If you’re a fan of crime fiction and love a good mystery, then this list of the 20 best books about detectives is a must-read for you. From classic whodunits to modern thrillers, these books will keep you on the edge of your seat as you follow the brilliant detectives and their relentless pursuit of justice. Whether you’re new to the genre or a seasoned reader, these detective books will captivate you with their clever plots, intriguing characters, and pulse-pounding suspense. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of crime-solving and embark on thrilling adventures with these gripping reads.
Contents
- 1 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
- 2 The Cuckoo’s Calling
- 3 The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency
- 4 The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
- 5 Gone Girl
- 6 The Big Sleep
- 7 The Da Vinci Code
- 8 The Hound of the Baskervilles
- 9 The Girl on the Train
- 10 The Maltese Falcon
- 11 The Silkworm
- 12 The Secret History
- 13 The Snowman
- 14 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
- 15 The Name of the Rose
- 16 The Shadow of the Wind
- 17 The Adventures of Sam Spade
- 18 The Secret Place
- 19 The Alienist
- 20 The Black Echo
- 21 Conclusion
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
by Stieg Larsson
Are you ready to dive into a thrilling world of mystery and intrigue? Look no further than The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson, a captivating book about investigators, crime, and the dark secrets that lie beneath the surface.
Set in Sweden, this detectives book introduces us to Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist who finds himself entangled in a web of corruption and deceit. When he is hired by an aging industrialist to solve the decades-old disappearance of his niece, Blomkvist teams up with the enigmatic and fiercely independent Lisbeth Salander. Salander, a brilliant computer hacker with a troubled past, becomes Blomkvist’s unlikely partner in uncovering the truth.
As the investigation progresses, the duo uncovers a series of chilling crimes that reach far beyond the initial disappearance. Larsson weaves a complex tapestry of secrets, as the two relentless investigators delve deeper into the dark underbelly of Swedish society. From political intrigue to family drama, this book on detectives is filled with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Larsson’s writing is sharp and engrossing, painting a vivid picture of the characters and the world they inhabit. Blomkvist and Salander are flawed but compelling protagonists, each with their own demons to battle. Together, they navigate a labyrinth of clues and confront their own personal demons, making for a gripping and unforgettable read.
So, if you’re in the mood for a pulse-pounding book about detectives, look no further than The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Prepare to be captivated by its intricate plot, memorable characters, and the dark secrets that lurk within its pages.
The Cuckoo’s Calling
by Robert Galbraith
The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith is an electrifying book on private detectives that will leave you breathless. Set in the gritty streets of London, this thrilling novel follows the enigmatic detective Cormoran Strike as he investigates a mysterious death that has everyone scratching their heads.
The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency
by Alexander McCall Smith
The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency is a captivating book about the world of private investigation. Set in the beautiful and vibrant country of Botswana, this novel takes readers on a thrilling journey into the life of Mma Precious Ramotswe, a smart and resourceful woman who opens the first detective agency in the country.
This book on detectives explores the unique challenges and mysteries that Mma Ramotswe encounters as she solves cases, unravels secrets, and navigates the complexities of human nature. Her keen observation skills, intuition, and compassion make her an exceptional detective, and her determination to seek justice for her clients knows no bounds.
With a wonderful blend of humor, warmth, and wit, this book about detectives offers a refreshing take on the detective genre. It delves into the rich culture and traditions of Botswana, providing readers with a vivid backdrop that adds depth and authenticity to the story.
Whether you are a fan of detectives books or simply enjoy a well-crafted tale, The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency is sure to captivate you from the very first page. Join Mma Ramotswe as she takes on puzzling cases and explores the intricacies of the human heart, proving that sometimes the greatest mysteries can be solved with kindness and understanding.
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
by Arthur Conan Doyle
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes is a thrilling book about detectives that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Written by the brilliant Arthur Conan Doyle, this book is a masterpiece in the world of detective fiction.
Gone Girl
by Gillian Flynn
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn is a mind-bending rollercoaster of a book that delves into the dark and twisted world of deceit, manipulation, and secrets. This gripping psychological thriller takes the conventional detective story and turns it on its head, delivering a thrilling ride that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The Big Sleep
by Raymond Chandler
The Big Sleep is a gripping novel that delves into the shadowy world of private investigators. This thrilling book on gumshoes takes readers on a wild ride through the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles in the 1930s.
