The best 25 Mystery Romance books

Curl up with a thrilling blend of mystery and romance with our curated book list. Get lost in gripping tales where suspense and love intertwine, keeping you on the edge of your seat. These stories will captivate your heart and mind, making for the perfect cozy read on a rainy day. So settle in and get ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions in these captivating mystery romance novels.

The best 25 Mystery Romance books
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1
Mystery Romance Books: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Gone Girl

Gillian Flynn
A Novel
4.6 (14 ratings)
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What's Gone Girl about?

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.

Who should read Gone Girl?

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

2
Mystery Romance Books: High Noon by Nora Roberts

High Noon

Nora Roberts

What's High Noon about?

High Noon by Nora Roberts is a gripping romantic suspense novel that follows the story of Lieutenant Phoebe MacNamara, a skilled hostage negotiator. When a dangerous stalker targets her and those she loves, Phoebe must confront her past and fight for her future. Filled with intense action and a captivating romance, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read High Noon?

  • Readers who enjoy suspenseful romance novels
  • Those who appreciate strong and independent female protagonists
  • People who are drawn to stories with a law enforcement or crime-solving focus

3
Mystery Romance Books: Say You're Sorry by Melinda Leigh

Say You're Sorry

Melinda Leigh

What's Say You're Sorry about?

Say You're Sorry by Melinda Leigh is a gripping thriller that follows Morgan Dane, a former prosecutor turned private investigator. When a young mother is brutally murdered, Morgan teams up with a tenacious defense attorney to uncover the truth. As they delve into the small town's dark secrets, they must race against time to bring the real killer to justice and unravel a web of lies and deception.

Who should read Say You're Sorry?

  • Readers who enjoy suspenseful and gripping crime novels
  • Individuals who like stories with strong female protagonists
  • People who appreciate well-crafted plots and twists that keep them guessing

What's When We Believed in Mermaids about?

When We Believed in Mermaids by Barbara O'Neal is a captivating novel that delves into the complexities of family, secrets, and the power of forgiveness. After seeing her supposedly deceased sister on a news broadcast, Kit embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her sister's past. Set against the stunning backdrop of New Zealand, this book is a poignant exploration of love and redemption.

Who should read When We Believed in Mermaids?

  • Readers who enjoy emotional, character-driven stories
  • People who are interested in themes of family, forgiveness, and second chances
  • Those who appreciate beautiful descriptions of settings, especially coastal locations

5
Mystery Romance Books: Naked in Death by J.D. Robb

Naked in Death

J.D. Robb

What's Naked in Death about?

Naked in Death is a gripping mystery novel by J.D. Robb (pseudonym for Nora Roberts). Set in a futuristic New York City, it follows tough homicide detective Eve Dallas as she investigates a series of brutal and sexually charged murders. As Eve delves into the case, she uncovers dark secrets and faces unexpected danger, all while navigating her own complicated past. This fast-paced thriller keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Who should read Naked in Death?

  • Readers who enjoy a combination of romance, suspense, and futuristic elements
  • Those who appreciate strong and complex female lead characters
  • People who are fans of police procedural novels with a twist

6
Mystery Romance Books: Two for the Dough by Janet Evanovich

Two for the Dough

Janet Evanovich

What's Two for the Dough about?

Two for the Dough is a mystery novel by Janet Evanovich. It follows the story of Stephanie Plum, a bounty hunter, as she tries to track down a local waitress who has been accused of murder. Filled with humor, suspense, and quirky characters, this book is a thrilling and entertaining read.

Who should read Two for the Dough?

  • Readers who enjoy comedic mysteries with strong female protagonists
  • Those looking for a light and entertaining read to escape reality for a while
  • People who like stories with a blend of crime-solving and quirky characters

7
Mystery Romance Books: Four to Score by Janet Evanovich

Four to Score

Janet Evanovich

What's Four to Score about?

Four to Score is a mystery novel by Janet Evanovich. It follows the story of Stephanie Plum, a bounty hunter, as she tries to track down a woman who has skipped bail. Along the way, Stephanie encounters various eccentric characters and finds herself in hilarious and dangerous situations. With its fast-paced plot and witty humor, this book is a thrilling and entertaining read.

