The Greatest "Mystery, Crime, United Kingdom" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Genres

Mystery

The Mystery genre is a category of books that typically involves a crime, puzzle, or enigma that needs to be solved by the protagonist or a group of characters. These books often feature suspenseful and thrilling plotlines, with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers engaged and guessing until the very end. Mystery novels can range from cozy mysteries, which are lighter and more lighthearted, to hard-boiled detective stories, which are darker and more gritty. Overall, the Mystery genre is a popular and diverse category of books that appeals to readers who enjoy solving puzzles and uncovering secrets.

Crime

The "Crime" category of books typically includes stories that revolve around criminal activities, investigations, and the pursuit of justice. These books may feature detectives, police officers, or other law enforcement officials as main characters, as well as criminals and their victims. Crime novels often involve suspenseful plot twists and turns, as well as complex character development. The genre can encompass a wide range of subgenres, including mystery, thriller, and true crime, and may explore themes such as morality, ethics, and the human condition. Overall, the "Crime" category offers readers a thrilling and engaging look into the darker side of human nature and the justice system.

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  1. 1. The Spy Who Came in From the Cold by John le Carré

    This novel is a fascinating tale of espionage during the Cold War, centered around a British intelligence officer who is seemingly ready to end his spy career. However, he is given one last mission before his retirement: to bring down the head of East German Intelligence. As he navigates the dangerous world of spies and double agents, he is forced to confront his own past and the sacrifices he has made for his country. The story is a complex exploration of morality, loyalty, and the personal cost of political conflict.

    The 152nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. The Thirty-Nine Steps by John Buchan

    Set on the eve of World War I, the novel follows an ordinary man who becomes entangled in a dangerous plot after a mysterious stranger shows up at his apartment, claiming to be a spy. When the stranger is murdered, the protagonist is falsely accused and becomes a fugitive, fleeing to the Scottish highlands. He must unravel a conspiracy of international espionage and prevent a political assassination to clear his name.

    The 404th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy by John le Carré

    In this espionage thriller, a semi-retired British intelligence officer is tasked with uncovering a Soviet mole within the highest ranks of the British Secret Service. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of betrayal and deceit that reaches far beyond the mole, threatening the very fabric of the British intelligence community. The novel is a masterful blend of suspense, intrigue, and complex characterization that explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the murky world of international espionage.

    The 498th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

    This thriller novel follows symbologist Robert Langdon and cryptographer Sophie Neveu as they investigate a murder in the Louvre Museum in Paris. The murder leads them to a trail of clues hidden in the works of Leonardo da Vinci, revealing a religious mystery protected by a secret society for two thousand years. The mystery involves a conspiracy within the Catholic Church and threatens to overturn the foundations of Christianity.

    The 616th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Riddle of the Sands by Erskine Childers

    This novel is a classic early 20th-century spy thriller that follows two British yachtsmen who stumble upon a German plot to invade England while on a sailing trip in the North Sea. The duo must use their wits and sailing skills to outmaneuver the Germans and alert the British government of the impending attack. The book is notable for its attention to detail and realism, particularly in its descriptions of sailing and the North Sea coastline.

    The 759th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. London Fields by Martin Amis

    The novel is a darkly comic, murder mystery set in London at the end of the 20th century. The story follows three main characters: a terminally ill American writer, a petty criminal, and a beautiful but doomed woman who predicts her own murder but not the murderer. The narrative is filled with satirical social commentary, exploring themes of love, lust, greed, and deception.

    The 970th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. From Russia with Love by Ian Fleming

    In this thrilling spy novel, British secret agent James Bond is targeted by a Russian intelligence group, who lures him into a trap using a beautiful cipher clerk as bait. The plot thickens as Bond falls for the clerk and must navigate a series of dangerous encounters with Russian operatives, including a deadly face-off with a sadistic killer. The story is a blend of action, suspense, and romance, set against the backdrop of the Cold War.

    The 1361st Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. The Crow Road by Iain Banks

    "The Crow Road" is a darkly humorous and complex tale of a Scottish family, told through the eyes of a young man who is trying to make sense of his life and the mysterious disappearance of his uncle. The protagonist's journey takes him through various experiences including love, death, and the discovery of a novel written by his missing uncle. The narrative is a fascinating blend of family saga, coming-of-age story, and mystery thriller, all set against the backdrop of Scotland's landscapes and culture.

