The Ultimate List of Mystery Books for 2024
The ultimate list of mystery books features dozens of our favorite mysteries divided by sub-genres.
We’ve got female spies, detective mysteries, mystery series, historical fiction mystery novels, and more from our favorite authors.
Many of the lists below link to bigger lists on the topic, so feel free to click around to find more mystery books in the category of your choice.
As always, we hope to hear which mystery books you are planning to read and which ones we might be missing from the list!
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Ultimate List of Mystery Books
Best of 2023 // Best of All Time// Book Series // Mystery Thriller // Locked Room Mystery// Espionage // Female Detective // Detective Series // Celebrity Book Club // Historical Mystery // Set in Britain // Dark Academia// Family //For Book Clubs // About Books // Middle Grade Mystery //
Best Mystery Books of 2024
The Mysterious Case of the Alperton Angels
Author: Janice Hallett
Year: 2024
Genre: Mystery
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author
Age Range:16+
Plot
True crime author Amanda Bailey is looking to revive her career. She decides to write a book about The Alperton Angels, a cult that almost convinced a teenage girl that her baby was The Anti-Christ and needed to be killed. But after she calls the police and is dropped off at the hospital, she disappears and so does the baby.
Now Amanda is trying to find the perfect angle for this book when she discovers that Oliver, another author, is also on the case. When they decide to collaborate, they discover that the story goes deeper than they could have imagined.
Trigger Warnings
Cults
Why Jackie loves it
I started reading this book but switched to the full-cast audio version and could not stop listening. The book is written as WhatsApp messages, emails, and transcripts. I loved this five-star read and highly recommend the audio version for a deeper reading experience. #gifted
Find this book in: Cult Books / Full Cast Audiobooks / Ultimate List of Mystery Books / Summer Reads of 2024 / Janice Hallett Books in Order
Best Mystery Books of 2023
Death Comes to Marlow by Robert Thorogood
This is the second book in the Marlow Murder Club series. We are back with Judith, Becks, and Susie. If you have not read the first book, do not worry, you can read this locked room mystery novel and love it.
When Judith gets a call from Sir Peter Bailey inviting her to his house for a pre-wedding celebration, she cannot say now. She is even more interested in why he would invite her. When Sir Bailey is found dead in a locked room crushed by a cabinet, it seems like a horrible accident or suicide. However, busy-body, skinny-dipping, crossword puzzle author, Judith is not so sure. #gifted
Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers
Author: Jesse Q. Sutanto
Year: 2023
Genre: Mystery
More info: Vera Wong #1
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 13+
Plot
Vera Wong lives above her tea shop in Chinatown in San Francisco. When she finds a dead body in the shop, she calls the police immediately but also cleans up a bit, uses a Sharpie to trace the body, and takes the flash drive out of the man’s dead hand.
She is sure that she can do a better job of finding the murderer than the police. She comes up with a plan to find the killer and finds four suspects who she grows to care for.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved this mystery book and have recommended this cozy book too many times to count. Vera is easily one of my favorite amateur detectives and the story is simultaneously funny and heartwarming!
Find this book in: Ultimate List of Beach Reads 2023 / Books Like a Man Called Ove / Fiction Books About Tea / Best Cozy Mystery Books
The Twyford Code
Author: Janice Hallett
Year: 2023
Genre: Mystery
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Name a more unique mystery writer than Janice Hallett. You can’t because her mystery books are unlike any I’ve ever read before. It’s not just the incredible mysteries that keep you on your toes – it’s HOW the stories are told.
Smithy was in a remedial English class when he found a copy of a book written by author Edith Twyford. She believed that the writings in the book were part of a secret code. When the teacher goes missing, Smithy thinks she may have been correct.
Now Smithy is out of prison and is looking for answers.
Trigger Warnings
Prison
Why Kirsten loves it
The Twyford Code is laid out as a collection of audio file transcripts that you need to decipher to find the treasure. The ending BLEW MY MIND. The genius of Hallett to lay it out like that… I’m in awe of this book.
Find this book in: Ultimate Beach Reads 2023 / Best Puzzle Books for Adults / Janice Hallett Books in Order / Janice Hallett Books in Order
Happiness Falls
Author: Angie Kim
Year: 2023
Genre: Mystery
More info: September 2023 Good Morning America Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range:
Plot
Happiness Falls is a captivating and heartwrenching tale about a Korean-American family in Virginia. When her dad mysteriously vanishes, Mia is convinced there’s a logical explanation. But as the search unfolds, family secrets unravel, and Mia’s younger brother, who is non-speaking Autistic, becomes the only witness.
Packed with shocking twists and thought-provoking questions, this book explores love, language, disabilities, and the lengths a family will go to understand one another. It was more than just a mystery. It was an exploration of the bonds of family.
Trigger Warnings
Death of a parent
Why Kirsten loves it
I love the portrayal of this family. Not only is this book filled with twists, it delves into the complexity of family and expressions of love.
Find this book in: Best Family Drama Books / Good Morning America Book Club List / Best Books for Book Clubs / Best Books of 2023 / Books With Neurodivergent Characters
Best Mystery Novels of All Time
The Appeal
Author: Janice Hallett
Year: 2022
Genre: Thriller
More info: International Bestseller
Best Book of 2022 by The New York Times
Crime Writer Association New Blood Dagger Award
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I was utterly charmed by this unique murder mystery book! The premise is great – a detective duo has been given a stack of correspondence (text and emails) and asked to read through and determine who was murdered, why, and who was wrongly accused.
