The Moonstone
A classic mystery novel featuring a stolen diamond, multiple suspects, and a brilliant detective. Inspired by a real-life crime, it's a grip…
50 Best Detective Books of All Time
Discover the top 50 detective novels that have captivated readers with their intricate plots and memorable characters. This list features classics and modern masterpieces alike.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie
In the summer of 1950, young Flavia de Luce, a budding chemist with a fascination for poisons, finds herself entangled in a mysterious murde…
The Bone Collector
A gripping thriller where a paralyzed ex-cop uses his brilliant mind to hunt a serial killer, with the help of a young police officer.
The Dry
A gripping debut novel set in the scorching Australian Outback, where a federal investigator returns to his hometown to uncover the truth be…
The New York Trilogy
A groundbreaking trilogy that redefines the detective genre, blending existential inquiry with gripping noir elements, leaving readers astou…
Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency
Join Dirk Gently, the eccentric detective, as he unravels a bizarre mystery involving a dead cat, a time-traveling poet, and the fundamental…
The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency
Meet Mma Ramotswe, Botswana's first and finest lady detective, who solves cases with common sense and a warm heart, all while sipping redbus…
Brighton Rock
A gripping tale of violence and redemption in the gritty underworld of Brighton, where a young gangster's life takes a dark turn.
The Cuckoo's Calling
A troubled model's death sparks a dangerous investigation for war veteran turned private investigator Cormoran Strike in this atmospheric Lo…
Postmortem
Introducing Dr. Kay Scarpetta, a compelling heroine in the world of suspense fiction, as she tackles a gripping case in this #1 New York Tim…
The City & the City
In the decaying city of Beszel, Inspector Borlu uncovers a murder that leads him on a surreal journey into a parallel metropolis, blurring t…
A is for Alibi
Private investigator Kinsey Millhone takes on a cold case with a shocking twist in this gripping start to Sue Grafton's Alphabet series.
Along Came a Spider
A chilling tale of a unique and terrifying killer who will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Black Dahlia
In 1947 Los Angeles, the brutal murder of a young woman dubbed 'The Black Dahlia' sends two detectives on a chilling journey into obsession …
Cover Her Face
In the chilling debut of P. D. James, a young housemaid's murder in a locked room sets the stage for a gripping mystery, with Scotland Yard'…
Whose Body?
Lord Peter Wimsey outsmarts the police in a baffling case involving a mysterious naked man found in an architect's bathtub.
The genre of detective novels is rich with quirky private investigators, dark back alleys, sultry heiresses, and shocking villains. This curated list of the 50 best detective books of all time is a must-read for any mystery enthusiast. The selection includes timeless classics like Agatha Christie's 'Murder on the Orient Express' and 'And Then There Were None,' as well as modern gems such as 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson and 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. Each book on this list has been carefully chosen for its compelling narrative and enduring appeal. Whether you're a seasoned reader of detective fiction or new to the genre, this list offers a diverse range of stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Dive into the world of mystery and intrigue with these top picks, and enjoy the thrill of solving complex cases alongside some of literature's most iconic detectives.