Gillian Flynn's 'Gone Girl' is also a very popular one. It's a psychological thriller that delves deep into the relationship between a husband and wife. The story unfolds in a way that constantly challenges the reader's assumptions.
The 'Sherlock Holmes' series by Arthur Conan Doyle is a classic. Holmes' brilliant deductions and the Victorian - era settings create a great atmosphere. Each story presents a unique mystery, from stolen jewels to murders, and Holmes always manages to solve them in his own unique way.
I really like 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. The character of Hannibal Lecter is one of the most iconic in crime fiction. The cat - and - mouse game between Clarice Starling and Lecter as she tries to solve a serial killer case is gripping. The book also delves deep into the minds of the characters, which makes it even more interesting.
You can't go wrong with 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It's a terrifying and gripping read. The character of Hannibal Lecter is one of the most iconic in crime fiction. The way the FBI tries to solve a series of murders with Lecter's help is both thrilling and disturbing.
You can start by checking bestseller lists. They often feature popular crime fiction mystery thriller books.
One of the best is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex mystery involving a decades - old disappearance, a troubled journalist, and a brilliant but damaged hacker. The story is full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.
There are quite a few excellent detective fiction crime thriller books. 'The Da Vinci Code' by Dan Brown is very popular. It involves a lot of historical and religious mystery. 'The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency' by Alexander McCall Smith is a different kind of detective story, set in Botswana and with a very charming detective. 'Before I Go to Sleep' by S.J. Watson is also a great choice as it has a unique premise where the main character has amnesia and is trying to figure out the secrets of her past that may be related to a crime.
The element of mystery is key. There are clues and red herrings scattered throughout the story. The authors use these to mislead the reader and make the final revelation more surprising. The protagonists in these books are often in some sort of danger, either physically or psychologically. This creates a sense of urgency and keeps the reader hooked. There is also often a cat - and - mouse game between the detective or the good guy and the criminal, which is very exciting to read.
I'd recommend 'Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. The character of Hannibal Lecter is iconic. FBI trainee Clarice Starling has to seek Lecter's help to catch another serial killer. It's a chilling read. Also, 'In the Woods' by Tana French is a good choice. The detective, Rob Ryan, has to investigate a murder that takes place in a place that holds some very personal and disturbing memories for him.
Another great crime thriller is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. This book is full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. The characters are well - developed and the plot is very engaging.
You can start by asking for recommendations from friends or family who like this genre. They might be able to suggest some great books based on their own reading experiences.