Of course, we readers get to come along for the ride – reading their post-it notes or texts to each other as they try to solve the mystery. I was desperately trying to solve it along with them but I was stumped!
The ending was truly shocking and the many twists and turns had me flying through the story. I read part of it and listened to part. Both formats make for a wonderful experience! This is one I’ll be recommending this pick from the ultimate list of mystery books for years to come!
Trigger Warnings
Cancer
Why Kirsten loves it
This is the first of Janice Hallett’s book and it firmly placed her in the “must-read” author category. The format of this book is brilliant and her other books are equally entertaining, well-written, and brilliantly plotted.
Find this book in: Detective Books / The Ultimate List of Mystery Books / The Best British Mysteries / Epistolary Novels / Janice Hallett Books in Order
The Maid
Author: Nita Prose
Year: 2022
Genre: Mystery
More info: January 2022 Good Morning America Pick
#1 New York Times Bestseller, EDGAR AWARD Finalist, Anthony Award Winner
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Molly Gray works as a maid in a grand hotel and gets joy from leaving things orderly and pristine. Molly struggles with reading social cues and has had even more trouble since her gran can no longer help.
When Molly finds the body of Mr. Black in a room at the hotel, she becomes a prime suspect and will need all her friends to help her. She calls her friend Mr. Preston, the doorman at the hotel, for help. His daughter is a lawyer. Soon it becomes clear that Molly, in her naivete, is involved in a drug scandal as well.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved the description of this book and I hoped it would live up to my expectations. It did that and more. I adored every minute of this story and closed the last page smiling. Molly is such a wonderful character who has more depth than is apparent initially.
Find this book in: The Maid Book Club Questions / Books like Lessons in Chemistry / Best Mystery Books / Feel-Good Books / Books for Book Clubs / Best Cozy Mystery Books / Books With Neurodivergent Characters
You’ll find these on our list of the best books of 2022!
Best Mystery Book Series
Angels & Demons (Robert Langdon Series #1) by Dan Brown
Dan Brown found a way to incorporate symbolism and brilliant riddles into this modern-day mystery. The plot does not slow for a minute from the first page to the last. This is one of our favorite mystery books.
It is the first of the Robert Langdon books and my favorite as well. This story revolves around an Illuminati plot against the Catholic Church. The Tom Hanks-led Netflix book adaptation is worth a watch!
The Long Call by Ann Cleeves
There are so many things about this book that I loved. The book starts when Matthew Venn attends the funeral of his estranged father. When a murdered man is washed up on the beach, Matthew is brought back into the community that he left years before.
The characters are rich, real, flawed, and likable. The story is driven by the characters who make the story compelling and unpredictable. I did not predict “who Dun it” which is always a huge bonus for me when I am reading mystery books.
The Dry by Jane Harper
One of the best mysteries I’ve read in recent years, Harper spun quite the web. Set in an old farming town in the Australian Outback, The Dry was actually two mysteries in one.
When an old friend of Agent Falk ends up committing a double murder and homicide, he ends up in the town he hoped to never visit again. As he stays to investigate the current murder, memories and old enemies come out of the woodwork as he recalls what happened 20 years ago when he and his father were driven out of town.
One for the Money by Janet Evanovich
The first is the Stephanie Plum series (which is currently 29 books deep!) this story lays the groundwork for Stephanie’s new career as a bounty hunter.
I love the female empowerment of this mystery series because Stephanie is a total badass. Her first job is to go after a crooked cop who happens to have deflowered her at 16 and then told the town all about it.
Finlay Donovan is Killing It
Author: Elle Cosimano
Year: 2021
Genre: Mystery
More info: Book 1 of 5: Finlay Donovan
Age Range: 15+
Plot
Easily one of the most unique premises I’ve read recently for a mystery, this mystery-comedy mash-up was so enjoyable! Finlay Donovan is struggling to pay her bills on her meager book advance, so when someone mistakes her for a hired hitman and offers her 50k, she almost considers doing the job.
Until someone else beats her to it and she’s left to deal with the body. Soon her nanny-turned-sidekick is helping her literally bury the body. Can Finlay figure out who might be framing her before she ends up in big trouble?
Why Kirsten loves it
I love cosy mystery novels and this one had me laughing out loud. The hilarious antics kept me turning the pages.
Find this book in: Best Detective Books / Best Cozy Mystery Books / Ultimate List of Mystery Books
Mystery Thriller Books
The Silent Patient
Author: Alex Michaelides
Year: 2019
Genre: Thriller
More info: Instant New York Times Bestseller
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This popular thriller book was Michaelides’s debut novel and sold over 65 million copies for good reason. This psychological thriller sucked me in immediately – a woman murders her husband and then doesn’t say a word for 10 years.
Convinced he can help, a psychologist named Theo transfers to the facility where Alice is staying to try to get the real story behind the fateful night of the murder.
Soon, he will become obsessed with Alice and finding out the truth behind the murders.
Trigger Warnings
Suicide Attempt, mental illness
Why Kirsten likes it
This is my first Michaelides book and I can see why this is a bestseller. The story is fast moving and unpredictable and the plot sucked me in immediately.
Find this book in: Unreliable Narrator Books / Best Mystery Books of All Time / Best Psychological Thriller Books / Popular Thriller Books
Woman on Fire by Lisa Barr
Buckle up for a stunning story in Lisa Barr’s newest book, Woman on Fire. Jules, an ambitious investigative journalist, is working on a story about a piece of art that was stolen by the Nazis during WWII.
