The Greatest Crime Books Since 2000

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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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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.

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  1. 151. I, Alex Cross by James Patterson

    A seasoned detective is called to the scene of a brutal murder in the poor outskirts of Washington, D.C. Shockingly, the victim turns out to be his own niece. As he digs deeper into the crime, he uncovers a series of gruesome murders that all seem to be the work of a deranged serial killer. The detective soon finds himself in a deadly game of cat and mouse, racing against time to stop the killer before he strikes again. His investigation leads him to a secret society where the rich and powerful gather to indulge in their darkest desires.

    The 10839th Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 152. Lola In The Mirror by Trent Dalton

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of Australia's Gold Coast, this captivating tale follows a young girl on a quest to uncover the truth about her mysterious past. As she navigates the complexities of identity and belonging, she encounters a cast of colorful characters who each hold a piece of the puzzle she seeks to solve. With themes of family, resilience, and self-discovery, the narrative weaves a poignant and heartwarming story that explores the power of love and the courage it takes to confront one's own reflection.

    The 10892nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  3. 153. La Casa Del Padre by Justo Navarro

    In this novel, the protagonist navigates the complexities of family dynamics and personal identity within the confines of a traditional Spanish household. The story delves into themes of generational conflict, the weight of familial expectations, and the search for individual purpose. As the characters grapple with their own desires and the pressures imposed by their lineage, the narrative unfolds with a blend of introspection and cultural critique, painting a vivid picture of life in a changing society.

    The 10913th Greatest Book of All Time
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  4. 154. Consent To Kill by Vince Flynn

    In this high-octane political thriller, a counterterrorism operative finds himself in the crosshairs of an international conspiracy when a wealthy Saudi kingpin, seeking vengeance for the death of his son, puts a bounty on the operative's head. As the protagonist navigates a treacherous path filled with espionage, betrayal, and moral ambiguities, he must also confront personal demons and the complexities of his own past. The narrative unfolds with relentless pacing, delivering a tale of retribution and survival that tests the limits of the operative's skills, loyalty, and the very essence of his character.

    The 10931st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  5. 155. Blowback by Brad Thor

    A Thriller

    In "Blowback," readers are plunged into a thrilling narrative where the protagonist, a skilled counterterrorism operative, is tasked with preventing a catastrophic attack on the United States. The plot thickens when he discovers that an ancient weapon of mass destruction, thought to be a myth, has been rediscovered and is in the hands of a dangerous enemy. As the clock ticks down, the operative must navigate a treacherous path of deceit and betrayal, racing across the globe to unravel historical secrets and stop the impending doom that threatens to unleash chaos on a massive scale.

    The 10933rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  6. 156. Camino de Perdición by Luis Mateo Díez

    The novel delves into the lives of a group of characters residing in a small, decaying town, exploring themes of loss, despair, and the search for meaning amidst adversity. As the town grapples with its bleak future, the characters confront their own personal struggles and past traumas, weaving a tapestry of interconnected stories that reveal the depth of human resilience and the complexity of human relationships. Through rich, evocative prose, the narrative captures the essence of a community on the brink of dissolution, highlighting the enduring spirit of its inhabitants as they navigate the challenges of their environment and their own inner turmoil.

    The 11014th Greatest Book of All Time
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  7. 157. The Lost Man by Jane Harper

    In the unforgiving Australian outback, the death of a middle brother brings the surviving family members together to confront their complex relationships and secrets. The intense heat and isolation of the landscape serve as a backdrop to the unraveling mystery of the man's death, revealing deep-seated family tensions and hidden truths. As they delve into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, the family must navigate their personal grief and suspicions, ultimately uncovering shocking revelations that challenge their understanding of loyalty, love, and survival. The novel masterfully combines elements of a family drama with a suspenseful mystery, creating a compelling narrative that explores the depths of human emotions and the harsh realities of life in the remote Australian wilderness.

    The 11073rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  8. 158. London Rules by Mick Herron

    In this gripping installment of a spy thriller series, the story revolves around a group of British intelligence agents who are part of a secret service department known as Slough House. These agents, often referred to as "slow horses" due to their career mishaps, find themselves in the midst of a complex web of terrorism, conspiracy, and political intrigue. As a series of seemingly random attacks unfold across London, the team must navigate the murky waters of espionage, uncovering secrets and facing personal demons along the way. With a blend of dark humor, sharp wit, and intense action, the narrative delves into the challenges of loyalty, the impact of past decisions, and the relentless pursuit of justice in a world filled with ambiguity and danger.

