Subject
Murder -- Fiction Books
Best books
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
Crime and Punishment
"Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a novel published in 1866. It follows Rodion Raskolnikov, an impoverished former law student in Saint Petersburg who plans to murder an unscrupulous pawnbroker. He convinces himself that certain crimes are justifiable if committed by "extraordinary" men pursuing higher goals. Once the deed is done, however, he is consumed by confusion, paranoia, and guilt as his theoretical justifications crumble and he faces the internal and external consequences of his actions.
James Malcolm Rymer
The String of Pearls; Or, The Barber of Fleet Street. A Domestic Romance.
"The String of Pearls; Or, The Barber of Fleet Street. A Domestic Romance." by Rymer et al. is a penny dreadful serial published from 1846 to 1847. This tale introduces Sweeney Todd, the murderous barber of Fleet Street who kills his customers and delivers their corpses to Mrs. Lovett, who bakes the flesh into meat pies. When a sailor mysteriously disappears after visiting Todd's shop, friends and loved ones investigate, uncovering a horrifying secret beneath St. Dunstan's church that reveals the true scale of Todd's crimes.
Fyodor Dostoyevsky
El crimen y el castigo
"El crimen y el castigo" by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novel first published in 1866. An impoverished former law student in Saint Petersburg plans to murder a pawnbroker, convincing himself that certain crimes are justifiable when committed by "extraordinary" men for higher purposes. But once the deed is done, he finds himself consumed by confusion, paranoia, and guilt. His theoretical justifications crumble as he confronts the internal and external consequences of his actions, plunging into profound mental anguish and moral turmoil.
Oliver Onions
A Case in Camera
"A Case in Camera" by Oliver Onions is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story kicks off with a murder mystery, following a young artist named Philip Esdaile who finds himself entangled in a complex web of events surrounding a tragic accident involving a crashing aeroplane and a fatality. The opening chapters introduce a vibrant breakfast gathering of friends, which is abruptly interrupted by the alarming incident that will lead to unforeseen complications for the characters involved. The beginning of the novel establishes a light-hearted yet intimate atmosphere filled with camaraderie among the characters, only for it to take a dark turn when a parachute unexpectedly lands on Esdaile's studio. As the aftermath unfolds, it becomes clear that Esdaile may be hiding something related to the accident involving two aviators, one of whom is critically injured while the other is deceased. The narrative hints at secrets, potential motives, and the psychological impact this incident will have on Esdaile and his friends, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of themes such as morality, loyalty, and the repercussions of one’s actions.
Richard Jefferies
World's End: A Story in Three Books
"World's End: A Story in Three Books" by Richard Jefferies is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative appears to delve into themes of societal structure and personal ambition through the lens of a developing city and its inhabitants. Central to the plot is the evolution of Stirmingham, a city with a dubious start attributed to a water-rat, and various characters that seem to reflect the struggle between poverty and the quest for wealth and status. The opening of the story introduces the origin of Stirmingham, revealing its transformation from a barren marsh caused by the burrowing activities of the water-rat to a bustling city. Mr. Sibbold, a miserly farmer, and his two sons are introduced alongside the basket-makers who inhabit the swamp, setting up a tension that hints at themes of conflict over land and resources. As Old Sibbold's attempts to reclaim what he believes is rightfully his unfold, the dynamics between the established villagers and the squatters grow complicated, foreshadowing conflict and possibly crime. The groundwork for a rich tapestry of characters and societal critique is established, suggesting a story ripe with drama and moral dilemmas.
Leo Tolstoy
The Kreutzer Sonata and Other Stories
"The Kreutzer Sonata and Other Stories" by Leo Tolstoy is a collection of narratives written during the late 19th century. The titular story, "The Kreutzer Sonata," presents a dialogue that dives deep into themes of love, marriage, and morality, primarily through the experiences and musings of the character Posdnicheff, who reveals his tumultuous relationship with his wife. This collection not only explores individual tales but also reflects Tolstoy's profound philosophical and social critiques of the institution of marriage and the complexities of human relationships. At the start of "The Kreutzer Sonata," the protagonist is introduced during a train journey, where various passengers engage in an intense conversation about love and marriage. The atmosphere is charged with differing opinions, particularly between a loquacious lawyer and a cynical merchant, who assert traditional views on gender roles within marriage. The somber undertone of Posdnicheff’s initial silence hints at his troubled past and foreshadows a harrowing tale of jealousy, betrayal, and existential despair. As conversations unfold, they lead to disturbing revelations about marital discontent, which become the basis for Posdnicheff’s own tragic narrative about love and its disillusionment. This opening effectively sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Tolstoy's stark observations on human emotions and societal expectations.
