The Greatest Crime 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 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.
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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.
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51. The Constant Gardener by John le Carré
"The Constant Gardener" is a gripping tale of corporate corruption and its impact on the world's most vulnerable people. The story follows a British diplomat who embarks on a dangerous journey to find the truth behind his wife's murder. As he uncovers layers of deceit, he discovers that she was close to exposing a conspiracy involving a pharmaceutical company testing a dangerous drug on unsuspecting African villages. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the lengths one man will go to seek justice.
The 5688th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
52. Night Boat To Tangier by Kevin Barry
"Night Boat To Tangier" by Kevin Barry is a darkly comedic novel that follows two aging Irish gangsters, Charlie Redmond and Maurice Hearne, as they wait in a Spanish port for a ferry that may bring Maurice's estranged daughter back into his life. As they reminisce about their past and contemplate their future, the two men confront their regrets, failures, and the toll that a life of crime has taken on them. With poetic language and a keen eye for detail, Barry explores themes of love, loss, and the human condition in a story that is both haunting and humorous.
The 5695th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
53. Only Forward by Michael Marshall Smith
This novel is a captivating blend of science fiction and noir detective genres, set in a future where society is divided into specialized neighborhoods reflecting the inhabitants' personalities and desires. The protagonist, a witty and resourceful problem-solver with a mysterious past, is tasked with finding a missing person, a seemingly straightforward job that spirals into a surreal and dangerous adventure. As he navigates through bizarre and vividly imagined environments, confronting his own fears and memories, the story delves into themes of identity, memory, and the nature of reality itself, all while maintaining a sharp, humorous edge.
The 5740th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
54. Inherent Vice by Thomas Pynchon
Set in the psychedelic haze of 1970s Los Angeles, the story follows private investigator Doc Sportello as he navigates a tangled web of crime, corruption, and conspiracy. When his ex-girlfriend Shasta Fay Hepworth reappears, asking for help with a plot involving her current billionaire boyfriend, Doc becomes embroiled in a chaotic mix of hippie culture, surf music, and shadowy organizations. As he delves deeper into the mystery, Doc encounters an array of eccentric characters, each with their own secrets, leading him on a surreal journey through a city teetering on the edge of change.
The 5952nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
55. The Power Of The Dog by Don Winslow
"The Power of the Dog" is a gripping and intense crime thriller that delves into the complex and dangerous world of drug trafficking. Set in the 1970s and spanning several decades, the story follows a DEA agent and a Mexican drug lord as their paths intertwine, resulting in a deadly game of cat and mouse. Filled with vivid characters, intricate plot twists, and a chilling portrayal of the drug trade, this novel explores themes of corruption, loyalty, and the far-reaching consequences of one's choices.
The 6082nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
56. Dissolution by C. J. Sansom
A Shardlake Novel
Set in the 16th century during the reign of King Henry VIII, the novel follows the story of Matthew Shardlake, a hunchbacked lawyer, who is sent by Thomas Cromwell to investigate the murder of a royal commissioner at a monastery. As Shardlake delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a series of secrets, lies, and corruption within the monastery. The story is a blend of historical fiction and crime thriller, offering a vivid portrayal of the political and religious turmoil of the Tudor period.
The 6085th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
57. My Sister, The Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite
In this darkly comedic novel, a nurse named Korede finds herself repeatedly cleaning up after her sister Ayoola, who has a disturbing habit of killing her boyfriends. As Ayoola's murderous tendencies escalate, Korede is torn between her loyalty to her sister and her growing concern for the next potential victim. As secrets unravel and tensions rise, the sisters' bond is put to the ultimate test, leading to a gripping and unexpected conclusion.
The 6086th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
58. The Queen Of The South by Arturo Pérez-Reverte
The novel follows Teresa Mendoza, a young woman from Mexico who rises from a life of poverty and danger to become a powerful drug cartel leader. After her boyfriend, a drug smuggler, is murdered, Teresa flees to Spain, where she uses her intelligence and resilience to navigate the perilous world of drug trafficking. Over time, she builds a vast and influential empire, facing numerous challenges and betrayals along the way. The story is a gripping tale of survival, ambition, and transformation, highlighting the complexities of power and the human spirit's capacity for reinvention.
