11 Mysteriously Underrated Crime Books You Need to Read

Published by Likewise | Mar 12, 2025 Dive into a thrilling world of crime literature with these eleven underrated mystery novels that spark intrigue and suspense. Each book is a unique blend of captivating narratives and unforgettable characters, offering readers an enriching experience.

The Crow Trap

From New York Times bestselling author Ann Cleeves, who is well-known for her captivating Vera and Shetland series, comes The Crow Trap, the first installment in the Vera Stanhope series. This novel introduces three women—Rachael, Anne, and Grace—who come together for an environmental survey in the Northumberland countryside, each harboring secrets and personal betrayals. When a body is discovered, the narrative takes a twist, leading us to the unconventional Detective Inspector Vera Stanhope, who must untangle the truth from the web of lies and past grievances.

Average Rating: 3.7

Place Of Execution

In Place Of Execution by Val McDermid, a chilling case unfolds during a harsh winter in 1963. The story follows George Bennett, a young detective whose investigation into a missing girl leads him down a labyrinth of despair and family secrets, mirroring the grim history of notorious murderers. Years later, as he confides in journalist Catherine Heathcote, old truths bubble to the surface, reminding readers of the fragile line between memory and reality.

Average Rating: 3.9

We Are All the Same in the Dark

This acclaimed thriller by Julia Heaberlin intertwines the lives of a missing girl and the troubled past of her brother, Wyatt. With a haunting rural setting, We Are All the Same in the Dark explores themes of grief, redemption, and the dark undercurrents of a community holding onto a decade-old mystery. The narrative weaves through suspense as young cop Odette must confront her own past, desperately seeking answers that may finally bring peace to a town torn apart.

Average Rating: 4.4

All the Sinners Bleed

S. A. Cosby's All the Sinners Bleed sheds light on the life of Titus Crown, Charon County's first Black sheriff who grapples with both personal and communal demons when a series of violent events shake his town. As murders emerge alongside a tension-filled history, Titus finds himself investigating dark secrets hidden beneath the town's picturesque facade, revealing not just crime but a community on the brink of transformation.

Average Rating: 4.0

The Searcher

Tana French's The Searcher encapsulates the battle between a retired Chicago cop's desire for peace and the unrest of a small Irish village. Entrapped by local secrets and compelled to investigate a missing person case, Cal Hooper's journey becomes a metaphoric redefinition of right and wrong, challenging his perceptions with each revelation that draws him deeper into the town's fabric of hidden truths.

Average Rating: 4.0

The Thursday Murder Club

Richard Osman invites readers into a charming mystery with The Thursday Murder Club, where four retirees decide to take crime solving into their own hands. With humor and warmth, the narrative invites intrigue, drawing readers along as the club unravels a murder that occurs right in their tranquil retirement village, proving that age is no barrier to adventure.

Average Rating: 3.8

Still Life

In Louise Penny's ground-breaking novel Still Life, readers are introduced to Inspector Armand Gamache, who investigates a suspicious death in the quaint village of Three Pines. His keen intuition and integrity forge through an investigation that reveals complex relationships and settings that breathe life into the narrative. Penny’s storytelling is recognized for its depth and intricate character development.

Average Rating: 3.7

The God of the Woods

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore presents a gripping tale of suspense surrounding a summer camp where a teenage girl goes missing. This intricately woven plot delves into themes of family legacy and community ties as the disappearance surfacing echoes a chilling past. With sharp prose and rich character studies, Moore's narrative examines the intertwining lives affected by the tragedy.

Average Rating: 4.1

In the Woods

In this debut novel by Tana French, In the Woods presents an unforgettable case when a detective discovers that a murder investigation could be linked to a childhood trauma. The atmospheric storytelling engages readers in a quest for truth, as Detective Rob Ryan struggles with fragmented memories from his past while he investigates a haunting crime scene. This psychological thriller delves into the complexity of memory and the impact of unresolved pasts.

Average Rating: 4.0

Zero Days

In Zero Days, Ruth Ware delivers a riveting thriller following Jack, a brilliant penetration specialist who finds herself framed for her husband's murder following a botched job. As her world collapses, Jack races against time to uncover the truth, exploring themes of deception and trust. With fast-paced narrative and a gripping plot, this novel keeps readers guessing until the very last page.

Average Rating: 3.8

Hit Man

With Hit Man, author Lawrence Block presents a protagonist struggling with the morality of his job. Keller, a professional killer, leads a double life that offers a scathing commentary on isolation and existentialism. The narrative weaves dark humor with personal confusion about life choices, proving the novel to be not only a crime story but also a philosophical exploration of human behavior.

Average Rating: 3.9

In Conclusion

This list celebrates some of the most intriguing yet underrated crime novels that deserve a spot on your bookshelf. From complex female protagonists to profound explorations of morality, these stories captivate with every turn of the page. Whether you are a seasoned mystery aficionado or a curious newcomer, these titles offer something special for everyone looking for a thrilling read. Don't miss out on the chance to discover these hidden gems!