The Greatest Crime Books Since 2000
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-
476. The Lock Up by John Banville
Set in the atmospheric backdrop of 1950s Dublin, this gripping mystery weaves a tale of intrigue and deception as a seasoned detective delves into a perplexing case involving a young woman's mysterious death. As he navigates the labyrinthine streets and encounters a cast of enigmatic characters, he uncovers layers of secrets that challenge his perceptions of truth and justice. With its evocative prose and intricate plot, the story explores themes of memory, identity, and the shadows of the past that linger in the present.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
477. My Men by Victoria Kielland
"My Men" delves into the life of Belle Gunness, a Norwegian maid who becomes one of 19th-century America's most infamous figures. After moving to America, Belle's dreams of a better life are shattered by the same societal constraints she faced back home. Driven by a deep-seated desire for love and recognition, she embarks on a dark path of revenge against a world that has wronged her. As Belle's actions grow more ruthless, her story becomes a haunting exploration of a woman's struggle against her past and the rigid norms of her time.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
478. Prom Mom by Laura Lippman
Set against the backdrop of a small town, this gripping psychological thriller delves into the complexities of past mistakes and the haunting power of secrets. The story follows Amber Glass, who returns to her hometown years after a tragic prom night incident that left her ostracized and dubbed "Prom Mom." As she navigates the tangled web of her past and present relationships, Amber finds herself drawn back into the lives of those she left behind, including her high school sweetheart, Joe. With tension mounting and old wounds resurfacing, the narrative explores themes of redemption, guilt, and the inescapable pull of history.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
479. Confidence by Rafael Frumkin
Set against the backdrop of a world where ambition and deception intertwine, this gripping narrative follows two charismatic con artists whose lives are a whirlwind of schemes and reinvention. As they navigate the complexities of friendship, identity, and the pursuit of success, their journey is marked by a series of audacious heists and unexpected twists. The story delves into the intricacies of trust and betrayal, exploring how the allure of power and the desire for belonging can lead individuals down a path of moral ambiguity. With sharp wit and a keen eye for detail, the tale captures the essence of human ambition and the lengths one will go to achieve their dreams.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
480. Up With The Sun by Thomas Mallon
Set against the vibrant backdrop of mid-20th century New York City, this captivating narrative delves into the life of a charismatic yet enigmatic Broadway actor whose career is marked by both dazzling triumphs and haunting failures. As the protagonist navigates the complex world of theater, he encounters a colorful cast of characters, each with their own dreams and secrets. The story intricately weaves themes of ambition, identity, and the relentless pursuit of fame, painting a vivid portrait of a bygone era where the spotlight could illuminate or obscure the truth.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
481. Correction by Ben Austen
Parole, Prison, and the Possibility of Change
Set against the backdrop of Chicago's infamous Cabrini-Green housing project, this narrative delves into the complex interplay of urban development, social justice, and community resilience. Through a blend of historical analysis and personal stories, the book explores the transformation of public housing and the lives of those affected by it. It examines the promises and pitfalls of urban renewal, highlighting the tensions between progress and displacement, and the enduring spirit of a community striving to redefine itself amidst change.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
482. Number Go Up by Zeke Faux
Inside the Cryptocurrency Craze
In this captivating exploration of the world of cryptocurrency, the narrative delves into the intricate and often bewildering landscape of digital currencies. It offers a vivid portrayal of the people and stories behind the rise of this financial phenomenon, shedding light on the motivations, challenges, and triumphs of those who navigate this volatile market. Through a blend of investigative journalism and personal anecdotes, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of how cryptocurrencies have transformed the global economy, while also examining the ethical and societal implications of this technological revolution.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
483. Starkweather by Harry N. MacLean
Inside the Mind of a Teenage Killer
Set against the backdrop of 1950s America, this gripping true crime narrative delves into the chilling spree of a teenage killer whose actions left a trail of devastation across Nebraska and Wyoming. The story meticulously explores the psychological complexities and societal influences that shaped the young murderer's path, while also examining the impact of his crimes on the communities and families involved. Through a blend of detailed research and compelling storytelling, the book offers a haunting reflection on the nature of violence and the dark undercurrents lurking beneath the surface of post-war American life.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
484. Mefisto Kulübü by Tess Gerritsen
