20 best books on murders fiction – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’re a fan of gripping crime stories and thrilling mysteries, then you’re in for a treat! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about murders fiction that will send chills down your spine and keep you on the edge of your seat. From classic whodunits to psychological thrillers, these page-turners will immerse you in a world of suspense and intrigue. Whether you’re looking for a twisted plot or a shocking twist ending, these murders fiction books have got you covered. Get ready to embark on a thrilling reading journey!


The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a captivating and chilling book on murders fiction that will leave you on the edge of your seat. This psychological thriller takes you on a twisted journey into the mind of a notorious criminal, painting a dark and haunting picture of deception and revenge.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

by Stieg Larsson

Get ready to dive into the dark and twisted world of crime with Stieg Larsson’s thrilling masterpiece, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. This gripping book on murders fiction will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Set in Sweden, this book about murders fiction follows the story of Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist who finds himself entangled in a web of mystery and violence. Blomkvist is hired to investigate the disappearance of Harriet Vanger, a member of a powerful and wealthy family. As he delves deeper into the case, he teams up with the enigmatic and fiercely talented hacker, Lisbeth Salander.

Their quest for the truth takes them down a dark path filled with secrets, corruption, and unspeakable horrors. As they uncover the truth behind Harriet’s disappearance, they also stumble upon a series of gruesome murders that have plagued the Vanger family for decades.

With its intricate plot, complex characters, and heart-pounding suspense, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a murders fiction book that will leave you breathless. Larsson’s impeccable storytelling skill and attention to detail make this novel a true masterpiece of the genre.

Prepare to be captivated by the twisted world of crime as you unravel the secrets hidden within The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. This book on murders fiction is a must-read for any fan of thrillers and mysteries.

Gone Girl

by Gillian Flynn

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn is a mind-bending rollercoaster of a thriller that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about love, marriage, and the dark depths of human nature.

This gripping book on murders fiction delves into the twisted lives of Nick and Amy Dunne, a seemingly perfect couple whose marriage takes a sinister turn when Amy mysteriously disappears on their fifth wedding anniversary.

As the investigation unfolds, secrets and lies are exposed, painting a chilling portrait of a marriage built on deceit and manipulation. With each twist and turn, Flynn keeps readers on the edge of their seats, as we try to unravel the truth behind Amy’s disappearance.

This book about murders fiction is not just a simple whodunit. It dives deep into the complexities of relationships, exploring themes of identity, gender roles, and societal expectations. Flynn’s razor-sharp writing and knack for psychological suspense make Gone Girl a truly addictive read.

If you’re in the mood for a murders fiction book that will keep you guessing until the very last page, look no further than Gone Girl. Just be warned, once you start reading, you won’t be able to put it down.

The Da Vinci Code

by Dan Brown

The Da Vinci Code: A Thrilling Journey Through Art, History, and Secrets

Prepare yourself for a mind-bending adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code is not just another book about murders fiction—it is a captivating masterpiece that combines art, history, and secrets in a way that will leave you breathless.

As the story unfolds, you are introduced to Robert Langdon, a brilliant symbologist who finds himself entangled in a web of ancient symbols, secret societies, and a trail of cryptic clues that lead to an earth-shattering revelation. When a curator at the Louvre is found murdered, Langdon becomes the prime suspect and embarks on a desperate quest to clear his name.

With the help of Sophie Neveu, a gifted cryptologist and the granddaughter of the murdered curator, Langdon follows a trail of hidden messages left by Leonardo da Vinci himself. Together, they uncover a shocking conspiracy that could shake the foundations of religion and challenge everything we thought we knew about history.

The Da Vinci Code is not just a book on murders fiction—it is a thrilling journey that takes you through the hidden corridors of the Louvre, the ancient streets of Paris, and the mysterious landscapes of Rosslyn Chapel in Scotland. Brown’s meticulous research and attention to detail make the story come alive, blurring the line between fact and fiction.

