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. 1101. Murder By The Clock by Rufus King

    A Homicide Detective Story

    In this gripping mystery, a wealthy and eccentric family finds themselves at the center of a chilling murder investigation when a member is found dead under suspicious circumstances. As the clock ticks, the detective must navigate a web of secrets, hidden motives, and intricate alibis to uncover the truth. With each twist and turn, the tension mounts, leading to a shocking revelation that challenges perceptions of time and justice. The story masterfully blends suspense with psychological depth, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final page.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  2. 1102. Clues Of The Caribbees by T. S. Stribling

    Being Certain Criminal Investigations of Henry Poggioli, Ph.D.

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Caribbean, this collection of detective stories follows the astute and unorthodox sleuth, Dr. Poggioli, as he navigates the complexities of human nature and the intricacies of crime. Each tale is a masterful blend of suspense and cultural exploration, where Poggioli's keen intellect and unique perspective unravel mysteries that challenge conventional wisdom. The stories delve into the rich tapestry of Caribbean life, offering readers a glimpse into the region's diverse cultures and traditions while delivering thrilling and unexpected resolutions.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 1103. The Book Of Murder by Frederick Irving Anderson

    Set in the early 20th century, this gripping mystery unfolds as a cunning detective, Oliver Armiston, delves into a perplexing case involving a series of seemingly unrelated murders. With his sharp intellect and keen observation skills, Armiston navigates through a web of deceit, uncovering hidden motives and unraveling the truth behind the enigmatic deaths. As the tension builds, the detective's pursuit of justice leads to a thrilling climax, revealing the intricate connections between the victims and the mastermind orchestrating the sinister plot.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  4. 1104. The Hammersmith Murders by David Frome

    A Mr. Pinkerton Mystery

    Set against the backdrop of 1930s London, this gripping mystery unravels the chilling tale of a series of murders that send shockwaves through the quiet neighborhood of Hammersmith. The story follows the astute Inspector Bull as he delves into the dark underbelly of the city, piecing together clues and navigating a web of deceit and intrigue. With each twist and turn, the inspector must confront a cast of enigmatic characters, each harboring secrets that could either lead him to the truth or plunge him deeper into danger. As the tension mounts, the race is on to catch the elusive killer before they strike again.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  5. 1105. The Cape Cod Mystery by Phoebe Atwood Taylor

    An Asey Mayo Mystery

    Set against the picturesque backdrop of Cape Cod, this engaging mystery follows the amateur sleuthing of Asey Mayo, a local handyman with a knack for solving crimes. When a reclusive author is found dead in his summer cottage, suspicion falls on a close-knit group of vacationers, each harboring secrets and motives. As Asey delves into the tangled web of relationships and hidden agendas, he must untangle the clues to uncover the true culprit, all while navigating the charming yet deceptive tranquility of the coastal community.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  6. 1106. Death Walks In Eastrepps by Francis Beeding

    A Detective Story

    Set in the quaint seaside town of Eastrepps, this gripping mystery unfolds as a series of brutal murders sends shockwaves through the community. The seemingly peaceful town is thrown into chaos as the police struggle to uncover the identity of the elusive killer, who strikes under the cover of darkness. With a cast of intriguing characters, each harboring their own secrets, the narrative weaves a complex web of suspense and intrigue. As the investigation deepens, unexpected twists and turns challenge the detectives and keep readers on the edge of their seats until the chilling truth is finally revealed.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  7. 1107. Murder At School by James Hilton

    A Detective Story

    Set in the cloistered world of a prestigious English boarding school, this gripping mystery unfolds as a seemingly accidental death of a student raises suspicions of foul play. The narrative follows a determined amateur sleuth, who, driven by curiosity and a sense of justice, delves into the intricate web of relationships and hidden motives among the faculty and students. As secrets unravel and tensions rise, the investigator must navigate the complexities of human nature to uncover the truth behind the facade of academic respectability.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  8. 1108. The Fatal Five Minutes by R.A.J. Walling

    A Mystery Novel

    In this gripping mystery, a seemingly ordinary dinner party takes a dark turn when a guest suddenly collapses and dies, leaving the attendees in shock and suspicion. As the investigation unfolds, the intricate web of relationships and hidden motives among the guests is revealed, leading to a tense and thrilling unraveling of the truth. With each character harboring secrets and potential motives, the story delves into the complexities of human nature and the unforeseen consequences of past actions, culminating in a surprising and satisfying resolution.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  9. 1109. The Murder Of My Aunt by Richard Hull