In this gripping thriller, a series of gruesome murders leads Detective Jane Rizzoli and medical examiner Maura Isles into the shadowy world of a secretive society known as the Mephisto Club. As they delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover chilling connections between the victims and the club's enigmatic members, who are obsessed with the battle between good and evil. With the lines between myth and reality blurring, Rizzoli and Isles must confront their own beliefs and fears to stop a killer who seems to be driven by a sinister, otherworldly force.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time -
485. Günahkar by Tess Gerritsen
In a chilling tale of suspense and mystery, a brutal murder in a convent sets the stage for a gripping investigation. The story follows a determined detective and a skilled medical examiner as they delve into the dark secrets hidden within the convent's walls. As they uncover layers of deceit and betrayal, they are drawn into a web of intrigue that challenges their beliefs and tests their resolve. With each twist and turn, the narrative explores themes of faith, redemption, and the haunting shadows of past sins, culminating in a heart-pounding climax that leaves readers questioning the nature of guilt and innocence.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time -
486. Siliniş by Tess Gerritsen
In a gripping tale of suspense and mystery, a young woman finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and danger after a seemingly innocent encounter leads to a series of chilling events. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers a hidden world of deception and betrayal, where nothing is as it seems. With each twist and turn, she must rely on her instincts and courage to unravel the truth and survive the perilous journey that lies ahead.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All Time -
487. Savannah Blues by Mary Kay Andrews
In this delightful Southern mystery, readers are introduced to Eloise "Weezie" Foley, a feisty antiques picker and recently divorced woman living in Savannah, Georgia. As she navigates the challenges of her new life, Weezie finds herself embroiled in a murder investigation when her ex-husband's new girlfriend is found dead. With her trusty dog and a colorful cast of friends by her side, Weezie must untangle a web of secrets, lies, and hidden treasures, all while trying to reclaim her own happiness and independence in the charming, historic city she calls home.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
488. Still Life / A Fatal Grace / The Cruelest Month by Louise Penny
Set in the quaint village of Three Pines, the narrative follows Chief Inspector Armand Gamache as he delves into the mysterious and often sinister undercurrents of seemingly idyllic rural life. Each installment unravels a complex tapestry of human emotions, secrets, and relationships, as Gamache and his team navigate through murder investigations that reveal the darker sides of human nature. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of human psychology, the inspector uncovers truths that challenge the community's facade of peace and harmony, ultimately seeking justice and redemption in a world where nothing is as it seems.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
489. The Mastermind by Evan Ratliff
Drugs. Empire. Murder. Betrayal.
This gripping narrative delves into the life of a brilliant yet elusive criminal mastermind who orchestrated a global drug empire from the shadows. The story unravels the intricate web of deceit, corruption, and high-stakes operations that spanned continents, revealing the audacious exploits and cunning strategies employed to evade law enforcement. As investigators close in, the tale exposes the blurred lines between legality and crime, showcasing a relentless pursuit of justice against a backdrop of moral ambiguity and international intrigue.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
490. The 7 1/2 Deaths Of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton
In a thrilling blend of mystery and time-loop narrative, a man named Aiden Bishop finds himself trapped in a bizarre cycle at a lavish estate, where he must solve the murder of Evelyn Hardcastle. Each day, Aiden wakes up in the body of a different guest, reliving the same day over and over, as he races against time to uncover the truth and break free from the loop. With each new perspective, Aiden gathers crucial clues, but he must navigate a web of secrets, deceit, and danger, where nothing is as it seems, and every decision could alter the outcome.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
491. The Day After Tomorrow by Allan Folsom
In this gripping thriller, a Los Angeles surgeon becomes embroiled in a high-stakes conspiracy after witnessing a murder in Paris. As he delves deeper into the mystery, he uncovers a chilling plot involving a secret society with plans that could alter the course of history. Racing against time, he must navigate a web of deceit, betrayal, and danger that spans continents, all while confronting his own past and the shadows that haunt him. The narrative weaves together elements of suspense, action, and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
492. Find You First by Linwood Barclay
In this gripping thriller, a wealthy tech entrepreneur discovers he has a terminal illness and decides to track down the children he fathered through a sperm donation years ago. As he begins his search, he finds that someone else is also looking for them, but with deadly intentions. As the heirs start disappearing one by one, a race against time ensues to uncover the truth and protect those who are left. The narrative weaves through a web of secrets, greed, and betrayal, leading to a shocking revelation that challenges the boundaries of family and morality.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