Who should read Four to Score?

  • Readers who enjoy mystery and humor
  • Fans of female protagonists with a quirky sense of humor
  • Those looking for a lighthearted and entertaining reading experience

8
Mystery Romance Books: Twelve Sharp by Janet Evanovich

Twelve Sharp

Janet Evanovich

What's Twelve Sharp about?

Twelve Sharp by Janet Evanovich follows Stephanie Plum, a feisty bounty hunter, as she faces off against an assortment of dangerous criminals. Filled with humor, romance, and plenty of action, this book is a fast-paced and entertaining mystery that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

Who should read Twelve Sharp?

  • Readers who enjoy mystery and crime novels
  • Fans of humorous and lighthearted storytelling
  • Those looking for a fast-paced and entertaining read

9
Mystery Romance Books: Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan

Beneath a Scarlet Sky

Mark Sullivan

What's Beneath a Scarlet Sky about?

Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan is a gripping historical fiction novel set in World War II. It tells the incredible true story of Pino Lella, a young Italian man who becomes a spy for the Allies while working as a driver for a high-ranking Nazi official. Filled with suspense, romance, and bravery, this book offers a unique perspective on the war and the extraordinary individuals who fought against it.

Who should read Beneath a Scarlet Sky?

  • History enthusiasts who enjoy World War II era stories
  • Readers who appreciate tales of resilience and heroism
  • Those who are intrigued by real-life accounts of individuals facing extraordinary challenges

10
Mystery Romance Books: Three to Get Deadly by Janet Evanovich

Three to Get Deadly

Janet Evanovich

What's Three to Get Deadly about?

Three to Get Deadly is a thrilling mystery novel by Janet Evanovich. It follows the story of Stephanie Plum, a bounty hunter, as she tries to track down a beloved candy store owner who is accused of murder. Filled with humor, suspense, and quirky characters, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Three to Get Deadly?

  • Those who enjoy mystery and light-hearted crime novels
  • Readers looking for a humorous and entertaining story with quirky characters
  • People who appreciate a strong and relatable female protagonist

11
Mystery Romance Books: Angels Fall by Nora Roberts

Angels Fall

Nora Roberts

What's Angels Fall about?

Angels Fall is a gripping novel by Nora Roberts that delves into the complexities of the human mind and the power of redemption. When a traumatic event shatters her world, protagonist Reece Gilmore seeks solace in a remote Wyoming town. As she tries to rebuild her life, she becomes embroiled in a murder mystery that forces her to confront her own inner demons. This thrilling tale keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Who should read Angels Fall?

  • Readers who enjoy mystery and suspense novels
  • Those interested in stories with strong female protagonists
  • Individuals who appreciate a blend of romance and crime solving in their reading material

12

What's Spellbound in His Arms about?

Spellbound in His Arms by Angel Sefer is a captivating romantic suspense novel that takes place on the beautiful Greek island of Corfu. When a young woman named Julia discovers a hidden family secret, she becomes entangled in a web of danger and intrigue. With the help of a handsome stranger, she must uncover the truth before it's too late. Filled with twists and turns, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Spellbound in His Arms?

  • Readers who enjoy romantic suspense with a touch of mystery
  • Those who appreciate exotic and captivating settings, such as the Greek Isles
  • People who are drawn to strong and independent characters with sizzling chemistry

13
Mystery Romance Books: Silent in the Sanctuary by Deanna Raybourn

Silent in the Sanctuary

Deanna Raybourn

What's Silent in the Sanctuary about?

Silent in the Sanctuary is a captivating mystery novel by Deanna Raybourn. Set in 1886, it follows Lady Julia Grey as she attends a family gathering at a remote country estate. When a murder takes place, Lady Julia must use her wit and intelligence to uncover the truth, all while navigating family secrets and romantic tension with the enigmatic Nicholas Brisbane.

Who should read Silent in the Sanctuary?

  • Readers who enjoy historical mysteries with a touch of romance
  • Those who appreciate strong and complex female protagonists
  • People looking for a captivating and atmospheric story set in a European country estate

14
Mystery Romance Books: Save Your Breath by Melinda Leigh

Save Your Breath

Melinda Leigh

What's Save Your Breath about?

