The best 22 Murder books

Gone Girl (2012) is the story of Amy Dunne, who one day vanishes from her cozy midwestern home. Her sudden disappearance becomes a sensational nation-wide headline – and the biggest suspect is her husband, Nick. But what follows is a head-spinning plot that takes on the subjects of relationship dynamics, private and public identities, the influence of media, and the institution of marriage.

• People who enjoy mysteries with surprising plot twists
• Anyone who likes a good crime thriller
• Fans of iconic female characters in fiction

Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann is a gripping non-fiction book that delves into the shocking true story of a series of murders of wealthy Osage Native Americans in the 1920s. It uncovers a sinister conspiracy and the birth of the FBI as it investigates the killings. A compelling blend of history, true crime, and investigative journalism.

• Readers interested in shocking true crime stories
• History enthusiasts curious about little-known events
• Those who enjoy narratives that delve into complex investigations

Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz is a gripping mystery novel that entwines two compelling murder mysteries into one spellbinding narrative. With ingenious storytelling and a clever twist, it will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.

• Readers who enjoy classic whodunit mysteries
• Those who appreciate clever and intricate storytelling
• People who love to be kept guessing until the very end of a book

Dark Places by Gillian Flynn is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of family, memory, and the aftermath of a brutal massacre. The story follows Libby Day, the sole survivor of her family's murder, as she investigates the events of that fateful night and uncovers shocking truths about her past. With its dark and twisted plot, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

• Readers who enjoy dark and suspenseful thrillers
• Those who appreciate complex and morally ambiguous characters
• People who are interested in exploring the dark side of human nature and society

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When Alicia Berenson is accused of murdering her husband and then goes silent, refusing to speak a single word, psychotherapist Theo Faber becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind her shocking act. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia's past and her dark, twisted mind, he unravels a web of secrets and lies that will leave you stunned.

• Those who enjoy psychological thrillers and suspenseful stories
• Readers who are intrigued by complex and unpredictable characters
• People who appreciate clever plot twists and well-crafted narratives

Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty is a gripping novel that delves into the lives of three women whose seemingly perfect lives unravel to reveal dark secrets and lies. Set in a picturesque coastal town, the book explores themes of friendship, motherhood, and domestic violence, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

• Readers who enjoy mystery and suspense
• People interested in exploring the complexities of female friendships and relationships
• Those looking for a thought-provoking novel that addresses societal issues such as domestic violence and bullying

'The Husband's Secret' by Liane Moriarty is a gripping novel that delves into the complexities of marriage, betrayal, and the power of secrets. Set in Sydney, Australia, the story follows three women whose lives become intertwined when one of them discovers a letter written by her husband containing a life-changing secret. As the truth unravels, the consequences are far-reaching and force each character to confront their own choices and the interconnectedness of their lives.

• Individuals who enjoy psychological thrillers and mysteries
• Readers who are interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships and secrets
• Those who appreciate multiple character perspectives and interconnected storylines

My Sister, the Serial Killer (2018) by Oyinkan Braithwaite is a darkly comedic novel that delves into the complexities of family and loyalty. Set in Lagos, Nigeria, the story follows Korede, a practical nurse, as she grapples with her sister Ayoola's habit of killing her boyfriends. As Korede tries to protect Ayoola, she is forced to confront her own moral choices and the secrets that bind them together.

• Individuals who enjoy darkly comedic and satirical storytelling
• Readers who are interested in exploring complex sibling relationships
• Those looking for a unique and unconventional take on the crime thriller genre

The Outsider by Stephen King is a gripping thriller that blurs the lines between the supernatural and the real world. When a beloved little league coach is accused of a heinous crime, detective Ralph Anderson is determined to uncover the truth. But as the evidence mounts, it becomes clear that something truly sinister may be at play. With King's trademark blend of suspense and horror, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

• Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and suspenseful stories
• Fans of Stephen King's writing style and unique storytelling
• Those who are intrigued by the concept of innocence and guilt, and the complexities of human nature

Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (1994) by John Berendt is a non-fiction book that delves into the eccentricities and mysteries of Savannah, Georgia. The book follows the real-life events surrounding a murder trial in the city, while also exploring its unique characters and the dark secrets hidden within its beautiful facade. Berendt's storytelling makes for a captivating read that blurs the lines between true crime and Southern Gothic fiction.

• Readers who enjoy true crime stories with a unique setting
• People interested in the eccentric characters and social dynamics of the American South
• Those who appreciate vivid and atmospheric descriptions that bring a city to life

I'll Be Gone in the Dark is a gripping true crime book by Michelle McNamara. It delves into the case of the Golden State Killer, a notorious serial rapist and murderer who terrorized California in the 1970s and 80s. Through meticulous research and haunting prose, McNamara chronicles her own investigation and sheds light on the relentless pursuit of justice.

