Best mystery and romance novels

As an Elle Best Book of the Year and from a New York Times bestselling author, this novel offers a compelling homecoming story. It sparks new romance and drama between old family friends, making it a highly recommended read.

This thriller is a standout for its numerous plot twists and suspenseful narrative, keeping readers engaged until the very end. Its fresh take on identity and deception makes it a highly recommended mystery.

As a highly-rated debut novel, 'The Berry Pickers' offers a compelling and emotional mystery that resonated deeply with readers in 2025. Its poignant story of a family's enduring search for a lost child makes it a powerful read.

This novel stands out for its creative and original premise, blending time travel with mystery and featuring intriguing characters. It offers a unique and action-packed experience for readers who enjoy a fresh take on the genre.

Charlotte McConaghy's 'Wild Dark Shore' is a masterclass in psychological suspense, maintaining an unresolved mystery for most of the book. Its compelling narrative and dark secrets make it a gripping read.

As a new romance from a New York Times bestselling author, 'Our Perfect Storm' is highly anticipated for its potential to deliver a swoon-worthy story. Its exploration of a friends-to-lovers trope promises a delightful read.

This novel uniquely blends fantasy with sports romance, offering a sizzling slow-burn narrative from a #1 Sunday Times bestselling author. Its original premise and compelling characters make it a must-read for romance fans.

This debut novel offers a brutally honest and relatable story about a hopeless romantic, making it a can't-miss read. Its fresh voice and humorous approach to a universal theme are highly recommended.

This magical novel from a New York Times bestselling author promises an enchanting romance with a unique premise. Its blend of mystery and love, centered around a secret garden, makes it a captivating choice.

This delightful forced proximity romance, set on a road trip through the Scottish highlands, offers a swoony and witty narrative. It's a perfect blend of family, forgiveness, and unexpected love.

As the third and final book in a bestselling trilogy from an iconic crime writer, 'The Keeper' is highly anticipated. Tana French's reputation for 'incandescent' and 'unputdownable' works ensures its place among the best mysteries.

This incredibly original novel breaks the fourth wall, inviting the reader to participate as judge and jury. Its slow-burn psychological depth and exploration of contemporary issues make it an unforgettable and thought-provoking read.

This Japanese bestseller offers a charming, heartwarming, and escapist Tokyo-set mystery. Its affectionate focus on relationships and playful engagement with the crime genre make it a unique and delightful addition.

Kicking off 2026 with a powerful story, this psychological thriller is tense and twist-laden, exploring themes of revenge, morality, and corruption. Its resourceful protagonist and gripping plot make it a strong recommendation.

From the highly acclaimed mystery author Michael Connelly, 'IRONWOOD' is a top anticipated release for 2026. His consistent quality and engaging narratives ensure this novel will be a significant entry in the genre.

This witty and wise novel from a New York Times bestselling author offers a unique blend of romance and magical realism. Its intriguing premise of falling in love across different timelines makes it a captivating and emotional read.

Described as an 'incredibly written, emotional, beautiful, nuanced, raw, yet still-fun masterpiece,' this novel offers a rich and complex romance. Its exploration of divorce and new beginnings in Paris makes it a deeply engaging read.