The Da Vinci Code
by Dan Brown
The Da Vinci Code, a thrilling book on detectives and mystery, takes readers on a gripping adventure through the hidden symbols and secrets of history. Written by the master of suspense, Dan Brown, this international bestseller immerses you in a world of cryptic puzzles, ancient conspiracies, and enigmatic codes.
The Hound of the Baskervilles
by Arthur Conan Doyle
The Hound of the Baskervilles is an enthralling book about detectives, written by Arthur Conan Doyle. This gripping novel follows the famous detective duo, Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson, as they investigate a mysterious curse haunting the Baskerville family. Set against the eerie backdrop of the desolate moors of Dartmoor, the story is filled with suspense, intrigue, and unexpected twists. As the detectives delve deeper into the case, they encounter a chilling supernatural hound, a labyrinth of clues, and a web of deceit. With Holmes’ unparalleled deductive reasoning and Watson’s unwavering loyalty, they must navigate through a fog of uncertainty to uncover the truth behind the curse and save the last remaining heir of the Baskervilles. Get ready for a thrilling adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
The Girl on the Train
by Paula Hawkins
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a thrilling rollercoaster ride of a book that will leave you on the edge of your seat. This gripping novel follows the story of Rachel, a troubled woman who takes the same train every day and becomes obsessed with a seemingly perfect couple she sees from her window.
As Rachel’s curiosity intensifies, she finds herself drawn into a dangerous web of deceit, mystery, and murder. With a narrative that alternates between multiple perspectives, the reader is taken on a suspenseful journey through the lives of these complex characters.
This book on detectives will keep you guessing until the very end as the plot twists and turns, revealing shocking secrets and unexpected connections. Hawkins skillfully weaves a tale of psychological suspense that explores the blurred lines between truth and perception.
With its cleverly crafted plot and well-developed characters, this book about detectives is a must-read for fans of thrilling mysteries. Prepare to be captivated by the dark and twisted world of The Girl on the Train.
The Maltese Falcon
by Dashiell Hammett
The Maltese Falcon, written by Dashiell Hammett, is a riveting book about private investigators. This classic novel is a must-read for all fans of the detective genre. Set in 1920s San Francisco, the story follows the relentless and cunning detective, Sam Spade, as he becomes entangled in a web of deceit, betrayal, and murder.
The Silkworm
by Robert Galbraith
The Silkworm is a captivating book about detectives that will enthrall any fan of crime fiction. Written by the renowned author Robert Galbraith, this thrilling novel takes readers on a dark and twisted journey into the world of private investigator Cormoran Strike.
When a renowned author, Owen Quine, goes missing, his wife contacts Strike to investigate his disappearance. As Strike delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a manuscript written by Quine that reveals the darkest secrets of London’s literary elite. With a cast of eccentric characters, a maze of clues, and a ticking clock, Strike must navigate the treacherous world of publishing to find the truth.
Galbraith’s masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions bring the gritty streets of London to life, immersing readers in a world teeming with deceit, ambition, and obsession. The author’s attention to detail and complex character development make this book on detectives a true page-turner.
With its intricate plot and clever twists, The Silkworm keeps readers guessing until the very end. Galbraith’s unique writing style, reminiscent of classic detective novels, adds a nostalgic charm to the story, making it an irresistible read for fans of the genre.
Prepare to be captivated by this gripping detectives book that will have you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Robert Galbraith or a newcomer to the world of Cormoran Strike, The Silkworm is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling and intricately woven mystery.
The Secret History
by Donna Tartt
The Secret History by Donna Tartt is an enthralling book about detectives that will captivate you from the very first page. Set in a small New England college, this literary masterpiece follows the lives of a group of eccentric and enigmatic students studying ancient Greek.
The Snowman
by Jo Nesbo
Get ready for a chilling ride through the icy depths of suspense and intrigue with Jo Nesbo’s electrifying novel, The Snowman. This gripping book about detectives will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Enter the world of Harry Hole, an enigmatic detective who is haunted by his past and driven by his relentless pursuit of justice. As the snow falls in Oslo, a serial killer is on the loose, leaving behind a twisted calling card – a snowman at each crime scene. With each new victim, the stakes become higher and the mystery deeper.
