The Greatest French, Unknown "Mystery, Fiction" Books Since 1910

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 '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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Mystery

The Mystery genre is a category of books that typically involves a crime, puzzle, or enigma that needs to be solved by the protagonist or a group of characters. These books often feature suspenseful and thrilling plotlines, with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers engaged and guessing until the very end. Mystery novels can range from cozy mysteries, which are lighter and more lighthearted, to hard-boiled detective stories, which are darker and more gritty. Overall, the Mystery genre is a popular and diverse category of books that appeals to readers who enjoy solving puzzles and uncovering secrets.

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  1. 1. Fantômas by Marcel Allain, Pierre Souvestre

    The book is a thrilling detective novel set in Paris, revolving around the character of Fantômas, a master criminal with no morals or scruples. Fantômas is a master of disguise, capable of assuming any identity at will, and his criminal activities range from petty theft to murder. The book follows the relentless pursuit of Fantômas by the determined Inspector Juve, leading to a series of exciting and suspenseful encounters.

    The 1562nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Erasers by Alain Robbe-Grillet

    The book is a complex and innovative narrative that blurs the lines between reality and imagination, following a detective who is investigating a series of connected murders in a nameless town. As the detective delves deeper into the case, the story unfolds in a non-linear fashion, challenging the reader's perception of time and causality. The novel's structure, characterized by repetitive descriptions and a lack of clear resolution, reflects the themes of uncertainty and the elusiveness of truth, ultimately questioning the nature of existence and the reliability of memory and perception.

    The 1819th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Spectre Of Alexander Wolf by Gaito Gazdanov

    The novel is a haunting exploration of fate, guilt, and identity, centered around a Russian émigré living in Paris who stumbles upon a short story that recounts a murder he committed during the Russian Civil War. This discovery propels him on a quest to find the author, who seems to know the true details of the incident, leading to an obsession with the mysterious writer and the specter of a man he believed he had killed. As the protagonist delves deeper into the enigma, the boundaries between his own life and the story begin to blur, culminating in a confrontation with the elusive Alexander Wolf and a profound reckoning with his past.

    The 3750th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Night Has A Thousand Eyes by George Hopley

    "Night Has A Thousand Eyes" is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the life of a troubled man named John, who possesses an uncanny ability to foresee tragic events before they occur. Plagued by his gift, John becomes increasingly isolated and tormented, as he struggles to prevent the impending disasters that haunt his visions. As the line between reality and premonition blurs, John embarks on a desperate quest to understand the origins of his power and find a way to break free from its relentless grip.

    The 3791st Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Tragedy Of Y by Ellery Queen

    "The Tragedy Of Y" by "Ellery Queen" is a gripping murder mystery set in a small town. The story follows the investigation led by detective Ellery Queen as he tries to unravel the truth behind the mysterious death of a prominent local figure. With a web of secrets, multiple suspects, and unexpected twists, Queen must navigate through a complex puzzle to uncover the shocking truth behind the tragedy.

    The 4415th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. The Burning Court by John Dickson Carr

    "The Burning Court" is a gripping mystery novel that revolves around the strange deaths of several members of a wealthy family. As the story unfolds, a young lawyer becomes entangled in a web of secrets, deceit, and supernatural occurrences, all pointing towards a sinister plot. With a blend of suspense, psychological twists, and a touch of the occult, the book keeps readers guessing until the final revelation.

    The 4443rd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Emperor's Snuff Box by John Dickson Carr

    In "The Emperor's Snuff Box," a renowned detective is called upon to solve a perplexing murder case. Set in 1930s Paris, the story follows the investigation into the death of a wealthy aristocrat, who was found dead in a locked room with no apparent cause of death. With a limited number of suspects and a complex web of secrets and lies, the detective must unravel the truth behind this seemingly impossible crime, all while navigating the glamorous and treacherous world of high society. As the suspense builds, the detective's sharp wit and keen observation skills are put to the test, leading to a surprising and satisfying conclusion.

    The 4524th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Trap For Cinderella by Sebastien Japrisot

    "Trap For Cinderella" is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the story of a young woman who survives a devastating fire that leaves her with amnesia. As she tries to piece together her past, she uncovers dark secrets and a web of deceit that lead her to question her own identity. With suspenseful twists and turns, the novel explores themes of identity, memory, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets.