But she’s not the only one looking to track down Woman on Fire. Margaux, a gallerist and art thief, also wants to get her hands on the painting.
As we learn the origins of the painting and the many hands it switched to over the years, we also discover the dark underbelly of the art world.
I was ENTHRALLED with this novel about art. I’ll be putting this pick from mystery books on every must-read list we do this year. It was thrilling and informative. Buy it now, and thank me later.
The Sanatorium
Author: Sarah Pearse
Year: 2021
Genre: Mystery
More info: Detective Elin Warner #1 , February 2021 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Plot
Oh boy, was this a creepy haunted house book! I wish I had chosen to read it during the wintertime instead of the summer because seeing snow while reading it would have made it that much creepier.
With dead bodies piling up, and a blizzard keeping the guests of the fancy sanatorium-turned-hotel stuck inside, will Elin be able to solve the mystery before she becomes a victim herself?
Why Kirsten loves it
This is such a great blizzard book for mystery book lovers. It is creepy and everything else you want in a thriller and it’s an iconic book to read during a snowstorm!
Find this book in: Fiction Serial Killer Books / Locked Room Mystery / Isolation Book
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
Recently made into an HBO mini-series, this story is another dark one from the writer of Gone Girl. This was a psychological thriller and mystery, and it was fabulous! I’ve recommended this story to so many people — it’s so much better than Gone Girl.
When 2 girls are found murdered in her dingy old town, a reporter is sent to investigate. In the process, she digs up some old wounds and resurrects family drama.
Love Thrillers? We do too! That’s why we created the Ultimate List of Thriller Books!
Locked Room Mystery Books
And Then There Were None
Author: Agatha Christie
Year: 1939
Genre: Classic Mystery
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
A mysterious person is trying to right the wrongs of the past by luring unsuspecting criminals to a deserted island…and then murdering them one by one. But who is the killer? Why are they killing? And just how long have they been stalking their prey? You have to figure out whodunit in this unreliable narrator book.
Why Kirsten loves it
This Agatha Christie book is one of the best stories she has EVER written. It was fast-paced, totally engaging and I did not see the ending coming. Each murder was more clever then the one before. Check out the black and white movie based on the book. It’s great!
Why Jackie loves it
A classic for a reason, Agatha Christie broke the mold with this book. It’s one of the most well-plotted mysteries I’ve ever read.
Find this book in: Unreliable Narrator Book / Best Classic Novels / Historical Mystery Books / Agatha Christie Books in Order / Best Mystery Books / Locked Room Mysteries
Daisy Darker: A Novel
Author: Alice Feeney
Year: 2022
Genre: Thriller
More info: Instant New York Times Bestseller
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Daisy’s family is gathering for Nan’s birthday on a tiny, private, tidal island after not seeing each other for years. When the tide comes in, they will be cut off from everybody for 8 hours.
When Nana’s body is found dead with a creepy poem written on the wall beside her, they each begin to suspect each other- after all, one of them is a murderer. Soon, everybody’s secrets start to come out as the members of the family die one at a time.
Why Jackie loves it
This book had me guessing until the very end and definitely has the feeling of “And Then There Were None”. In the true Alice Feeney style, I had no idea what was going to happen next so, I stopped trying to guess so I could just enjoy the thrill of the ride.
Find this book in: Isolation Books / Locked Room Mystery / Books With Flowers in the Title
The Woman in Cabin 10
Author: Ruth Ware
Year: 2016
Genre: Mystery Thriller
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Shortly after being burglarized, a travel journalist boards a small luxury cruise liner to cover its inaugural voyage. When she thinks she sees a passenger thrown overboard – but everyone is still accounted for – she has to decide if what she saw was real or only in her head.
Why Kirsten loves it
This book wasn’t as creepy as some of Ware’s others, but it still kept me on the edge of my seat. You just might want to wait until you are off a boat to read this one! If you love thriller novels, this book is a must-read.
Adaptation Information
Netflix is adapting this book into a movie starring Kiera Knightley. Guy Pearce, Hannah Waddingham, Art Malik, Gitte Witt, David Ajala and more have recently been cast as well. Release date is TBD
Find this book in: Sailing Novels / Isolation Books / Psychological Thriller Books / Unreliable Narrator Books / Books Becoming Movies / Mystery and Thriller Novels About Writers / Popular Thriller Books
Mystery Books about Espionage
The Rose Code
Author: Kate Quinn
Year: 2021
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author of The Alice Network
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
While the main portion of this story features 3 code breakers at Bletchley during WWII, one of the main characters is dating Prince Philip. You know, the same Prince Philip who eventually marries the queen?
It’s a dual-timeline story and one of those storylines is set against the backdrop of Philip’s wedding to QE2.
Trigger Warnings
Death, child death, forced institutionalization
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a Kate Quinn royal novel, so the writing and story are both top-notch.
Find this book in: Ultimate List of Mystery Books / WWII Books / Royal Reads / Books With Color in the Title / Best Books of 2021 / Books With Flowers in the Title
Mr. Churchill’s Secretary
Author: Susan Elia MacNeal
Year: 2012
Genre: Historical Mystery
More info: Maggie Hope #1
Age Range: 14+
Plot
The thing I love about Susan Elia MacNeal is that she doesn’t make the females in her series meek. She puts them center stage in the middle of the war; solving mysteries, spying, fighting, and the like.
In 1940’s London, Maggie Hope has just started working at 10 Downing Street as a secretary for Winston Churchill. Soon, Maggie is drafted to serve her country as she attempts to thwart an assassination attempt.
