An illustration of crime readers, holding a magnifying glass, etc, gathered around a table whose top is Richard Osman's novel 'The Man Who Died Twice'.
Reading lists

Brilliant books for the crime fanatic in your life

If chilled bones are what you want, chilled bones are what you shall have, in this mix of true crime and detective fiction for anyone in the mood for murder this Christmas.

The best examples of crime fiction allow us to explore our darkest fears from a safe place – the killer under the bed, a murderer's face in the kitchen window, footsteps in the hallway – and remind us that bad people usually face justice in the end, even if they do leave a trail of blood.

So here – from trailblazing novels and classic true-crime to great modern works that carry the torch – are some great reads for crime lovers.

For more on crime and thriller books, visit Penguin’s Dead Good website, where you’ll find recommendations, discounted books at bargain prices and exclusive giveaways.

Illustration above: Bianca Bagnarelli for Penguin Random House

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