Nesbo’s masterful storytelling weaves a web of suspense and deception that will keep you guessing until the very last page. As Harry Hole races against time to unravel the sinister secrets behind the snowman, he must confront his own demons and face the chilling truth that lies buried beneath the frozen surface.
With its intricate plot, complex characters, and a bone-chilling atmosphere, The Snowman is a must-read book on detectives that will leave you breathless. Prepare to be captivated by Nesbo’s brilliant storytelling and embark on a journey that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
by Mark Haddon
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a captivating book that takes the concept of a detective story and turns it on its head. Instead of a traditional detective, we are introduced to Christopher Boone, a young boy who sees the world in a unique and fascinating way.
Christopher has an extraordinary mind, but he struggles with social interactions and understanding emotions. When he discovers his neighbor’s dog has been killed, he decides to investigate the mysterious incident himself, much like a detective would.
But this is not your typical book about detectives. Christopher’s investigation takes us on a journey through his mind, where logic and patterns rule over emotions. As he unravels the truth behind the dog’s death, we are drawn into his world, filled with intricate details and unexpected discoveries.
Mark Haddon’s storytelling is masterful, weaving together elements of mystery, family dynamics, and the challenges of living with a unique perspective. Through Christopher’s eyes, we gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be different and the power of determination.
So if you’re looking for a book on detectives that breaks the mold, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is the perfect choice. Prepare to be captivated by Christopher’s perspective and embark on a journey unlike any other.
The Name of the Rose
by Umberto Eco
The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco is a captivating book on detectives that transports readers to a medieval abbey, where a series of mysterious deaths occur. The story revolves around Brother William of Baskerville, a brilliant monk with a keen eye for detail and a knack for solving puzzles. As he delves deeper into the labyrinthine corridors of the abbey, he uncovers a web of secrets, lies, and forbidden knowledge. This book about detectives is not your typical whodunit; it is a rich tapestry of history, philosophy, and theology, woven together with intricate precision. Eco’s masterful prose and attention to detail make every page come alive, immersing readers in a world shrouded in darkness and intrigue. If you’re craving a detectives book that challenges the mind and ignites the imagination, then The Name of the Rose is a must-read.
The Shadow of the Wind
by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
The Shadow of the Wind is a captivating book about detectives that will transport you to the enchanting streets of post-war Barcelona. Carlos Ruiz Zafón weaves a spellbinding tale of mystery, love, and betrayal that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Adventures of Sam Spade
by Dashiell Hammett
The Adventures of Sam Spade by Dashiell Hammett is the epitome of a book on sleuths, a veritable treasure trove of intrigue and mystery. This quintessential book about gumshoes will have you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end, as you follow the enigmatic Sam Spade through a labyrinth of twists and turns.
Set in the gritty underworld of San Francisco, this detectives book introduces us to the eponymous Sam Spade, a private investigator with a knack for getting to the bottom of even the most perplexing cases. With his sharp wit, quick thinking, and unyielding determination, Spade is a force to be reckoned with.
Hammett weaves a spellbinding tale of deception and betrayal, as Spade is drawn into a web of murder, stolen treasure, and dangerous secrets. As the bodies pile up and the stakes get higher, our protagonist must navigate a dangerous landscape filled with shady characters and unexpected alliances.
What sets this book about detectives apart is Hammett’s skillful characterization. Each character is meticulously crafted, with their own motivations and hidden agendas. From the femme fatale who oozes charisma and danger, to the cunning villain who always seems one step ahead, the cast of characters in The Adventures of Sam Spade will leave you guessing until the very end.
As you delve into this thrilling tale, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of shadows and secrets. Hammett’s vivid descriptions and atmospheric writing style bring the gritty streets of 1920s San Francisco to life, making you feel like you’re right there alongside Spade as he unravels the truth.
So if you’re craving a book on detectives that will keep you guessing and leave you yearning for more, The Adventures of Sam Spade is the perfect choice. Get ready to embark on a pulse-pounding journey through the seedy underbelly of crime, where nothing is as it seems and the truth is a precious commodity.