Why Kirsten loves it
The women in this historical fiction mystery series are tough cookies who don’t need a man’s protection. I adored Maggie Hope who is a whipsmart, fearless protaganist. I’m only a few books into this British mystery series but I love each one.
Find this book in: Best Historical Mystery Books / British Mystery Books / Best Books About WWII / Books about Female Spies
For more books like these, check out our list of female spy books.
Female Detective Books
The Scottish Ladies’ Detective Agency
Author: Lydia Travers
Year: 2023
Genre: Historical Mystery
More info: The Scottish Ladies’ Detective Agency #1
Age Range: 14+
Plot
This is a delightful detective novel set in Scotland about two women who decide to start a detective agency in 1911. While no one takes them seriously at first, they soon have their first client and case – to stop a jewel thief who repeatedly hits up house parties.
Why Kirsten loves it
I loved this cozy mystery book. It was the perfect story to escape into during a rough week. I look forward to the next book in this detective series- they are delightful historical mystery books.
Find this book in: Books about Scotland / Best Historical Mystery Books / Detective Books / Best Cozy Mystery Books
The Last Party (DS Morgan #1) by Clare Mackintosh
Rhys Lloyd is having a New Year’s party in his house on Mirror Lake. By morning, Rhys is dead. The story is told from multiple viewpoints by different characters over the same time period. Rhys is not the popular guy we think he is at the beginning of the book.
This is by far the best mystery I have read in a long time. One party, one body, and everyone had a reason for wanting him dead. This is a brilliant well-thought-out, locked room mystery that reminds me of Agatha Christie or the movie Clue- because everyone had motive and opportunity.
Why I Love It: The answer is brilliant and kept me guessing until the last page- and I was still left with my mouth agape!!! Clare Mackintosh delivers excellent mysteries that are well-written and brilliantly executed.
Find This Book In Lake Novel / Ultimate List of Mysteries / Locked Room Mysteries / Best Beach Reads of 2023 / New Year’s Eve Books
Maisie Dobbs
Author: Jacqueline Winspear
Year: 2003
Genre: Historical Mystery
More info: Maisie Dobbs #1
Age Range: 13+
Plot
Maisie Dobbs is not your typical private investigator. For a start, she is a woman working as a PI in 1929. She is a psychologist and a detective who trained under renowned Maurice Blanche a former member of Scotland Yard. She branches out and decides to start her own business.
Maisie’s first case seems like it should be a simple case of infidelity. Instead, it leads her to a murder and back to WWI where she was a nurse. She is smart, thoughtful, and fun to read.
Why Kirsten loves it
I read this cozy mystery novel in one day. It was so refreshing to see post-war England through Maisie’s eyes as she entered a field dominated by men. I cannot wait to read more books in this fabulous series.
Find this book in: Detective Books / Historical Mystery Books / British Mystery Books / Jazz Age Novels
The Beekeeper’s Apprentice
Author: Laurie R. King
Year: 1944
Genre: Historical Mystery
More info: Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes #1
Age Range: 14+
Plot
This one is for all the Sherlock fans out there. It takes place after the classic canon ends with the introduction of the retired Holmes and his new neighbor – Mary Russell. When an American Senator’s daughter is kidnapped, Holmes and his protege are called to help Scotland Yard with the case.
Why Kirsten loves it
I adore this historical mystery book series, as does my dad who is a mystery reader exclusively. This series is has more than a dozen books already, each better than the last. I love seeing Mary and Sherlock’s relationship change over the series as Mary hones her skills.
Find this book in: Sherlock Holmes Fiction / Best Historical Mystery Books / Ultimate List of Mystery Books / British Mysteries
A Study in Charlotte
Author: Brittany Cavallaro
Year: 2016
Genre: YA Mystery
More info: Charlotte Holmes #1
Age Range: 13+
Plot
I enjoyed the first book in the Charlotte Holmes Trilogy. I’ve mentioned before that I am a big Sherlock Holmes fan. This Sherlock Holmes retelling differs from the others because it occurs in modern times.
The central characters are the teenage descendants of Mr. Holmes and Dr. Watson. In the story, Jamie Watson has just started at an elite boarding school where he meets Charlotte Holmes. Charlotte is not interested in being Jamie’s friend, but when a student dies under suspicious circumstances, they must work together to clear their names.
Why Kirsten loves it
The adolescent angle leaves room for error in Holmes’ deductive reasoning skills. Watson is also a more fleshed-out character who has deductive reasoning skills of his own. This classic retelling wraps up nicely and the characters solve the mystery leaving enough open ends to allow for a sequel.
Find this book in: Sherlock Holmes Retellings / Books Set in High School / Detective Books / Best Books for 13-year-olds / Dark Academia Books / Classic Retellings / Best Cozy Mystery Books / Fun Books for Teens
22 Captivating Detective Books You Won’t Want to Put Down
For more detective mystery books, head over to this list!
Detective Book Series
The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency
Author: Alexander McCall Smith
Year: 2003
Genre: Cozy Mystery
More info: Book 1 or 24
Age Range: 14+
Plot
I have read so many of the mystery books in this series that I have lost count. If you are a die-hard mystery lover this series may be too tame for you.
But, if you are new to the mystery genre or like a lighter, cozy mystery book series, these books set in Africa are amazing. Precious Ramotswe is so hilariously self-assured that you cannot help but love her.
