Grab the edge of your seat and brace for a wild ride into the dark heart of the criminal underworld. Our collection of the best crime novels thrums with chilling mysteries, hard-boiled detectives hot on the killer’s trail, and psychotic villains to root against. Sink into sinister tales from edgy new voices and genre titans like Agatha Christie, Raymond Chandler, and James Patterson. Follow unflinching heroines through the gritty streets or match wits with charming gentleman thieves. Whether you love classic whodunits, dystopian adventures, vampire detectives, or comic capers, we have killer reads to die for.
Characteristics of the Best Crime Novels
-
Intriguing, Complex Plots
The very best crime stories feature clever, multidimensional plot lines that keep readers guessing. Red herrings and unexpected twists maintain thrilling uncertainty surrounding the mystery’s resolution. Details matter in planting clues organically without giving away the ending prematurely.
-
Realistic, Flawed Characters
Dimensional protagonists dealing with personal demons or ethical dilemmas add compelling psychological depth. The protagonist’s inner journey should fuel external character growth. Antagonists with realistic motivations avoid overly simplistic caricatures of “good” and “evil.”
-
Gritty, Immersive Settings
An authentic atmosphere intensifies the mounting tension. The sharply drawn urban underworld, a stifling small town, and the gilded world of the elite upper crust – strong settings chosen deliberately leverage themes linked to the crime.
-
Sandbox for Social Commentary
The crime framework allows skilful exploration of social issues – corruption, class injustice, domestic violence etc. But rather than preaching ideology, adept writers embed commentary organically without sacrificing entertainment.
-
Clever Twists and Turns
Puzzle pieces clicking perfectly into place delivers immense reader satisfaction. Savvy writers provide clues allowing readers to match wits against the protagonist. A stunning final reveal or corkscrew plot twist leaves fans buzzing long beyond the finale.
-
Razor-Sharp Prose
Precision language crackles with energy and sets the perfect ambience. Stylistic flair spices up even heavy themes. But the very best authors know when to get out of the way and let tense scenes unfold sans distraction.
- A Satisfying Conclusion
The finale offers a cathartic, earned ending true to the characters. Whether a happy ending, moral quandary or further complications, closing chapters should feel authentic given the preceding events.
Best Crime Novels at WHSmith
1. Murdle: #1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER: Solve 100 Devilishly Devious Murder Mystery Logic Puzzles (Murdle Puzzle Series Main)
Murdle: Sharpen Your Sleuthing Skills with the best crime novels in puzzle form. Ditch the crosswords and flex your mental muscles as Murdle presents fiendish logic puzzles, reminiscent of equal parts sudoku and Agatha Christie mysteries. This collection of 100 murder mysteries invites armchair detectives to unravel contradictions and expose the truth behind each crime. Grab a pencil and your thinking cap to match wits against cheeky illustrations that add a playful twist to the challenge. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, Murdle promises engaging, screen-free entertainment perfect for trains, rainy days, or bedtime escapades. How many mysteries can you solve before the murderer mysteriously strikes again?
2. The Last Devil To Die
Embark on a cosy yet cunning journey with “The Last Devil To Die,” where the best crime novels seamlessly meet the charm of a sleepy village and the intrigue of cold-case mysteries. In this captivating narrative by master storyteller Richard Osman, ageing sleuths of the Thursday Murder Club invite you to solve fresh and murderous puzzles. Equal parts delight and suspense, the club is on a mission to catch an elusive serial killer before claiming one final victim. Osman skillfully blends laugh-out-loud humour with sobering reflections on mortality, probing the boundaries of friendship in a tale where decades-old secrets and surprise twists may lead to deadly consequences. Join the Thursday Murder Club in this enticing blend of cosiness and cunning.
3. Murder on the Dance Floor
Step into the thrilling world of Murder on the Dance Floor, where ballroom legend Shirley Ballas makes an exciting fictional debut. In this riveting murder mystery, titled among the best crime novels, the glittering dance floor transforms into a crime scene when a beloved contestant drops dead during a live performance. As head judge Charlie Fairfield senses foul play, the narrative unfolds with insider showbiz drama and secrets. Strap on your dancing heels and get ready for twists and turns that will keep you guessing through the final shocking routines. Can you quickly step ahead of Charlie and crack the case first in this dance-filled suspenseful journey?
4. Too Late: A dark and twisty thriller from the author of global phenomenon VERITY
Dive into the gripping narrative of “Too Late: A Twisting Descent into Obsession,” where the atmosphere grows darker in a chilling exploration of obsession by #1 New York Times bestselling author Colleen Hoover. As Hoover lures you down a twisting rabbit hole, the plot takes a riveting turn with controversial art featuring protagonist Sloan’s portrait and ghostly messages from the past invading her present. In this psychological labyrinth of tripwire twists, Hoover skillfully guides you through traumatic events, raising the question: Are they repeating, or is the truth still buried? Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer seeking the best crime novels, Hoover’s antihero encore promises a wild emotional ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Secure your spot for this thrilling journey into the depths of obsession.
Also Read – Unveiling The Magic: A Dive Into The World-Building Of Sarah J. Maas’ Books
Conclusion
Still hungry for more high-stakes drama after flying through our killer catalogue of the best crime novels? Embark upon new quests for justice by following wry sleuths, supernaturally gifted agents, and ordinary people confronting monstrous evil. Let ingeniously plotted mysteries, unpredictable twists, and brooding atmospheres leave you restless for another late-night reading under the covers. Our shelves overflow with daring new paperback editions from rising stars and dangerous stories guaranteed to make your pulse race from start to shocking finish. Ready to lose sleep cracking cases? The sinister, savage, and superbly suspenseful books you crave await. For more information on Hardback crime novels visit Feedhour.