The Greatest "Crime, Fiction" Books Since 1990

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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. 51. G Is For Gumshoe by Sue Grafton

    In this installment of a detective series, the tenacious female private investigator celebrates her 33rd birthday by not only upgrading her living situation but also by unwittingly putting herself in the crosshairs of a hitman. As she navigates the complexities of her latest case, involving a frail elderly woman seeking to uncover the mysterious past of her long-lost son, the detective must simultaneously dodge the lethal intentions of the assassin. Her investigative skills are put to the test as she delves into a web of deceit and danger, with the added challenge of staying alive while outsmarting those who wish her harm.

    The 5106th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 52. The Shack by William P Young

    This novel explores the spiritual journey of a man named Mack, who, after suffering the devastating loss of his daughter, receives a mysterious note inviting him to a shack. This shack is the same place where evidence of his daughter's murder was found. In the shack, Mack has an extraordinary encounter with three strangers who help him understand his loss, heal his pain, and redefine his understanding of life, love, and forgiveness. The book delves into the complexities of faith and the power of forgiveness through the lens of a deeply personal and tragic experience.

    The 5298th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 53. La Dama Número Trece by José Carlos Somoza

    This novel is a thrilling blend of mystery, horror, and fantasy, revolving around a struggling writer who becomes the target of a secret society known as "The Thirteen Ladies". These shadowy figures have the ability to manipulate reality through the power of words and storytelling. As he is drawn deeper into their world, he must uncover their secrets and find a way to survive their deadly games. The narrative is a rich exploration of the power of language and mythology, with a suspenseful plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

    The 5324th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 54. Dead Time by Eleanor Taylor Bland

    "Dead Time" is a gripping crime novel that follows the determined and resourceful African-American police detective, Marti MacAlister, as she investigates a series of mysterious deaths in a small Midwestern town. As the body count rises, Marti must navigate through a web of secrets and lies, uncovering shocking truths about the victims and their connections, while also facing personal demons from her own past. With a strong female protagonist, intricate plot twists, and a vividly described setting, this book keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the final page.

    The 5329th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 55. The Black Book by Orhan Pamuk

    The novel focuses on a man searching for his wife in Istanbul, who disappeared without a trace. In his search, he discovers a secret, surreal world in the city and starts to understand his wife's involvement in political activism. The narrative is interwoven with stories from a column written by his wife's half-brother, which the protagonist believes may hold clues to her disappearance. The book is a complex exploration of identity, storytelling, and the role of literature in society.

    The 5380th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 56. Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger

    "Ordinary Grace" is a coming-of-age novel set in a small Minnesota town in the 1960s. The story follows Frank, a thirteen-year-old boy, as he navigates the complexities of family, friendship, and the harsh realities of life and death. When a series of tragic events befall the community, Frank is forced to confront the fragility of life and the power of forgiveness, ultimately learning valuable lessons about love, loss, and the importance of cherishing ordinary moments.

    The 5435th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 57. Kiss The Girls by James Patterson

    In this gripping thriller, a detective and forensic psychologist embarks on a harrowing investigation to track down a serial kidnapper and murderer who refers to himself as "Casanova." The stakes are raised when the detective's niece becomes one of the victims, leading to a desperate race against time. As the detective delves deeper into the case, he discovers that Casanova is not the only predator at large—another killer, known as "The Gentleman Caller," is committing similar crimes across the country. The narrative weaves a tale of suspense and terror as the detective must unravel the twisted motives of these killers while trying to save the lives of their captives before it's too late.

    The 5448th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 58. Jar City by Arnaldur Indriðason

    In this gripping Icelandic crime novel, a seasoned detective investigates the murder of an elderly man, only to uncover a web of long-buried secrets. As the detective delves deeper into the case, he discovers a connection to a decades-old unsolved rape, a mysterious genetic condition, and a hidden "jar city" of preserved human tissue samples. The investigation challenges the detective to confront ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic privacy and the ghosts of the past, while navigating the complexities of his own personal life. The novel intertwines a compelling mystery with the stark atmosphere of Iceland, creating a dark and thought-provoking narrative that keeps the reader engaged until the very end.

