Best Murder Mystery Books You Won’t Be Able to Put Down

The best murder mystery books will take you into the world of dark secrets, suspicious alibis, and hidden truths that leave your head spinning. From small-town murders to the most appalling psychological crimes, these stories put you in the shoes of the detective who dares to solve the mystery before the final reveal.

The Best Murder Mystery Books for Your Next Read

Val McDermid: Report for Murder

Set in an all-girls boarding school, this is a classic story of a shocking murder that novice journalist Lindsay Gordon must investigate. McDermid's witty dialogue and clever plotting make this a must-read for crime enthusiasts.

The Price of Darkness - Graham Hurley

Detective Joe Faraday investigates a complicated murder in a gritty British coastal town. The story blends realism, suspense, and an eerie look at the psychological impact of crime.

Murder Plot - Lance Elliott

Deadly secrets surface in England’s sleepy village when a local man is killed. Elliott serves up a smart and traditional whodunit where the plot twists are complex and the tension is satisfying.

Exposed - Alex Kava

FBI profiler Maggie O'Dell races to catch a killer who is linked to a deadly virus. It’s fast-paced, full of suspense, and perfect for fans of forensic thrillers.

Sunset Limited - James Lee Burke

Dave Robicheaux is on the trail of the brutal murder of a writer in the Louisiana bayou when Burke's lyrically beautiful lines turn this crime story into a haunting masterpiece of mood and morality.

Depraved Indifference - Joseph Teller

In this courtroom thriller, defense lawyer Harrison Walker undertakes a twisted murder case where the stakes have never been higher. Teller marries legal drama with suspense to produce an unforgettable ride.

The Dead Place - Stephen Booth

Detectives Cooper and Fry search for a serial killer leaving grisly clues around Derbyshire. In this dark, slow-burning mystery, Booth hits the tension sweet spot.

Ripley’s Game – Patricia Highsmith

The charismatic and murderous Tom Ripley manipulates others on his behalf for his own sake of thrill and entertainment. It is a psychological novel about guilt, greed, and moral corruption.

Bones Never Lie - Kathy Reichs

Forensic specialist Temperance " Bone " Brennan is faced with her most personal case when a child killer returns. Reichs delivers a page-turner that combines science and suspense.

Book of the Dead - Patricia Cornwell

Dr. Kay Scarpetta investigates the death of a tennis star in Italy. Cornwell's finely crafted forensic work, along with his great lead woman, makes this one of the best murder mysteries.

The Concrete Blonde by Michael Connelly

A copycat murder prompts Detective Harry Bosch to prove that he did not kill the wrong man. This gritty police procedural keeps the tension up from high from start to finish.

Last to Die - Tess Gerritsen

Rizzoli and Isles are back, investigating a series of murders targeting a group of orphaned children. Gerritsen adds emotional depth as well as chilling suspense.

The Best Murder Mystery Books Awaits You

From forensic thrillers to classic whodunits, these are really some of the best murder mystery books to keep your readers hooked. Each story offers a different take on crime, justice, and human nature, ideal for all lovers of a puzzle wrapped in suspense.