With the popularity of crime dramas, like NCIS and Criminal Minds, it seems that Americans have an obsession with murder and catching criminals on the loose. So if you’re looking to sink your teeth into a crime novel, be sure to check out this list of the top 10 most popular crime fiction books in recent years.
The Girl on the Train
Paula Hawkins’s debut novel was an instant success when it was released in 2015. The Girl on the Train is a psychological thriller that follows Rachel, a woman who becomes obsessed with the lives of a couple she sees every day from the window of her train. The novel was so popular that it was turned into a movie starring Emily Blunt in 2016. It has sold more than 2 million copies worldwide and continues to be one of the most read crime fiction novels.
Sharp Objects
Sharp Objects is a novel by Gillian Flynn that was first published in 2006. The book tells the story of Camille Preaker, a newspaper journalist who returns to her hometown to investigate the murders of two young girls. Sharp Objects is a dark and suspenseful read that will keep you guessing until the very end. It’s definitely not your typical crime fiction book; however, it may be one of the most well-written pieces of modern literature out there.
Before I Go to Sleep
Before I Go to Sleep is a novel by S. J. Watson. The story follows a woman named Christine Lucas who has anterograde amnesia and can not remember anything that happens to her after she falls asleep. Every day, she wakes up with no memory of her life prior to that day. One day, she starts receiving mysterious messages from someone who claims to know her past. When she discovers the truth about her relationship with her husband, Christine sets out on a quest to find out what happened the night she lost her memories. Her search leads her across the world in pursuit of answers. But can they be found before it’s too late?
The Camel Club
The Camel Club by David Baldacci is a story of four guys who regularly meet to discuss their shared interest in conspiracies and related topics, such as possible cover-ups and current events. However, after they witness a murder, the conspiracies they have been discussing take on a more tangible quality. A Secret Service agent has joined forces with them, and they must now work together to expose a governmentwide plot. There are subsequent books in the series, but The Camel Club serves as the pilot.
Gone Girl
Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl is a masterful crime fiction novel that has captivated readers since it was first published in 2012. The story follows the disappearance of Nick’s wife, Amy, and the resulting investigation that takes place. Her husband is the prime suspect, but as the police investigate, they realize that there may be more to the story than meets the eye. Gone Girl is a thrilling read that will keep you guessing until the very end. Flynn does an excellent job at slowly peeling back the layers to uncover what really happened to Amy. If you are looking for a book with plenty of twists and turns, then this is one to add to your reading list!
A Gathering Light
A Gathering Light is the story of a young woman’s coming-of-age, set against the backdrop of a small town in upstate New York on the eve of World War I. The novel follows 16-year-old Ellie as she tries to make sense of her world and find her place in it. The book was an instant bestseller when it was published in 2003, and it remains one of Kristin Hannah’s most popular novels.
Daughter of Smoke and Bone
Karou is a seventeen-year-old art student in Prague who sells her teeth to support her family of monsters. When one tooth is stolen, she sets out on a quest to find the thief, which leads her into the world of angels. This fantasy novel has won numerous awards and was a New York Times bestseller.
Shutter Island
Shutter Island is a novel by Dennis Lehane that was published in 2003. The novel is set in 1954 and follows U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels as he investigates the disappearance of a patient from a hospital for the criminally insane on Shutter Island. The novel was adapted into a film in 2010, directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
The Snowman
The Snowman is a crime fiction novel by Norwegian author Jo Nesbo. The book was originally published in 2007, and has been translated into English. The novel follows detective Harry Hole as he investigates the disappearance of a woman whose scarf is found wrapped around a snowman. The novel’s title comes from the snowman; when it melts, its head becomes that of a demonic clown.
Kill Me If You Can
While not as widely known as some of the other books on this list, Kill Me If You Can is still a great read for any crime fiction fan. The story follows an art thief who must outsmart the FBI and Interpol to keep the world’s most valuable painting from falling into the wrong hands. Patterson’s fast-paced writing style will keep you hooked until the very end.
Other Popular Reads
True Detective tells the story of two detectives as they investigate a brutal murder in rural Louisiana. It’s Kind of a Funny Story tells the story of 16-year-old Craig Gilner, who struggles with depression and bipolar disorder until he checks himself into an adult psychiatric ward. Also, check out up and coming author Rebecca Kalyani who wrote Cut Action Murder. Her story of trouble in Hollywood will sure to please mystery readers.
This list of the most popular crime fiction books of all time, including best-selling novels, award-winning authors, and timeless stories have enduring appeal. They’re sure to get your wheels turning about your next vacation read or your next cozy night in with your favorite box set.