    The 5468th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 59. When Death Comes Stealing by Valerie Wilson Wesley

    "When Death Comes Stealing" is a gripping mystery novel that follows Tamara Hayle, a former cop turned private investigator, as she delves into the suspicious death of a young woman named Crystal. As Tamara unravels the truth behind Crystal's demise, she uncovers a web of deceit, corruption, and secrets that lead her to confront her own past demons. With her sharp wit and determination, Tamara navigates through the dangerous streets of Newark, New Jersey, in her quest for justice, all while battling her own personal struggles. This thrilling and thought-provoking story explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the resilience of the human spirit.

    The 5471st Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 60. City of Bohane by Kevin Barry

    Set in the year 2053, the book is a dystopian tale about the city of Bohane, a place filled with vice, violence, and tribal warfare. The city is controlled by a gangster named Logan Hartnett, who is challenged by his estranged wife Macu and her lover, a rival gang leader. The narrative is filled with colorful characters, rich language, and a unique blend of futuristic and archaic elements, creating a vivid, darkly comic vision of a future Ireland.

    The 5474th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 61. Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke

    "Bluebird, Bluebird" follows the story of Darren Mathews, a black Texas Ranger who finds himself caught in a small East Texas town plagued by racial tensions and unsolved murders. When two bodies are discovered, one black and one white, Darren is determined to uncover the truth behind these racially charged crimes. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of secrets, corruption, and long-buried truths that threaten to tear the town apart. In a gripping and atmospheric narrative, the book explores themes of race, justice, and identity while unraveling a complex mystery.

    The 5483rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 62. Gb84 by David Peace

    "GB84" by David Peace is a gripping novel set during the 1984-1985 miners' strike in Britain. The story follows the lives of various characters, including union leaders, miners, and government officials, as they navigate the brutal and violent clash between the National Union of Mineworkers and the Conservative government. With its intense portrayal of the social, political, and economic turmoil of the time, the book offers a raw and realistic depiction of the struggles faced by both the striking miners and those in power.

    The 5634th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 63. The Girl Who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson

    In this gripping thriller, a young woman with a troubled past and exceptional hacking skills becomes the prime suspect in a double homicide after her fingerprints are found on the murder weapon. As she goes on the run to clear her name, she must also confront figures from her dark history and unravel a deeper conspiracy linked to the sex trade. Meanwhile, her friend, an investigative journalist, works to uncover the truth and prove her innocence, leading to a dangerous confrontation with powerful enemies who will stop at nothing to protect their secrets.

    The 5691st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 64. King Solomon's Carpet by Barbara Vine

    This novel weaves a complex tapestry of lives intersecting in the atmospheric underground of London's Tube system. Centered around a dilapidated house near a Tube station, inherited by Jarvis, a reclusive music composer fascinated by the subway's dark allure, the narrative delves into the secrets and obsessions of its diverse inhabitants. These characters, drawn together by their fascination with the underground, navigate their interconnected stories of love, loss, and the pursuit of passion. The book masterfully explores themes of isolation and connection, creating a suspenseful and psychological exploration of human nature set against the backdrop of one of London's most iconic and labyrinthine landscapes.

    The 5699th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 65. Dolores Claiborne by Stephen King

    This novel is a gripping psychological thriller that unfolds through the confession of its titular character, a housekeeper accused of murdering her wealthy employer. Set on a small island in Maine, the story delves deep into the protagonist's past, revealing a life marred by domestic abuse, a desperate act of violence to protect her children, and a complex relationship with her employer. The narrative, devoid of chapters and told entirely in the protagonist's voice, creates an intimate and compelling exploration of guilt, survival, and the lengths to which a person will go to escape a life of despair. Through its vivid character study and suspenseful plot, the novel examines themes of justice, loyalty, and the enduring impact of secrets.

    The 5817th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 66. Lady Joker by Kaoru Takamura

    "Lady Joker" is a gripping crime thriller set in Japan, where a mysterious woman named Yuriko becomes entangled in a dangerous game of deceit and revenge. As she navigates the seedy underbelly of Tokyo, Yuriko takes on various identities, using her cunning and intelligence to manipulate those around her. With a complex web of characters and a plot filled with unexpected twists, the book explores themes of power, identity, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

    The 5823rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 67. Morituri by Yasmina Khadra

    "Morituri" by Yasmina Khadra is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of terrorism and its impact on individuals and society. Set in the backdrop of Algeria's civil war, the story follows a young police inspector as he investigates a series of brutal murders committed by an unknown terrorist group. As he delves deeper into the case, he confronts his own beliefs and struggles with the blurred lines between good and evil. Through vivid storytelling and compelling characters, the novel explores the consequences of violence and the eternal struggle for justice in a world plagued by extremism.