• Readers who enjoy true crime and investigative journalism
• Individuals with an interest in unsolved mysteries and cold cases
• People who appreciate the dedication and passion of amateur sleuths

Sharp Objects is a psychological thriller by Gillian Flynn that delves into the dark and twisted mind of its protagonist, journalist Camille Preaker. Assigned to cover a series of murders in her hometown, Camille is forced to confront her own troubled past and unravel the secrets that have haunted her family for years. With its gripping narrative and shocking revelations, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

• Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers
• Those interested in complex and flawed female protagonists
• People who appreciate dark and atmospheric storytelling

Burial Rites by Hannah Kent is a historical novel based on the true story of Agnes Magnúsdóttir, the last woman to be executed in Iceland in 1830. The book delves into Agnes's life as she awaits her death sentence on a remote farm, and explores the events that led to the murder she was convicted of. It is a haunting and beautifully written tale that challenges perceptions and offers a unique perspective on a tragic chapter in history.

• Readers who enjoy historical fiction and stories set in unique cultural landscapes
• Those interested in exploring the complexities of human nature and the justice system
• Individuals who appreciate vividly descriptive and atmospheric storytelling

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the story of Rachel, an alcoholic who becomes obsessed with a seemingly perfect couple she sees from the train every day. When the woman goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in the investigation and uncovers dark secrets about the people involved. Filled with twists and turns, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

• Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with unreliable narrators
• Those looking for a captivating and suspenseful story with unexpected twists
• People who are interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of obsession

Helter Skelter is a chilling true crime book written by Vincent Bugliosi and Curt Gentry. It delves into the infamous Tate-LaBianca murders orchestrated by Charles Manson and his followers. Through meticulous research and firsthand accounts, the book provides a gripping and detailed insight into the motives and actions of the Manson Family, as well as the ensuing investigation and trial.

• True crime enthusiasts who enjoy in-depth investigations
• Readers curious about the infamous Manson Family and their crimes
• People interested in the criminal justice system and high-profile court cases

I Am Watching You by Teresa Driscoll is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When a woman overhears a conversation on a train that sets off alarm bells, she becomes obsessed with finding out the truth. As the story unfolds, dark secrets and unexpected twists reveal the chilling reality of what can happen when someone is watching you.

• Anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers and suspenseful mysteries
• Readers who like stories with multiple perspectives and unreliable narrators
• People who are interested in exploring the consequences of not speaking up and taking action in critical situations

The Shining is a gripping novel by Stephen King that tells the story of the Torrance family, who move into the isolated Overlook Hotel for the winter. As the hotel becomes snowbound, terrifying supernatural forces start to take hold, driving the father, Jack, to madness and putting his wife and son in grave danger. This chilling tale explores themes of isolation, addiction, and the power of the supernatural.

• Readers who enjoy psychological horror and supernatural phenomena
• Fans of Stephen King's writing style and storytelling ability
• Those interested in exploring themes of family dysfunction and the human psyche

Defending Jacob by William Landay is a gripping legal thriller that delves into the complexities of family, loyalty, and the criminal justice system. When a teenage boy is accused of murder, his father, a respected prosecutor, must confront uncomfortable truths and make difficult choices to protect his son.

• Readers who enjoy legal thrillers and mysteries
• Anyone interested in exploring the complexities of family dynamics and parental love
• People who appreciate thought-provoking stories with unexpected twists

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (2003) by Mark Haddon is a captivating novel that offers a unique perspective on the world. Through the eyes of a 15-year-old boy with autism, it delves into themes of family, truth, and the power of perspective. The book takes readers on a thought-provoking journey as it unravels the mystery surrounding a neighbor's murdered dog.

• Readers who enjoy unique and unconventional narrative styles
• People interested in gaining perspective on the experience of individuals with autism
• Those who appreciate a thought-provoking exploration of human behavior and relationships

Pretty Girls is a chilling and suspenseful thriller by Karin Slaughter that delves into the dark and disturbing secrets hidden within a seemingly ordinary family. When a woman goes missing, it unravels a web of lies and reveals the truth about what really happened to her sister years ago. This gripping novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

• Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with gripping and intense storylines
• Those interested in exploring the complexities of family relationships and secrets
• Individuals who appreciate a mix of crime fiction, suspense, and character-driven narratives

The Stranger Beside Me is a gripping true crime book written by Ann Rule. It tells the shocking story of the author's friendship with the notorious serial killer, Ted Bundy. With chilling detail and intimate insights, Rule delves into Bundy's crimes and the unsettling realization that evil can lurk right beside us.

• True crime enthusiasts looking for a compelling and chilling read
• People interested in understanding the psychology of notorious killers like Ted Bundy
• Readers who enjoy thrilling and well-researched accounts of criminal investigations

A Study in Scarlet (1887) is a detective novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It introduces the iconic characters Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson as they solve a mysterious murder case in London. Filled with thrilling twists and turns, this book marks the beginning of the legendary Sherlock Holmes series.

• Readers who enjoy classic detective fiction
• People with an interest in the original Sherlock Holmes stories
• Those who appreciate complex and intriguing mystery plots