    The 11073rd Greatest Book of All Time
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  9. 159. Smoke And Ashes by Abir Mukherjee

    A Novel of the Raj

    In "Smoke And Ashes," readers are transported to 1920s Calcutta, where Captain Sam Wyndham, a British police detective, finds himself embroiled in a complex investigation amidst the political turmoil of India's struggle for independence. Battling his personal demons and opium addiction, Wyndham discovers a body with a gruesome wound, leading him into the dark underbelly of the city and a conspiracy that threatens not just his life but the very fabric of British rule in India. As he navigates through a maze of lies, betrayals, and dangerous ideologies, Wyndham must rely on his sharp instincts and the help of his loyal friends to solve the case and prevent chaos from engulfing the city. This gripping narrative masterfully combines historical detail with a compelling mystery, exploring themes of colonialism, justice, and redemption.

    The 11073rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  10. 160. The Widows Of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey

    A Mystery of 1920s Bombay

    Set in 1920s Bombay, "The Widows of Malabar Hill" follows Perveen Mistry, the city's first female lawyer, as she navigates a complex case involving the inheritance of three widows. When a wealthy Muslim man dies, leaving behind a vast estate, Perveen becomes entangled in a web of deceit, family secrets, and cultural traditions. As she unravels the truth, Perveen must confront her own personal demons and challenge societal norms to seek justice for the widows.

    The 11131st Greatest Book of All Time
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  11. 161. The Destroyers by Christopher Bollen

    "The Destroyers" is a suspenseful novel set on the idyllic Greek island of Patmos. The story revolves around two childhood friends, one a wealthy inheritor of a construction empire and the other a struggling playboy, who reunite under mysterious circumstances. As the narrative unfolds, it delves into themes of wealth, friendship, betrayal, and identity, all against a backdrop of escalating danger and suspense. The protagonist finds himself embroiled in a web of deception and murder, as the seemingly paradise island reveals its darker underbelly.

    The 11162nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  12. 162. The Real Lolita by Sarah Weinman

    The Kidnapping of Sally Horner and the Novel that Scandalized the World

    This gripping narrative delves into the haunting true story behind the fictional tale of a young girl's abduction that inspired a literary classic. The book meticulously unravels the chilling events surrounding the 1948 kidnapping of Sally Horner, a real-life case that eerily mirrors the plot of a famous novel. Through a blend of investigative journalism and literary analysis, the story explores the intersection of fact and fiction, shedding light on the dark realities that influenced a renowned author's controversial masterpiece. It is a poignant examination of innocence lost and the enduring impact of a crime that captivated the nation.

    The 11228th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  13. 163. The Peepshow by Kate Summerscale

    A Journey into the World of Victorian Obsession

    In 1953 London, police uncover multiple bodies hidden at 10 Rillington Place, prompting a hunt for tenant Reg Christie and renewed questions about an earlier murder conviction. Kate Summerscale reconstructs the investigation, the lives of the victims, and the media frenzy that surrounded the case to examine how the killings and a possible miscarriage of justice unfolded.

    The 11245th Greatest Book of All Time
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  14. 164. Heartsick by Chelsea Cain

    In "Heartsick," a gripping psychological thriller, Portland detective Archie Sheridan is on the trail of a notorious serial killer, Gretchen Lowell, who once captured and tortured him for ten days before inexplicably turning herself in. Now, as he investigates a new spate of murders, Archie must confront his own trauma and his complex relationship with Gretchen, who continues to manipulate him from behind bars. The novel weaves a tale of obsession, pain, and the blurred lines between captor and captive, as Archie's hunt for the killer becomes a deeply personal quest for redemption and survival.

    The 11287th Greatest Book of All Time
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  15. 165. No Way Out by Cara Hunter

    A Detective Inspector Fawley Novel

    This gripping novel follows the investigation into a devastating house fire in Oxford, which claims the lives of two children and leaves their mother fighting for her life. As detectives dig deeper, they uncover a tangled web of secrets and lies, revealing that the tragedy is far from a simple accident. The narrative, rich with suspense and unexpected twists, explores themes of family, deception, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their secrets. The detective leading the case must navigate through the misleading clues and pressure from the community to solve the mystery, uncovering shocking truths that challenge the boundaries of justice and morality.

    The 11295th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  16. 166. The Border by Don Winslow

    This gripping novel concludes a powerful trilogy that delves into the complex and brutal world of drug cartels and the war on drugs. It follows the story of Art Keller, a determined DEA agent who has spent decades in the relentless battle against the Mexican drug cartels. As Keller ascends to the top of the DEA, he faces not only the ruthless kingpins of the drug trade but also corruption within his own ranks and the moral ambiguities of his war. Set against the backdrop of contemporary political and social issues, the narrative weaves together a tapestry of characters and stories, from the cartel bosses to the addicts, the politicians to the hitmen, exploring the far-reaching impact of the drug war on both sides of the border.

