Are you a fan of thrilling plots, clever detectives, and unexpected twists? If so, you’ll love our curated list of the 20 best books about mystery. From classic whodunits to modern psychological thrillers, these mystery books will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. Whether you’re a seasoned book on mystery enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the genre, there’s something for everyone on this list. Get ready to dive into a world of suspense, intrigue, and unforgettable storytelling.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Books About Mystery
- 2 The Silent Patient
- 3 The Girl on the Train
- 4 The Da Vinci Code
- 5 Gone Girl
- 6 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
- 7 Big Little Lies
- 8 The Cuckoo’s Calling
- 9 The Woman in the Window
- 10 The Silent Corner
- 11 The Dry
- 12 The Couple Next Door
- 13 The Girl Before
- 14 The Thirteenth Tale
- 15 The Secret History
- 16 The Snowman
- 17 The Hound of the Baskervilles
- 18 In the Woods
- 19 The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency
- 20 The Secret Place
- 21 The Shadow of the Wind
- 22 Conclusion
- 23
20 Best Books About Mystery
The Silent Patient
by Alex Michaelides
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the story of Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who shoots her husband and then stops speaking. The protagonist, Theo Faber, a criminal psychotherapist, becomes obsessed with working with Alicia to uncover the truth behind her silence. As he delves deeper into her past and the events leading up to the murder, he unravels a web of secrets, lies, and deception. The novel is a page-turner, filled with suspense, twists, and an unexpected ending that will leave readers guessing until the very last page. If you’re a fan of books about mystery and psychological thrillers, The Silent Patient is a must-read that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
The Girl on the Train
by Paula Hawkins
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping mystery book that follows the intertwined lives of three women. Rachel, an alcoholic who takes the same train every day, becomes obsessed with a couple she sees from the train window. When the woman goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in the investigation, uncovering dark secrets and lies. The story is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the truth. With its unreliable narrators and complex characters, The Girl on the Train is a captivating and suspenseful book about mystery that delves into the intricacies of human relationships and the consequences of our actions.
The Da Vinci Code
by Dan Brown
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown is a gripping book on mystery that follows symbologist Robert Langdon as he unravels a web of secrets and deception hidden within the works of Leonardo da Vinci. When Langdon is called to the Louvre to help solve a murder, he becomes embroiled in a centuries-old conspiracy that could shake the foundations of Christianity. As he races against time, Langdon and cryptologist Sophie Neveu follow a trail of clues that lead them through the dark corridors of history and art, uncovering shocking revelations along the way. The Da Vinci Code is a thrilling book about mystery that combines art, religion, and history, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Gone Girl
by Gillian Flynn
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn is a gripping book about mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows the mysterious disappearance of Amy Dunne, and the suspicion that falls on her husband, Nick. As the investigation unfolds, secrets and lies are revealed, and the reader is taken on a rollercoaster of twists and turns. Flynn’s writing is captivating, and she skillfully weaves together a thrilling tale of deception and betrayal. The characters are complex and the narrative is filled with suspense, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good mystery book. With its unpredictable plot and compelling storytelling, Gone Girl is a page-turner that will leave you guessing until the very end.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
by Stieg Larsson
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson is a gripping book about mystery that follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist as he investigates the disappearance of a young woman from a wealthy family. He enlists the help of computer hacker Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant and enigmatic investigator with a troubled past. Together, they uncover a web of deceit, corruption, and dark family secrets that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The novel is a masterful blend of intrigue, suspense, and complex characters, making it a must-read for fans of mystery books. Larsson’s compelling storytelling and intricate plot twists make The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo a thrilling and unforgettable read.
Big Little Lies
by Liane Moriarty
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty is a captivating and suspenseful novel that delves into the lives of three women, each with their own secrets and struggles. Set in a seemingly idyllic suburban community, the story unravels the complexities of friendship, marriage, and motherhood, while also dealing with darker themes such as domestic violence and the impact of trauma. The narrative is skillfully woven together with a mix of humor, drama, and tension, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat as they try to uncover the truth behind a mysterious death. This book on mystery is a compelling exploration of the facades people present to the world and the hidden turmoil beneath the surface. With its relatable characters and unexpected twists, Big Little Lies is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a gripping mystery book.
