The 25 Best Crime Novels of All Time – Can You Solve Them?

1. The Daughter of Time by Josephine Tey

A detective confined to a hospital bed, Alan Grant, becomes obsessed with unraveling one of England’s oldest mysteries: the fate of the Princes in the Tower and the vilification of Richard III. Josephine Tey’s ingenious narrative stitches together historical documents, personal intuition, and relentless questioning, forcing readers to confront the blurry line between truth and propaganda. The story is as much about the process of investigation as it is about the mystery itself. Its impact goes beyond entertainment—historians and mystery lovers alike have cited the book as a powerful challenge to received wisdom. Tey’s writing is both sly and emotionally charged, drawing readers into the detective’s restless mind. The idea that “truth is the daughter of time” lingers long after the final page, inviting us all to reconsider the stories we accept without question. This novel’s approach has inspired a generation of writers to dig deeper into the evidence, making it a foundational work in both crime fiction and historical inquiry.

2. The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler

Philip Marlowe, the quintessential hard-boiled detective, is introduced in Chandler’s “The Big Sleep,” set against the shadowy, rain-soaked backdrop of 1930s Los Angeles. The plot twists through a labyrinth of blackmail, deceit, and murder, mirroring the city’s own shifting morality. Chandler’s dialogue crackles with wit and cynicism, creating an atmosphere that’s as intoxicating as it is dangerous. The novel’s complexity lies not just in its plot, but in its characters, who pulse with real, flawed humanity. Chandler’s portrayal of Los Angeles has been widely praised for capturing the city’s double life—glamorous and sordid, beautiful and rotten. Over the decades, “The Big Sleep” has influenced countless films, TV shows, and novels, cementing its position as a cornerstone of the genre. The book’s enduring popularity is a testament to Chandler’s unmatched ability to evoke mood and tension, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

3. The Spy Who Came in from the Cold by John le Carré

Gritty, bleak, and utterly compelling, John le Carré’s Cold War masterpiece follows Alec Leamas, a British agent caught in an intricate web of betrayal and moral ambiguity. This novel strips away the glamour of espionage, revealing the psychological toll that the game of spies inflicts on those who play it. Le Carré’s sparse, precise prose delivers emotional punches with every chapter, inviting readers to question their own assumptions about loyalty and justice. The narrative’s realism is rooted in le Carré’s own experiences as an intelligence officer, lending authenticity to every twist and turn. The book’s impact on the spy genre cannot be overstated, as it paved the way for more nuanced, character-driven stories. “The Spy Who Came in from the Cold” is often cited as one of the best espionage novels ever written, leaving readers haunted by its final, devastating revelations. It remains a touchstone for anyone fascinated by the murky ethics of international intrigue.

4. Gaudy Night by Dorothy L. Sayers

Set within the cloistered walls of an Oxford women’s college, “Gaudy Night” plunges readers into a cerebral mystery that explores themes of intellectual honesty, gender politics, and personal integrity. Lord Peter Wimsey and Harriet Vane’s partnership is at the novel’s heart, their evolving relationship providing both emotional depth and narrative tension. Sayers artfully weaves together the academic and the criminal, making the investigation as much about the mind as about the heart. The college setting becomes a crucible for debates about feminism and tradition, reflecting broader societal shifts of the era. Sayers’ attention to detail and psychological insight set this book apart from more conventional mysteries. Readers are drawn into the intricacies of both the crime and the academic world, forced to consider the value of truth and the cost of its pursuit. “Gaudy Night” has been celebrated for its complex female characters and its deft handling of issues that remain relevant today.

5. The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie

Few crime novels have rocked readers as profoundly as Agatha Christie’s “The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.” The book’s legendary twist ending has been discussed, debated, and dissected since its 1926 publication, shattering conventions about the detective’s role and the reliability of the narrator. Hercule Poirot, with his meticulous methods and razor-sharp mind, leads the investigation in the quiet English village of King’s Abbot. Christie’s narrative misdirection is masterful—she lays out clues in plain sight, daring readers to see through the fog of suspicion. The story’s structure has influenced generations of mystery writers, while its central puzzle remains as compelling now as it was nearly a century ago. The novel is often ranked among the greatest crime stories ever told, and its reputation for ingenuity is well-deserved. Readers still gasp at the reveal, proof of Christie’s unparalleled skill at manipulating expectation and suspense.

6. Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

Daphne du Maurier’s “Rebecca” is a haunting descent into obsession, jealousy, and psychological suspense. The unnamed narrator, thrust into the shadow of her husband’s first wife, fights to claim her own identity in the eerie halls of Manderley. Du Maurier’s lush, gothic prose creates an atmosphere of creeping dread, drawing readers into the protagonist’s growing paranoia. The novel’s exploration of love and insecurity resonates deeply, as the ghosts of the past threaten to consume the present. “Rebecca” has been praised for its complex female characters and its unflinching look at the power dynamics within relationships. The story’s emotional intensity has made it a touchstone for psychological thrillers, influencing writers and filmmakers alike. With its unforgettable opening line and chilling conclusion, “Rebecca” remains a classic that continues to disturb and enthrall new generations of readers.

7. Farewell, My Lovely by Raymond Chandler

“Farewell, My Lovely” plunges readers back into the noir world of Philip Marlowe, where beauty and brutality walk hand in hand. Chandler’s prose is both poetic and hard-edged, capturing the contradictions of Los Angeles in the 1940s. The plot centers on Marlowe’s search for Velma, the vanished love of a hulking ex-con, but the story quickly spirals into a web of corruption and deceit. Chandler’s characters are unforgettable—broken, desperate, and achingly human. The novel’s moral ambiguity challenges readers to reconsider their notions of justice and redemption. Chandler’s influence on American literature is immense, with “Farewell, My Lovely” standing as one of his most accomplished works. The book’s rich atmosphere and emotional resonance ensure that it remains a favorite among crime fiction fans.

8. The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins

Often hailed as the first modern English detective novel, “The Moonstone” unspools a tale of theft, suspicion, and obsession through a series of shifting perspectives. Collins’ innovative structure, with multiple narrators, allows readers to assemble the puzzle piece by piece, each character offering a new angle on the central mystery. The story’s backdrop—an English country estate, a stolen diamond, and a cast of complex characters—establishes many of the conventions still seen in detective fiction today. Collins also weaves in social commentary on colonialism and class, grounding the suspense in the realities of Victorian England. The book’s popularity upon its release in 1868 helped launch an entire genre, and its suspenseful twists continue to delight modern audiences. The sense of dread and uncertainty that permeates the novel makes it a compelling read, even for those who think they know the solution.

9. The Ipcress File by Len Deighton

Len Deighton’s “The Ipcress File” revolutionized the spy novel with its gritty realism, dry wit, and nameless protagonist. Set in the shadowy corridors of Cold War intelligence, the story follows an unnamed agent as he navigates double-crosses, abductions, and mind control experiments. Deighton’s depiction of bureaucracy and office politics within the intelligence community is both satirical and chillingly authentic. The novel’s style is brisk and cynical, mirroring the disillusionment of the postwar era. “The Ipcress File” challenged the romantic image of the spy, paving the way for more grounded, psychologically complex stories. Its success led to a series of sequels and a popular film adaptation, cementing its place in the annals of espionage fiction. The book remains a must-read for fans of twisty, cerebral thrillers.

10. The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett

Dashiell Hammett’s “The Maltese Falcon” is a masterclass in hard-boiled storytelling, introducing the world to Sam Spade, a detective as enigmatic as the titular artifact he pursues. The plot is a tangled web of greed, betrayal, and shifting alliances, set against a backdrop of steamy San Francisco streets. Hammett’s clipped, muscular prose keeps the tension high, while his characters—each with their own secrets and agendas—drive the story forward. The novel’s exploration of trust, loyalty, and the corrupting power of desire feels as fresh today as it did at its 1930 launch. “The Maltese Falcon” has inspired countless adaptations and remains a touchstone for crime writers everywhere. Its reputation as one of the best detective novels ever written is well deserved, with every twist and revelation carefully calibrated to keep readers guessing.

11. The Franchise Affair by Josephine Tey

“The Franchise Affair” is a gripping examination of truth, reputation, and the dangers of mob mentality. When a young woman accuses a mother and daughter of kidnapping, small-town lawyer Robert Blair is drawn into the case, fighting against a tide of public opinion. Tey’s nuanced portrayal of the legal system and the court of public perception highlights how easily facts can become distorted. The novel’s psychological depth and exploration of justice set it apart from more formulaic mysteries. Tey’s characters are vividly drawn, their motivations ambiguous and their secrets carefully concealed. The slow unraveling of the truth keeps readers in suspense until the very end, challenging them to question their own assumptions about guilt and innocence. The book’s relevance endures, especially in an era of viral accusations and trial by media.

