Mystery novels have long been a favorite genre for readers who love suspense, thrill, and the excitement of uncovering hidden truths. While classics like Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd and Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes series often dominate the conversation, there are many lesser-known mystery novels that are just as captivating but may have flown under your radar. These underrated gems deserve a spot on every mystery lover’s bookshelf. In this article, we’ll delve into some of the best underrated mystery novels you shouldn’t miss.
1. The Blessing Way by Tony Hillerman
Tony Hillerman’s The Blessing Way introduces readers to the world of Navajo Tribal Police Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn. Set in the American Southwest, this novel blends traditional mystery elements with a deep exploration of Navajo culture and folklore. Hillerman’s atmospheric writing immerses readers in the stunning landscapes of the Navajo Nation while weaving a compelling tale of murder and superstition.
What sets The Blessing Way apart is its cultural depth and the way Hillerman interweaves the spiritual beliefs of the Navajo people into the mystery. For readers looking for a unique twist on the genre that also offers insight into Native American traditions, this novel is a must-read.
2. Case Histories by Kate Atkinson
Kate Atkinson’s Case Histories is a literary mystery novel that introduces Jackson Brodie, a former police detective turned private investigator. The novel begins with three seemingly unrelated cold cases, but as Brodie delves into each one, the connections between them begin to unravel in unexpected ways.
Atkinson’s writing is sharp, witty, and character-driven, making Case Histories a standout in the mystery genre. The novel’s complex narrative structure and deep emotional resonance make it more than just a mystery; it’s a meditation on loss, family, and the passage of time. If you enjoy mysteries with rich character development and a touch of dark humor, Case Histories is not to be missed.
3. In the Woods by Tana French
Tana French’s In the Woods is the first novel in her Dublin Murder Squad series, and while it received critical acclaim, it remains an underrated gem among casual mystery readers. The novel follows Detective Rob Ryan as he investigates the murder of a young girl in a small Irish town—a case that eerily mirrors the mysterious disappearance of two children, including Ryan himself, from the same town decades earlier.
French’s writing is lyrical and haunting, and she masterfully builds tension as Ryan grapples with his own dark past while trying to solve the case. In the Woods is not just a mystery but a psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of memory, trauma, and identity. For readers who appreciate atmospheric, slow-burn mysteries with deep psychological insight, this novel is a must-read.
4. The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler
While Raymond Chandler is a well-known name in the crime genre, his classic noir novel The Big Sleep often gets overshadowed by modern mystery thrillers. However, Chandler’s work remains one of the most influential and enduring contributions to the genre.
Featuring the iconic private detective Philip Marlowe, The Big Sleep is a hardboiled detective story set in Los Angeles. Marlowe is hired by an elderly millionaire to investigate a case of blackmail involving his two daughters, but the investigation quickly spirals into a web of murder, deception, and corruption.
Chandler’s sharp dialogue, atmospheric descriptions, and morally ambiguous characters make The Big Sleep a timeless mystery novel that laid the groundwork for many of the detective stories that followed. If you’re a fan of gritty, noir mysteries, Chandler’s classic should not be overlooked.
5. Still Life by Louise Penny
Louise Penny’s Still Life is the first book in the Chief Inspector Armand Gamache series, set in the fictional village of Three Pines in Quebec. While Penny has garnered a loyal following, she remains somewhat underrated outside of dedicated mystery circles.
Still Life introduces readers to Gamache, a thoughtful and empathetic detective who is called to Three Pines to investigate the death of a beloved local artist. Penny’s writing is atmospheric, and she paints a vivid picture of the idyllic village while slowly unraveling the dark secrets that lie beneath its surface.
What makes Still Life stand out is its combination of a cozy mystery setting with deep psychological insight and complex character development. Penny’s novels are perfect for readers who enjoy a balance of light-hearted charm and dark undertones.
6. The Devotion of Suspect X by Keigo Higashino
Keigo Higashino is one of Japan’s most acclaimed mystery writers, and The Devotion of Suspect X is a standout in his body of work. The novel follows the story of Yasuko Hanaoka, a single mother who accidentally kills her abusive ex-husband. Her neighbor, a brilliant but reclusive mathematician named Ishigami, helps her cover up the crime. What follows is a tense battle of wits between Ishigami and Detective Kusanagi, who is determined to solve the case.
Higashino’s novel is a masterclass in psychological suspense, with a plot that twists and turns in unexpected ways. The Devotion of Suspect X is a unique take on the mystery genre, blending elements of crime fiction, psychological thriller, and even romance. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for a mystery that challenges conventional storytelling.
7. The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Donna Tartt’s The Secret History is often categorized as literary fiction, but at its core, it is a compelling mystery novel that delves into the dark side of academia. The story follows a group of elite students at a small liberal arts college who become involved in a murder. The novel begins with the revelation of the crime and then unfolds the events leading up to it, creating a sense of inevitability and dread.
Tartt’s prose is elegant and atmospheric, and she masterfully builds tension as the characters descend into paranoia and moral decay. The Secret History is not a traditional whodunit, but it is a gripping psychological thriller that explores themes of guilt, obsession, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
8. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
Though The Silent Patient became a bestseller, it’s still relatively underrated compared to some of the giants of the mystery genre. The novel tells the story of Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who shoots her husband and then becomes mute, refusing to speak another word. The novel’s protagonist, forensic psychotherapist Theo Faber, becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind Alicia’s silence.
Michaelides creates a suspenseful atmosphere, and the novel is filled with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The Silent Patient is a modern mystery that expertly blends psychological intrigue with a gripping narrative, making it a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers.
Conclusion
While popular mystery novels often dominate the spotlight, there are many underrated gems that offer just as much suspense, intrigue, and psychological depth. From the atmospheric settings of The Blessing Way and Still Life to the psychological complexity of In the Woods and The Silent Patient, these novels showcase the diversity and richness of the mystery genre. Whether you’re a seasoned mystery reader or new to the genre, these underrated mystery novels deserve a place on your reading list