Mme Ramottswe has opened her detective agency and uses her personal life, sense of humor, common sense, and a perfect cup of tea to help solve the mysteries that come to her door.
Why Jackie loves it
These books are charming and easy to read. As you continue with the series, you get to know Precious, her assistant Grace Maskutsi as well as other people in the village (including a love interest).
Why Kirsten loves it
This book is so easy to read and you will fall in love with Mme Ramotswe within the first chapter.
Find this book in: Best Cozy Mystery Books / Novels About Africa / Detective Books / Ultimate List of Mysteries
The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith
Cormoran Strike is a private investigator on the verge of failure when a client walks through the door with an amazing story.
He is the brother of the recently deceased Lulu Landry, a famous supermodel.
If I am honest, I would have read this book no matter what because of who wrote it. However, I kept reading the series because I love it. The last book was close to 700 pages so, there was no way I was reading that if I wasn’t totally invested in these characters.
Rowling has a way of starting small, introducing you to characters, and sucking you in. Cormoran Strike is the exact opposite of Chief Inspector Gamache. He is flawed and cranky but, you will love him just the same.
Still Life by Louise Penny (Chief Inspector Armand Gamache #1)
The first in the series of Chief Inspector Gamache. I fell in LOVE with the Inspector, the town of Three Pines, and its residents. Louise Penny CAN WRITE.
The mystery was great (and I didn’t solve it) but what got me the most was Penny’s writing style and reflections on the human psyche. This is one of the best mystery books I have ever read. Be sure to check out Louise Penny Books in Order: Complete Guide to Inspector Gamache
The Complete Sherlock Holmes Collection
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Year: 1887-1927
Genre: Mystery
More info:
Age Range: 12+
Plot
Sherlock Holmes’ ability to solve each crime is fascinating. His observations are astute and I can never, ever guess who committed the crime.
If you are looking for the best mystery books of all time, Sherlock Holmes cannot be missed. This complete collection has all the short stories and the 4 Holmes novels.
Why Kirsten loves it
I am a HUGE detective story lover and no one does detective stories better than Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. These books have inspired countless adaptations and retellings since their initial publication.
Find this book in: Sherlock Holmes Books / Literary Classics / Best Mystery Books / British Mysteries / Short Stories
Celebrity Book Club Mysteries
The Christie Affair
Author: Nina de Gramont
Year: 2022
Genre: Historical Mystery
More info: February 2022 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I adored this mystery novel set during the 11 days of Agatha Christie’s disappearance. It’s told from the perspective of Christie’s husband’s mistress and it is utterly absorbing.
This biographical fiction novel is totally fictional because there is no account of what actually happened to Agatha Christie during her missing days. There are layers of mystery throughout, with a side of a love story.
Why Kirsten loves it
I never felt I would be able to sympathize with a mistress but I was cheering for her by the end. I was also enchanted by the setting of the small hotel. If you love historical mystery books, this is a must-read.
Find this book in: Biographical Fiction Novels / Historical Mystery Books / Hotel Novels / Ultimate List of Mystery Books / Mystery Novels About Writers / Best Reese Witherspoon Books
Violin Conspiracy
Author: Brendan Slocumb
Year: 2022
Genre: Mystery
More info: February 2022 GMA Book Club Pick
Age Range: 16+
Plot
WHAT A MYSTERY! The Violin Conspiracy opens with a man’s 14 million-dollar Stradivarius violin being stolen and the drama doesn’t let up.
Ray McMillian is a young black musical prodigy who just so happens to have inherited his grandpa’s busted-up fiddle – which turns out to be a rare violin built by one of the greats. But when the origins of the violin come into question along with Ray’s claim to the instrument, the plot keeps thickening.
Trigger Warnings
Racism
Why Kirsten loves it
Truly the story was a gripping page-turner I could not put down. Slocumb’s ability to weave a multi-faceted tale was astounding. When it comes to novels about music, this is a must-read mystery book!
Find this book in: Best Audiobooks of 2022 / Novels About Music / Mystery Books
The Last Thing He Told Me
Author: Laura Dave
Year: 2021
Genre: Mystery
More info: May 2021 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I raved about this book when I read it earlier this month! Well-chosen, Reese! The story of a stepmother and her daughter as they try to find the girl’s father after his abrupt departure. Owen Michaels gives his wife a note that says “protect her” before disappearing without a trace.
Hannah and Michael have been married for only a year and now Hannah must become everything to 16-year-old Bailey. As Hannah and Bailey search for Micheal, there are more questions than answers. Why was Michale’s boss arrested? Why is the FBI at their house?
Why Jackie loves it
This mystery has so much heart as you see Hannah bond with and try to protect her new stepdaughter, Bailey. I did not see the ending of this book coming, but absolutely adored it. This is one of the mystery books that will keep you turning the page.
Find this book in: Domestic Noir / Books About Mothers / Ultimate Mysteries / Best Beach Reads / Best Books of 2021 / Popular Thriller Books / Best Reese Witherspoon Books
The Guest List
Author: Lucy Foley
Year: 2020
Genre: Mystery
More info: New York Times Bestseller, June 2020 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I’ve just read THE thriller
Why Kirsten loves it
I’ve become very picky about thrillers recently and this one is hands down my favorite of the year so far. It also made our Best of 2020 list!
Adaptation Information
This story is soon to be a TV series on Hulu. Liz Tigelaar is set to write and produce the show.