With each turn of the page, you will find yourself questioning the very fabric of our society and the secrets that lie beneath its surface. The Da Vinci Code is a rollercoaster ride of suspense, riddles, and shocking revelations that will keep you guessing until the final, heart-stopping conclusion.

So, if you are ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure that will challenge your beliefs and ignite your imagination, dive into the world of The Da Vinci Code—a murders fiction book like no other.

The Girl on the Train

by Paula Hawkins

The Girl on the Train, written by Paula Hawkins, is a captivating book about murders that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Set in a thrilling world of deception and suspense, this murders fiction book introduces us to Rachel Watson, a troubled woman who becomes entangled in a web of mystery.

In the Woods

by Tana French

In the Woods is a captivating book on murders fiction that will have you on the edge of your seat from the very first page. This gripping novel, written by Tana French, delves into the dark and twisted world of crime, exploring the depths of human nature and the haunting consequences of unsolved mysteries.

The Snowman

by Jo Nesbo

Are you ready to be swept away into a chilling world of suspense and mystery? Look no further than “The Snowman” by Jo Nesbo. This heart-pounding book on murders fiction will leave you on the edge of your seat, yearning for more.

The Cuckoo’s Calling

by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling)

Do you love diving into the intriguing world of crime and mystery? Then get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating pages of The Cuckoo’s Calling, a thrilling book about crime fiction by the brilliant mind of Robert Galbraith, better known as J.K. Rowling.

This gripping tale takes you on a journey through the gritty streets of London, where private detective Cormoran Strike finds himself entangled in a web of secrets and lies. When a supermodel’s death is ruled a suicide, Strike is hired to investigate the case and uncover the truth.

As you delve deeper into the story, you’ll be drawn into a world of glamorous celebrities, high-profile parties, and a cast of colorful characters. With each turn of the page, you’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat, eagerly trying to piece together the clues and unravel the mystery.

Galbraith’s masterful storytelling and impeccable attention to detail bring the world of crime to life, making this book a must-read for any fan of the genre. The complex characters and intricately woven plot will keep you guessing until the very end.

So, if you’re looking for a book on murders fiction that will keep you captivated from start to finish, look no further than The Cuckoo’s Calling. Get ready to lose yourself in a world of suspense and intrigue as you join Cormoran Strike on his quest for the truth.

The Secret History

by Donna Tartt

The Secret History is a captivating book on murders fiction that will leave you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This spellbinding novel by Donna Tartt delves into the dark and twisted world of a group of college students obsessed with a secret society.

The Alienist

by Caleb Carr

The Alienist by Caleb Carr is a gripping and chilling book on murders fiction. Set in the dark underbelly of 19th century New York City, this thrilling tale follows a brilliant psychologist, or “alienist” as they were known back then, as he hunts down a serial killer.

This book about murders fiction is not for the faint of heart. Carr weaves a masterful story that delves into the twisted mind of a psychopath, taking readers on a thrilling journey filled with suspense, mystery, and a race against time. As the body count rises, our protagonist must use his expertise in understanding the human mind to profile the killer and bring him to justice.

The Alienist is a murders fiction book that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. With its rich historical detail, complex characters, and gruesome murders, Carr creates a world that is both haunting and mesmerizing. So if you’re looking for a thrilling and chilling read, dive into the dark and sinister world of The Alienist.

The Lovely Bones

by Alice Sebold

The Lovely Bones, written by Alice Sebold, is a captivating and haunting book about murders fiction that will leave you breathless. This mesmerizing novel takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions as you delve into the mind of a young girl named Susie Salmon, who has been brutally murdered.

Susie narrates the story from her own personal heaven, watching over her grieving family and the investigation into her death. Through her ethereal perspective, the reader is taken on a journey of love, loss, and ultimately, healing.

Sebold’s brilliant storytelling weaves together the lives of the living and the dead, creating a book on murders fiction that is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking. She explores the darkest aspects of human nature while also highlighting the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

The Lovely Bones is not just a murders fiction book; it is a profound exploration of life, death, and the connections that bind us all. Sebold’s lyrical prose and vivid imagery will transport you to a world where the line between the living and the dead becomes blurred, and where the power of love and forgiveness can triumph over even the most heinous of crimes.

