If you are a mystery lover, you are likely always on the lookout for your next great read. From classic whodunits to contemporary thrillers, the genre of mystery is vast and varied, and there are countless books to choose from. To help you narrow down your choices, we have put together a list of the best books for mystery lovers.
- The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett
Considered a classic of the noir genre, The Maltese Falcon follows private detective Sam Spade as he investigates the murder of his partner and the search for a priceless statue. With vivid characters, sharp dialogue, and a twisting plot, this novel is a must-read for any mystery fan.
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
This international bestseller follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist as he investigates the disappearance of a wealthy businessman's niece, with the help of the enigmatic and troubled hacker Lisbeth Salander. With dark themes, complex characters, and a chilling mystery, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a thrilling read.
- And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
One of Agatha Christie's most famous novels, And Then There Were None follows ten strangers who are invited to an isolated island, only to be picked off one by one in a series of murders. With a twist ending that has become legendary, this novel is a must-read for any mystery lover.
- The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler
Another classic of the noir genre, The Big Sleep follows private detective Philip Marlowe as he investigates a wealthy family's secrets and the disappearance of their youngest daughter. With Chandler's trademark hard-boiled prose and a complex plot, this novel is a must-read for any fan of the genre.
- The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris
This iconic thriller follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling as she seeks the help of imprisoned serial killer Hannibal Lecter in order to catch another killer on the loose. With a haunting villain, tense pacing, and a psychological depth, The Silence of the Lambs is a must-read for any fan of the genre.
- In the Woods by Tana French
The first novel in Tana French's Dublin Murder Squad series, In the Woods follows detective Rob Ryan as he investigates the murder of a young girl in the same woods where he suffered a traumatic experience as a child. With complex characters, a haunting atmosphere, and a surprising twist ending, this novel is a must-read for any fan of contemporary crime fiction.
- The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle
Considered one of the greatest detective novels ever written, The Hound of the Baskervilles follows Sherlock Holmes and his friend Dr. Watson as they investigate the supernatural legend of a murderous hound haunting the moors of Devonshire. With Doyle's masterful plotting and the iconic character of Holmes, this novel is a must-read for any mystery fan.
- The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
This international bestseller follows symbologist Robert Langdon as he investigates a murder at the Louvre Museum and follows clues to uncover a conspiracy involving the Catholic Church and the true nature of Jesus Christ. With a thrilling plot, fast-paced action, and controversial themes, The Da Vinci Code is a must-read for any fan of mystery and thriller.
Whether you are a fan of classic whodunits or modern thrillers, there is a mystery novel out there for you. These eight books are just the beginning of the many great reads waiting for you in the genre. Happy reading!