12. Last Seen Wearing… by Hillary Waugh

Hillary Waugh’s “Last Seen Wearing…” breaks new ground as one of the first true police procedurals. The story follows the methodical investigation into the disappearance of a college student, chronicling every lead, dead end, and moment of doubt. Waugh’s attention to procedural detail is meticulous, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at real police work. The novel’s realism—no sudden eureka moments or larger-than-life detectives—makes the suspense all the more gripping. The characters’ frustration, exhaustion, and hope are rendered with empathy, drawing readers into the emotional stakes of the case. “Last Seen Wearing…” has had a profound impact on the development of the police procedural, influencing writers from Ed McBain to contemporary authors. The book’s enduring appeal lies in its unflinching portrayal of the grind and uncertainty of solving crimes.

13. The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco

Set in a remote Italian monastery in the 14th century, Umberto Eco’s “The Name of the Rose” is both a dazzling murder mystery and a meditation on faith, knowledge, and power. Franciscan friar William of Baskerville and his novice, Adso, investigate a string of mysterious deaths, uncovering secrets that threaten the very heart of the church. Eco’s intricate plotting is matched by his philosophical depth, challenging readers to grapple with questions of truth and interpretation. The novel’s historical richness and intellectual ambition have made it a modern classic, celebrated by scholars and casual readers alike. Eco’s ability to blend suspense with scholarly inquiry sets “The Name of the Rose” apart, offering layers of meaning for those willing to dig beneath the surface. The book’s success has inspired numerous adaptations, cementing its place in the pantheon of great crime fiction.

14. Rogue Male by Geoffrey Household

“Rogue Male” is a relentless tale of survival, paranoia, and political intrigue. After a failed assassination attempt on a dictator, an unnamed Englishman is hunted across the British countryside, forced to rely on his wits and instincts. Household’s writing is taut and suspenseful, immersing readers in the protagonist’s desperate struggle to evade capture. The novel’s psychological intensity is heightened by its exploration of isolation and the blurred boundaries between hunter and hunted. “Rogue Male” has influenced generations of thriller writers, from John le Carré to Lee Child, with its focus on the individual versus the system. The story’s timeless themes of resistance and resilience continue to resonate, making it a must-read for fans of high-stakes suspense.

15. The Long Goodbye by Raymond Chandler

Raymond Chandler’s “The Long Goodbye” stands as a poignant meditation on friendship, loyalty, and the cost of integrity. Philip Marlowe finds himself entangled in the tragic lives of Terry Lennox and Roger Wade, uncovering secrets that test his own moral compass. Chandler’s lyrical prose and deep empathy for his characters elevate the novel beyond the confines of genre fiction. The story grapples with themes of loss and disillusionment, capturing the existential malaise of postwar America. Critics and readers alike have hailed “The Long Goodbye” as Chandler’s masterpiece, praising its emotional complexity and narrative sophistication. The book’s influence can be seen in the works of countless contemporary writers who strive to blend mystery with literary ambition. It remains a touchstone for those who believe crime fiction can reach the heights of great literature.

16. Malice Aforethought by Francis Iles

Francis Iles’ “Malice Aforethought” is a chilling study of premeditated murder and the darkness lurking behind suburban respectability. The novel opens with the unforgettable line: “It was not until several weeks after he had decided to murder his wife that Dr. Bickleigh took any active steps in the matter.” The story’s brilliance lies in its inversion of the classic whodunit—we know the murderer from the start, but the suspense comes from watching his scheme unfold. Iles delves deep into the psychology of his characters, exposing the banality of evil and the self-justifications that lead to violence. The book’s dark humor and biting social commentary have earned it a place among the great psychological thrillers. Readers are left unsettled by the realization that monstrous deeds can grow from the most ordinary seeds.

17. The Day of the Jackal by Frederick Forsyth

Frederick Forsyth’s “The Day of the Jackal” is a high-octane thriller that follows the meticulous planning of a professional assassin hired to kill French President Charles de Gaulle. Forsyth’s attention to procedural detail is legendary—his depiction of surveillance, forgery, and evasion techniques is so convincing that it reportedly prompted real-life security reviews. The novel’s ticking-clock structure ratchets up the tension, while its cat-and-mouse dynamic between the Jackal and the authorities keeps readers riveted. “The Day of the Jackal” set a new standard for the modern thriller, blending journalistic realism with relentless suspense. Its influence can be seen in countless political and action thrillers that followed. The book’s enduring popularity is a testament to Forsyth’s mastery of pacing and plot.

18. The Nine Tailors by Dorothy L. Sayers

In “The Nine Tailors,” Dorothy L. Sayers crafts a mystery as intricate as the patterns of change ringing that echo through the church bells of rural England. Lord Peter Wimsey investigates a decades-old crime, unraveling a web of secrets connected to a mysterious corpse and a vanished emerald necklace. Sayers’ love of language and pattern infuses every page, while her characters—clergy, villagers, and outsiders—come alive with vivid specificity. The novel explores themes of duty, redemption, and the passage of time, using the bells as both metaphor and plot device. “The Nine Tailors” is celebrated for its atmospheric setting and intellectual rigor. Sayers’ meticulous research into campanology (the study of bells) adds an extra layer of authenticity to the story, captivating readers with its depth and detail.