The 6139th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
59. CivilWarLand in Bad Decline by George Saunders
Stories and a Novella
This book is a collection of short stories and a novella, all set in dystopian versions of America. The narratives often feature theme parks, which serve as metaphors for the cultural and moral decay of society. The characters are often trapped in low-wage jobs and are struggling to make ends meet, while also grappling with various personal issues. The stories are infused with dark humor and satire, and they provide a critique of capitalism and consumer culture.
The 6155th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
60. American Tabloid by James Ellroy
"American Tabloid" is a gritty crime novel that delves into the underbelly of American society during the late 1950s and early 1960s. The narrative follows three rogue law enforcement officers involved in various illicit activities, including drug trafficking, union corruption, and political conspiracies. The story intertwines with real historical events leading up to the JFK assassination, suggesting a sinister link between organized crime, the CIA, and the highest levels of government.
The 6277th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
61. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown
In this thriller, the protagonist, a Harvard symbologist, is summoned to Washington D.C. to decipher a complex code linked to the Freemasons. His mentor's kidnapping propels him on a frantic chase through the hidden chambers, temples, and tunnels of the U.S. Capitol. Alongside a cryptologist, he unravels clues that must be solved to prevent a national catastrophe. The narrative weaves together secret societies, ancient wisdom, and a controversial scientific theory, culminating in a revelation that challenges the protagonist's understanding of the world.
The 6309th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
62. The Snowman by Jo Nesbø
This gripping thriller follows a determined detective as he investigates a series of chilling disappearances that occur on the first snowfall of each year. The only clue linking the cases is a snowman left at each scene, serving as a sinister signature from the perpetrator. As the detective delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a pattern of crime that leads him into a dark and complex web of secrets. The narrative builds with suspense, leading to a confrontation with a cunning and ruthless killer. Set against a bleak, wintry landscape, the story explores themes of obsession, loss, and the nature of evil, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until its shocking conclusion.
The 6441st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
63. Hardball by Sara Paretsky
A V.I. Warshawski Novel
In this gripping detective novel, a tenacious female private investigator delves into the murky depths of Chicago's political landscape to solve the murder of a reporter. As she navigates the treacherous waters of corruption, organized crime, and the city's power elite, she uncovers a complex web of deceit that threatens to engulf her. With her sharp wit and unwavering determination, she confronts the dangerous forces at play, risking her own life to bring justice to the forefront in a world where playing hardball can have deadly consequences.
The 6584th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
64. You by Caroline Kepnes
"You" is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the twisted mind of a charming bookstore manager, Joe, who becomes dangerously obsessed with a customer named Beck. Through the use of social media and surveillance, Joe meticulously orchestrates a plan to infiltrate Beck's life, manipulating and controlling her every move. As the story unfolds, the reader is taken on a chilling journey into the depths of Joe's disturbed psyche, blurring the lines between love, obsession, and possession.
The 6663rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
65. Blacktop Wasteland by S. A. Cosby
In this gripping crime novel, a former getaway driver turned mechanic, named Beauregard "Bug" Montage, is tempted to return to his criminal past when faced with mounting financial struggles. As he struggles to provide for his family and keep his auto shop afloat, Bug finds himself drawn back into the dangerous world of high-stakes heists. With a blend of adrenaline-fueled action and poignant family dynamics, this book delves into themes of race, identity, and the consequences of one's choices.
The 6682nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
66. The Wimbledon Poisoner by Nigel Williams
This book is a darkly comic tale centered around Henry Farr, a suburban solicitor who finds himself deeply dissatisfied with his mundane life and particularly with his wife, Elinor. In a desperate bid for freedom and excitement, Henry decides to embark on a sinister plan to poison Elinor. However, his attempts at murder are far from successful, leading instead to a series of darkly humorous mishaps and unintended consequences. Set against the backdrop of the quintessentially English town of Wimbledon, the story weaves a narrative that is both a satirical look at middle-class England and a comedic exploration of the lengths to which one man will go to escape his life.
The 6738th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
67. De Advocaat Van De Hanen by A. F. Th. van der Heijden
Een requiemroman
Set against the backdrop of Amsterdam's gritty underbelly, this gripping narrative follows the life of a disillusioned lawyer who finds himself entangled in a web of crime and moral ambiguity. As he navigates the city's dark alleys and complex legal system, he is forced to confront his own ethical boundaries and the haunting memories of his past. The story delves into themes of justice, redemption, and the fine line between right and wrong, painting a vivid picture of a man at the crossroads of his personal and professional life.