    Set in a quaint English village, this darkly comedic novel follows the life of Edward Powell, a self-absorbed and indolent young man who lives with his domineering Aunt Mildred. Frustrated by her constant meddling and control over his life, Edward concocts a series of increasingly absurd and elaborate plans to rid himself of her once and for all. As his schemes unfold, the story takes unexpected twists, blending humor with suspense, and ultimately exploring themes of familial duty, rebellion, and the consequences of one's actions.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  10. 1110. The Nursemaid Who Disappeared by Philip MacDonald

    A Colonel Anthony Gethryn Mystery

    In this gripping mystery, the sudden disappearance of a young nursemaid from a wealthy household sets off a chain of events that unravels a web of secrets and lies. As the investigation unfolds, the detective must navigate through a maze of deceit, uncovering hidden motives and unexpected connections among the household's inhabitants. With each twist and turn, the tension mounts, leading to a shocking revelation that challenges perceptions of trust and loyalty.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  11. 1111. Death From A Top Hat by Clayton Rawson

    A Great Merlini Mystery

    In this classic locked-room mystery, a renowned magician and amateur sleuth is drawn into a perplexing case when a fellow illusionist is found dead in his apartment, seemingly murdered by supernatural means. The room is sealed from the inside, and the only clues are a series of bizarre symbols and the victim's collection of occult paraphernalia. As the detective delves deeper into the world of magic and deception, he must untangle a web of secrets, rivalries, and hidden motives to uncover the truth behind the impossible crime.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  12. 1112. Pray Silence by Manning Coles

    In this gripping espionage thriller, a seasoned British intelligence officer finds himself entangled in a web of deception and danger as he navigates the murky waters of post-war Europe. Tasked with uncovering a sinister plot that threatens international stability, he must rely on his wits and experience to outmaneuver a cunning adversary. As the stakes rise and the lines between friend and foe blur, the protagonist faces a race against time to prevent a catastrophe that could alter the course of history.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  13. 1113. The So Blue Marble by Dorothy B. Hughes

    In a whirlwind of suspense and intrigue, the story unfolds in the bustling streets of New York City, where a seemingly ordinary woman, Griselda Satterlee, finds herself entangled in a web of danger and deception. As she navigates the complexities of her life, she encounters the chilling twins, David and Danny Montefierrow, whose sinister intentions threaten her very existence. With a mysterious blue marble at the heart of the chaos, Griselda must unravel the secrets that bind her to these enigmatic figures, all while confronting the shadows of her own past. The narrative weaves a gripping tale of mystery, danger, and unexpected alliances, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  14. 1114. The Norths Meet Murder by Frances Lockridge, Richard Lockridge

    A Mr. and Mrs. North Mystery

    In this engaging mystery, a seemingly ordinary evening takes a dark turn when a body is discovered in the basement of a New York City brownstone. The Norths, a charming couple with a knack for sleuthing, find themselves entangled in the investigation, unraveling a web of secrets and deception. As they delve deeper into the lives of the building's residents, they uncover hidden motives and unexpected alliances, all while navigating the complexities of their own relationship. With wit and keen observation, they piece together the clues to solve the murder, revealing the truth behind the facade of everyday life.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  15. 1115. Verdict Of Twelve by Raymond Postgate

    A Murder Trial

    In this gripping courtroom drama, twelve jurors are tasked with deciding the fate of a woman accused of poisoning her young nephew. As the trial unfolds, the narrative delves into the personal histories and biases of each juror, revealing how their individual experiences and prejudices influence their perceptions of the case. The story masterfully explores themes of justice, morality, and the complex nature of truth, ultimately leading to a surprising and thought-provoking verdict that challenges the very essence of human judgment.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  16. 1116. The Patience Of Maigret by Georges Simenon

    In this gripping detective novel, the seasoned and astute Inspector Maigret finds himself embroiled in a complex investigation that tests his legendary patience and intuition. Set against the backdrop of Paris, the story unfolds as Maigret delves into the mysterious world of a notorious crime family, unraveling secrets and piecing together clues with his trademark methodical approach. As he navigates through a web of deceit and betrayal, Maigret's unwavering determination and deep understanding of human nature lead him to uncover the truth, proving once again that patience is a virtue in the art of detection.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  17. 1117. Trial By Fury by Craig Rice

    In this thrilling mystery, a high-profile murder trial captivates the city as the defense attorney, known for his unorthodox methods, takes on a seemingly impossible case. The courtroom becomes a battleground of wits and deception, where hidden motives and buried secrets slowly unravel. As the trial progresses, the line between guilt and innocence blurs, leading to unexpected twists and a shocking revelation that challenges the very notion of justice. With tension mounting and stakes higher than ever, the truth becomes a dangerous weapon in a world where appearances can be deceiving.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  18. 1118. A Taste For Honey by H.F. Heard

