Do you find crime investigation interesting? If yes, you have come to the right place! Crime books offer a unique blend of suspense, mystery, and intrigue that keeps readers on edge. Whether you’re a fan of detective fiction, mystery, thriller, or true crime, there’s a crime book out there that will satisfy your craving for adventure.
As you delve into the pages of a crime book, you’ll be transported to a world of dark alleys, hidden secrets, and dangerous criminals. You’ll join detectives and investigators as they race against time to solve a crime, unravelling clues and following leads that will take them down unexpected paths.
Moreover, if true crime is more your style, you’ll be fascinated by the real-life accounts of some of the most notorious criminals in history. From serial killers to white-collar criminals, the stories in true crime books will shock and captivate you.
Crime books can be further broken down into sub-genres, such as detective fiction, mystery, thriller, and true crime.
Sub-genre Of Crime Books
- Detective fiction typically features a detective or investigator as the protagonist who solves the crime by piecing together clues and evidence.
- Mystery novels often involve a puzzle or a whodunit element where the reader is kept guessing until the end.
- Thriller novels are fast-paced and often involve danger, suspense, and a sense of urgency.
- True crime books are nonfiction accounts of real-life criminal cases.
Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey into the world of crime books? If Yes, then Let’s go!
Examples Of Crime Books
1. “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” by Arthur Conan Doyle –
“The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” is a collection of twelve short detective stories by Arthur Conan Doyle, featuring the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his friend Dr John Watson. Holmes solves a series of intriguing cases in Victorian-era London using his deductive skills and keen observation. The collection has become a classic in the detective genre, showcasing Holmes’ brilliance and capturing readers with its intriguing mysteries and memorable characters.
2. “Murder on the Orient Express” by Agatha Christie
“Murder on the Orient Express” is a classic detective novel by Agatha Christie. Detective Hercule Poirot investigates a murder aboard the Orient Express train. With a diverse group of suspects, Poirot unravels a web of secrets and motives to reveal a surprising conclusion. The book is renowned for its intricate plot and memorable characters.
3. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson
“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” is a psychological thriller by Stieg Larsson. Journalist Mikael Blomkvist teams up with the enigmatic hacker Lisbeth Salander to solve a cold case involving a wealthy family. As they dig deeper, they uncover a web of violence, corruption, and dark secrets. Together, they navigate danger and seek justice in a gripping tale of suspense and societal critique.
4. “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn
“Gone Girl” is a gripping psychological thriller by Gillian Flynn. The story follows Nick and Amy Dunne, a seemingly perfect couple whose marriage takes a dark turn when Amy mysteriously disappears on their fifth wedding anniversary. As the investigation unfolds, secrets and lies come to light, painting a complex and twisted picture of their relationship. Told from alternating perspectives, the narrative delves into themes of manipulation, deceit, and the dark side of human nature. With unexpected twists and turns, “Gone Girl” keeps readers guessing until the shocking conclusion.
5. “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris
“The Silence of the Lambs” is a chilling psychological thriller by Thomas Harris. FBI trainee Clarice Starling enlists the help of the brilliant yet dangerous Dr. Hannibal Lecter to catch a serial killer known as Buffalo Bill. As Clarice delves into the twisted minds of these two criminals, she must confront her own fears and navigate a deadly game of cat and mouse. This gripping novel explores the dark depths of psychology and has been widely acclaimed, inspiring a successful film adaptation.
6. “The Godfather” by Mario Puzo
“The Godfather” by Mario Puzo is a timeless crime novel that follows the Corleone family, a powerful mafia dynasty. Through themes of power and loyalty, the book explores the rise of Michael Corleone as he navigates the treacherous world of organized crime. Puzo’s gripping storytelling and memorable characters have made it a classic, inspiring a renowned film adaptation.
7. “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown
“The Godfather” by Mario Puzo is a timeless crime novel that follows the Corleone family, a powerful mafia dynasty. Through themes of power and loyalty, the book explores the rise of Michael Corleone as he navigates the treacherous world of organized crime. Puzo’s gripping storytelling and memorable characters have made it a classic, inspiring a renowned film adaptation.
8. “The Big Sleep” by Raymond Chandler
“The Big Sleep” by Raymond Chandler is a classic noir detective novel featuring Philip Marlowe, who gets entangled in a web of murder and corruption while investigating a blackmail case. Set in 1930s Los Angeles, the book is known for its atmospheric writing and complex plot, cementing its status as a genre-defining work.
9. “The Maltese Falcon” by Dashiell Hammett
“The Maltese Falcon” is a hard-boiled detective novel by Dashiell Hammett set in 1920s San Francisco. Private investigator Sam Spade gets caught in a web of deception while searching for a valuable falcon statuette. With shifting loyalties and danger at every turn, Spade unravels the mystery, brings the culprits to justice, and learns the falcon’s true nature. It’s a classic tale of intrigue and moral ambiguity in the world of crime fiction.
10. “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote
“In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote is a gripping true crime novel that recounts the chilling murder of the Clutter family in Kansas. Capote delves into the minds of the killers, exploring their motivations and the devastating impact on the community. This landmark work blurs the lines between journalism and storytelling, impacting true crime literature.
