The Greatest American "Crime, Fiction" Books Since 2000

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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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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. 26. The Cabinet Of Curiosities by Douglas Preston, Lincoln Child

    In this thrilling novel, a gruesome discovery of 36 murdered bodies from the late 1800s buried in a charnel basement in New York City propels FBI Special Agent Pendergast, journalist Bill Smithback, and archaeologist Nora Kelly into a dangerous investigation. The trio uncovers a serial killer's lair, filled with bizarre antiques and relics, leading them on a harrowing chase through history and science. As they unravel the mystery of the murders, which seem to be resurfacing in the present, they must confront the possibility that the killer might not be confined to the past but could be striking again, following a pattern laid out over a century ago. The narrative weaves together elements of horror, history, and crime, creating a suspenseful tale that delves deep into the macabre and the arcane.

    The 8053rd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Land Of Shadows by Rachel Howzell Hall

    In this gripping thriller, a homicide detective named Elouise "Lou" Norton is determined to solve the mysterious murder of a teenage girl in South Los Angeles. As she delves deeper into the case, Lou uncovers a web of secrets and corruption that reaches far beyond the crime scene. With her own troubled past haunting her, Lou must navigate through the dangerous underbelly of the city to uncover the truth and bring the killer to justice.

    The 8288th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Consent To Kill by Vince Flynn

    In this high-octane political thriller, a counterterrorism operative finds himself in the crosshairs of an international conspiracy when a wealthy Saudi kingpin, seeking vengeance for the death of his son, puts a bounty on the operative's head. As the protagonist navigates a treacherous path filled with espionage, betrayal, and moral ambiguities, he must also confront personal demons and the complexities of his own past. The narrative unfolds with relentless pacing, delivering a tale of retribution and survival that tests the limits of the operative's skills, loyalty, and the very essence of his character.

    The 8317th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. Blowback by Brad Thor

    In "Blowback," readers are plunged into a thrilling narrative where the protagonist, a skilled counterterrorism operative, is tasked with preventing a catastrophic attack on the United States. The plot thickens when he discovers that an ancient weapon of mass destruction, thought to be a myth, has been rediscovered and is in the hands of a dangerous enemy. As the clock ticks down, the operative must navigate a treacherous path of deceit and betrayal, racing across the globe to unravel historical secrets and stop the impending doom that threatens to unleash chaos on a massive scale.

    The 8324th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. Heartsick by Chelsea Cain

    In "Heartsick," a gripping psychological thriller, Portland detective Archie Sheridan is on the trail of a notorious serial killer, Gretchen Lowell, who once captured and tortured him for ten days before inexplicably turning herself in. Now, as he investigates a new spate of murders, Archie must confront his own trauma and his complex relationship with Gretchen, who continues to manipulate him from behind bars. The novel weaves a tale of obsession, pain, and the blurred lines between captor and captive, as Archie's hunt for the killer becomes a deeply personal quest for redemption and survival.

    The 8505th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Prairie Gothic by J.M. Hayes

    "Prairie Gothic" is a gripping mystery novel set against the stark backdrop of the American Midwest, where a series of gruesome murders brings together an unlikely duo: a savvy, tough sheriff and his half-brother, a defrocked priest with a troubled past. As they delve into the crimes, they uncover a web of dark family secrets, local corruption, and twisted motivations that run as deep as the roots of the prairie itself. Their investigation challenges their own moral compasses and puts them in the crosshairs of a killer's disturbing game, testing the bonds of brotherhood and the resilience of the human spirit amidst the haunting landscape.

    The 8508th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. The Confession; Liberation Movements by Olen Steinhauer

    In this espionage thriller, a series of interconnected stories unfold across different time periods, revolving around a retired Eastern European police inspector who is drawn back into a case from his past involving a plane hijacking. As the narrative weaves through the complexities of Cold War politics, liberation movements, and personal betrayals, the characters grapple with moral ambiguities and the consequences of their actions. The novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and the cost of secrets in a world where the lines between right and wrong are often blurred.

    The 8584th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. Hollywood Homicide by Kellye Garrett

    In "Hollywood Homicide," a former actress turned amateur sleuth finds herself embroiled in a murder investigation when her friend, a rising starlet, is found dead. With her dreams of becoming a detective reignited, she navigates the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to uncover the truth, facing off against a cast of eccentric characters and discovering that fame can be deadly.