The Cuckoo’s Calling
by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling)
The Cuckoo’s Calling, penned by the renowned author Robert Galbraith (a pseudonym for J.K. Rowling), is a captivating book on mystery that follows private detective Cormoran Strike as he investigates the supposed suicide of a supermodel. The story is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the enigma surrounding the model’s death. Galbraith’s vivid descriptions and intricate character development make the book about mystery an engaging and thrilling read, with a richly woven plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The Cuckoo’s Calling is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a compelling mystery book that will keep them guessing until the final pages.
The Woman in the Window
by A.J. Finn
The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn is a gripping book on mystery that follows the story of Anna Fox, a woman suffering from agoraphobia who spends her days spying on her neighbors through the windows of her New York City home. When she witnesses a disturbing act from the window, she becomes embroiled in a mystery that blurs the lines between reality and imagination. As she struggles with her own demons and battles her fears, the novel takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations. With its atmospheric setting and complex characters, The Woman in the Window is a spellbinding book about mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
The Silent Corner
by Dean Koontz
The Silent Corner by Dean Koontz is a gripping mystery novel that follows Jane Hawk, an FBI agent who is determined to uncover the truth behind a series of inexplicable suicides. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she discovers a sinister conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of society. The novel is a heart-pounding thriller that explores the dark and dangerous world of mind control and manipulation. Koontz’s masterful storytelling and intricate plot twists keep readers on the edge of their seats, making it a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery. This book about mystery is sure to captivate and thrill fans of the genre.
The Dry
by Jane Harper
The Dry by Jane Harper is a gripping mystery novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the Australian outback. The story follows Federal Agent Aaron Falk as he returns to his drought-stricken hometown for the funeral of his childhood best friend. What starts as a simple investigation into the friend’s death soon unravels into a complex web of secrets, lies, and long-held grudges. The dry and desolate setting mirrors the tension and suspense that permeates the novel, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the mystery alongside Falk. Harper’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions make this book about mystery a compelling and immersive read, perfect for fans of suspense and psychological thrillers.
The Couple Next Door
by Shari Lapena
The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena is a gripping mystery novel that delves into the secrets and lies of a seemingly ordinary couple. When Anne and Marco Conti’s baby goes missing while they attend a dinner party next door, a web of deception and betrayal is unraveled. As the police investigation heats up, the Contis’ perfect facade begins to crumble, revealing a dark and sinister underbelly to their lives. Lapena expertly weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the mystery behind the baby’s disappearance. This book about mystery will keep you guessing until the very end, with twists and turns that will leave you breathless. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers and suspenseful plots, The Couple Next Door is a must-read.
The Girl Before
by JP Delaney
The Girl Before by JP Delaney is a gripping book about mystery that follows the intertwined stories of two women, Emma and Jane, who both live in the same house at different times. The house they live in is a minimalist architectural masterpiece, but it comes with a set of strict rules set by its enigmatic owner. As the women become entangled in the dark secrets of the house and its owner, a thrilling tale of obsession, danger, and betrayal unfolds. The book is filled with twist and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the mystery behind the house and its sinister past. The Girl Before is a must-read for anyone who loves a good psychological thriller and enjoys being kept guessing until the very end.
The Thirteenth Tale
by Diane Setterfield
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield is a captivating book on mystery that tells the story of reclusive author Vida Winter, who enlists the help of biographer Margaret Lea to finally reveal the truth about her past. As Margaret delves into Vida’s dark and twisted family history, she uncovers long-buried secrets, tragic events, and a mysterious thirteenth tale that has been hidden for decades. The novel is a beautifully written and haunting tale that weaves together elements of suspense, betrayal, and the power of storytelling. As Margaret peels back the layers of Vida’s enigmatic life, the reader is drawn into a web of intrigue and deception, making this a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery book.
The Secret History
by Donna Tartt
The Secret History by Donna Tartt is a captivating book about mystery that follows a group of elite college students who become entangled in a dark and secretive world. The story begins with a murder, and the narrative unravels the events leading up to the chilling crime. Tartt’s rich prose and intricate character development draw readers into a world of intrigue and suspense, as the characters grapple with themes of morality, guilt, and the complexities of human nature. The novel’s atmospheric setting and complex relationships add layers of depth to the mystery book, making it a compelling read that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The Snowman
by Jo Nesbo
The Snowman by Jo Nesbo is a gripping book on mystery that follows detective Harry Hole as he investigates a series of gruesome murders linked to the appearance of a mysterious snowman. The chilling atmosphere, complex characters, and intricate plot make this a must-read for any fan of mystery novels. With its twists and turns, this mystery book will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the clues and uncover the truth behind the elusive snowman. Nesbo’s masterful storytelling and attention to detail make The Snowman a thrilling and immersive experience that will leave readers guessing until the very end. If you’re looking for a compelling mystery book about mystery that will keep you guessing, The Snowman is a must-read.
