This Week in Crime — Week of April 13, 2026

Crime readers are currently captivated by a mix of classic thrillers and new releases, with a focus on complex characters, intricate plots, and suspenseful storytelling. The trend suggests that readers are drawn to authors who can craft compelling narratives that keep them on the edge of their seats, often with a blend of psychological insight, atmospheric settings, and unexpected twists. This versatility in the genre has led to a surge in popularity for books that blend elements of mystery, suspense, and thriller, making for a fascinating and diverse reading landscape.

Misery by Stephen King., Oana Dușmănescu, Lindsay Crouse

Published: 2011-07-07

Misery is a classic thriller that has captivated readers for decades, and its recent surge in popularity is a testament to its enduring appeal. The story of Paul Sheldon, a writer held captive by his "number one fan," Annie Wilkes, is a masterclass in suspense and psychological tension. With its exploration of the darker aspects of human nature, Misery is a must-read for fans of the genre.

Stats: 69536 → 138199 (+68663) — The significant increase in readership for Misery suggests that crime readers are seeking out classic, suspenseful stories that explore the complexities of human psychology, and King's masterpiece delivers on all fronts.

The Lies of Locke Lamora by Scott Lynch

Published: 2016-03-01

The Lies of Locke Lamora is a fantasy-infused crime novel that has gained a significant following in recent times. The story of Locke Lamora, a charismatic con artist in a fantasy world, offers a unique blend of action, adventure, and suspense. Lynch's vivid world-building and complex characters have captivated readers, making this book a standout in the genre.

Stats: 347836 → 348223 (+387) — Although the growth is relatively slow, the consistent popularity of The Lies of Locke Lamora suggests that readers are drawn to its unique blend of fantasy and crime elements, as well as its well-crafted characters and intricate plot.

The Crossroads by C.J. Box

Published: 2026-02-24

The Crossroads is a gripping crime novel that delves into the world of game wardens and the dangers they face. The story of Joe Pickett, a game warden fighting for his life, is a thrilling narrative that explores the complexities of human relationships and the harsh realities of the natural world. Box's vivid descriptions and well-crafted characters make this book a compelling read.

Stats: 9423 → 9781 (+358) — The steady growth in popularity of The Crossroads indicates that readers are drawn to its unique blend of crime and outdoor adventure, as well as its thought-provoking exploration of human relationships and the natural world.

Cross and Sampson by James Patterson, Brian Sitts

Published: 2026-02-09

Cross and Sampson is a crime novel that follows the investigation of a pair of serious crimes by detectives Alex Cross and John Sampson. The story is a gripping narrative that explores the complexities of human relationships and the harsh realities of the crime world. Patterson's and Sitts's collaboration offers a unique blend of suspense and intrigue, making this book a compelling read.

Stats: 9142 → 9416 (+274) — The steady growth in popularity of Cross and Sampson suggests that readers are drawn to its fast-paced narrative and the well-crafted characters of the two detectives, as well as the intricate plot that keeps them guessing.

Berwick by L.J. Ross

Published: 2026-02-26

Berwick is a crime novel that follows the investigation of a murder by Detective Chief Inspector Ryan. The story is a complex and suspenseful narrative that explores the darker aspects of human nature and the harsh realities of the crime world. Ross's vivid descriptions and well-crafted characters make this book a compelling read.

Stats: 6398 → 6632 (+234) — The steady growth in popularity of Berwick indicates that readers are drawn to its unique blend of crime and suspense, as well as its thought-provoking exploration of human relationships and the natural world.

Misery by Stephen King., Oana Dușmănescu, Lindsay Crouse

Published: 2011-07-07

Misery is a classic thriller that has experienced a significant surge in popularity, with a growth rate of 98.04%. This increase in readership suggests that crime readers are seeking out suspenseful stories that explore the complexities of human psychology, and King's masterpiece delivers on all fronts.

Stats: 69536 → 138199 (+68663) — The substantial growth in popularity of Misery indicates that readers are drawn to its unique blend of suspense, psychological insight, and atmospheric setting, making it a standout in the genre.

Whidbey by T Kira Madden

Published: 2026-03-10

Whidbey is a literary achievement that has gained significant attention in recent times, with a growth rate of 8.37%. The story of three women connected through one man in the aftermath of his murder is a complex and suspenseful narrative that explores the darker aspects of human nature. Madden's vivid descriptions and well-crafted characters make this book a compelling read.

Stats: 2130 → 2350 (+220) — The steady growth in popularity of Whidbey suggests that readers are drawn to its unique blend of literary fiction and suspense, as well as its thought-provoking exploration of human relationships and trauma.

Let the Dead Sleep by Michael Wood, Gemma Whelan

Published: 2026-03-05

Let the Dead Sleep is a crime novel that has gained significant attention in recent times, with a growth rate of 6.38%. The story of Holly Sullivan, a crime reporter investigating a cold case, is a gripping narrative that explores the complexities of human relationships and the harsh realities of the crime world. Wood's and Whelan's collaboration offers a unique blend of suspense and intrigue, making this book a compelling read.

Stats: 534 → 600 (+66) — The steady growth in popularity of Let the Dead Sleep indicates that readers are drawn to its fast-paced narrative and the well-crafted characters, as well as the intricate plot that keeps them guessing.

The Baby Group by Jade Lee Wright

Published: 2025-07-31

The Baby Group is a psychological thriller that has gained significant attention in recent times, with a growth rate of 4.27%. The story of a woman whose baby is taken is a gripping narrative that explores the complexities of human relationships and the harsh realities of the crime world. Wright's vivid descriptions and well-crafted characters make this book a compelling read.

Stats: 1583 → 1672 (+89) — The steady growth in popularity of The Baby Group suggests that readers are drawn to its unique blend of psychological suspense and intrigue, as well as its thought-provoking exploration of human relationships and trauma.

The Crossroads by C.J. Box

Published: 2026-02-24

The Crossroads is a crime novel that has gained significant attention in recent times, with a growth rate of 3.61%. The story of Joe Pickett, a game warden fighting for his life, is a thrilling narrative that explores the complexities of human relationships and the harsh realities of the natural world. Box's vivid descriptions and well-crafted characters make this book a compelling read.

Crime Pick of the Week

Misery by Stephen King is a masterclass in suspense and psychological tension, making it a standout in the crime genre. With its classic blend of suspense, intrigue, and atmospheric setting, Misery is a must-read for fans of the genre. King's vivid descriptions and well-crafted characters, particularly the infamous Annie Wilkes, make this book a compelling and thought-provoking read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you're a seasoned fan of crime fiction or just discovering the genre, Misery is an absolute must-read that will leave you breathless and eager for more.