Save Your Breath by Melinda Leigh is a gripping thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When a young woman goes missing in a small town, attorney Morgan Dane and PI Lance Kruger must unravel a web of secrets and lies to bring her home safely. With twists and turns at every corner, this book will leave you breathless.

Who should read Save Your Breath?

  • Readers who enjoy suspenseful mystery novels
  • Those who like stories with strong and relatable female protagonists
  • People who want to explore the complexities of family, relationships, and justice

15
Mystery Romance Books: The Chase by Elle Kennedy

The Chase

Elle Kennedy

What's The Chase about?

The Chase by Elle Kennedy is a captivating romance novel that follows college student Summer as she navigates the ups and downs of falling for a charming and enigmatic hockey player named Fitz. Filled with witty banter, steamy moments, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you hooked until the very end.

Who should read The Chase?

  • Readers who enjoy steamy romance novels with a college setting

  • Fans of Elle Kennedy's previous works, such as the "Off-Campus" series

  • Those looking for a light and entertaining escape with a focus on relationships and character development


16
Mystery Romance Books: Plum Spooky by Janet Evanovich

Plum Spooky

Janet Evanovich

What's Plum Spooky about?

Plum Spooky is a thrilling mystery novel by Janet Evanovich. In this book, bounty hunter Stephanie Plum is on the hunt for a strange little man who has gone missing in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey. With the help of her eccentric sidekick Diesel, Stephanie uncovers a bizarre conspiracy involving a genetically engineered creature and a group of eccentric characters. Filled with humor, suspense, and a touch of the supernatural, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Who should read Plum Spooky?

  • Readers who enjoy humorous and light-hearted mystery novels
  • Fans of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series
  • People who like a blend of comedy, romance, and supernatural elements in their books

17
Mystery Romance Books: Fatal Affair by Marie Force

Fatal Affair

Marie Force

What's Fatal Affair about?

Fatal Affair by Marie Force is a thrilling romantic suspense novel that delves into the dangerous world of politics and power. When D.C. police detective Samantha Holland is assigned to investigate the murder of a senator, she finds herself entangled in a web of lies, deceit, and betrayal. As she gets closer to the truth, Sam also uncovers a forbidden attraction to the prime suspect, which puts her career and life in jeopardy.

Who should read Fatal Affair?

  • Readers who enjoy crime and suspense novels
  • Fans of romantic thrillers with strong, independent female leads
  • Those who like stories with complex plots and unexpected twists

18
Mystery Romance Books: Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn

Silent in the Grave

Deanna Raybourn

What's Silent in the Grave about?

Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn is a captivating historical mystery novel set in Victorian England. When Lady Julia Grey's husband dies under mysterious circumstances, she teams up with the enigmatic private investigator Nicholas Brisbane to uncover the truth. Filled with secrets, betrayal, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Silent in the Grave?

  • Readers who enjoy historical mysteries with a strong female protagonist
  • Those interested in Victorian-era London and its social norms
  • Book club members looking for a captivating and thought-provoking novel to discuss

19
Mystery Romance Books: The Shark by Mary Burton

The Shark

Mary Burton

What's The Shark about?

The Shark by Mary Burton is a gripping thriller that delves into the dark and dangerous world of a serial killer. When a series of brutal murders rock a small town, detective Tess McCrae is determined to catch the perpetrator. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers shocking secrets and realizes that the killer may be someone she knows. With its intense plot and well-developed characters, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read The Shark?

  • Individuals who enjoy psychological thrillers with a mix of romance
  • Readers who are fascinated by criminal profiling and forensic investigations
  • People who appreciate strong female protagonists facing their past demons

20
Mystery Romance Books: Dark Road to Darjeeling by Deanna Raybourn

Dark Road to Darjeeling

Deanna Raybourn

What's Dark Road to Darjeeling about?

Dark Road to Darjeeling is a captivating historical mystery novel by Deanna Raybourn. Set in 1889, it follows the adventurous Lady Julia Grey and her enigmatic partner Nicholas Brisbane as they embark on a perilous journey to India. Filled with intrigue, secrets, and a touch of romance, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Dark Road to Darjeeling?