493. City On Fire by Don Winslow
Set against the backdrop of 1980s Providence, Rhode Island, this gripping crime saga delves into the lives of two rival crime families, the Irish Murphys and the Italian Morettis, whose fragile peace is shattered by a forbidden love affair. As tensions escalate, the narrative intricately weaves themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of power, drawing readers into a world where personal vendettas and family honor collide with devastating consequences. The story unfolds with a rich tapestry of complex characters, each grappling with their own moral dilemmas amidst the chaos of a city on the brink of war.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
494. The Yiddish Policeman's Union by Michael Chabon
Set in an alternate history where a Jewish settlement was established in Alaska after World War II, the story follows a weary detective navigating a gritty, snow-laden landscape. As he investigates the murder of a chess prodigy in the temporary Jewish homeland, he uncovers a web of intrigue that intertwines with the community's uncertain future. The narrative blends elements of noir, mystery, and speculative fiction, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the quest for redemption in a world teetering on the brink of change.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
495. November Road by Lou Berney
Set against the backdrop of the Kennedy assassination, this gripping novel follows Frank Guidry, a loyal lieutenant to a New Orleans crime boss, who finds himself on the run after realizing he knows too much about the conspiracy behind the President's murder. As he flees across the country, he crosses paths with Charlotte, a woman escaping her own troubled life with her two daughters. Together, they embark on a perilous journey filled with danger, deception, and unexpected connections, as they both seek redemption and a chance at a new beginning amidst the chaos of a nation in turmoil.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
496. Deep Freeze by Lisa Jackson
In a chilling tale of suspense and intrigue, a successful actress returns to her hometown in Oregon, seeking solace from a scandal that has tarnished her career. However, her plans for a quiet retreat are shattered when she becomes the target of a relentless stalker, dredging up dark secrets from her past. As the tension mounts, she must confront her deepest fears and unravel the mystery before it's too late, all while navigating the complexities of love, betrayal, and redemption in a town where everyone seems to have something to hide.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
497. Left To Die by Lisa Jackson
In a chilling tale of suspense and mystery, a relentless serial killer known as "The Star-Crossed Killer" prowls the snowy landscapes of Montana, leaving a trail of victims marked with astrological symbols. As Detective Regan Pescoli and her partner Selena Alvarez race against time to unravel the cryptic clues, they find themselves entangled in a web of deception and danger. With the killer always one step ahead, the detectives must confront their own fears and vulnerabilities, leading to a heart-pounding climax where survival is uncertain and trust is a luxury they cannot afford.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
498. Big Sky by Kate Atkinson
In this gripping novel, a private investigator finds himself drawn back into the world of crime and deception as he navigates a complex web of secrets in a seemingly tranquil seaside town. As he delves deeper into his investigation, he uncovers a sinister network of human trafficking and exploitation, forcing him to confront his own past and the moral ambiguities of justice. With a cast of richly developed characters and a plot that intertwines the personal with the criminal, the story explores themes of redemption, resilience, and the enduring quest for truth amidst the shadows of human nature.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
499. The Wife, The Maid, And The Mistress by Ariel Lawhon
Set against the backdrop of 1930s New York City, this gripping historical mystery unravels the enigmatic disappearance of a prominent judge, weaving together the lives of three women intricately connected to him. As the story unfolds, the judge's wife, his loyal maid, and his secret mistress each reveal their own perspectives, secrets, and motives, painting a vivid picture of ambition, betrayal, and the pursuit of justice. Through their intertwined narratives, the novel explores themes of power, loyalty, and the lengths people will go to protect their own interests in a world rife with corruption and intrigue.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
500. The Book Of Lies by Brad Meltzer
In this gripping thriller, a mysterious murder in 1932 intertwines with a modern-day quest to uncover the secrets behind a powerful ancient artifact. The narrative follows Cal Harper, a former federal agent, who becomes embroiled in a dangerous pursuit involving a cryptic symbol linked to the biblical story of Cain and Abel. As Cal delves deeper, he discovers a web of conspiracy that connects the past and present, revealing a hidden truth that could alter the course of history. With relentless pacing and unexpected twists, the story explores themes of betrayal, redemption, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.
The 17130th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org
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