The Secret Place
by Tana French
Are you craving a thrilling book about detectives that will keep you on the edge of your seat? Look no further than The Secret Place by Tana French. This mesmerizing novel takes you on a rollercoaster ride as two detectives embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind a mysterious murder.
In The Secret Place, French weaves a captivating tale of suspense, intrigue, and teenage secrets. Set in an elite boarding school for girls, the story revolves around a cold case that resurfaces when a new clue is discovered. Detectives Stephen Moran and Antoinette Conway are assigned to the case, and as they delve deeper into the intricate web of lies and hidden agendas, they find themselves questioning everything they thought they knew.
The author skillfully portrays the complex dynamics of teenage friendships, highlighting the power struggles and secrets that lurk beneath the surface. As Moran and Conway navigate the treacherous world of adolescent cliques and teenage angst, they must untangle a web of conflicting testimonies and decipher the truth from a sea of lies.
French’s writing is masterful, drawing you in with her vivid descriptions and expertly crafted characters. She expertly captures the essence of the detectives’ relentless pursuit of justice, as well as the emotional toll it takes on them. The reader is left guessing until the very end, as French skillfully drops breadcrumbs of clues that lead to a shocking revelation.
The Secret Place is a gripping book on detectives that will keep you guessing and second-guessing until the final page. It is a must-read for fans of suspenseful mysteries and anyone who enjoys delving into the intricate workings of the human mind. Prepare to be enthralled by French’s storytelling prowess as she takes you on a journey through the darkness and secrets of the human soul.
The Alienist
by Caleb Carr
The Alienist by Caleb Carr is a thrilling and immersive book on detectives that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the gritty streets of 19th century New York City. Set in 1896, this captivating novel delves into the dark and twisted world of crime, as a team of unlikely heroes unravel a series of gruesome murders plaguing the city.
Carr’s masterful storytelling introduces readers to a unique group of investigators, led by the brilliant and unconventional criminal psychologist, Dr. Laszlo Kreizler. Together with his loyal team, which includes the determined and resourceful journalist John Schuyler Moore, and the fiercely independent Sara Howard, a secretary at the police department, they form an unlikely alliance in pursuit of justice.
In a time when the term ‘detectives’ was not yet commonplace, Kreizler, known as an ‘alienist’ (a term used to describe those who study the mentally ill), brings his expertise to bear on the case, using his deep understanding of the criminal mind to profile the elusive killer. As they navigate the treacherous streets of New York, with its stark social divides and corrupt police force, the team races against time to stop the deranged murderer before he strikes again.
The Alienist is a captivating and atmospheric book about detectives that seamlessly blends historical fiction with elements of psychological suspense. Carr’s vivid descriptions and meticulous attention to detail transport readers to the seedy underbelly of New York City, immersing them in a world of danger, intrigue, and moral ambiguity.
With its intricate plot, intricate characters, and engrossing narrative, The Alienist is a must-read detectives book for anyone who craves a thrilling and thought-provoking tale of mystery and suspense. Prepare to be captivated from the very first page as you embark on a journey that will keep you guessing until the final shocking revelation.
The Black Echo
by Michael Connelly
The Black Echo by Michael Connelly is a gripping book on detectives that will leave you on the edge of your seat. This thrilling novel follows the story of Harry Bosch, a tough and determined cop who is known for his relentless pursuit of justice.
In this book about detectives, Bosch finds himself caught up in a high-stakes case involving a dead body found in a drainpipe. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a complex web of corruption and deceit that reaches far beyond what he could have ever imagined.
Connelly’s writing is fast-paced and gripping, making it impossible to put this detectives book down. The author’s attention to detail and ability to create suspenseful and atmospheric scenes will keep you hooked from start to finish.
If you’re a fan of crime fiction and love a good mystery, then The Black Echo is a must-read. Join Harry Bosch on his thrilling journey as he navigates the dark underbelly of Los Angeles and fights to bring a killer to justice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these 20 books about detectives are guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning each page to uncover the truth alongside some of the most captivating sleuths in literature. Whether you prefer classic whodunits, gritty crime novels, or psychological thrillers, there’s something on this list for every mystery lover. So, grab a magnifying glass, dim the lights, and prepare yourself for a thrilling journey into the world of detectives and the captivating cases they solve.