The 6749th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
68. King Solomon's Carpet by Barbara Vine
This novel weaves a complex tapestry of lives intersecting in the atmospheric underground of London's Tube system. Centered around a dilapidated house near a Tube station, inherited by Jarvis, a reclusive music composer fascinated by the subway's dark allure, the narrative delves into the secrets and obsessions of its diverse inhabitants. These characters, drawn together by their fascination with the underground, navigate their interconnected stories of love, loss, and the pursuit of passion. The book masterfully explores themes of isolation and connection, creating a suspenseful and psychological exploration of human nature set against the backdrop of one of London's most iconic and labyrinthine landscapes.
The 6847th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
69. The Late-night News by Petros Markaris
A Case for Costas Haritos
In "The Late-night News," a seasoned journalist is found murdered in his office. The investigation of the crime falls to a grizzled detective, who uncovers a web of corruption and deceit within the world of Greek media. As he delves deeper into the case, he finds that the journalist was working on a story that could have significant political implications, making the list of suspects long and dangerous. The detective must navigate through this complex world to find the killer, all while dealing with his own personal demons.
The 6874th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
70. A City Possessed by Lynley Hood
The Christchurch Civic Creche Case
Set against the backdrop of a small New Zealand town, this gripping narrative delves into the complexities of a controversial child abuse case that shook the nation in the 1990s. The story meticulously examines the intricate web of legal proceedings, media frenzy, and societal hysteria that ensued, highlighting the impact on the lives of those involved. Through a detailed exploration of the evidence and testimonies, the narrative raises critical questions about justice, memory, and the power of collective belief, ultimately challenging readers to reflect on the nature of truth and the consequences of moral panic.
The 6899th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
71. A Cool Breeze On The Underground by Don Winslow
A Neal Carey Mystery
In this gripping mystery novel, a young private investigator named Neal Carey is tasked with finding the missing teenage daughter of a powerful senator. As he delves deeper into the case, Neal uncovers a dangerous underground world of drugs, corruption, and violence. With his quick wit and street smarts, Neal must navigate through treacherous alliances and unexpected twists to uncover the truth and save the girl before it's too late. Filled with suspense and intriguing characters, this book keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The 6946th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
72. Death At La Fenice by Donna Leon
In this gripping mystery set in Venice, a renowned conductor is found dead in his dressing room at the prestigious La Fenice opera house, prompting Commissario Guido Brunetti to unravel a web of secrets and lies. As Brunetti delves into the world of opera and the personal lives of those connected to the victim, he uncovers a complex tapestry of jealousy, betrayal, and hidden motives. The investigation reveals the darker side of human nature and the lengths to which people will go to protect their reputations and desires, all set against the backdrop of the enchanting yet enigmatic city of Venice.
The 6975th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
73. The Ice House by Minette Walters
In a gripping tale of suspense and mystery, the discovery of a decaying corpse in the ice house of a secluded manor unravels a web of secrets and lies among three reclusive women. As the police delve into the investigation, old wounds and hidden pasts resurface, challenging the bonds of friendship and loyalty. The narrative intricately weaves together themes of betrayal, redemption, and the haunting shadows of the past, keeping readers on edge as they navigate through the chilling twists and turns of this psychological thriller.
The 6975th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
74. The Gray Man by Mark Greaney
In this high-octane thriller, a legendary assassin known only as "The Gray Man" finds himself on the run after a mission goes awry. With a reputation for being the best in the business, he becomes the target of a relentless pursuit by a powerful organization that once employed him. As he navigates a world filled with danger and deception, he must rely on his unparalleled skills and instincts to survive. The story unfolds with relentless pace, weaving a tale of betrayal, survival, and the thin line between hunter and hunted.
The 7001st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
75. The Girl On The Train by Paula Hawkins
In this psychological thriller, the story revolves around a troubled woman who becomes entangled in a missing persons investigation that promises to send shockwaves throughout her life. As she rides the train every day, she fantasizes about the seemingly perfect couple she sees from her window, until one day she witnesses something shocking in their backyard. Her decision to report it to the authorities leads her down a dark path of intrigue, as she struggles to piece together her fragmented memories and the tangled web of lies, deceit, and complicated relationships that surround the case. Her involvement becomes increasingly dangerous as she tries to prove not only what she saw, but also her own worth and sanity.
The 7023rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
Reading Statistics
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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.
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