The Greatest American "Suspense" Books From 1940 to 1949

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 294 '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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Suspense

Suspense is a genre of literature that is characterized by a feeling of tension, uncertainty, and anxiety that keeps the reader on edge and engaged throughout the story. It typically involves a protagonist who is facing a dangerous or threatening situation, and the plot is driven by the anticipation of what might happen next. Suspense novels often feature unexpected twists and turns, and the reader is left guessing until the very end. This genre is popular among readers who enjoy thrillers, mysteries, and crime fiction.

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  1. 1. Double Indemnity by James M. Cain

    "Double Indemnity" is a gripping crime novel that follows the story of an insurance salesman who becomes entangled in a dangerous plot with a seductive woman, leading to murder and deceit. As the protagonist finds himself increasingly trapped in a web of lies, he must navigate the consequences of his actions while trying to outsmart those around him. With its noir atmosphere and complex characters, this thrilling tale explores themes of greed, desire, and the destructive power of temptation.

  2. 2. In A Lonely Place by Dorothy B. Hughes

    Set in post-World War II Los Angeles, "In A Lonely Place" follows the story of Dix Steele, a former fighter pilot turned Hollywood screenwriter. Dix becomes a prime suspect in a series of brutal murders plaguing the city. As the investigation unfolds, the novel delves into the dark depths of Dix's psyche, exploring themes of love, obsession, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. With its gripping narrative and psychological tension, "In A Lonely Place" offers a chilling portrayal of a disturbed mind and the destructive power of loneliness.

  3. 3. The Asphalt Jungle by W. R. Burnett

    This novel delves into the gritty underworld of urban crime, focusing on a meticulously planned jewelry heist that promises to be the ultimate payday for its diverse crew of small-time crooks and down-on-their-luck characters. However, as the operation unfolds, the group's carefully laid plans begin to unravel due to a mix of greed, betrayal, and the relentless pressure from law enforcement. Set against the backdrop of a bleak, post-war American city, the narrative explores themes of desperation, the elusive American dream, and the thin line between order and chaos in the pursuit of survival and redemption.

  4. 4. The Track Of The Cat by Walter Van Tilburg Clark

    "The Track of the Cat" is a gripping and atmospheric novel set in the harsh winter landscape of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The story follows the lives of the Bridges family as they confront their deepest fears and secrets during a snowbound weekend. As tensions rise and a mountain lion stalks their isolated ranch, the family's relationships are tested, revealing the complex dynamics that exist between siblings, parents, and lovers. With vivid descriptions and psychological depth, the novel explores themes of isolation, survival, and the primal instincts that lie within us all.

  5. 5. Phantom Lady by Cornell Woolrich

    "Phantom Lady" is a gripping noir thriller that follows Scott Henderson, a man wrongfully accused of his wife's murder. With no alibi and no witnesses to vouch for him, Scott's only hope lies in finding the mysterious woman he met at a bar on the night of the crime. As he delves deeper into the dark underbelly of New York City, Scott uncovers a web of deception, danger, and hidden motives, all while racing against time to prove his innocence and bring the real killer to justice.

  6. 6. Laura by Vera Caspary

    The novel revolves around the investigation into the murder of a beautiful and successful advertising executive, whose charm and elegance have captivated many men. As the detective delves into her life, he becomes increasingly obsessed with the victim, piecing together her complex relationships and the events leading up to her death. Through a series of twists and character revelations, the story explores themes of obsession, identity, and the facades people construct in their lives. The detective's journey through the victim's world blurs the lines between professional duty and personal fixation, leading to a surprising resolution that challenges his initial perceptions.

  7. 7. I, The Jury by Mickey Spillane

    In this hard-boiled detective novel, a gritty and vengeful private investigator seeks justice for the murder of his best friend, who was killed by a .45 to the stomach. The protagonist navigates a seedy underworld of crime and corruption, encountering seductive femme fatales and ruthless criminals along the way. His relentless pursuit of the truth leads to a shocking revelation and a climactic confrontation, where personal codes of honor and the blurred lines between right and wrong come to a head. The novel is known for its tough-guy dialogue, violent action, and the detective's uncompromising moral compass.

  8. 8. Calamity Town by Ellery Queen

    In a seemingly peaceful and idyllic small town, a series of mysterious events unfold, leaving the residents in a state of fear and suspicion. When a wealthy businessman is found dead under suspicious circumstances, it is up to an amateur detective to unravel the secrets and uncover the truth behind the dark secrets hidden within the seemingly perfect town. With twists and turns at every corner, "Calamity Town" explores the complexities of human nature and the dark underbelly of a seemingly innocent community.

  9. 9. In A Lonely Place by Dorothy B. Hughes

    This classic crime novel delves into the dark and twisted mind of a serial killer masquerading as a war hero in post-World War II Los Angeles. Through a chilling first-person narrative, the story explores themes of deception, the aftermath of war, and the psychology of murder. The protagonist's outward charm and gallantry hide his true nature, leading to a suspenseful and psychological journey as his facade begins to crumble. Set against the backdrop of a city struggling to recover from war, the novel is a gripping exploration of loneliness, obsession, and the capacity for violence that lies within.

  10. 10. The Deadly Percheron by John Franklin Bardin

    This novel is a captivating blend of mystery and psychological thriller, set in post-World War II New York. The story follows a psychiatrist who becomes embroiled in a bizarre case involving a patient who claims to be part of a complex scheme orchestrated by leprechauns. As the psychiatrist delves deeper, he finds himself caught in a web of murder, amnesia, and intrigue, challenging his perceptions of reality and sanity. The narrative takes unexpected twists, exploring themes of identity, madness, and the thin line between truth and illusion, making it a compelling read for fans of unconventional detective stories.

  11. 11. Guard of Honor by James Gould Cozzens

    "Guard of Honor" is a detailed and realistic portrayal of life in a World War II army air forces base. It revolves around the experiences of a disillusioned newspaperman, who is called back into service during World War II. The narrative delves into the complexities of military life, the intricate bureaucracy, racial tensions, and the moral dilemmas faced by those in positions of power during the war. The novel explores the themes of duty, honor, and the harsh realities of war.

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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.

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