    The 5823rd Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 68. The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson

    In this thrilling conclusion to a popular trilogy, the protagonist, a brilliant but troubled hacker, lies in critical condition in a hospital, charged with attempted murder. As she fights to prove her innocence and unravel the corrupt political and business ties that threaten her life, her allies, including a determined journalist, work tirelessly to expose the deep-rooted injustices that have entangled her. Together, they must navigate a web of hackers, hitmen, and government officials in a high-stakes battle against a shadowy group willing to go to any lengths to protect their secrets. The story combines elements of mystery, espionage, and courtroom drama, culminating in a gripping finale that addresses themes of power, corruption, and redemption.

    The 5847th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 69. White Jazz by James Ellroy

    "White Jazz" by James Ellroy is a gritty crime novel set in 1950s Los Angeles, following the life of corrupt police officer Dave Klein. As he navigates the treacherous world of organized crime, racial tensions, and personal demons, Klein becomes entangled in a web of deceit and violence that threatens to consume him. With its dark and atmospheric prose, this gripping tale explores the blurred lines between law and corruption, ultimately questioning the nature of justice in a city consumed by power and greed.

    The 5918th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 70. A Cool Breeze On The Underground by Don Winslow

    In this gripping mystery novel, a young private investigator named Neal Carey is tasked with finding the missing teenage daughter of a powerful senator. As he delves deeper into the case, Neal uncovers a dangerous underground world of drugs, corruption, and violence. With his quick wit and street smarts, Neal must navigate through treacherous alliances and unexpected twists to uncover the truth and save the girl before it's too late. Filled with suspense and intriguing characters, this book keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

    The 6061st Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 71. Six Four by Hideo Yokoyama

    In this gripping crime thriller, a former detective turned press officer is haunted by a cold case from 14 years ago, the unsolved abduction of a young girl. As he navigates the complex world of police bureaucracy and media pressure, he becomes entangled in a web of secrets and corruption that threatens to unravel his career and personal life. With meticulous attention to detail and a deep exploration of the human psyche, this novel delves into the complexities of crime, guilt, and the lengths one will go to protect their reputation.

    The 6063rd Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 72. Dead Lagoon by Michael Dibdin

    In "Dead Lagoon," readers are taken on a suspenseful journey through the atmospheric and enigmatic city of Venice. The narrative follows a detective who returns to his hometown to investigate a missing person case, only to find himself entangled in a web of secrets, corruption, and murder that challenges his perceptions of the past and forces him to confront the dark underbelly of the city he once knew. As the investigation deepens, the detective must navigate through the labyrinthine canals and alleys of Venice, unraveling a complex mystery that draws him into the heart of the city's darkest mysteries. This gripping tale combines a richly detailed setting with a complex plot of intrigue and betrayal, making it a compelling read for fans of crime and detective fiction.

    The 6078th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 73. Inner City Blues by Paula L. Woods

    "Inner City Blues" follows the story of a determined African American detective, who finds herself caught in a web of corruption and deceit while investigating a high-profile murder case in Los Angeles. As she delves deeper into the city's dark underbelly, she must navigate through racial tensions, police politics, and personal demons to uncover the truth and bring justice to those who have been wronged.

    The 6096th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 74. Those Bones Are Not My Child by Toni Cade Bambara

    Set in Atlanta during the early 1980s, this novel explores the devastating impact of the Atlanta Child Murders on the African American community. Focusing on the lives of various characters, including parents, activists, and law enforcement, the story delves into the complex web of fear, grief, and resilience that arises in the face of a serial killer targeting black children. As the investigation unfolds, secrets are revealed, relationships tested, and the community's determination to find justice is put to the ultimate test.

    The 6096th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 75. Point Of Impact by Stephen Hunter

    "Point of Impact" follows the story of Bob Lee Swagger, a highly skilled and decorated Marine sniper who becomes the target of a conspiracy after being framed for an assassination. Forced to go on the run, Swagger must rely on his exceptional training and instincts to clear his name and uncover the truth behind the elaborate plot. Packed with intense action and suspense, this gripping thriller takes readers on a thrilling journey through the world of espionage and betrayal.

    The 6141st 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