As avid readers, we all know the thrill of sinking our teeth into a good mystery novel. The suspense, the twists and turns, and the satisfaction of trying to outsmart the author and guess the ending before it’s revealed. It’s a genre that has stood the test of time, capturing our imaginations and keeping us on the edge of our seats.
This year has been no exception when it comes to delivering gripping mystery novels for adult readers. From classic whodunits to thought-provoking psychological thrillers, there have been plenty of page-turners to keep us entertained. So, grab a cup of tea, cozy up on the couch, and let’s dive into some of the best mystery books of the year.
Let’s start with the classic whodunits. These are the books that follow a tried-and-true formula: a crime is committed, clues are discovered, suspects are questioned, and the detective eventually solves the case. One standout in this category is “The Guest List” by Lucy Foley. Set on a remote island off the coast of Ireland, this novel follows a wedding party gone terribly wrong when a murder occurs. With a cast of suspicious characters and a beautifully atmospheric setting, this book is a modern take on the classic whodunit that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Another must-read in the classic whodunit category is “The Searcher” by Tana French. In this novel, a retired detective moves to a rural Irish village to escape his past and start fresh. But when a local boy goes missing, he can’t resist getting involved in the investigation. With rich character development and a slow-burning plot, this book is a masterclass in storytelling that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Moving on to the psychological thrillers, these are the books that delve deep into the minds of their characters, exploring the darker aspects of human nature and keeping readers on their toes with unexpected twists and turns. One standout in this category is “The Push” by Ashley Audrain. This novel follows a mother grappling with her daughter’s disturbing behavior, questioning whether it’s all in her head or if there’s something truly sinister at play. With its chilling exploration of motherhood and family dynamics, this book is a gripping and thought-provoking read that will stick with you long after you’ve finished it.
Another must-read in the psychological thriller category is “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides. In this novel, a successful painter shoots her husband in the face and then goes mute, refusing to speak or explain her actions. When a therapist takes on her case and tries to unravel the mystery, he discovers dark secrets and shocking revelations that will leave you reeling. With its clever twists and turns and unreliable narrator, this book is a true page-turner that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Of course, there are plenty of other mystery novels worth mentioning from this year. Whether you’re a fan of police procedurals, historical mysteries, or cozy mysteries, there’s something for everyone in the world of adult mystery fiction. Some other notable mentions include “Blacktop Wasteland” by S.A. Cosby, a gritty and fast-paced crime novel set in rural Virginia, and “The Thursday Murder Club” by Richard Osman, a charming and humorous mystery featuring a group of retirees who solve cold cases for fun.
In conclusion, the mystery genre continues to thrive and captivate readers with its diverse range of stories and subgenres. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic whodunit or a mind-bending psychological thriller, there’s no shortage of options to choose from when it comes to the best adult mystery books of the year. So, grab a stack of books, settle in for a cozy night of reading, and let yourself get lost in the twists and turns of a good mystery novel. Happy reading!