    The 8638th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. 206 Bones by Kathy Reichs

    In "206 Bones," a forensic anthropologist finds herself the target of a sinister plot when she wakes up bound and trapped in a dark, cold space. As she navigates through her memories to piece together how she ended up in this dire situation, the narrative intertwines with her recent cases involving the mysterious deaths of several elderly women. The protagonist must use her expertise to solve the puzzle of her own predicament and the crimes she's been investigating, all while the clock is ticking on her survival. The novel is a blend of suspense, science, and intrigue, as it delves into the complexities of forensic investigation and the depths of human malevolence.

    The 8662nd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. Drama City by George P. Pelecanos

    Set against the gritty backdrop of an urban landscape, the novel follows the life of an ex-con turned probation officer who is trying to stay on the straight and narrow while supervising others with similar troubled pasts. His resolve is tested when a series of violent events threatens to drag him back into the criminal world he's desperately trying to leave behind. As he navigates the complexities of his job and personal life, he becomes entangled in a dangerous investigation that forces him to confront his own demons and the dark realities of the streets he once called home. The narrative weaves a tale of redemption, the challenges of reform, and the enduring impact of one's past.

    The 8682nd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. The Bride Collector by Ted Dekker

    In this psychological thriller, an FBI agent with a troubled past is on the hunt for a serial killer who believes he is on a divine mission to collect brides for God, leaving his victims posed as if in a serene marital bliss after their deaths. The killer's twisted theology and the agent's own personal demons intertwine as the investigation leads to a group of mentally ill patients who may hold the key to stopping the murderer. As the body count rises, the race against time intensifies, pushing the boundaries of sanity and redemption in a chilling game of cat and mouse.

    The 8958th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Rampart Street by David Fulmer

    Set in the early 20th century in the vibrant and gritty streets of New Orleans, this mystery novel follows a Creole detective as he navigates the city's underbelly of jazz clubs, brothels, and corrupt power structures. Tasked with solving a series of violent crimes that threaten to disrupt the delicate social balance, the detective must use his wits and insider knowledge of the community to track down the perpetrator. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he encounters a colorful cast of characters, each with their own secrets, and confronts the racial tensions and moral ambiguities of a city at the crossroads of tradition and modernity.

    The 8982nd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. The Widows Of Malabar Hill by Sujata Massey

    Set in 1920s Bombay, "The Widows of Malabar Hill" follows Perveen Mistry, the city's first female lawyer, as she navigates a complex case involving the inheritance of three widows. When a wealthy Muslim man dies, leaving behind a vast estate, Perveen becomes entangled in a web of deceit, family secrets, and cultural traditions. As she unravels the truth, Perveen must confront her own personal demons and challenge societal norms to seek justice for the widows.

    The 8997th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Allegedly by Tiffany D. Jackson

    The book centers on a teenage girl with a traumatic past, who was convicted of a heinous crime at a very young ageā€”the murder of a baby. Now living in a group home and dealing with the complex dynamics within, she struggles with the weight of her past and the challenges of her present. As she contends with a society quick to label her as irredeemable, she seeks to uncover the truth and fight for a future that seems increasingly out of reach. Her journey is one of resilience and the quest for redemption, as she navigates a system that is often more interested in judgment than justice.

    The 9012th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Fearless Fourteen by Janet Evanovich

    This book is a thrilling installment in a popular mystery series that blends humor, romance, and suspense. The story follows a bounty hunter protagonist as she navigates a chaotic mix of characters, including a notorious bank robber, a video game master with a hefty ransom on his head, and a flamboyant reality TV star. Amidst the chaos, she must solve a decade-old bank heist mystery, all while managing the antics of her eccentric family and friends. The narrative is fast-paced, filled with witty dialogue, and showcases the protagonist's tenacity and humor as she juggles professional challenges and personal dilemmas, making it a compelling read for fans of crime fiction with a comedic twist.

    The 9153rd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. Blacktop Wasteland by S.A. Cosby

    In this gripping crime novel, a former getaway driver turned mechanic, named Beauregard "Bug" Montage, is tempted to return to his criminal past when faced with mounting financial struggles. As he struggles to provide for his family and keep his auto shop afloat, Bug finds himself drawn back into the dangerous world of high-stakes heists. With a blend of adrenaline-fueled action and poignant family dynamics, this book delves into themes of race, identity, and the consequences of one's choices.

    The 9263rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Winter Counts by David Heska Wanbli Weiden

    "Winter Counts" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel set on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. The story follows Virgil Wounded Horse, a local enforcer who takes justice into his own hands when the legal system fails his community. When his nephew becomes entangled in the dangerous world of drug trafficking, Virgil embarks on a mission to protect his family and seek retribution. Through its powerful narrative and exploration of Native American culture, the book sheds light on the complexities of modern-day reservation life and the struggle for justice in an unjust world.