Find this book in: Locked Room Mysteries / Books Like People We Meet on Vacation / Best British Mysteries / Books Becoming Movies in 2024 / Best Beach Reads / British Books /Best Psychological Thriller Books / Popular Thriller Books / Best Reese Witherspoon Books
For more books like these, check out the list of our favorite celebrity book club picks.
Historical Fiction Mystery Books
Murder on the Orient Express
Author: Agatha Christie
Year: 1934
Genre: Classic Mystery
More info: Hercule Poirot #10, International Bestseller
Age Range: 14+
Plot
When the luxurious Orient Express train is snowbound overnight, no one expects a murder to take place. But that’s exactly what happened and with Hercule Poirot onboard, the murderer just might get caught.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a classic and an absolute must-read. It’s one of those books that unless you know the ending, you would never guess it. So well-devised, this book is a definite favorite and it all takes place on a train in the middle of a snowy tundra, making it a fantastic story for a cozy winter night.
Find this book in: Agatha Christie Books in Order / Locked Room Mysteries / Novels About Weather / Detective Books / Ultimate List of Mystery Books
Party Girls Die in Pearls
Author: Plum Sykes
Year: 2017
Genre: Historical Mystery
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This British mystery book takes place at Oxford University in the 1980s when a socialite is murdered. Ursula Flowerbutton, an English country girl, is trying to investigate the murder for the college paper while trying to befriend the glamorous crowd.
Why Kirsten loves it
It’s a comedic spoof and the outfit descriptions alone had me giggling. I hope it becomes a series of mystery books because I would love to read more of Flowerbutton and her Sloane Ranger friends. The secret societies and prestigious schools make this one of our lighter dark academia books set in college. It’s just a really fun pick.
Find this book in: Best Historical Mystery Books / British Mysteries / Dark Academia Books / Books Set in College / Best Cozy Mystery Books / Books Set in the 80s
Pride and Premeditation
Author: Tirzah Price
Year: 2021
Genre: YA Historical Mystery
More info: Jane Austen Murder Mystery #1
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 14+
Plot
This Pride and Prejudice retelling is a murder mystery! In this version of the story, Mr. Bennett is a barrister and Lizzie is desperate to prove herself and be the first female barrister.
But while she offers to help Mr. Bingley find the real culprit of the murder he’s been accused of, she ends up butting heads with her rival, Mr. Darcy of Pemberley and Associates.
Why Kirsten loves it
This delightful take on the classic story was a refreshing and fun book. I look forward to reading the rest of this series.
Find this book in: Best Historical Mystery Books / YA Historical Fiction / Pride and Prejudice Retellings
Love Historical Fiction? We do too! That’s why we created the Ultimate List of Historical Fiction!
Mysteries Set in Britain
The Windsor Knot
Author: S. J. Bennett
Year: 2021
Genre: Mystery
More info: Book 1 of 5: Her Majesty the Queen Investigates
Age Range: 15+
Plot
This cozy murder mystery was an absolute treat. I loved
Together they figure out who was behind the murder at Windsor Castle during one of the Queen’s Dine-and-Stays. This pick from books about Queen Elizabeth II is perfect for fans of Maggie Hope, Maise Dobbs, and the Royal Family.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love the idea that Queen Elizabeth would have been an investigator as well. It made me smile and the plot was a delight.
Find this book in: Cozy Mystery Books / Books About Queen Elizabeth II / British Mysteries / Ultimate Beach Reads 2021
The Royal Secret by Lucinda Riley
I love guilty pleasure royal romances, but this is so much more! Part romance, part mystery, this book has something for everyone and is an amazing beach read.
A young journalist is given a mystery to uncover after an old actor passes away, but her investigation quickly turns deadly. I felt all the feelings on this one. There were a couple of times when I was truly angry at the author, but in the end, I really enjoyed this mystery book about royalty!
Plot
A young girl is abandoned on a ship headed to Australia. When she arrives, the only thing in her possession is a suitcase with some clothes and a book of fairy tales. The dock master and his wife adopt Nell and tell her the story of her arrival in Australia on her 21st birthday. She goes back to England on a quest to find her lost identity.
Unsuccessful, her granddaughter later takes up the search and tries to assemble the pieces of her grandmother’s mystery and unlock the secrets of her past.
Trigger Warnings
Child Death, Infertility
Why Kirsten loves it
I was swept away by this story and found myself dreaming of Cornwall while reading. This gothic fiction is a perfect book for fall.
Find this book in: Kate Morton Books / Cozy Books / Family Saga / Books set in Cornwall / Historical Mystery / British Books / Best Cozy Mystery Books
We’ve got a full list of British mystery books if you are looking for more books like these!
Dark Academia Mystery Books
Plot
At a prestigious private school in New England, a group of kids known as “The Players” rule the school. They get top grades, get into the best schools, and rule the social scene. But when one of the girls in the group is murdered, her best friend Jill begins to investigate who the real murderer is and just how dark their privileged world is.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a book that will make you think about what privilege means and the lengths people will take to get what they want. I read it in one sitting because the story drew me in. I couldn’t go to sleep until it was done!
Find this book in: Books About Secret Societies / Best Mystery Books / Best Psychological Thriller Books / Books Set in High School / Fun Books for Teens
The Secret History
Author: Donna Tartt
Year: 1992
Genre: Literary Fiction
More info: December 2022 Read with Jenna Book Pick
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Richard is one of a select group of six students who have been hand-picked to work under the guidance of a classics teacher named Julian Morrow. Richard is narrating the story and he begins by telling about the death of one of the students named Bunny.