    The 2163rd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. A Place Of Execution by Val McDermid

    In a small and close-knit English village, a young girl mysteriously disappears in 1963, leaving the community in shock and despair. Decades later, a journalist becomes fascinated with the case and begins to unravel the truth behind the girl's disappearance, uncovering dark secrets and hidden motives that have haunted the village for years. As the journalist digs deeper, she uncovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and tragedy, ultimately leading to a shocking revelation that will leave readers questioning the nature of justice and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets.

    The 2669th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. The Constant Gardener by John le Carré

    "The Constant Gardener" is a gripping tale of corporate corruption and its impact on the world's most vulnerable people. The story follows a British diplomat who embarks on a dangerous journey to find the truth behind his wife's murder. As he uncovers layers of deceit, he discovers that she was close to exposing a conspiracy involving a pharmaceutical company testing a dangerous drug on unsuspecting African villages. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and the lengths one man will go to seek justice.

    The 4364th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Trial And Error by Anthony Berkeley

    "Trial And Error" by "Anthony Berkeley" is a gripping mystery novel that follows the story of a lawyer named Anthony Merton who becomes embroiled in a complex murder case. As he delves into the details of the crime, Merton uncovers a web of deceit, hidden motives, and unexpected twists, challenging his investigative skills and forcing him to confront his own biases and preconceptions. With a cleverly crafted plot and well-developed characters, the book keeps readers on the edge of their seats, unraveling the truth through a series of trial and error.

    The 4503rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Jumping Jenny by Anthony Berkeley

    "Jumping Jenny" is a thrilling mystery novel that follows the life of Jenny, a young woman who witnesses a murder while on a train. Determined to find the killer, Jenny embarks on a dangerous journey, facing unexpected twists and turns along the way. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal that threatens her own life. With gripping suspense and clever plot twists, "Jumping Jenny" keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the final revelation.

    The 4551st Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. The Second Shot by Anthony Berkeley

    "The Second Shot" by Anthony Berkeley is a gripping mystery novel that follows the story of a renowned detective who is called upon to investigate a seemingly impossible crime. When a man is shot dead in a locked room with no apparent escape or entry, the detective must unravel a web of deceit and hidden motives to uncover the truth. As the investigation unfolds, secrets are revealed, and the detective finds himself caught in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with the cunning killer. With twists and turns at every corner, "The Second Shot" keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the final, shocking revelation.

    The 4562nd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Clouds Of Witness by Dorothy L Sayers

    In this classic detective novel, an aristocratic family is embroiled in scandal when the Duke of Denver is accused of murdering his sister's fiancé. His brother, an amateur sleuth with a sharp intellect and keen eye for detail, takes on the case to clear the family name. As he delves into the mystery, he navigates a web of societal expectations, hidden motives, and damning evidence, employing his wit and resourcefulness to unravel the truth. Set against the backdrop of the English countryside and London's foggy streets, the story combines elements of a traditional whodunit with the intricacies of early 20th-century high society, leading to a courtroom climax where family secrets and unexpected revelations come to light.

    The 4596th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. Shooting Script by Gavin Lyall

    In "Shooting Script," the protagonist, a former Royal Air Force pilot, finds himself entangled in a dangerous adventure after agreeing to fly a plane to the Caribbean for a film shoot. What begins as a seemingly straightforward job quickly spirals into a perilous mission involving smuggling, treachery, and murder. As he navigates the treacherous world of criminals and double-crosses, the pilot must use his wits and flying skills to outmaneuver his enemies and uncover a conspiracy that threatens more than just his life. The novel is a thrilling blend of action, suspense, and aerial exploits, delivering a gripping tale of intrigue in exotic locales.

    The 4670th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Devices And Desires by P. D. James

    In this gripping crime novel, a small coastal community is terrorized by a series of brutal murders, prompting Commander Adam Dalgliesh to take a much-needed respite from his duties at New Scotland Yard. However, his holiday is soon interrupted when he finds himself embroiled in the investigation of the serial killings. As Dalgliesh delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a tangled web of personal vendettas, community secrets, and complex relationships, all of which converge in a chilling and unexpected climax. The narrative masterfully intertwines the detective's introspective nature with the meticulous police work required to catch a cunning and elusive murderer.

    The 5730th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. Black And Blue by Ian Rankin

    This novel is a gripping entry in a series featuring a Scottish detective, delving into a complex web of murder, corruption, and the haunting shadows of past crimes. The protagonist, a seasoned detective, finds himself embroiled in a challenging investigation that draws connections between a recent murder case and a notorious, unsolved series of killings from decades ago. As he navigates the murky waters of police politics and societal pressures, he must also confront his personal demons and the toll his career has taken on his life. Set against the backdrop of Scotland's gritty urban landscapes, the story masterfully combines elements of mystery, thriller, and police procedural, showcasing the detective's relentless pursuit of justice amidst the moral ambiguities of law enforcement.