If you are looking for a book about murders fiction that will keep you on the edge of your seat and make you question the very nature of existence, then The Lovely Bones is a must-read. Prepare to be captivated by Sebold’s masterful storytelling and to be forever changed by the beauty and tragedy of Susie Salmon’s story.

The Shadow of the Wind

by Carlos Ruiz Zafón

Step into the mysterious world of “The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón, a captivating book on murders fiction. Set in post-war Barcelona, this spellbinding tale takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with secrets, intrigue, and a love for literature.

The Devotion of Suspect X

by Keigo Higashino

The Devotion of Suspect X by Keigo Higashino is an electrifying book about murders fiction that will leave you on the edge of your seat. This gripping murders fiction book tells the tale of a single mother, Yasuko Hanaoka, who finds herself caught up in a chilling murder case.

When Yasuko’s abusive ex-husband shows up at her doorstep and threatens her and her daughter, a tragic incident unfolds. In a moment of desperation, Yasuko and her daughter end up killing him. Little do they know, their every move is being watched by their next-door neighbor, the brilliant mathematician Ishigami.

Ishigami, deeply infatuated with Yasuko, offers his help to dispose of the evidence and create an airtight alibi. Determined to protect the woman he secretly loves, Ishigami meticulously plans the perfect cover-up. But when the body is discovered and the police get involved, the race to uncover the truth begins.

Enter Detective Kusanagi, a seasoned investigator, and his genius physicist friend, Dr. Manabu Yukawa, known as Detective Galileo. As they dig deeper into the case, they soon realize that there is more to this murder than meets the eye. With Ishigami’s brilliant mind pitted against Yukawa’s astute reasoning, the battle of wits between the two men intensifies.

The Devotion of Suspect X takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of suspense and psychological intrigue. As the layers of the story are peeled back, the shocking truth behind the murder is revealed, leaving readers astonished and enthralled.

With its masterful storytelling, complex characters, and clever plot twists, The Devotion of Suspect X is a book on murders fiction that will captivate fans of psychological thrillers and crime novels alike. Prepare to be immersed in a world of mystery and deceit, where loyalty and obsession collide in a battle for justice.

The Thirteenth Tale

by Diane Setterfield

The Thirteenth Tale is a riveting book on murders fiction that will leave you spellbound from start to finish. Set in a mysterious and gothic world, this captivating tale weaves together elements of suspense, secrets, and family history.

The Name of the Rose

by Umberto Eco

The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco is a captivating book on murders fiction that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Set in a medieval monastery, this thrilling book about murders fiction takes readers on a suspenseful journey as a series of mysterious deaths occur within the walls of the abbey.

As the protagonist, a Franciscan friar named William of Baskerville, investigates the crimes, readers are drawn into a world filled with secrets, hidden knowledge, and religious intrigue. The murders fiction book is not only a gripping detective story but also a thought-provoking exploration of theology, philosophy, and the power of books.

Eco’s masterful storytelling and richly detailed historical setting make this book on murders fiction a true page-turner. With every twist and turn, readers are immersed in a complex web of conspiracy and deception, where nothing is as it seems. The intricate plot and well-developed characters make it impossible to put down.

So, if you’re looking for a thrilling book about murders fiction that will challenge your mind and leave you guessing until the very end, The Name of the Rose is the perfect choice. Prepare to be captivated by Eco’s masterful storytelling and transported to a world of mystery and suspense.

The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency

by Alexander McCall Smith

The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, written by Alexander McCall Smith, is a captivating book about solving mysteries that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Set in the beautiful and vibrant country of Botswana, this novel takes you on a thrilling journey alongside the clever and resourceful detective, Mma Precious Ramotswe.

With an abundance of charm and wit, Mma Ramotswe sets out to solve a variety of intriguing cases, ranging from missing persons to suspicious husbands. As the only female detective in Botswana, she faces numerous challenges, but her determination and sharp instincts always lead her in the right direction.