Émile Zola
Theresa Raquin
"Theresa Raquin" by Émile Zola is a novel published in 1867. It tells the story of a young woman trapped in a loveless marriage to her sickly cousin Camille. When she begins a passionate affair with her husband's friend Laurent, the lovers become convinced that only murder can free them to be together. Their crime succeeds, but guilt transforms their passion into mutual hatred and psychological torment, making their lives together unbearable.
Sax Rohmer
The Yellow Claw
"The Yellow Claw" by Sax Rohmer is a mystery novel written during the early 20th century. The story begins in the atmospheric setting of a novelist's study and takes a dramatic turn when beauty and terror intertwine as the glamorous yet troubled Lady of the Civet Furs arrives, seeking help from the reclusive writer Henry Leroux. As events unfold, intrigue surrounding her appearance suggests a deeper plot involving murder, a missing husband, and sinister forces at play. At the start of the book, we find Leroux engrossed in his writing when a frantic, beautiful woman appears at his door, fearing for her safety. This woman, covered in a luxurious civet fur cloak, brings an air of mystery and urgency, revealing her distress as she pleads for Leroux's assistance. The tension escalates when she collapses, revealing the precarious nature of her situation. As Leroux's world spirals into chaos, the narrative introduces a cast of characters that includes a doctor and a politician, setting the stage for a complex web of murder and deception, firmly establishing the tone of suspense that defines the novel.
M. E. (Mary Elizabeth) Braddon
The day will come : $b a novel
"The Day Will Come" by M. E. Braddon is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a young couple, Juanita Dalbrook and Sir Godfrey Carmichael, as they embark on their honeymoon in the idyllic setting of Cheriton Chase, a manorial estate steeped in history and familial connections. The opening sets the stage for themes of social status, personal ambition, and the weight of legacy, hinting at underlying tensions and emotional complexity among the characters. The opening of the book introduces a vibrant celebration in the village of Cheriton, marking the marriage of Juanita and Godfrey. As the couple arrives amid the joyful ringing of church bells and festive villagers, we learn about their backgrounds, including Lord Cheriton's self-made rise to nobility and Juanita's delicate beauty and familial expectations. Although joyful, the narrative hints at Juanita's concerns over her family's history and her father's aspirations for a male heir, establishing a backdrop of personal conflict. The introduction of Theodore Dalbrook, Juanita’s cousin who harbors unrequited feelings for her, adds another layer of emotional tension, foreshadowing potential challenges the couple may face as they navigate their new life together in the old manor house.
Nathaniel Hawthorne
The Marble Faun; Or, The Romance of Monte Beni - Volume 1
"The Marble Faun; Or, The Romance of Monte Beni - Volume 1" by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a romance published in 1860. Set in a fantastical Italy, the story follows four characters: the mysterious painter Miriam, innocent copyist Hilda, rationalist sculptor Kenyon, and Donatello, a count who strangely resembles an ancient marble faun. As Miriam is pursued by a threatening figure from her past and Donatello's possible connection to mythical ancestry emerges, the narrative weaves together elements of fable, gothic mystery, and pastoral romance against an Italian backdrop.
Mayne Reid
The Headless Horseman: A Strange Tale of Texas
"The Headless Horseman: A Strange Tale of Texas" by Mayne Reid is a novel published in 1866, based on the author's American adventures and a South Texas folk tale. Set in Texas after the Mexican-American War, the story follows beautiful Louise Poindexter, courted by two rivals: the vindictive Cassius Calhoun and the dashing mustanger Maurice Gerald. When Louise's brother is murdered, all evidence points to Maurice—while a mysterious headless rider haunts the Poindexter plantation. Reid's thrilling adventure weaves romance, mystery, and frontier legend into an unforgettable tale.
Mary Roberts Rinehart
The Breaking Point
"The Breaking Point" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel written during the early 20th century, showcasing the complexities of love, rumor, and social dynamics in a small town. The story revolves around several characters, particularly focusing on Elizabeth Wheeler, a young girl navigating her dreams and expectations, and Doctor Dick Livingstone, a man with a mysterious past and rising affections. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Elizabeth as she participates in choir practice, reflecting on her life and romantic aspirations. She enjoys the sense of community and fulfillment that comes from being part of the choir, yet harbors secret dreams of finding love. Meanwhile, her friend Clare confides in her feelings for Doctor Dick Livingstone, revealing an undercurrent of gossip and social intrigue in their town. As Elizabeth grapples with her modest aspirations and the lives of those around her, the narrative hints at broader themes of hidden pasts and societal pressures, setting the stage for unfolding drama and personal dilemmas among the characters. The beginning of the book establishes a rich tapestry of interpersonal relationships, while alluding to the impending complexities they will face.
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