8 Best Mystery Books In 2025

Mystery novels have long captivated readers with their intricate plots, suspenseful narratives, and unforgettable characters. Whether you enjoy classic detective stories, psychological thrillers, or modern crime dramas, the best mystery books will keep you guessing until the very last page. Below, I present a carefully curated list of the top 8 mystery books that every fan should read.

1. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo – Stieg Larsson

A modern classic in the mystery genre, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo introduces readers to journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander. As they uncover the dark secrets of the wealthy Vanger family, they delve into a world filled with corruption, deception, and shocking twists. The novel’s intricate plotting, along with its strong character development, makes it a gripping read. Larsson masterfully blends investigative journalism, financial intrigue, and psychological drama, crafting a multi-layered mystery that keeps readers on edge. Lisbeth Salander, a fiercely intelligent and complex protagonist, has become an icon in modern crime fiction.

2. Gone Girl – Gillian Flynn

Few books have left readers as stunned as Gone Girl. This psychological thriller revolves around the disappearance of Amy Dunne and the media frenzy that follows. As suspicions turn towards her husband, Nick, the novel takes an unexpected turn that changes everything. Flynn crafts a tale that masterfully explores themes of deception, media manipulation, and toxic relationships. The dual perspectives of Amy and Nick provide an unsettling look into their unraveling marriage, making readers question who is truly innocent. The psychological depth of the characters, combined with sharp, darkly humorous writing, makes Gone Girl an unforgettable read. Perfect for fans of unreliable narrators and mind-bending plots, this novel is a true masterpiece of modern mystery fiction.

3. The Hound of the Baskervilles – Arthur Conan Doyle

A classic among classics, The Hound of the Baskervilles features the world-renowned detective Sherlock Holmes as he investigates the legend of a supernatural hound terrorizing the Baskerville family. Set against the eerie backdrop of the fog-covered Dartmoor moors, this novel blends gothic horror with intricate detective work. Conan Doyle’s expert storytelling ensures a suspenseful read, balancing logical deduction with eerie folklore. Holmes and Watson’s dynamic is as sharp as ever, with Holmes applying his signature analytical skills to decipher a case shrouded in superstition. If you love classic mysteries with a chilling atmosphere, this novel is a must-read.

4. Big Little Lies – Liane Moriarty

Blending drama, suspense, and psychological depth, Big Little Lies follows the lives of three women whose seemingly perfect suburban lives hide dark secrets. The novel begins with a shocking event—a murder at a school fundraiser—and then rewinds to uncover the events leading up to it. Moriarty weaves humor and mystery in a novel that keeps readers turning the pages. The characters—Madeline, Celeste, and Jane—each struggle with personal battles that tie into the larger mystery. The narrative style, interspersed with snippets of gossip and police interviews, adds an extra layer of suspense. Big Little Lies is an insightful and thrilling read, proving that the most dangerous secrets often lurk behind closed doors.

5. The Da Vinci Code – Dan Brown

One of the most famous mystery thrillers of all time, The Da Vinci Code follows symbologist Robert Langdon as he unravels a historical conspiracy hidden within Leonardo da Vinci’s works. The novel takes readers on a breathtaking international adventure filled with twists at every turn. Brown expertly blends historical fact with fiction, creating a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers engaged. The mystery unfolds through cryptic symbols, secret societies, and ancient texts, offering a unique intellectual challenge. The action is relentless, as Langdon and cryptologist Sophie Neveu race against time to solve the puzzle before dangerous forces intervene. Brown’s ability to weave history, art, and religious symbology into a compelling thriller makes this book stand out. If you enjoy mystery novels that combine intellectual intrigue with high-stakes action, The Da Vinci Code is a must-read.

6. In the Woods – Tana French

In the Woods is an atmospheric, gripping mystery that follows detective Rob Ryan as he investigates a murder that may be connected to a traumatic incident from his own past. French’s writing is immersive, drawing readers into a haunting psychological journey that blurs the line between memory and reality. The novel is rich in character development, particularly in its depiction of Ryan’s internal struggles and the dynamic between him and his partner, Cassie Maddox. The setting—a dense, eerie forest—adds another layer of suspense, making the mystery even more compelling. French’s intricate storytelling ensures that readers remain hooked until the final, unexpected twist.

7. The Woman in White – Wilkie Collins

One of the earliest and most influential mystery novels, The Woman in White is a masterpiece of suspense and psychological depth. Wilkie Collins weaves a tale of mistaken identity, conspiracy, and gothic intrigue, creating a novel that was ahead of its time. The story follows art teacher Walter Hartright as he becomes entangled in a mystery involving a ghostly woman and a sinister aristocrat. The novel’s multiple narrators and intricate plot structure keep readers engaged, making it a standout in classic mystery literature.

8. The Silent Patient – Alex Michaelides

A chilling psychological thriller, The Silent Patient follows the story of Alicia Berenson, a woman who murders her husband and then stops speaking altogether. As a psychotherapist attempts to uncover her secrets, the novel delivers shocking twists that will leave readers breathless. Michaelides masterfully crafts an unpredictable storyline, building tension with every page. The book’s exploration of trauma, therapy, and obsession makes it a thought-provoking read, while its unexpected conclusion ensures it remains unforgettable.

Conclusion

These 8 best mystery books are guaranteed to keep you hooked with their thrilling narratives and mind-bending twists. Whether you prefer classic detective tales or modern psychological thrillers, there’s something for every mystery fan on this list.