What sets this murder mystery book apart is its rich and vivid portrayal of Botswana’s culture and way of life. McCall Smith’s writing style effortlessly transports you to the heart of Africa, immersing you in the sights, sounds, and traditions of the country.

Through the pages of The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, you’ll not only be entertained by the intriguing cases and Mma Ramotswe’s brilliant deductions, but also gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for Botswana’s people and customs.

If you’re looking for a book about solving murders that is as charming as it is thrilling, this is the perfect choice. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey through the mysteries of Botswana with Mma Precious Ramotswe in The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency!

The Big Sleep

by Raymond Chandler

The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler is a mesmerizing book on murders fiction that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Set in 1930s Los Angeles, this compelling detective novel follows the enigmatic private eye Philip Marlowe as he delves into a web of deceit, corruption, and murder. Chandler’s masterful storytelling and gritty prose transport you into a world where danger lurks around every corner.

The Talented Mr. Ripley

by Patricia Highsmith

The Talented Mr. Ripley is a gripping thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This suspenseful book about murders fiction delves into the mind of the enigmatic Tom Ripley, a cunning and manipulative young man with a dangerous talent for impersonation.

The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

by Agatha Christie

Step into the world of mystery and suspense with Agatha Christie’s renowned novel, The Murder of Roger Ackroyd. This captivating literary masterpiece takes you on a thrilling journey through the dark and twisted secrets of a small English town.

Set in the picturesque village of King’s Abbot, this book on murders fiction immerses you in a web of deceit, murder, and intrigue. When the wealthy Roger Ackroyd is found dead in his study, the entire community is plunged into a state of shock. With no obvious suspects, it’s up to the brilliant detective, Hercule Poirot, to unravel the truth.

As Poirot delves deeper into the lives of the residents, he uncovers a labyrinth of hidden motives, suspicious alibis, and unexpected connections. Each character becomes a potential suspect, and the reader is left questioning everyone’s innocence.

This book about murders fiction is not just a typical whodunit; it’s a psychological masterpiece that challenges the reader’s perception of truth and deception. Christie’s ingenious storytelling and clever plot twists keep you guessing until the very end.

With a cast of unforgettable characters and a gripping narrative, The Murder of Roger Ackroyd is a must-read for any fan of murders fiction. Whether you are a seasoned crime enthusiast or new to the genre, this murders fiction book will leave you breathless and craving for more.

The Silence of the Lambs

by Thomas Harris

The Silence of the Lambs is a thrilling book on murders fiction that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This spine-chilling tale, written by Thomas Harris, takes readers deep into the disturbing world of serial killers and the psychological battles that ensue.

The story revolves around Clarice Starling, a young FBI trainee with a sharp intellect and a haunted past. When a notorious serial killer nicknamed “Buffalo Bill” begins kidnapping and murdering young women, Clarice is assigned to the case. In her pursuit to capture this elusive killer, she seeks the help of Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant psychiatrist and a convicted cannibalistic serial killer.

This book about murders fiction delves into the twisted mind of Hannibal Lecter as he toys with Clarice, offering her cryptic clues and insights into the mind of Buffalo Bill. As she delves deeper into the darkness, Clarice finds herself entangled in a deadly game of cat and mouse, where her own life hangs in the balance.

With its masterfully crafted plot, rich character development, and heart-pounding suspense, The Silence of the Lambs is a murders fiction book that will leave you breathless. Harris’s vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to detail create a chilling atmosphere that will haunt your dreams long after you finish the book.

If you have a taste for psychological thrillers, this book on murders fiction is an absolute must-read. Brace yourself for a gripping journey into the darkest corners of the human psyche, where the lines between good and evil blur, and the true nature of a killer is laid bare.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about murders fiction will keep you on the edge of your seat with their thrilling plots, intricate mysteries, and unforgettable characters. Whether you’re a fan of classic whodunits or psychological thrillers, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and prepare to be captivated by these gripping tales of crime and suspense.