    A Mystery

    In this intriguing mystery set in the English countryside, a reclusive beekeeper finds himself entangled in a web of suspense when his neighbor dies under suspicious circumstances. As he delves deeper into the peculiar events surrounding the death, he encounters a mysterious detective with a penchant for honey and a knack for solving puzzles. Together, they unravel a sinister plot involving murder, deception, and the dark secrets hidden within the seemingly idyllic village, leading to a thrilling and unexpected conclusion.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  19. 1119. Rocket To The Morgue by Anthony Boucher

    A Mystery Novel

    Set against the backdrop of 1940s Los Angeles, this mystery novel weaves a tale of intrigue and suspense within the science fiction community. When a series of bizarre and threatening incidents target a group of writers, Detective Lieutenant Terrance Marshall is called in to unravel the mystery. As he delves deeper, he encounters a colorful cast of characters, each with their own motives and secrets, leading to a thrilling climax that blurs the lines between reality and fiction. The story cleverly intertwines elements of the Golden Age of science fiction with a classic whodunit, offering readers a unique and engaging experience.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  20. 1120. The Just And The Unjust by James Gould Cozzens

    Set in a small Pennsylvania town, the narrative delves into the intricacies of the American legal system through the eyes of Abner Coates, a young assistant district attorney. As he navigates a high-profile murder trial, the story explores themes of justice, morality, and the human condition, highlighting the tension between personal ethics and professional duty. The courtroom drama unfolds against a backdrop of societal expectations and personal dilemmas, offering a nuanced portrayal of the complexities inherent in the pursuit of justice.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  21. 1121. Blood Upon The Snow by Hilda Lawrence

    A Novel of Suspense

    Set against the backdrop of a snow-blanketed rural town, this gripping mystery unravels as a private investigator, Mark East, is called upon to solve a perplexing murder case. The chilling atmosphere intensifies as secrets buried beneath the pristine snow come to light, revealing a web of deceit, hidden motives, and unexpected alliances. As East delves deeper into the lives of the town's inhabitants, he must navigate a maze of clues and red herrings, all while battling the elements and his own inner demons, to uncover the truth behind the sinister events that have shattered the community's tranquility.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  22. 1122. The Adventures Of Sam Spade by Dashiell Hammett

    Set in the gritty streets of San Francisco, the story follows a shrewd and hard-boiled private detective as he navigates a web of deceit, betrayal, and murder. Tasked with unraveling a complex case involving a mysterious femme fatale and a valuable artifact, the detective must rely on his wits and instincts to outsmart a cast of dubious characters. As the plot thickens, he finds himself entangled in a dangerous game where trust is scarce, and every move could be his last. With sharp dialogue and a fast-paced narrative, the tale captures the essence of classic noir fiction.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  23. 1123. The Unsuspected by Charlotte Armstrong

    In this gripping psychological thriller, a seemingly untouchable theater impresario, Victor Grandison, orchestrates a web of deceit and manipulation to cover up his dark secrets. When a young woman, Rosaleen, is found dead in an apparent suicide, her fiancé, Steven, becomes suspicious and begins to unravel the sinister truths hidden beneath Grandison's charming facade. As Steven delves deeper, he discovers a chilling plot involving murder, betrayal, and the unsuspected depths of human depravity, leading to a tense and dramatic confrontation that challenges the boundaries of trust and deception.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  24. 1124. Dr Sam Johnson, Detector by Lilian De la Torre

    The Strange Case of Dr. Sam: Johnson, Detector

    Set in the vibrant and bustling world of 18th-century London, this intriguing tale follows the renowned literary figure, Dr. Samuel Johnson, as he steps into the role of a detective. With his sharp intellect and keen observational skills, Johnson navigates through a web of deceit, mystery, and intrigue, unraveling complex cases that challenge his wit and moral compass. Alongside his loyal biographer, James Boswell, Johnson encounters a colorful cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motives, as he seeks to uncover the truth hidden beneath the veneer of society's respectability.

    The 17131st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  25. 1125. The Department Of Dead Ends by Roy Vickers

    Set within the confines of a unique police department, this collection of short stories delves into the intriguing world of unsolved crimes and the meticulous detectives who unravel them. Each tale presents a seemingly dead-end case, where traditional investigative methods have failed, only to be revived by the unconventional approaches of the department's astute officers. Through clever deductions and unexpected twists, the stories explore the human psyche, revealing the hidden motives and overlooked clues that ultimately lead to justice. The narratives are rich with suspense, offering readers a captivating glimpse into the art of solving the unsolvable.

    The 17131st 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