10 Best Mystery Books in the Philippines 2026
In the midst of your busy daily life, don't you sometimes need a little escape? Reading books can be your secret weapon for unwinding. It's not just about expanding your mind—it's also an essential part of your well-deserved "me time."
If you’re looking for a thought-provoking, mind-boggling story with unexpected twists, then mystery novels are for you. Not only would this genre help you develop your critical and problem-solving skills, but it would also help you develop important values such as empathy and fairness. Beat the reading slump by checking out our buying guide and book recommendations below.
Quick List - Top Mystery Books
Delia Owens
A Tragic Marshland Tale of Mystery, Isolation, and Natural Beauty
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Differentiating Mystery, Thriller, and Suspense Books
Writers and book enthusiasts alike often use these terms interchangeably. But you might be wondering, how can you tell them apart? Here are the key differences between these genres.
Mystery Novels are About Piecing the Puzzle Together
In a mystery novel, the murder usually takes place at the beginning and is the highlight of the story. The narrative revolves around finding out who has committed the offense.
This genre is also interactive since you, as a reader, will use the clues scattered around the story in order to solve the crime with the main character. In the end, the mystery is solved and the evildoer is apprehended.
Thriller Books are All About Action and Emotion
Thriller books are all about fast-paced action and heightened emotions. From the start, the main character’s life is at danger and even more so as the story progresses.
This genre is characterized by the cat-and-mouse chase that the protagonist and antagonist engage in. Oftentimes, these novels future-oriented since you'll be anticipating what is going to happen next.
Suspense Novels Keep Readers on Their Toes
Although suspense can be seen in almost all novels, this genre establishes a sense of tension which then creates an atmosphere of fear.
The villains as well as their intentions are revealed early on and it is the main character’s job to stop them despite the risk. Readers are kept on the edge of their seats since they know what is coming but the protagonist doesn’t.
How to Choose a Mystery Book – Buying Guide
When choosing a mystery novel, it is important to take note of your preferred format and subgenre. We also recommend looking at reviews online if you need more help in choosing your latest read. Scroll down to find out more!
Select a Subgenre Based on Your Preference
There is a mystery novel for every reader. From lighthearted reads to heart wrenching stories, here are the subgenres below the mystery category.
Cozy Mysteries are for Readers Who are Just Getting into the Mystery Genre
If you’re looking for something that does not have too much gore, violence, or foul language, then this subgenre is for you.
Set in a familiar yet comfortable environment, a cozy mystery story focuses on an amateur detective, usually a woman, who spends her time searching for answers regarding a crime.
For Hardcore Action, Go for Hard-Boiled or Noir Mysteries
On the other hand, a hard-boiled or noir mystery is on the other side of the spectrum. It has all the gore and brutality that most mystery novel enthusiasts look for.
Here, the main character is a cop or private investigator who is determined to apprehend the killer and give justice to the victim. He or she unfortunately does not get the support of society which serves as an additional hurdle.
Other Subgenres Under the Mystery Category
If you want something that’s in between these two subgenres, go for amateur sleuth, private detective, medical, scientific, forensic, or historical novels.
Amateur sleuth is a subgenre wherein the detective is not a professional but is investigating a crime for personal reasons. Both the private detective and medical, scientific or forensic subgenres focus on using the protagonist’s expertise in their field in order to solve a crime.
Lastly, as the name suggests, the historical subgenre is set in the past and the sleuth may be an amateur or professional.
Reading Book Reviews Online Will Help You Narrow Down Your Choices
Torn between two equally interesting mystery novels? Or are you a mystery newbie looking for your latest read? Looking at book reviews online can help you select your next mystery book.
Look for Spoiler-Free Reviews Online
One way to find your latest read is to check reviews online, whether it be on websites, blogs, or YouTube. Fellow bookworms can give you a gist of the story as well as advice on things to look out for when reading the book. However, make sure to check if the review is spoiler-free so that you’ll be able to enjoy the novel.
It is also important to check the “mystery factor” of the book. Unique storylines which keep you guessing are always a pleasure to read. In line with this, the things to look out for when buying a mystery novel include an attention-grabbing hook, a couple of red herrings, and a satisfying ending.
An Award-Winning Novel can Also be a Good Option
Although this should not be the sole determining factor when purchasing a book, mystery novels which have won awards can help you trim down your choices. An expert viewpoint on your latest read might be just what you need.