As the story progresses, it is clear that this secret society of students rides the line of morality. The strained friendships and sexual tensions continue to push the edge until Bunny is killed.
Trigger Warnings
Murder, Alcoholism, Suicide
Why Jackie loves it
This is one of the books about secret societies that was deeply disturbing and difficult to read. It certainly earns its place on our list of dark academia books and books about cults! And as with most books set in college, this one is a perfect book for fall.
Find this book in: Books set in College / Books about Cults / Books about Secret Societies / Best Fall Books / Dark Academia Books / Books Set in the 80s
Plot
Hello Dark Academia. Centered around Devon and Chiamaka, the only black students at an elite private school, this is one wild thriller. After being chosen by prefects on the first day of their senior year, Devon and Chiamaka quickly become the targets of the mysterious Aces – a dangerous gossip girl-type character out to ruin their lives.
Trigger Warnings
Racism
Why Kirsten loves it
I was on pins and needles as this thriller unraveled, addressing systemic racism in private institutions in the process.
Find this book in: Books Set in High School / Dark Academia Novels / Stalker Books / Psychological Thriller Books / Fun Books for Teens / Best Books of 2021
Love books like these? We do too! That’s why we created a list of our favorite dark academia books!
Mystery Books about Family
Thicker Than Water by Megan Collins
Julia and Sienna are best friends, business partners, and sisters-in-law. Julia’s husband, Jason, is Sienna’s brother. When Jason’s boss is murdered and Jason is put into a medically induced coma, the police identify him as the prime suspect.
As Julia and Sienna try to prove his innocence, Julia becomes less sure she can defend him. Soon these best friends have opposing views of exactly what Jason did.
Colins perfectly captured the dynamic of female friendships in this one. While I was invested in finding out if Jason actually committed murder, I was even more invested in Julia and Sienna’s bond.
The Love of My Life by Rosie Walsh
March 2022 Good Morning America Book Club Pick
I was swept away by this marvelous story. Emma and Leo’s love story seems to be one of romantic legend. They have a charming daughter, Emma has just beaten cancer, and they have a wonderful life.
But soon Leo is discovering secrets from Emma’s past that don’t add up to the life Emma has described to him all these years. As readers, we see Leo trying to uncover who his wife really is and Emma trying to prevent him from doing just that.
This book was not what I was expecting but I can’t stop thinking about it. The twists and turns had me second-guessing so much of what I had read. It’s a story of love, strength, mystery, and secrets. An absolute must-read.
The Thirteenth Tale
Author: Diane Setterfield
Year: 2006
Genre: Gothic Mystery
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
A young biographer is called to help a reclusive author of 12 books tell her life story. In the process, she learns there is a thirteenth tale after all. It’s a gothic romance, a mystery, and a story about family ties all in one.
Why Kirsten loves it
I adored this gothic story when I read it on vacation a few years back. The setting and gothic vibes make this book perfect for a chilly autumn day. I was swept into this story and read it to completion at 3 a.m.
Find this book in: Best Historical Mystery Books / Best Mystery Books of All Time / Fall Books / Ultimate List of Mysteries
Dead Letters by Caite Dolan-Leach
Where to begin with this thrilling story? I loved just about everything in this A-to-Z mystery. The dark, twisted plot of Dead Letters begins when Ava returns hometown to her family’s failing vineyard to deal with the death of her twin, Zelda, in a barn fire.
The story immediately launches into a few mysteries. First, and the most easily solved, why did Ava flee the family vineyard for Paris 2 years ago? Second, is Zelda really dead? This is one of the fiction books about wine you won’t want to miss.
Mystery Books for Book Clubs
The Lost Vintage
Author: Anne Mah
Year: 2018
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Kate is working to become a certified wine expert and the only thing standing in her way are the Burgundy wines at her family’s estate (and her first love who lives nearby).
While dealing out the basement filled with generations of belongings, Kate starts to learn about her family during the WWII occupation. Of all the WWII books, this is the one we recommend the most and we have never had anyone not love it.
Why Kirsten loves it
This mystery book feels like a warm hug. A little bit of historical fiction, a little bit of mystery, and a little bit of romance. It was so lovely to read at sunset with a glass of wine.
Why Jackie loves it
This book has a little bit of everything and kept me turning the pages non-stop. I completely agree with Kirsten when she says this book feels like a warm hug. I loved every bit of it and was sad when it ended.
Find this book in: Fiction Books About Wine / Feel-Good Books
Where the Crawdads Sing Deluxe Edition
Author: Dehlia Owens
Year: 2018
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: September 2018 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
The book begins when a body is found in a North Carolina marsh and is identified as Chase Andrews. The story moves between the past and the present to tell the story of Kya Clark, The Marsh Girl, who is a suspect in the murder.
Kya Clark, The Marsh Girl, is abandoned first by her mother, then by her siblings, and eventually by her father at a very young age. She is forced to fend for herself in the marshes, away from society.
With the help of two beloved friends, she learns to care for herself but not without experiencing cruelty and violence. Then, she finds herself faced with murder charges and is forced to confront her secrets and past that have shaped her into the woman that she has become.
Trigger Warnings
Abandonment, Domestic and child abuse, assault
Why Jackie loves it
I admit that when I saw the description of this coming-of-age book, I was not sold. A trusted individual, who has never steered me wrong in the past, gave me an advanced copy so, I took the leap. And wow, am I glad I did. I read this book and then recommended it to everyone I knew. It is a story about love, nature, and perseverance.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a novel that is so much more than the sum of its parts. It is part mystery and part historical fiction that shows the importance of human connections.
