Best Good Mystery Books of 2024: Top 5 Reviews

Explore these good mystery books: intriguing plots, memorable characters, and mind-bending twists perfect for any mystery lover.
The No. 1 LadiesThe Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie coverThe Moonstone cover

Looking for a thrilling read? Look no further! Our list of 5 best good mystery books is here to save your day. We focus on suspense, captivating plots, and unforgettable characters. You won’t need a detective to find your next favorite book—just follow our list and enjoy the ride!

On this list:

5 The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith

The No. 1 Ladies

  • Genre: Mystery, Fiction
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1998
  • Pages: 235

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Set in Botswana, this book lets us follow the charming Precious Ramotswe as she solves mysteries with wit and wisdom. We felt like we were sipping tea alongside her as the vivid storytelling transported us to the African continent. The leisure and humor in the narrative stand out, making it a refreshing read amongst good mystery books.

4 The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley

The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie cover

  • Genre: Mystery, Young Adult
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2009
  • Pages: 373

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Join the precocious Flavia de Luce, an 11-year-old sleuth, in a delightful post-WWII English village. This book had us chuckling as Flavia outsmarted adults, blending chemistry with crime-solving. Its unique protagonist and cozy setting set it apart in the realm of good mystery books.

3 The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins

The Moonstone cover

  • Genre: Mystery, Classic
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1868
  • Pages: 464

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Known as the first detective novel in English literature, we enjoyed unraveling the intricate plot of ‘The Moonstone’. The way Collins weaves multiple narratives together had us hooked. If you’re looking for a classic entry in good mystery books, this is your treasure.

2 Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Gone Girl cover

  • Genre: Mystery, Thriller
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2012
  • Pages: 432

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This psychological thriller had us questioning who to trust. Its twisty narrative pulled us deeper with each turn. The clever plot mechanics and unreliable narrators make it a mainstay in good mystery books, sparking discussions and debates among friends.

1 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo cover

  • Genre: Mystery, Thriller
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2005
  • Pages: 672

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This book takes the top spot for its gripping storyline, deep characters, and intense investigative drama. With 600 pages of edge-of-your-seat thrills, Larsson draws us into a world of corruption, danger, and mystery that we couldn’t put down. The interaction between the journalist and the hacker creates a dynamic partnership that kept us engaged throughout. Every twist was unpredictable and left us eager to turn the page. It’s perfect if you’re searching for captivating good mystery books that also bring a dose of social critique.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!