Choose Between a Physical Copy or Electronic Copy
Physical copies give you a more traditional feel while electronic copies are more accessible and convenient. Read along to find out which format is best for you.
Physical Copies Can Be Categorized into Hard Bound and Paperback Novels
For a more affordable and lightweight option, go for paperbacks. These compact books are also ideal for travelling due to their small size. In addition to that, paperbacks are recommended for people who would just like to read for pleasure.
One downside, however, is that paperbacks can get damaged easily due to the materials used. The paper, glue, and ink used for these books are not as good compared to the ones used for hardbound novels.
Electronic Copies Can Be Categorized into eBooks and Audiobooks
Multitasking while listening to your favorite book is possible with audiobooks! As long as the task does not require intense concentration, you can listen to audiobooks during your own convenient time. Also, listening to audiobooks is a more immersive experience since you’ll be able to listen to the nuances, accents, and emotions of the characters.
Similar to eBooks, one disadvantage of listening to audiobooks is that it requires a stable power source. Additionally, these novels require larger memory and are more expensive compared to eBooks. Longer books also tend to drag on when you listen to them for a long time.
10 Best Mystery Books to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Subgenre | Format | Number of Pages | |||||
1 | Gillian Flynn Sharp Objects | | The Dark Thrill of Unveiling Small-Town Secrets | Thriller, Murder Mystery, Domestic Noir | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook | 352 | |
2 | Delia Owens Where the Crawdads Sing | | A Tragic Marshland Tale of Mystery, Isolation, and Natural Beauty | Romance, Murder Mystery | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook | 400 | |
3 | Karen McManus One of Us Is Lying | | A Gripping Mystery of Lies, Consequences, and High School Drama | Young Adult, Murder Mystery | Paperback, Hardcover, eBook, Audiobook | 368 | |
4 | Harlan Coben Tell No One | | A Captivating Thriller of Lost Love and Lethal Secrets | Crime, Thriller | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook | 352 | |
5 | Diane Chamberlain The Last House on the Street | | A Tale of Hidden Histories and Redemption | Historical Fiction | Hardcover, eBook, Audiobook | 352 | |
6 | Sir Arthur Conan Doyle The Complete Sherlock Holmes | | A Collection of Classic Tales in Deduction and Mystery | Detective Fiction | Paperback | 1796 | |
7 | Alex Michaelides The Maidens | | An Intriguing Mystery Novel Set in Academia | Psychological Thriller, Amateur Sleuth | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook | 384 | |
8 | Stieg Larsson The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo | | A Complex Mystery Thriller With Unforgettable Characters | Crime, Thriller | Paperback, eBook | 590 | |
9 | Jesse Q. Sutanto Four Aunties and a Wedding | | A Wedding Turns Into a Mafia Showdown in This Cozy Mystery | Romantic Comedy, Cozy Mystery | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook | 304 | |
10 | Mia P. Manansala Blackmail and Bibingka | | A Savory Blend of Mystery and Filipino Cuisine | Cozy Mystery | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook | 288 | |
The Dark Thrill of Unveiling Small-Town Secrets
Gillian Flynn's masterful storytelling weaves a web of secrets, lies, and family dysfunction, drawing readers into a chilling and suspenseful narrative. "Sharp Objects" puts readers at the edge of their seats with disturbing revelations and its haunting journey into the macabre. Following the success of "Gone Girl" on the big screen, this book was also adapted into a TV series in 2018!
| Subgenre | Thriller, Murder Mystery, Domestic Noir |
|---|---|
| Format | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook |
| Number of Pages | 352 |
A Tragic Marshland Tale of Mystery, Isolation, and Natural Beauty
Delia Owens' lyrical prose beautifully captures the natural world and evokes a deep sense of place. The novel also intertwines a murder mystery that keeps readers captivated until the very last page. "Where the Crawdads Sing" is a touching exploration of human connection and the enduring power of the wilderness. Moreover, this book has been adapted into a movie in 2022.
| Subgenre | Romance, Murder Mystery |
|---|---|
| Format | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook |
| Number of Pages | 400 |
A Gripping Mystery of Lies, Consequences, and High School Drama
As the story unfolds, you'll be kept guessing and glued to the page, unveiling shocking twists and turns. Karen McManus skillfully presents various viewpoints, exploring the lives of the main characters, who are distinct and relatable. The engaging plot and well-drawn characters lead you on a thrilling journey, which has even been made into a TV series in 2021!
