Detective novels have been a favorite genre of literature for decades, with their intriguing storylines, unforgettable characters, and gripping suspense. Here are the top 10 best detective novels of all time, including the iconic book, The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie, and The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett. Other entries include Raymond Chandler’s The Big Sleep and Thomas Harris’s The Silence of the Lambs, as well as The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. The list also includes The Godfather by Mario Puzo and short story collections The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, The Adventures of Hercule Poirot, and The Adventures of Miss Marple, all by Agatha Christie.
The 10 Best Detective Novels of All Time
Detective novels have been a staple in the world of literature for hundreds of years. With their intriguing storylines, memorable characters, and intense suspense, these books have captured the hearts of millions of readers around the world. From classic whodunnits to modern thrillers, here are the top 10 best detective novels of all time.
1. The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
This classic novel is one of the most iconic detective stories of all time. Featuring the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes, The Hound of the Baskervilles is a thrilling tale of murder, betrayal, and mystery. With its vivid descriptions, gripping plot, and unforgettable characters, this book is a must-read for any fan of detective fiction.
2. Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
Agatha Christie is often called the queen of detective fiction, and Murder on the Orient Express is one of her most famous works. Featuring her legendary detective character, Hercule Poirot, this novel is a masterclass in suspense and plot-twists. With its unforgettable characters and intricate plot, this book is a timeless classic that is sure to keep readers guessing until the very end.
3. The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett
If you’re looking for a hard-boiled detective novel that has it all, look no further than The Maltese Falcon. Featuring the iconic detective Sam Spade, this book is a noir masterpiece. With its gritty setting, dark themes, and unforgettable characters, The Maltese Falcon remains one of the greatest detective novels ever written.
4. The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler
Raymond Chandler is another master of the hard-boiled detective genre, and The Big Sleep is one of his most famous works. Featuring his iconic detective character, Philip Marlowe, this book is a classic of the genre. With its vivid setting, complex plot, and unforgettable characters, The Big Sleep is a true masterpiece of detective fiction.
5. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Another entry from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes is a collection of 12 short stories that feature the legendary detective and his loyal companion, Dr. Watson. With its memorable characters, intricate plots, and thrilling suspense, this book is a must-read for any fan of detective fiction.
6. The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris
While not a traditional detective novel, The Silence of the Lambs is one of the most famous suspense thrillers of all time. Featuring the unforgettable characters of FBI agent Clarice Starling and cannibalistic serial killer Hannibal Lecter, this book is a masterclass in psychological horror. With its tense prose, unforgettable characters, and shocking twists, The Silence of the Lambs remains one of the greatest thrillers ever written.
7. The Godfather by Mario Puzo
While not strictly a detective novel, The Godfather is one of the most iconic crime novels of all time. Featuring the unforgettable characters of the Corleone family, this book is a sprawling epic that tells the story of one family’s rise to power in the world of organized crime. With its unforgettable characters, vivid setting, and gripping plot, The Godfather remains one of the greatest works of crime fiction ever written.
8. The Adventures of Hercule Poirot by Agatha Christie
Another entry from Agatha Christie, The Adventures of Hercule Poirot is a collection of short stories that feature her legendary detective character. With its intricate plots, memorable characters, and unforgettable twists, this book is a must-read for any fan of detective fiction.
9. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
One of the most famous thrillers of the modern era, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a gripping tale of murder, deception, and revenge. Featuring the unforgettable character of Lisbeth Salander, this book is a masterclass in suspense and intrigue. With its gritty setting, complex plot, and unforgettable characters, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a true modern classic.
10. The Adventures of Miss Marple by Agatha Christie
Rounding out our list is another entry from Agatha Christie, The Adventures of Miss Marple. Featuring her iconic detective character, Miss Jane Marple, this book is a collection of short stories that showcase Christie’s mastery of the genre. With its vivid setting, memorable characters, and thrilling suspense, The Adventures of Miss Marple is a must-read for any fan of detective fiction.
Final thoughts
Detective novels have captivated readers for centuries, and the 10 books on this list are some of the very best examples of the genre. Whether you prefer classic whodunnits or modern thrillers, these books are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you wanting more.