11. “The Hunt for Red October” by Tom Clancy
“The Hunt for Red October” is a Cold War thriller about a Soviet submarine captain, Marko Ramius, who plans to defect to the United States with the advanced submarine Red October. CIA analyst Jack Ryan races against time to locate the submarine and prevent a potential war. The story is filled with suspense, naval warfare, and political intrigue.
12. “The Bourne Identity” by Robert Ludlum
“The Bourne Identity” by Robert Ludlum is a gripping spy thriller where Jason Bourne, an amnesiac with exceptional skills, seeks to uncover his true identity while evading relentless assassins and uncovering a covert government operation called Treadstone. It’s a high-stakes story of action and intrigue.
13. “American Psycho” by Bret Easton Ellis
“American Psycho” by Bret Easton Ellis is a provocative and disturbing novel that follows Patrick Bateman, a wealthy investment banker with a dark and violent side. Set in 1980s New York City, the book explores themes of materialism, psychopathy, and the dehumanizing effects of society. Ellis’s graphic depiction of violence and exploration of Bateman’s twisted mind has sparked controversy and made it a notorious work in literature.
14. “The Silence of Murder” by Dandi Daley Mackall
I’m sorry, but as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, there is no novel titled “The Silence of Murder” by Dandi Daley Mackall. It’s possible that the book was published after my cutoff date or under a different title. I recommend checking with a bookstore, library, or reliable online source for the most up-to-date information on this book.
15. “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith
“The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith is a gripping psychological thriller that follows Tom Ripley, a socially awkward young man obsessed with a wealthy playboy’s luxurious lifestyle. As he infiltrates this world, his actions become increasingly manipulative and dangerous. Highsmith’s exploration of identity and obsession makes this novel a captivating and enduring thriller.
16. “The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
“The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón is a mesmerizing tale set in post-war Barcelona. It follows Daniel Sempere’s discovery of a mysterious book, leading him on a journey to uncover the secrets surrounding its author, Julián Carax. With an atmospheric setting and themes of love and betrayal, it captivates readers with its intricate storytelling and memorable characters.
17. “The Devil in the White City” by Erik Larson
“The Devil in the White City” by Erik Larson intertwines the stories of architect Daniel Burnham’s efforts to construct the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago and serial killer H.H. Holmes’ sinister crimes during the same period. This gripping non-fiction book explores the contrasting worlds of innovation and darkness, offering a fascinating account of a pivotal moment in Chicago’s history.
18. “The Poet” by Michael Connelly
“The Poet” by Michael Connelly is a gripping crime thriller where journalist Jack McEvoy investigates a series of suspicious suicides among police officers, uncovering a connection to a notorious serial killer known as “The Poet.” With FBI agent Rachel Walling, they race against time to expose the truth before becoming the next targets. It’s a suspenseful and engaging read that delves into themes of deception and obsession.
19. “The Firm” by John Grisham
“The Firm” by John Grisham is a gripping legal thriller that follows attorney Mitch McDeere as he uncovers corruption within his prestigious law firm, putting his life and loved ones in danger. With its fast-paced plot and thrilling twists, the book established Grisham as a bestselling author and inspired a successful film adaptation.
20. “The Name of the Rose” by Umberto Eco
“The Name of the Rose” by Umberto Eco is a historical mystery set in a 14th-century monastery. Franciscan friar William investigates a series of murders while navigating religious tensions and intellectual debates. With themes of knowledge, truth, and desire, Eco crafts a rich, complex narrative that blends mystery, history, and philosophy.
Other Examples Of Crime Books
However, while some of these are amazing Crime books to enjoy, below are some other awesome crime books you can read
21. “The Godfather” by Mario Puzo
22. “The Maltese Falcon” by Dashiell Hammett
23. “The Hound of the Baskervilles” by Arthur Conan Doyle
24. “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn
25. “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris
26. “The Spy Who Came In from the Cold” by John le Carré
27. “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown
28. “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” by Arthur Conan Doyle
29. “The Big Sleep” by Raymond Chandler
30. “The Dead Zone” by Stephen King
31. “The Postman Always Rings Twice” by James M. Cain
32. “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd” by Agatha Christie
33. “Red Dragon” by Thomas Harris
34. “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote
35. “The Bourne Identity” by Robert Ludlum
36. “The Devil in the White City” by Erik Larson
37. “The Road” by Cormac McCarthy
38. “The Long Goodbye” by Raymond Chandler
39. “The Silence of the Sea” by Yrsa Sigurdardottir
40. “The Snowman” by Jo Nesbo
41. “The Killer Inside Me” by Jim Thompson
42. “The Talented Mr. Varg” by Alexander McCall Smith
43. “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt
44. “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins
45. “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” by Robert Louis Stevenson
46. “The Lincoln Lawyer” by Michael Connelly
47. “The Black Dahlia” by James Ellroy
48. “The Outsider” by Stephen King
49. “The Silence” by Don DeLillo
50. “The Luminaries” by Eleanor Catton