Find this book in: Books About Poverty and Its Impact / Best Mystery Books of All Time / Books Like Where the Crawdads Sing / Book Club for Where the Crawdads Sing/ Books with Food in the Title / Books That Will Emotionally Wreck You / Best Reese Witherspoon Books / Books Set in the 1960s
Love book club books? We do too! That’s why we created a list of our favorite book club books.
Mystery Books About Books
The Mystery of Mrs. Christie
Author: Marie Benedict
Year: 2020
Genre: Historical Mystery
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Marie Benedict is the master of bringing women back to life in her historical fiction novels. The Mystery of Mrs. Christie is my favorite to date and I found it hard to put down. In December 1926, Agatha Christie went missing for 11 days. She re-emerged as mysteriously as she disappeared and more questions than answers persist.
Why Jackie loves it
Benedict does a wonderful job of building the mystery using her brilliant imagination and bringing us into the world of Agatha Christie. It is the perfect blend of fiction and mystery and is an absolute delight.
Find this book in: Historical Mystery Books / Books about Writers / Books About Books / Biographical Fiction Novel / 1920s Novels
Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore: A Novel by Robin Sloane
While this secret society book was not what I was expecting, it was so fun and quirky that I loved it. Clay gets a job in a bookstore that has a strange clientele coming at very strange hours.
What is even weirder are the books that they check out rather than buy. I loved the mysterious parts of the book and the character development. This is one of my favorite books about bookstores!
The Bookshop of Yesterdays by Amy Meyerson
Miranda’s uncle dies leaving her a failing bookstore and a scavenger hunt of clues to decipher. What she learns over the course of her summer tracking down clues and trying to save the bookstore will turn her whole world on its head.
I guessed the ending fairly early on, but this mystery book is all about the journey. You can see our interview with Amy here.
For more books like these, check out our list of books about books.
Middle-Grade Mysteries for Adults
The Mysterious Benedict Society
Author: Trenton Lee Stewart
Year: 2007
Genre: Middle Grade Mystery
Age: 9 – 12
More info: Mysterious Benedict Society #1
Plot
This delightful story is about a group of extremely gifted children who are sent to spy on an evil organization. Together, these genius kids use logic and quick thinking to accomplish their secret mission without being caught! The children in the Mysterious Benedict Society must infiltrate the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened to uncover a plot to control the minds of citizens around the world.
Why Kirsten loves it
I read this story to my boys at bedtime and it was the perfect read-aloud. We all enjoyed the complexity of the story and the silly scenarios. Years later, we watched the Disney TV adaptation as well!
Why Jackie loves it
This is the first middle-grade book in a series that is geared toward older kids. It was funny and interesting and extremely clever.
Find this book in: Middle Grade Mystery Books / Books About Puzzles / Books like KOTLC / Secret Society Books / Best Gifts for 10-year-olds / Best Books for a 10-year-old / Books With Neurodivergent Characters
Winterhouse
Author: Ben Guterson
Year: 2018
Genre: Middle Grade Mystery / Fantasy
Age: 9 – 13
More info: Edgar Award Finalist, Agatha Award Finalist
Plot
Elizabeth is an orphan whose aunt and uncle have shipped her to Winterhouse for the Christmas holiday. There, she meets the owner, Norbridge Falls, and learns secrets about his slightly evil family. Along the way, she meets another child guest – Freddy – and becomes fast friends with him. Together, they unlock codes and solve puzzles. The best part is that the first page of each chapter has a mini puzzle for readers to complete.
Why Kirsten loves it
My boys and I like to listen to books together in the car or when doing a puzzle. The standout book for me this month was Winterhouse. This middle grade mystery was as enthralling to me as it was to my children. I loved the slight bits of magic in the story and the captivating setting of an expansive ski hotel on a snowy mountain at Christmas time.
Find this book in: Paranormal Books / Books for a 10-Year-Old / Books About Puzzles / Fantasy Books for Tweens / Hotel Novels / Christmas Chapter Books
Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie
Author: Alan Bradley
Year: 2009
Genre: YA Historical Mystery
More info: Flavia De Luce #1
Age Range: 12+
Plot
This is the first book in the Flavia De Luce series. This 11-year-old aspiring chemist is a wonderful heroine who is smart and precocious. In this first book, it is 1950 and Flavia has a love of poisons. When she finds a man taking his last breath in a cucumber patch, she is not scared at all, rather, she delights in solving the mystery.
Why Kirsten loves it
Flavia is an absolute delight to read as she’s easily one of the most unique characters in a mystery series. My dad recommended this series to me. I read it, loved it, and promptly passed it on to my 12-year-old. I love that this story works for readers of all generations.
Why Jackie loves it
This is one of the best first mystery books for younger readers as it does not have violence.
Find this book in: Best Historical Mystery Books / Best Mystery Books of All Time / Best Books for 13-year-olds / British Mysteries / Mystery Books for Kids / Best Cozy Mystery Books / Fun Books for Teens / Books with Food in the Title
For more books like these, check out our list of Mystery Books for Tweens.
Love Mysteries? You’ll probably love this swag too!
What is the Best-Selling Mystery Book of all Time?
And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie is the best-selling mystery book of all time.
What are the Most Popular Mystery Books Right Now?
Mystery books are always so popular. The best-selling mystery books right now are The Thursday Night Murder Club by Richard Osman and None of This is True by Lisa Jewell. We love the Louise Penny Chief Inspector Gamache Series.
