mysterious death.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  13. 863. The Quaker City, Or The Monks Of Monk Hall by George Lippard

    A Romance of Philadelphia Life, Mystery, and Crime

    "The Quaker City, or The Monks of Monk Hall" is a sensational novel that explores the dark underbelly of Philadelphia society in the mid-19th century. The narrative delves into the lives of several characters who are drawn into the corrupt and sinister world of Monk Hall, a den of iniquity hidden behind the facade of a religious institution. The novel exposes themes of hypocrisy, vice, and the exploitation of the vulnerable by the wealthy and powerful. Through its intricate plot and dramatic style, the book critiques social and moral decay, offering a stark warning about the dangers of moral duplicity and the abuse of power.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  14. 864. Mildred Pierce by James M. Cain

    The novel centers on Mildred Pierce, a determined and ambitious woman who separates from her unemployed husband during the Great Depression. Struggling to maintain her family's middle-class lifestyle and gain independence, Mildred enters the restaurant business, which brings her both success and new challenges. Despite her achievements, her life is complicated by personal betrayals and the tumultuous relationship with her spoiled and manipulative daughter, Veda, whose approval and affection Mildred desperately seeks. The story explores themes of maternal sacrifice, social mobility, and the American dream, set against a backdrop of economic hardship.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  15. 865. The Shadow Knows by Diane Johnson

    "The Shadow Knows" is a psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the darker aspects of the human psyche. The story follows a woman grappling with her own mental stability as she becomes increasingly paranoid about the intentions of those around her. Set against a backdrop of suspense and intrigue, the novel explores themes of identity, trust, and the fine line between reality and delusion, keeping readers on edge as they try to discern what is real and what is imagined in the protagonist's mind.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  16. 866. The Crime And Punishment Of I. G. Farben by Joseph Borkin

    The Unholy Alliance Between Nazi Germany and the World's Largest Industrial Empire

    "The Crime and Punishment of I.G. Farben" explores the dark history of the German chemical conglomerate I.G. Farben, which played a significant role in supporting Nazi war efforts and exploiting forced labor during World War II. The book delves into the company's development of Zyklon B, used in the gas chambers, and its post-war repercussions, including the Nuremberg Trials where several executives were prosecuted. The narrative critically examines the moral and ethical responsibilities of corporations in wartime, highlighting the complex interplay between industry and government in the machinery of genocide.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  17. 867. The London Hanged by Peter Linebaugh

    Crime and Civil Society in the Eighteenth Century

    "The London Hanged" is a historical analysis that delves into the economic and social aspects of capital punishment in 18th-century London. The book examines how the legal system, particularly through the use of public executions at Tyburn, was employed to control the laboring classes as London evolved into a capitalist economy. It explores the lives and trials of those sentenced to hang, not just for heinous crimes but often for petty thefts, reflecting the harsh penal codes of the time. The narrative connects these executions to broader themes of class struggle, economic exploitation, and the development of legal institutions that supported property rights over human rights, offering a critical look at the intersections of law, labor, and capital.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  18. 868. A Taste of Fear by Tharwat Abaza

    The novel is a gripping tale set in Egypt, weaving a narrative of suspense and psychological intrigue. It follows the story of a young journalist who becomes entangled in a web of mystery and danger after investigating a series of bizarre events. As he delves deeper, he uncovers unsettling truths about human nature and the pervasive influence of fear. The story explores themes of paranoia, the quest for truth, and the moral complexities faced by individuals when confronted with their deepest fears. Through its vivid characters and tense atmosphere, the book offers a compelling exploration of the human psyche under duress.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 869. Murder And Anger by Muwaffaq Khidr

    In this gripping thriller, a seasoned detective finds himself entangled in a complex web of deceit and vengeance as he investigates a series of brutal murders. Each crime scene reveals clues that point to a deeply personal vendetta, forcing the detective to confront his own past and the anger that has long simmered beneath the surface. As the investigation unfolds, he must navigate a labyrinth of secrets and lies, ultimately leading to a shocking revelation that challenges his understanding of justice and morality.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 870. Coyote Waits by Tony Hillerman

    The novel revolves around Navajo Tribal Police officers Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee as they investigate the murder of a fellow officer, Delbert Nez. The case becomes complex when a seemingly obvious suspect, a Navajo shaman named Ashie Pinto, is arrested but maintains his innocence. As Leaphorn and Chee delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover a web of deception, cultural conflicts, and hidden motives that challenge their understanding of justice and tradition within the Navajo community. The story intricately weaves elements of Navajo culture and beliefs with a gripping mystery, highlighting the personal and professional struggles of the two detectives.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  21. 871. Tattoo The Wicked Cross by Floyd Salas

    The novel tells the story of Aaron D'Aragon, a young man navigating the turbulent streets of 1950s East Oakland. Struggling with his identity and the harsh realities of his environment, Aaron becomes entangled in a world of violence, crime, and gang conflicts. As he grapples with his inner demons and external pressures, Aaron's journey is marked by moments of introspection and a quest for redemption amidst the chaos that surrounds him. The narrative delves into themes of survival, loyalty, and the search for meaning in a fractured world.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  22. 872. Budding Prospects by T. C. Boyle

    A Pastoral

    The story follows Felix Nasmyth, a disillusioned man who is lured by the promise of quick riches into an ill-fated marijuana-growing scheme in the remote hills of Northern California. Along with a ragtag group of companions, Felix faces a series of misadventures and escalating challenges, from the perils of nature to the threat of law enforcement. As the dream of easy money turns into a grueling ordeal, Felix grapples with his own ideals and the harsh realities of life, leading to a humorous yet poignant exploration of ambition, friendship, and the quest for meaning.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  23. 873. Angel Fire by Ron Franscell

    The True Story of a Small Town Mass Murder

    The book is a gripping thriller that follows the story of a former Marine turned private investigator who is drawn into a complex and dangerous case involving a missing girl. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that lead him to confront his own troubled past. The narrative is filled with suspense, unexpected twists, and a relentless pursuit of justice, making it a compelling read for fans of crime fiction.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  24. 874. Rock Springs by Richard Ford

    The book is a collection of ten short stories set in the American West, primarily in Montana, that explore the lives of ordinary people facing difficult circumstances. The characters grapple with themes of loss, longing, and the search for redemption as they navigate personal and moral dilemmas. Each story delves into the complexities of human relationships and the often harsh realities of life, offering a poignant and sometimes gritty portrayal of the human condition.

    The 17165th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  25. 875. The Bone Readers by Jacob Ross

    A Caribbean Noir Mystery

    Set in the Caribbean, the story follows Michael "Digger" Digson, a young man who joins a special police unit tasked with solving cold cases. As he delves into the mysteries of the past, Digger uncovers deep-seated corruption and long-buried secrets that challenge his perceptions of justice and loyalty. The narrative intertwines personal and political conflicts, exploring themes of identity, power, and the complexities of human relationships in a richly depicted island setting.

    The 17165th 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