    The 6289th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Unnatural Causes by PD James

    This gripping novel delves into the mysterious death of a prominent crime novelist found lifeless in his peaceful study. As detectives embark on a complex investigation, they uncover a web of personal and professional rivalries, secrets, and lies. Set against the backdrop of the English countryside, the narrative masterfully intertwines suspense with deep psychological insights, exploring themes of ambition, jealousy, and the nature of truth. The detective's methodical approach to solving the crime reveals not just the murderer, but also the intricate dynamics of human relationships and the dark undercurrents of the literary world.

    The 6304th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Exit Music by Ian Rankin

    In "Exit Music," readers are plunged into the gritty streets of Edinburgh, where Detective Inspector John Rebus faces the twilight of his career. With retirement looming, Rebus is drawn into a complex case following the murder of a dissident Russian poet, which spirals into a high-stakes investigation involving power, corruption, and the dangerous intersection of politics and big money. As Rebus navigates the murky waters of international intrigue, he must also confront his own demons and the realization that in order to solve the case, he may have to cross lines he's never crossed before. This gripping tale not only explores the intricacies of crime and justice but also serves as a poignant commentary on the challenges of change and the inevitability of the end.

    The 7145th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Hide And Seek by Ian Rankin

    In "Hide And Seek," readers are plunged into the dark, gritty streets of Edinburgh, where Detective John Rebus finds himself embroiled in a perplexing case. The discovery of a drug addict's corpse in a squat, posed in a hideously symbolic manner, draws Rebus into the murky depths of the city's drug trade and the high society that profits from it. As he delves deeper, navigating through a labyrinth of corruption, betrayal, and criminal intrigue, Rebus is forced to confront not only the demons lurking within the city’s underbelly but also those within himself. This gripping narrative masterfully combines a complex mystery with a profound exploration of the human condition, showcasing the detective's relentless pursuit of justice amidst the chaos.

    The 7828th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. The Honourable Schoolboy by John le Carré

    In this gripping spy thriller, a British intelligence officer named Jerry Westerby is sent on a perilous mission to uncover a complex web of corruption and espionage in Southeast Asia. As he delves deeper into the dangerous world of international politics, Westerby must navigate treacherous alliances and betrayals, risking his life to uncover the truth. With intricate plotting and masterful characterization, this novel explores the moral ambiguity and high stakes of the espionage game.

    The 8171st Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Classic Crimes by William Roughead

    "Classic Crimes" is a compelling collection of true crime essays that delve into notorious criminal cases in Scotland from the 17th to the early 20th century. Written by a prominent figure in the field of criminology, the book provides detailed accounts and analyses of various infamous crimes, including murder and scandal, exploring the legal proceedings and societal impacts of each case. The author's meticulous research and engaging narrative style bring these historical crimes to life, offering insights into the darker aspects of human nature and the evolving nature of criminal justice in Scotland.

    The 8726th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. The Turn Of The Key by Ruth Ware

    In "The Turn of the Key" by Ruth Ware, a young woman named Rowan Caine takes a job as a live-in nanny at a luxurious smart home in the Scottish Highlands. However, the seemingly perfect opportunity quickly turns into a nightmare as Rowan discovers the dark secrets hidden within the house and the tragic events that have unfolded in the past. As strange occurrences escalate and tensions rise, Rowan becomes the prime suspect in a murder investigation, desperately trying to prove her innocence and uncover the truth before it's too late.

    The 9122nd Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. Little Face by Sophie Hannah

    This psychological thriller revolves around a young mother, Alice, who insists that the baby in her home is not her daughter, Florence, but a stranger's child. Her husband, David, dismisses her claims, suggesting she's suffering from postpartum depression or worse. As Alice fights to prove her sanity and uncover the truth, the narrative delves into dark family secrets, manipulative dynamics, and the complexities of maternal bonds. The tension escalates with each chapter, weaving a tale of suspense, doubt, and the desperate lengths one will go to protect their loved ones.

    The 9199th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. Blue Lightning by Ann Cleeves

    This book is a gripping crime novel set on the remote Shetland Islands, where Detective Jimmy Perez returns home with his fiancée, only to be caught in a murder investigation when a renowned scientist is found dead. As a storm isolates the island from the outside world, Perez must navigate through a close-knit community full of secrets and lies to uncover the murderer. The harsh and beautiful landscape of the Shetlands, along with the complex relationships and tensions within the small community, provide a compelling backdrop to this mystery, testing Perez's detective skills and understanding of human nature to the limits.

    The 9529th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download