2025’s Best: Top 15 Greatest Murder Mystery Novels
We've compiled 15 of the greatest murder mystery novels. Expect twists, intrigue, and a thrill ride to keep you guessing.
Welcome to our thrilling journey through the greatest murder mystery novels that have kept us puzzling and pondering through countless sleepless nights. Our eclectic list embraces a range of styles, from heart-pounding suspense to mind-boggling whodunits, ensuring there’s something for every mystery enthusiast. We prioritize captivating narratives, memorable characters, and the ingenious weaving of clues that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re a seasoned detective or a budding sleuth, these stories are sure to ignite your imagination and test your wits.
On this list:
- The Big Sleep
- Murder on the Orient Express
- The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
- Gone Girl
- In the Woods
- The Shadow of the Wind
- The Hound of the Baskervilles
- And Then There Were None
- The Silence of the Lambs
- Rebecca
- The Secret History
- The Woman in White
- The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency
- Sharp Objects
- The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
15 The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler
This classic hard-boiled detective story introduces Philip Marlowe. It’s full of twists and sharp dialogue. Some parts may feel a bit dated, but it’s a cornerstone of the genre.
14 Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
A classic whodunit with an iconic sleuth, Hercule Poirot. The confined setting and surprising ending make it a must-read. The language might be a bit formal.
13 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
This thriller combines investigative journalism with a gripping plot. It’s a bit slow to start, but the lead characters steal the show.
12 Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
A modern thriller with unreliable narrators. The plot twists will keep you guessing. Some might find the characters unlikeable, but it’s riveting.
11 In the Woods by Tana French
A psychological mystery with deep characters. The atmosphere is chilling, though the ending might leave some readers wanting more.
10 The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
We picked this because it’s a thrilling, atmospheric tale set in post-war Barcelona, full of mystery and literary intrigue.
9 The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle
Sherlock Holmes at his best with supernatural elements. It’s a bit gothic but a thrilling mystery. The language is older, but the story is timeless.
8 And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
A chilling tale of ten strangers trapped on an island. The suspense is intense, though the character depth could improve.
7 The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris
A terrifying psychological thriller with the unforgettable Hannibal Lecter. Some scenes are intense, but it remains a gripping read.
6 Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
A gothic mystery with an air of suspense. The setting is atmospheric, though some might find the pacing slow.
5 The Secret History by Donna Tartt
A novel about murder among friends at a prestigious college. It’s literate, dark, and alluring. A bit lengthy, but worth it.
4 The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins
This Victorian mystery novel is rich in character and plot. The length is daunting, but it’s a rewarding journey.
3 The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith
A charming detective story set in Botswana. It’s light-hearted and enjoyable, though the mysteries tend to be less complex.
2 Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
A psychologic thriller about a journalist returning to her hometown. It’s dark and intriguing, but not for the faint-hearted.
1 The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie
Considered one of the greatest murder mystery novels of all time, its ending is revolutionary. Christie weaves an unpredictable and clever story that changes the game. The plot is intricate, and while some may find it a bit challenging to keep up with all the details, it’s this complexity that makes the climax so rewarding. The engaging characters and the unexpected twist at the end are what makes this a masterpiece in detective fiction. Christie’s unique approach elevates ‘The Murder of Roger Ackroyd’ to a class of its own.