    The 4535th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. The Judas Window by Carter Dickson

    In "The Judas Window," a renowned detective is called upon to solve a perplexing murder case. A wealthy man is found dead in his locked study, with no sign of forced entry or any possible escape route. As the detective delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of secrets, lies, and hidden motives among the suspects. With time running out, he must unravel the truth behind the locked room mystery before the killer strikes again.

    The 4537th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Woman Of Straw by Catherine Arley

    In "Woman Of Straw" by Catherine Arley, a wealthy and manipulative old man named Charles purchases the loyalty of a young woman named Maria. Charles plans to use Maria as a pawn in his scheme to deceive his family and secure his inheritance. However, Maria's true intentions and the extent of her cunning nature become increasingly apparent as the story unfolds, leading to a gripping tale of betrayal, suspense, and unexpected twists.

    The 4554th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. My Friend Maigret by Georges Simenon, Shaun Whiteside

    In this detective novel, the protagonist, a renowned French police inspector, finds himself under the watchful eye of a Scotland Yard official who has come to observe his methods. The story unfolds on the sun-drenched island of Porquerolles, where a small-time crook who claimed to be a friend of the inspector has been murdered. As the inspector delves into the case, he navigates through a colorful cast of characters and local intrigue, all while grappling with the pressure of being scrutinized by his English counterpart. The investigation leads him through a web of lies and secrets, challenging him to solve the crime while maintaining his professional composure under the unaccustomed scrutiny.

    The 4617th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Invisible Green by John Sladek

    "Invisible Green" is a satirical science fiction novel that takes place in a dystopian future where consumerism and technology have reached extreme levels. The story follows a group of characters as they navigate a world filled with absurd inventions, mind-control devices, and a society obsessed with material possessions. Through humor and wit, the author critiques the dehumanizing effects of technology and the shallow nature of modern society.

    The 4808th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Shadow 81 by Lucien Nahum

    "Shadow 81" by Lucien Nahum is a gripping thriller that follows the life of an undercover agent, code-named Shadow 81, as he navigates a dangerous world of espionage and deception. Set against the backdrop of international espionage and political intrigue, the book takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. Shadow 81 must rely on his wit, skills, and instincts to uncover a sinister plot that threatens global security, all while trying to maintain his cover and protect his own life. With its fast-paced narrative and complex characters, "Shadow 81" keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

    The 4832nd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Shibumi by Trevanian

    In this gripping thriller, a highly skilled and enigmatic assassin named Nicholai Hel is forced out of his peaceful life in Japan when his mentor is murdered. Seeking revenge, he embarks on a dangerous journey that takes him from the picturesque landscapes of the Far East to the treacherous world of international espionage. With his exceptional intelligence and mastery of martial arts, Hel becomes a formidable adversary for his enemies, but he soon realizes that there may be more at stake than just personal vendettas. As he navigates through a web of deceit and betrayal, Hel must rely on his unique set of skills and his unwavering determination to uncover a conspiracy that could change the course of history.

    The 4999th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Lady In The Car With Glasses And A Gun by Sebastien Japrisot

    This novel is a thrilling tale of mystery and suspense that follows the journey of a young secretary who, on a whim, decides to take her boss's car for a drive to the sea. What starts as an impulsive trip quickly spirals into a nightmarish adventure as she encounters a series of bizarre and frightening events, including being accused of a crime she has no memory of committing. With its intricate plot, the story masterfully blends elements of amnesia, paranoia, and deception, leading the protagonist and the reader through a labyrinth of twists and turns, all while questioning the reliability of memory and perception.

    The 6304th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Feed by Seanan McGuire

    In a world where humanity has been ravaged by a zombie apocalypse, a team of bloggers sets out to cover the presidential elections, offering a unique perspective on the state of a society where the undead are a constant threat. The protagonist, a young woman with a passion for the truth, navigates a landscape of danger, political intrigue, and conspiracy, all while dealing with the challenges of living in a post-apocalyptic environment. As they delve deeper into the heart of America's reanimated politics, they uncover a plot that could have dire consequences for both the living and the undead, forcing them to confront the question of what it truly means to be human in a world overrun by zombies.

