Looking for the best mystery novels to dive into? Look no further! Our comprehensive reviews will guide you through the thrilling world of suspense, intrigue, and plot twists. Discover gripping stories, compelling characters, and page-turning narratives that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Get ready to unravel the mysteries and embark on a captivating reading journey with our top-rated mystery novels.
If you’re a fan of thrilling and captivating stories, then you won’t want to miss out on the best mystery novels reviews. These gripping tales will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning the pages to uncover the truth. With their intricate plots and clever twists, these mystery novels are sure to satisfy even the most discerning reader. From classic whodunits to modern psychological thrillers, there’s something for everyone in this curated collection. Dive into the world of suspense and intrigue as you follow along with complex characters and unravel baffling mysteries. Whether you’re a seasoned detective fiction enthusiast or new to the genre, these best mystery novels will leave you guessing until the very end. Get ready for an unforgettable reading experience that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
| # | Book Title | Author | Publication Year | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gone Girl | Gillian Flynn | 2012 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo | Stieg Larsson | 2005 | 9.3/10 |
| 3 | The Da Vinci Code | Dan Brown | 2003 | 9/10 |
| 4 | And Then There Were None | Agatha Christie | 1939 | 8.8/10 |
| 5 | The Silent Patient | Alex Michaelides | 2019 | 8.7/10 |
| 6 | Big Little Lies | Liane Moriarty | 2014 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | The Girl on the Train | Paula Hawkins | 2015 | 8.3/10 |
| 8 | In the Woods | Tana French | 2007 | 8/10 |
| 9 | The Secret History | Donna Tartt | 1992 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | The Cuckoo’s Calling | Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling) | 2013 | 7.5/10 |
Contents
- “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn
- “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson
- “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown
- “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie
- “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
- “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty
- “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins
- “In the Woods” by Tana French
- “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt
- “The Cuckoo’s Calling” by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling)
- How can I find the best mystery novels?
- What should I look for in mystery novel reviews?
- Are there any classic mystery novels that are highly recommended?
“Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn
- Author: Gillian Flynn
- Genre: Mystery, Thriller
- Publication Year: 2012
- Main Characters: Nick Dunne, Amy Dunne
- Plot Summary: “Gone Girl” is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the story of Nick Dunne, whose wife Amy mysteriously disappears on their fifth wedding anniversary. As the investigation unfolds, secrets and lies are revealed, leaving readers questioning the truth and the nature of their relationship.
“Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn is a critically acclaimed novel that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With its unpredictable twists and turns, this book explores themes of marriage, deception, and the dark side of human nature. The story delves into the complexities of relationships and challenges readers to question their perceptions of truth and trust. It is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers.
“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson
- Author: Stieg Larsson
- Genre: Mystery, Crime
- Publication Year: 2005
- Main Characters: Lisbeth Salander, Mikael Blomkvist
- Plot Summary: “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” introduces readers to Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant but troubled hacker, and Mikael Blomkvist, an investigative journalist. Together, they uncover a dark and twisted web of corruption and murder that spans decades.
“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson is a gripping and intricately plotted novel that combines elements of mystery and crime. The complex characters and suspenseful storyline keep readers engaged from beginning to end. It is known for its gritty and atmospheric setting, as well as its strong female protagonist.
“The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown
- Author: Dan Brown
- Genre: Mystery, Thriller
- Publication Year: 2003
- Main Characters: Robert Langdon, Sophie Neveu
- Plot Summary: “The Da Vinci Code” follows symbologist Robert Langdon and cryptologist Sophie Neveu as they unravel a series of clues hidden in the works of Leonardo da Vinci. Their quest leads them on a thrilling adventure filled with secret societies, religious conspiracies, and hidden truths.
“The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown is a fast-paced and thought-provoking mystery novel that combines art, history, and religion. The intricate puzzles and historical references make for an engaging read, keeping readers guessing until the very end. It is a bestselling book that sparked worldwide interest in secret societies and hidden codes.
“And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie
- Author: Agatha Christie
- Genre: Mystery, Crime
- Publication Year: 1939
- Main Characters: Various
- Plot Summary: “And Then There Were None” brings together ten strangers who are invited to an isolated island. As they gather, they discover that each of them has a dark secret. One by one, they start dying in accordance with a chilling nursery rhyme, leaving the survivors to uncover the identity of the killer.
“And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie is a classic mystery novel that showcases the author’s mastery of suspense and plot twists. The isolated setting and the sense of impending doom create a tense atmosphere throughout the story. It is considered one of Christie’s best works and a must-read for fans of the mystery genre.
“The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
- Author: Alex Michaelides
- Genre: Psychological Thriller, Mystery
- Publication Year: 2019
- Main Characters: Alicia Berenson, Theo Faber
- Plot Summary: “The Silent Patient” follows the story of Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who is convicted of murdering her husband and then stops speaking. Theo Faber, a psychotherapist, becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind Alicia’s silence and delves into her dark past.
“The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps readers guessing until the final pages. The narrative alternates between Alicia’s diary entries and Theo’s perspective, creating a sense of intrigue and suspense. The exploration of trauma, obsession, and the power of silence makes this novel a compelling read. It has been praised for its unpredictable twists and its exploration of the human psyche.
“Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty
- Author: Liane Moriarty
- Genre: Mystery, Drama
- Publication Year: 2014
- Main Characters: Madeline Martha Mackenzie, Celeste Wright, Jane Chapman
- Plot Summary: “Big Little Lies” takes place in a seemingly perfect seaside town where three women become entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and murder. As their lives intertwine, dark truths are revealed, leading to a shocking climax.
“Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty is a compelling mystery novel that delves into the complexities of female friendships, motherhood, and domestic violence. The story is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers captivated until the final revelation. It was adapted into a successful television series, further increasing its popularity.
“The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins
- Author: Paula Hawkins
- Genre: Psychological Thriller, Mystery
- Publication Year: 2015
- Main Characters: Rachel Watson, Megan Hipwell, Anna Watson
- Plot Summary: “The Girl on the Train” follows Rachel Watson, an alcoholic who becomes entangled in a missing person investigation. As she tries to uncover the truth, she becomes increasingly unreliable as a narrator, blurring the lines between reality and her own imagination.
“The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, adding layers of complexity to the story. The exploration of memory, perception, and the consequences of our actions makes this novel a compelling read. It was adapted into a successful film, further popularizing the story.
“In the Woods” by Tana French
- Author: Tana French
- Genre: Mystery, Crime
- Publication Year: 2007
- Main Characters: Rob Ryan, Cassie Maddox
- Plot Summary: “In the Woods” introduces readers to detective Rob Ryan, who becomes involved in a murder investigation in his hometown. As he delves into the case, he realizes that it is connected to a traumatic event from his own childhood that he has repressed.
“In the Woods” by Tana French is a compelling and atmospheric mystery novel that explores the impact of past traumas on present-day lives. The richly developed characters and intricate plot make for a captivating read. It is the first book in the Dublin Murder Squad series, which has gained a dedicated following.
“The Secret History” by Donna Tartt
- Author: Donna Tartt
- Genre: Mystery, Psychological Fiction
- Publication Year: 1992
- Main Characters: Richard Papen, Henry Winter, Julian Morrow
- Plot Summary: “The Secret History” follows Richard Papen, a young student who becomes entangled in an exclusive group of students studying Greek at a prestigious New England college. As he becomes more involved with his classmates, he uncovers dark secrets that lead to a shocking event.
“The Secret History” by Donna Tartt is a mesmerizing and atmospheric novel that delves into themes of obsession, guilt, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. The intricate storytelling and complex characters make for an immersive reading experience. It is considered a modern classic in the mystery genre.
“The Cuckoo’s Calling” by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling)
- Author: Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling)
- Genre: Mystery, Crime
- Publication Year: 2013
- Main Characters: Cormoran Strike, Robin Ellacott
- Plot Summary: “The Cuckoo’s Calling” introduces readers to private detective Cormoran Strike, who is hired to investigate the supposed suicide of a supermodel. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that lead to a shocking conclusion.
“The Cuckoo’s Calling” by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling) is a compelling detective novel that showcases Rowling’s talent for storytelling in a different genre. The well-developed characters and intricate plot keep readers engaged from start to finish. It is the first book in the Cormoran Strike series, which has gained a dedicated fanbase.
How can I find the best mystery novels?
Finding the best mystery novels can be a subjective task, as everyone has different preferences. However, there are a few ways you can discover great mystery novels. One way is to check out book review websites or platforms like Goodreads, where you can find recommendations and read reviews from other readers. Another option is to join online book clubs or forums dedicated to mystery novels, where you can discuss and get recommendations from fellow enthusiasts. Additionally, you can ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your local librarian who may have insights into popular and well-regarded mystery novels.
What should I look for in mystery novel reviews?
When reading mystery novel reviews, there are a few key aspects to consider. First, pay attention to the overall plot and storyline. Look for reviews that mention engaging and well-crafted plots with unexpected twists and turns. Second, consider the character development and how readers connect with the protagonists and antagonists. Reviews that highlight well-rounded and relatable characters can indicate a quality mystery novel. Lastly, take note of reviews that mention the pacing and suspense of the book. A good mystery novel should keep readers on the edge of their seats, with a balance between suspenseful moments and slower-paced scenes for necessary exposition.
Are there any classic mystery novels that are highly recommended?
Absolutely! There are several classic mystery novels that have stood the test of time and are highly recommended by readers and critics alike. Some of these include “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie, “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” by Arthur Conan Doyle, “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn, “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson, and “The Hound of the Baskervilles” by Arthur Conan Doyle. These novels have become iconic within the mystery genre and continue to captivate readers with their brilliant storytelling and intriguing mysteries.
Top 3 Mystery Novels of All Time
1. “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie: This classic mystery novel takes readers on a thrilling journey as ten strangers are lured to a secluded island only to be murdered one by one.
2. “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn: A gripping psychological thriller that explores the disappearance of Amy Dunne and the dark secrets that unravel in her marriage to Nick.
3. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson: This Swedish crime novel introduces the enigmatic Lisbeth Salander and journalist Mikael Blomkvist as they delve into a decades-old mystery involving murder, corruption, and family secrets.