    The 11295th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  17. 167. The Little Friend by Donna Tartt

    Set in the sweltering heat of a small Mississippi town, this gripping narrative follows the determined twelve-year-old Harriet Cleve Dufresnes as she embarks on a quest to solve the mystery of her brother's murder, a tragedy that has haunted her family for years. Driven by a fierce sense of justice and armed with the imagination of a child, Harriet delves into the dark underbelly of her community, confronting secrets and dangers that blur the lines between innocence and evil. As she navigates through a world of complex characters and hidden truths, Harriet's journey becomes a poignant exploration of loss, resilience, and the haunting shadows of the past.

    The 11316th Greatest Book of All Time
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  18. 168. The Neighborhood by Mario Vargas Llosa

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1990s Lima, this gripping narrative delves into the intertwining lives of two affluent couples whose seemingly perfect worlds unravel amidst scandal and corruption. As a sensational tabloid exposes their secrets, the characters find themselves entangled in a web of political intrigue, betrayal, and personal vendettas. The story explores themes of power, morality, and the fragility of human relationships, painting a vivid portrait of a society on the brink of chaos. Through its rich character development and suspenseful plot, the novel offers a compelling critique of the socio-political landscape of Peru during a tumultuous era.

    The 11319th Greatest Book of All Time
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  19. 169. The Girl In The Green Dress by Jeni Haynes

    My Story of Trauma, Survival and Hope

    In this gripping and heart-wrenching memoir, a woman recounts her harrowing journey of survival and resilience after enduring years of unimaginable abuse at the hands of her father. Through the lens of her dissociative identity disorder, she unveils the complex world of her multiple personalities, each created to shield her from the trauma she faced. As she bravely navigates the legal system to seek justice, her story becomes a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of healing.

    The 11354th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 170. Winter Counts by David Heska Wanbli Weiden

    "Winter Counts" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel set on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. The story follows Virgil Wounded Horse, a local enforcer who takes justice into his own hands when the legal system fails his community. When his nephew becomes entangled in the dangerous world of drug trafficking, Virgil embarks on a mission to protect his family and seek retribution. Through its powerful narrative and exploration of Native American culture, the book sheds light on the complexities of modern-day reservation life and the struggle for justice in an unjust world.

    The 11416th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
  21. 171. 206 Bones by Kathy Reichs

    In "206 Bones," a forensic anthropologist finds herself the target of a sinister plot when she wakes up bound and trapped in a dark, cold space. As she navigates through her memories to piece together how she ended up in this dire situation, the narrative intertwines with her recent cases involving the mysterious deaths of several elderly women. The protagonist must use her expertise to solve the puzzle of her own predicament and the crimes she's been investigating, all while the clock is ticking on her survival. The novel is a blend of suspense, science, and intrigue, as it delves into the complexities of forensic investigation and the depths of human malevolence.

    The 11523rd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon
  22. 172. Dial A For Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto

    In this delightful and chaotic romantic comedy, a young wedding photographer finds herself in a whirlwind of trouble when a blind date goes disastrously wrong, resulting in an accidental death. With no one else to turn to, she enlists the help of her meddlesome but well-meaning aunties, who are more than willing to lend a hand, albeit with their own unique flair. As they navigate a series of hilarious and unpredictable events, including a lavish wedding and a potential love interest, the family must work together to keep their secrets under wraps while ensuring that love and laughter prevail.

    The 11522nd Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Bookshop.org
  23. 173. The Bride Collector by Ted Dekker

    In this psychological thriller, an FBI agent with a troubled past is on the hunt for a serial killer who believes he is on a divine mission to collect brides for God, leaving his victims posed as if in a serene marital bliss after their deaths. The killer's twisted theology and the agent's own personal demons intertwine as the investigation leads to a group of mentally ill patients who may hold the key to stopping the murderer. As the body count rises, the race against time intensifies, pushing the boundaries of sanity and redemption in a chilling game of cat and mouse.

    The 11794th Greatest Book of All Time
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  24. 174. Macbeth by Jo Nesbø

    In this modern retelling of Shakespeare's classic tragedy, the story is set in a gritty, industrial town plagued by crime and corruption. The narrative follows a police officer named Macbeth, who is driven by ambition and manipulated by his partner, Lady, to seize power within the police force. As Macbeth becomes increasingly consumed by his lust for power, he spirals into paranoia and violence, leading to betrayal and murder. The novel explores themes of ambition, guilt, and the destructive nature of unchecked power, all set against a backdrop of a dark, atmospheric urban landscape.

    The 11661st Greatest Book of All Time
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  25. 175. Cherry by Nico Walker

    Set against the backdrop of the Iraq War and the opioid crisis, this raw and unflinching narrative follows a young man from Cleveland who enlists in the army, seeking purpose and escape from his aimless life. Upon returning home, he grapples with PTSD and a growing addiction to heroin, which leads him down a path of self-destruction and crime. As he spirals deeper into despair, he turns to bank robbery to fund his habit, capturing the chaotic and often tragic journey of a generation caught in the throes of addiction and disillusionment.

    The 11661st Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon

Reading Statistics

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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.

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