    The 9263rd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. When No One Is Watching by Alyssa Cole

    "When No One Is Watching" is a gripping thriller that takes place in a gentrifying Brooklyn neighborhood. Sydney, a young Black woman, becomes increasingly suspicious of the changes happening around her as her neighbors mysteriously disappear. Teaming up with her new white neighbor, Theo, they uncover a dark conspiracy that threatens to upend the community and their lives. As Sydney and Theo dig deeper, they must navigate a web of lies, secrets, and hidden agendas, while also confronting their own personal demons. This thought-provoking novel explores themes of race, identity, and the insidious nature of systemic oppression, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the shocking conclusion.

    The 9263rd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. Disappearing Earth by Julia Phillips

    "Disappearing Earth" is a novel by Julia Phillips that explores the interconnected lives of the residents of a remote Russian peninsula after the disappearance of two young girls. Each chapter follows a different character as they grapple with their own personal struggles and the impact of the girls' disappearance on their community. Through vivid descriptions of the harsh landscape and the characters' complex relationships, Phillips weaves a gripping tale of loss, grief, and the enduring power of human connection.

    The 9425th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. No Visible Bruises by Rachel Louise Snyder

    "No Visible Bruises" by Rachel Louise Snyder is a powerful and eye-opening book that explores the issue of domestic violence. Through a combination of personal stories, statistics, and research, Snyder reveals the devastating impact of domestic violence on individuals, families, and society as a whole. She also highlights the flaws in the criminal justice system and the societal attitudes that perpetuate this cycle of violence. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the complex and urgent issue of domestic violence and work towards creating a safer and more just society.

    The 9425th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. Mars Room by Rachel Kushner

    The novel delves into the life of a young woman serving two consecutive life sentences plus six years at Stanville Women's Correctional Facility in California. Through her eyes, the narrative explores the harsh realities of the American prison system and the interwoven lives of inmates, shedding light on themes of poverty, violence, and the struggle for survival within a society that often overlooks the marginalized. The protagonist's past unfolds alongside her present incarceration, revealing the circumstances that led to her imprisonment and her attempts to maintain a connection with the outside world, particularly with her son. The story is a gritty and unflinching examination of the consequences of systemic injustice and the human capacity for resilience in the face of a life confined by bars.

    The 9448th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. Black Water Rising by Attica Locke

    This gripping novel is set in 1980s Houston, Texas, and follows Jay Porter, a struggling African American lawyer who becomes embroiled in a complex murder investigation after he hears a woman scream and subsequently rescues her from the bayou. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption and deceit that stretches from the oil industry to the highest levels of political power. The protagonist's past as a civil rights activist and his determination to seek justice in a society rife with racial tension add layers of depth to this thrilling narrative, making it not just a compelling mystery but also a poignant exploration of race, power, and the quest for redemption.

    The 9465th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

    The book revolves around a young woman with a troubled past who is given a second chance through a scholarship to an elite university, where she becomes involved with the secretive societies that practice magic and the occult. Tasked with monitoring their activities, she uncovers a series of supernatural crimes and mysteries that she must solve, using her own newfound magical abilities and wits. As she delves deeper into the university's hidden world, she confronts the dark power and privilege that fuel these ancient organizations, while also grappling with her own personal demons and histories.

    The 9610th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. The Devil All The Time by Donald Ray Pollock

    "The Devil All The Time" is a dark and gritty novel that weaves together the lives of several deeply flawed characters in a small town in Ohio. Set in the aftermath of World War II, the story follows a troubled young man named Arvin Russell, whose path intersects with a corrupt preacher, a serial killer couple, and a corrupt sheriff. As their lives intertwine, the novel explores themes of violence, religion, and the consequences of one's actions, ultimately painting a disturbing portrait of the human condition.

    The 9769th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. The Last Widow by Karin Slaughter

    In this gripping thriller, an abduction sets off a chilling chain of events in a case that tests the boundaries of forensic investigation and criminal psychology. A scientist from the Centers for Disease Control is kidnapped in broad daylight, leading to a desperate search by local law enforcement. Amidst the chaos, a series of catastrophic events unfolds, revealing a dark plot that threatens the heart of the city. A pair of investigators, one a medical examiner and the other a special agent, are drawn into the vortex of a sinister conspiracy. As they unravel the mystery, they must confront their own personal demons while racing against time to prevent a potential disaster of national significance.

    The 9782nd 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