    The 6391st Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. A Very Long Engagement by Sebastien Japrisot

    The novel is a poignant exploration of love and perseverance set against the backdrop of World War I. It follows a young Frenchwoman who refuses to accept the official story that her fiancé has died on the battlefield. Despite being told he was executed for self-mutilation to escape military service, along with four other condemned soldiers, she embarks on a relentless quest to discover the truth. Her journey reveals a tangled web of deceit, cover-ups, and unexpected alliances, as she holds onto hope that her beloved is still alive. Through her unwavering determination, the narrative delves into the horrors of war and the enduring power of love.

    The 6501st Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Les Racines Du Mal by Maurice G. Dantec

    The book is a dark and complex thriller set in the near future, where a series of gruesome murders has gripped Europe. The narrative follows a troubled detective with a cybernetically enhanced brain as he tracks a serial killer whose crimes are linked to a sinister biotechnology corporation. As the investigation deepens, the detective uncovers a web of conspiracy that challenges the boundaries of human nature and technology, leading to a chilling exploration of the roots of evil and the potential horrors of a post-human world.

    The 6699th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Grey Souls by Philippe Claudel

    Set against the backdrop of World War I in a small French town, the novel delves into the cold and somber atmosphere of a community living in the shadow of conflict. The story revolves around the mysterious death of a young girl, whose body is found by the river, and the subsequent investigation that unfolds years later. The narrative, rich with melancholy and introspection, is told through the eyes of a policeman who becomes obsessed with the case. As he delves deeper into the town's secrets and the grey souls of its inhabitants, the lines between victim and perpetrator blur, revealing the complex nature of guilt and the human psyche amidst the pervasive despair of war.

    The 7959th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. The Parts by Keith Ridgway

    "The Parts" is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the interconnected lives of various characters in a small Irish town. Through a series of fragmented narratives, the book explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. With its lyrical prose and intricate storytelling, "The Parts" offers a profound reflection on the human condition and the ways in which our lives intersect and shape one another.

    The 8112th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. La Ligne Noire by Jean-Christophe Grangé

    The book is a gripping thriller that takes the reader on a dark journey through the depths of human depravity and the complexities of justice. It follows a French journalist who becomes entangled in a web of murder and mysticism as he investigates a series of gruesome killings that span from Asia to Europe. As he delves deeper into the case, he encounters a mysterious woman with a tragic past and uncovers a sinister plot that challenges his own moral boundaries. The narrative weaves together elements of crime, suspense, and psychological drama, leading to a chilling exploration of evil and the thin line that separates guilt from innocence.

    The 8145th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Gideon The Ninth by Tamsyn Muir

    In a universe where necromancers hold power, Gideon, a skilled swordswoman, is reluctantly paired with her childhood rival, Harrow, to compete in a deadly trial that could grant them immortality. As they venture into an ancient, decaying mansion filled with secrets and puzzles, they must unravel the mysteries of their world and face sinister forces lurking within. With a blend of dark humor, complex characters, and a gripping plot, "Gideon The Ninth" is a thrilling and unique blend of science fiction and fantasy.

    The 8150th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. The Woman Who Knew Too Much by Gayle Greene

    "The Woman Who Knew Too Much" is a gripping tale of suspense and intrigue that follows the journey of a female detective who becomes embroiled in a complex espionage case. As she delves deeper into her investigation, she uncovers a web of deceit involving high-ranking officials and international secrets. Her expertise and intuition make her a formidable player in this dangerous game, but her knowledge also makes her a target. Balancing professional acumen with personal risk, she must navigate treacherous waters to expose the truth while protecting her own life.

    The 9122nd Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Survivor’s Guilt by Robyn Gigl

    "Survivor's Guilt" follows the gripping journey of a defense attorney named Lily Forrester, who becomes haunted by a traumatic event from her past. Faced with the guilt of surviving a tragic accident that claimed the lives of her best friend and a young girl, Lily's life takes a dark turn as she grapples with the consequences of her actions. As she delves deeper into the truth surrounding the accident, Lily must confront her own demons and fight for redemption, all while navigating the complex world of the legal system. This suspenseful and emotionally charged novel explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the lengths one will go to seek justice and find peace.

    The 9683rd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Friends In High Places by Donna Leon

    "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 10005th Greatest Book of All Time

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