  • Readers who enjoy historical mysteries with a touch of romance
  • Those who appreciate strong and independent female protagonists
  • People who are fascinated by the exotic settings of 19th century India

21
Mystery Romance Books: Sizzling Sixteen by Janet Evanovich

Sizzling Sixteen

Janet Evanovich

What's Sizzling Sixteen about?

Sizzling Sixteen is a crime novel by Janet Evanovich that follows bounty hunter Stephanie Plum as she investigates a string of disappearances and a suspicious murder. Filled with humor, romance, and suspense, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Sizzling Sixteen?

  • Readers who enjoy a lighthearted and humorous mystery novel
  • Fans of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series
  • Those looking for a fun and entertaining summer read

22
Mystery Romance Books: Northern Lights by Nora Roberts

Northern Lights

Nora Roberts

What's Northern Lights about?

Northern Lights by Nora Roberts is a captivating novel set in the wilds of Alaska. It tells the story of a city girl, Meg, who moves to a remote town to start a new life. There, she meets the rugged and mysterious local, Nate, and together they unravel dark secrets while being drawn to each other. Filled with romance, suspense, and the beauty of the northern lights, this book will keep you hooked until the very end.

Who should read Northern Lights?

  • Readers who enjoy romance novels with a touch of mystery
  • People who are intrigued by small-town settings and close-knit communities
  • Those who appreciate strong female characters and complex relationships

23
Mystery Romance Books: Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich

Plum Lovin'

Janet Evanovich

What's Plum Lovin' about?

Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich is a hilarious and heartwarming romantic comedy. Filled with quirky characters and laugh-out-loud moments, it follows the adventures of bounty hunter Stephanie Plum as she takes on a new assignment: find a match for a mysterious and attractive man named Diesel. With plenty of twists and turns, this book is a delightful and entertaining read.

Who should read Plum Lovin'?

  • Those who enjoy light-hearted and humorous romantic comedies
  • Fans of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series
  • Readers looking for a fun and entertaining escape from everyday life

24
Mystery Romance Books: Out of Turn by Tiffany Snow

Out of Turn

Tiffany Snow

What's Out of Turn about?

Out of Turn by Tiffany Snow is a thrilling romantic suspense novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows the life of Cameron McGregor, a successful lawyer who finds herself entangled in a dangerous game of power and betrayal. As she navigates through a web of lies and deceit, Cameron must uncover the truth and fight for justice, even if it means going Out of Turn.

Who should read Out of Turn?

  • Readers who enjoy romantic suspense novels

  • Fans of complex and flawed characters

  • Those who appreciate a fast-paced and gripping plot


25
Mystery Romance Books: Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell

Then She Was Gone

Lisa Jewell

What's Then She Was Gone about?

Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell is a gripping psychological thriller that unravels the mystery of a young girl's disappearance. Told through multiple perspectives, the story delves into the dark and twisted secrets of a seemingly perfect family. With unexpected twists and turns, it keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Then She Was Gone?

  • Crime and mystery enthusiasts looking for a gripping and suspenseful story
  • Readers who enjoy exploring complex family dynamics and psychological twists
  • Those who appreciate well-crafted and emotionally impactful storytelling

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Mystery Romance Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Mystery Romance book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Gone Girl as the ultimate read on Mystery Romance.

What are the Top 10 Mystery Romance books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
  • High Noon by Nora Roberts
  • Say You're Sorry by Melinda Leigh
  • When We Believed in Mermaids by Barbara O'Neal
  • Naked in Death by J.D. Robb
  • Two for the Dough by Janet Evanovich
  • Four to Score by Janet Evanovich
  • Twelve Sharp by Janet Evanovich
  • Beneath a Scarlet Sky by Mark Sullivan
  • Three to Get Deadly by Janet Evanovich

Who are the top Mystery Romance book authors?

When it comes to Mystery Romance, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Gillian Flynn
  • Nora Roberts
  • Melinda Leigh
  • Barbara O'Neal
  • J.D. Robb