The Hound of the Baskervilles
by Arthur Conan Doyle
The Hound of the Baskervilles is a classic mystery novel written by Arthur Conan Doyle. Set in the eerie moors of Devonshire, England, this compelling book on mystery follows the famous detective Sherlock Holmes and his trusty sidekick Dr. Watson as they investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville. The story is shrouded in suspense and intrigue as the two protagonists uncover a web of family secrets, suspicious characters, and a deadly legend surrounding a monstrous hound. With its gripping plot and vivid descriptions, this book about mystery keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the truth behind the chilling events at Baskerville Hall. Doyle’s masterful storytelling and the unforgettable characters make this mystery book a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers around the world.
In the Woods
by Tana French
In the Woods by Tana French is a gripping book on mystery that follows detective Rob Ryan as he delves into a chilling case. Set in a small Irish town, the story revolves around the murder of a young girl and the disappearance of two other children, which bears an eerie resemblance to a traumatic event from Ryan’s own past. As he unravels the tangled web of secrets and lies, he must confront his own demons and the haunting memories that have long haunted him. French’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions immerse readers in a world where nothing is as it seems, leaving them on the edge of their seats until the very last page. With its complex characters and atmospheric setting, this mystery book is a must-read for anyone who loves a thrilling and thought-provoking tale.
The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency
by Alexander McCall Smith
The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith is a captivating book on mystery that follows the story of Precious Ramotswe, the first female private detective in Botswana. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the African country, the book brings to life the charming and intelligent protagonist as she navigates the complexities of human nature and solves a variety of cases with her sharp wit and intuition. With its heartwarming storytelling and rich cultural insights, this mystery book is a delightful read that will keep you engaged from the first page to the last. Join Precious Ramotswe on her journey as she unravels the mysteries of her clients’ lives and discovers the true meaning of detective work.
The Secret Place
by Tana French
The Secret Place by Tana French is a gripping mystery novel that delves deep into the world of teenage girls and the secrets they keep. Set in an elite boarding school in Dublin, the story follows the investigation of a murder that occurred on the school grounds. The novel alternates between the perspectives of the detectives working the case and the group of girls who may hold the key to solving the crime. As the layers of deception and intrigue unfold, The Secret Place keeps readers on the edge of their seats, unraveling the complex relationships and hidden motives of the characters. Tana French expertly weaves together a tale of suspense, friendship, and betrayal, making this a must-read for anyone who loves a compelling book on mystery.
The Shadow of the Wind
by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón is a captivating book about mystery set in post-World War II Barcelona. The story follows a young boy named Daniel who discovers a mysterious book by an obscure author. As he delves into the book’s history, he becomes entangled in a web of secrets, betrayals, and danger that spans generations. The novel weaves together elements of suspense, romance, and historical fiction, creating an atmospheric and engrossing tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With its evocative setting and intricate plot, The Shadow of the Wind is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a compelling book on mystery.
Conclusion
There’s no shortage of thrilling reads when it comes to books about Mystery. Whether you’re a fan of classic whodunits or modern psychological thrillers, this list of the 20 best books about mystery has something for every avid reader. From the timeless tales of Agatha Christie to the gripping suspense of contemporary authors, these books will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. So, grab a cup of tea, curl up in your favorite reading nook, and prepare to be captivated by these captivating mysteries.
Which Mystery book is best?
The best book on Mystery can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
- The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
- The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Mystery?
For those looking to learn about Mystery, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
- The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
- The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown,
- Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn,
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson,
- Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty,
- The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling),
- The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn,
- The Silent Corner by Dean Koontz,
- The Dry by Jane Harper
These books offer a range of perspectives on Mystery, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books on Mystery?
The best books on Mystery include:
- The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
- The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
- The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena,
- The Girl Before by JP Delaney,
- The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn,
- Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Mystery are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Mystery books of all time?
Choosing the best Mystery books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
- The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
- The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson,
- The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn,
- The Dry by Jane Harper,
- The Girl Before by JP Delaney,
- and The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Mystery and continues to be influential today.