19. And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie

Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None” is a masterclass in suspense, psychological manipulation, and narrative innovation. Ten strangers, each harboring a secret, are lured to an isolated island and killed one by one in accordance with a sinister nursery rhyme. Christie’s construction of the plot is flawless—every character is a suspect, and every death heightens the paranoia. The novel’s exploration of guilt, justice, and retribution has made it one of the best-selling books of all time, with over 100 million copies sold. Its influence extends far beyond literature, inspiring countless films, plays, and TV adaptations. The sense of inescapable doom that permeates the story keeps readers guessing until the final, shocking twist.

20. The Thirty-Nine Steps by John Buchan

“The Thirty-Nine Steps” is a breathless adventure that introduced the “man on the run” trope to the thriller genre. Richard Hannay, wrongly accused of murder, races across the Scottish countryside to unravel a conspiracy that threatens national security. Buchan’s storytelling is lean and propulsive, with each chapter ending on a cliffhanger that propels the action forward. The novel’s blend of espionage, action, and suspense has been widely imitated, setting the template for spy thrillers to come. Its enduring appeal lies in its combination of high stakes, relentless pace, and likable protagonist. “The Thirty-Nine Steps” remains a favorite for readers who crave intrigue and adventure.

21. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle

Arthur Conan Doyle’s “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” is a collection of twelve stories that showcase the legendary detective at the height of his powers. Holmes’ unrivaled intellect and uncanny powers of deduction have made him one of the most iconic figures in literature. Each case presents a unique puzzle, from the baffling disappearance in “The Adventure of the Speckled Band” to the cunning criminal in “The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle.” Doyle’s ability to create suspense and generate empathy for both his detective and his clients has captivated readers for over a century. The stories’ influence is immeasurable, shaping the modern detective story and inspiring generations of writers, filmmakers, and fans.

22. The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle

“The Hound of the Baskervilles” combines gothic horror with detective fiction, plunging Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson into the eerie, fog-shrouded moors of Devon. The legend of a supernatural beast terrorizing the Baskerville family provides the perfect backdrop for Doyle’s exploration of fear, superstition, and rationality. Holmes’ investigation peels back layers of deception, revealing a very human motive behind the monstrous legend. The novel’s atmospheric setting, memorable cast, and clever plotting have made it one of the most beloved entries in the Holmes canon. Its enduring popularity is reflected in the countless adaptations and references found throughout popular culture.

23. Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy by John le Carré

“Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy” is a labyrinthine tale of espionage, betrayal, and psychological warfare. George Smiley, le Carré’s quietly brilliant spymaster, must root out a Soviet mole burrowed deep within the British intelligence service. The novel’s complexity lies in its intricate plotting and subtle characterizations, challenging readers to untangle a web of lies and double-crosses. Le Carré’s portrayal of the emotional cost of espionage is both chilling and deeply moving. The book’s realism, drawn from the author’s own career in intelligence, has been widely praised by critics and former spies alike. “Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy” remains a benchmark for the genre, setting the standard for intelligent, character-driven spy fiction.

24. The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris

Thomas Harris’ “The Silence of the Lambs” is a psychological thriller that has left an indelible mark on crime fiction. FBI trainee Clarice Starling is drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse with the brilliant and monstrous Dr. Hannibal Lecter, seeking his help to catch another serial killer. Harris’ exploration of the mind of both the hunter and the hunted is as chilling as it is fascinating. The novel’s intensity is heightened by the complex, almost symbiotic relationship between Starling and Lecter. “The Silence of the Lambs” has been lauded for its psychological depth, intricate plotting, and unforgettable characters. Its adaptation into an Academy Award-winning film only cemented its status as a modern classic.

25. Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky

“Crime and Punishment” is not only a cornerstone of Russian literature but a profound exploration of guilt, redemption, and the human psyche. Raskolnikov, a destitute former student, commits a brutal murder and is consumed by paranoia, self-doubt, and existential dread. Dostoevsky’s psychological insight is unmatched, delving into the motivations, rationalizations, and ultimate suffering of his protagonist. The novel raises timeless questions about morality, justice, and the possibility of forgiveness. Its influence stretches far beyond the crime genre, shaping the way writers and thinkers approach the subjects of conscience and consequence. “Crime and Punishment” endures as one of the most powerful and unsettling novels ever written.