| Subgenre | Young Adult, Murder Mystery |
|---|---|
| Format | Paperback, Hardcover, eBook, Audiobook |
| Number of Pages | 368 |
A Captivating Thriller of Lost Love and Lethal Secrets
Adapted into a movie in 2006, "Tell No One" is a rollercoaster ride of suspense and emotion. It explores the power of love, betrayal, and the enduring quest for truth. Harlan Coben's expert storytelling builds suspense and tension, delivering unexpected twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats.
| Subgenre | Crime, Thriller |
|---|---|
| Format | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook |
| Number of Pages | 352 |
Diane ChamberlainThe Last House on the Street
A Tale of Hidden Histories and Redemption
The novel explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the enduring impact of the past on the present. Diane Chamberlain's storytelling is emotionally resonant, with well-drawn characters facing complex moral dilemmas. "The Last House on the Street" is a touching and suspenseful tale of love, loss, and the power of truth.
| Subgenre | Historical Fiction |
|---|---|
| Format | Hardcover, eBook, Audiobook |
| Number of Pages | 352 |
Sir Arthur Conan DoyleThe Complete Sherlock Holmes
A Collection of Classic Tales in Deduction and Mystery
With this timeless collection of detective stories, you're in for a treat! It features the brilliant consulting detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. John Watson. This iconic series includes four novels and 56 short stories, showcasing Holmes' remarkable deductive abilities and his unwavering commitment to solving complex mysteries.
Set in Victorian and Edwardian London, the stories encompass a wide range of cases, from murder and theft to espionage and the supernatural. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's vivid characterizations, intricate plots, and Holmes' logical reasoning have made this collection a cornerstone of detective fiction. The Sherlock Holmes series remains a classic that continues to captivate readers with its enduring charm and intrigue.
| Subgenre | Detective Fiction |
|---|---|
| Format | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | 1796 |
An Intriguing Mystery Novel Set in Academia
As Mariana investigates, she is drawn into the enigmatic world of the professor's devoted female students. Alex Michaelides masterfully builds suspense and tension, skillfully blurring the lines between reality and delusion. "The Maidens" is a haunting exploration of obsession, trauma, and the power of the mind, keeping readers guessing until the shocking conclusion.
| Subgenre | Psychological Thriller, Amateur Sleuth |
|---|---|
| Format | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook |
| Number of Pages | 384 |
A Complex Mystery Thriller With Unforgettable Characters
Stieg Larsson's intricate plot, well-developed characters, and exploration of societal issues make this a compelling and thought-provoking book. It's a gripping blend of suspense, intrigue, and social commentary that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. This riveting crime novel was even adapted into a movie in 2011!
| Subgenre | Crime, Thriller |
|---|---|
| Format | Paperback, eBook |
| Number of Pages | 590 |
A Wedding Turns Into a Mafia Showdown in This Cozy Mystery
Her determined aunties and mother now step up to protect her special day from turning into a criminal showdown. Jesse Q. Sutanto's novel is a delightful blend of wedding mayhem and mafia intrigue. It offers a unique and entertaining twist on the romance and mystery genres, filled with humor and suspense. This is perfect for readers who want something light but exciting.
| Subgenre | Romantic Comedy, Cozy Mystery |
|---|---|
| Format | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook |
| Number of Pages | 304 |
A Savory Blend of Mystery and Filipino Cuisine
Mia P. Manansala's engaging storytelling and vivid descriptions of food make this book a delectable treat for mystery lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Set against the backdrop of a charming Filipino-American community, the book explores themes of family, identity, and tradition. It also delivers a satisfying whodunit with a side of humor and romance.
| Subgenre | Cozy Mystery |
|---|---|
| Format | Paperback, eBook, Audiobook |
| Number of Pages | 288 |
Dive Into These Mystery-Related Materials
Looking for other content pertaining to mysteries that you can binge? Click the links to find out more!
Author: Aprille Jarcia
Re-editor: Marionne Lirios
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Mystery Books
No. 1: Gillian Flynn｜Sharp Objects
No. 2: Delia Owens｜Where the Crawdads Sing
No. 3: Karen McManus｜One of Us Is Lying
No. 4: Harlan Coben｜Tell No One
No. 5: Diane Chamberlain｜The Last House on the Street
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.