Mystery lovers, listen up! If you’re a fan of curling up with a good whodunit or thriller, then this article is for you. We’re diving deep into the top mystery books of the year, from pulse-pounding page-turners to mind-bending puzzles. Whether you’re a seasoned detective novel connoisseur or just dipping your toe into the genre, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a cup of tea, cozy up in your favorite reading nook, and let’s uncover the best mystery books of the year.
One of the standout titles of the year is “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides. This psychological thriller follows Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who shoots her husband five times in the face and then never speaks another word. She is sent to a psychiatric facility where she remains silent for years, until criminal psychotherapist Theo Faber becomes obsessed with unravelling the mystery of her silence. With twist after twist, “The Silent Patient” will keep you guessing until the very end.
If you’re a fan of historical mysteries, look no further than “The Lost Man” by Jane Harper. Set in the unforgiving Australian Outback, this novel follows the Bright family as they come to terms with the mysterious death of one of their own. As secrets are unearthed and tensions rise, the family is forced to confront the dark truths that lie buried beneath the surface. Harper’s vivid prose and intricate plot make “The Lost Man” a must-read for any mystery enthusiast.
For those who prefer a classic whodunit, “The Chestnut Man” by Soren Sveistrup is a surefire hit. This chilling Scandinavian thriller follows the investigation of a series of brutal murders in Copenhagen, all connected by a gruesome calling card: a handmade chestnut man left at each crime scene. As detectives Naia Thulin and Mark Hess race against the clock to catch the killer, they uncover a web of secrets and lies that lead them down a dark and twisted path. With its taut pacing and stellar character development, “The Chestnut Man” is a gripping read from start to finish.
If you’re in the mood for a twisty psychological thriller, “The Turn of the Key” by Ruth Ware is an excellent choice. This modern retelling of Henry James’s classic ghost story follows a young nanny named Rowan Caine who takes a job at a luxurious smart home in the Scottish Highlands. But as strange and sinister events unfold, Rowan begins to question her own sanity and wonders if the house is haunted by more than just memories. With its atmospheric setting and creeping sense of dread, “The Turn of the Key” is a haunting and suspenseful read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
For readers who enjoy a good old-fashioned detective novel, “Big Sky” by Kate Atkinson is a must-read. In this latest installment of the Jackson Brodie series, private investigator Jackson Brodie is hired to investigate a decades-old cold case in a seaside town in northern England. As he delves into the murky past and unravels a web of lies and deceit, Brodie must confront his own demons while trying to uncover the truth. With its wry humor and complex characters, “Big Sky” is a masterful blend of mystery and drama that will keep you guessing until the very end.
If you’re looking for a gripping legal thriller, look no further than “The Last Trial” by Scott Turow. In this intricately plotted novel, seasoned lawyer Alejandro “Sandy” Stern takes on what may be his final case defending his longtime friend and mentor, Kiril Pafko, a renowned doctor accused of the murder of a former patient. As the trial unfolds and secrets come to light, Stern must navigate the treacherous waters of the legal system while grappling with his own moral compass. With its richly drawn characters and twisty plot, “The Last Trial” is a riveting read that will keep you hooked until the very last page.
And finally, for fans of international intrigue and political espionage, “Agent Running in the Field” by John le Carré is a timely and engrossing read. Set in present-day London, this espionage thriller follows veteran agent Nat, who is at a crossroads in his career and his personal life. When he is tasked with handling a young and ambitious recruit, Nat finds himself drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse with global implications. With its sharp dialogue and astute observation of contemporary politics, “Agent Running in the Field” is a thought-provoking and thrilling read that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew.
So there you have it, mystery lovers – a curated list of the top mystery books of the year to satisfy your craving for suspense, intrigue, and clever plot twists. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, historical mysteries, or classic detective novels, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a copy of one (or all) of these titles, settle in for a thrilling ride, and prepare to be captivated by some of the best mystery books of the year. Happy reading!