In an era of true-crime aficionados, murder mysteries continue to captivate readers of all age groups, and while Agatha Christie often takes the crown for many, there are other fantastic novels that deserve attention.
From timeless classics to BookTok favourites, here we dissect Goodreads’ avid readers’ list of the 10 best murder mystery books of all time:
10. The Last Thing She Ever Did by Gregg Olsen
This gripping tale by Gregg Olsen follows the story of a woman, her secrets, and the dark web of deceit that she’s tangled in. After being accused of a murder she didn’t commit, the protagonist finds herself in a race against time to uncover the real killer while trying to protect her own family.
Known for his ability to blend psychological suspense with thrilling plot twists, Olsen delivers a satisfying mystery that is difficult to put down. This book takes a unique look at how the past can haunt the present and how even those closest to us may not be as trustworthy as they seem.
9. The Swimmer by Loreth Anne White
In The Swimmer, a story of tragedy and revenge unfolds on the cliffs of a small coastal town. A woman returns to her childhood home where she was once a local swimming prodigy, only to find that something more sinister is at play beneath the surface. As her past secrets resurface, she must navigate a web of lies, betrayal, and murder.
Loreth Anne White’s writing is evocative and dark, creating an atmosphere of tension that pulls the reader in, while the novel dives into themes of trauma, family dynamics, and the search for truth – making it a gripping read for fans of psychological thrillers and whodunnits alike.
8. The Reaping by Jess Lourey
The Reaping is a chilling mystery set in the small town of Steinbeck, where a series of murders echoes a haunting past. The second book in the Steinbeck and Reed series, it explores the legacy of violence and the long-buried secrets that resurface when a string of mysterious deaths occurs.
Jess Lourey crafts a complex narrative, blending suspense with dark humor and mystery, and the book examines how the sins of the past continue to shape the lives of those who live in its shadow. It’s a thrilling roller-coaster of emotions with twists and turns that keep readers engaged from start to finish.
7. On Her Watch by Melinda Leigh
Melinda Leigh’s On Her Watch is a standout in the Bree Taggert series, which follows a law enforcement officer turned private investigator. When Bree investigates a cold case that seems to be tied to a current string of disappearances, she must confront both her personal demons and a dangerous killer.
The book’s heart-pounding pace, combined with its strong female protagonist, creates a dynamic and engaging experience. The emotional depth of the characters, paired with tense, high-stakes moments, has made this novel a favorite among fans of suspense and action-packed thrillers.
6. Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera
Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera is a fast-paced mystery that unfolds when a young woman, desperate to escape her abusive past, begins to uncover secrets that have been buried for years. This novel takes readers on a wild ride through a world of intrigue, betrayal, and murder.
Tintera’s ability to craft a compelling narrative filled with twists and unpredictable turns ensures that readers are constantly on edge. The book also explores themes of trust, identity, and how lies can shape our understanding of reality.
5. Deeper Than the Dead by Debra Webb
In Deeper Than the Dead, Debra Webb introduces readers to a chilling world where the line between good and evil is blurred. The novel follows Vera Boyett, a forensic expert, as she dives deep into the heart of a mysterious series of murders. As she gets closer to the truth, Vera must confront her own past. Webb’s knack for writing psychologically complex characters and building a suspenseful atmosphere draws readers in. This book is filled with dark, haunting moments that leave readers questioning what is truly real and who can be trusted.
4. Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
One of Agatha Christie’s most beloved works, Murder on the Orient Express features her famous detective, Hercule Poirot. On a luxurious train journey, a murder is committed, and Poirot must solve the case as the train is stuck in a snowstorm. The novel is notable for its innovative plot twist and the way it presents the complexities of human nature.
Christie’s mastery of the genre is on full display here, and the novel has remained a favorite among readers for decades. Its status as a classic is undeniable, but it ranks just outside the top three in this list.
3. Twenty Years Later by Charlie Donlea
Charlie Donlea’s Twenty Years Later is an intricate and captivating murder mystery that explores the case of a woman who has been wrongfully convicted of a crime she didn’t commit. The novel intertwines a present-day investigation with events from two decades prior, creating a tense narrative as secrets are slowly revealed. Readers are drawn to the rich character development and the twisty plot that keeps them guessing until the very end.
2. And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
Perhaps one of Agatha Christie’s most famous works, And Then There Were None is a haunting tale of ten strangers invited to an isolated island, only to find that they are being picked off one by one.
The book is an example of Christie’s brilliant narrative skill, presenting a closed-room mystery with an innovative approach to suspense. Each chapter ratchets up the tension, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they try to figure out who the killer is.
1. Murder on Family Grounds by Susan Rowland
At the top of the list is Murder on Family Grounds by Susan Rowland, a thrilling mystery that dives into family secrets, deception, and betrayal. The third book in the Mary Wandwalker series, it is set against a backdrop of power struggles and murder within a close-knit family.
The protagonist, Mary, uncovers layers of secrets hidden within a seemingly perfect family. Her journey to uncover the truth takes unexpected turns, making it a gripping and ultimately satisfying read. This book has garnered significant praise on Goodreads for its complex characters and its smart, twisty plot.