The most recommended Christian mystery books

Who picked these books? Meet our 34 experts.

34 authors created a book list with Christian mystery books, and here are their favorites.

Shepherd is reader supported. When you buy books, we may earn an affiliate commission.

What type of Christian mystery book?

Loading...
Loading...

Book cover of War in Heaven

Stephen Hayes Author Of The Enchanted Grove

From my list on set in this world with relics from the past.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have degrees in history and Christian theology, and enjoy science fiction and fantasy stories, whether set on earth, or in other worlds, whether real (other planets of our solar system), hypothetical (possible planets in other galaxies), or imaginary (Narnia, Wonderland). But I like those set in this world best, and value them especially for the insights they give into life, the universe, and everything. As C.S. Lewis once said to his friend J.R.R. Tolkien, if we want more of the kind of stories we like, we shall have to write them ourselves. The books I’ve recommended are the kind I like, and I’ve tried to write a few more. 

Stephen's book list on set in this world with relics from the past

Stephen Hayes Why did Stephen love this book?

Charles Williams’s books have been described as “supernatural thrillers.” Many later authors have tried to use the theme of a recently-rediscovered ancient holy relic, which various people want to get hold of for good or evil purposes, in this case the Holy Grail or Graal, but few have done it as well as Charles Williams. I’ve read it at least five times, and I also think it has one of the most attention-grabbing opening lines in fiction: “The telephone bell was ringing wildly, but without result, since there was no-one in the room but the corpse.”

By Charles Williams,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked War in Heaven as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

"War in Heaven" is a horrific romance, with many mythical creatures present. Instead of creating a unique secondary fantasy world or switching between two universes, Williams allows the supernatural to invade his modern world. This allows him to explore the influence of another reality on different characters. The object that guides the supernatural to the natural in this novel is the Holy Grail


Book cover of The Anger of God

Tom Mead Author Of The Murder Wheel: A Locked-Room Mystery

From Tom's 3 favorite reads in 2023.

Why am I passionate about this?

Author Crime fiction fan Mystery fan Golden age mystery fan Locked-room mystery fan

Tom's 3 favorite reads in 2023

Tom Mead Why did Tom love this book?

Nobody writes historical mysteries quite like Paul Doherty, and his Brother Athelstan series is one of my absolute favourites.

But Doherty is so prolific that I am still catching up with his work, and The Anger of God is, in fact, the fourth tale to feature the sleuthing friar and his Falstaffian friend Sir John Cranston.

As you would expect from Paul Doherty, the medieval period is vividly evoked, and the plot is an incredibly complicated mystery featuring seemingly impossible murders, the theft of several severed heads, not to mention demonic possession! 

By Paul Doherty,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Anger of God as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The kingdom teeters on a knife edge, and one man would throw it into chaos...

Autumn, 1379. The power of the crown is invested in John of Gaunt, and the kingdom is seething with discontent. The French are attacking the southern ports and the peasants are planning a revolt organised by a mysterious leader who proclaims himself as 'IRA DEI', the anger of God.

When Gaunt's plans to win over the merchant princes of London are plunged into chaos by a series of bloody murders, he turns to Sir John Cranston to bring the assassin to book and to recover…


Book cover of Mistress of the Art of Death

Mary Lawrence Author Of The Alchemist's Daughter

From my list on Medieval-Tudor mysteries time travel.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have a biology and chemistry degree and have worked in a hospital laboratory for over 25 years. History has always been an interest, and my affection for the Tudor era was sparked after learning some background about Shakespeare’s works. The politics, the forgotten words and their meanings from that time, fascinate me. I fancy myself a bit of an armchair historian and time traveler. My suggested books succeed in transporting me back in time. I learn on the coattails of smart protagonists created by intelligent writers who get the mix of history, mystery, and science just right. 

Mary's book list on Medieval-Tudor mysteries time travel

Mary Lawrence Why did Mary love this book?

One of the smartest books I’ve ever read portraying a woman in a “man’s job” in medieval England. Adelia is trained in Italy as a ‘Mistress of the Art of Death,’ a precursor to today’s medical examiner.

She’s brilliant and brave, and she engages in repartee with Sir Rowley—King Henry II’s tax collector and love interest—that has me turning the pages eager for their next encounter. This is a smart, funny, well-researched thriller that I return to every few years to reread. 

By Ariana Franklin,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked Mistress of the Art of Death as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 14.

What is this book about?

Winner of the CWA Best Historical Crime Novel of the Year

'Great fun! Franklin succeeds in vividly bringing the 12th century to life with this cracking good story' KATE MOSSE

Medieval England. A hideous murder. Enter the first female anatomist...

Adelia Aguilar is a rare thing in medieval Europe - a woman who has trained as a doctor. Her speciality is the study of corpses, a skill that must be concealed if she is to avoid accusations of witchcraft.

But in Cambridge a child has been murdered, others are disappearing, and King Henry has called upon a renowned Italian investigator…


Book cover of Fallen Graces

Ellen Gable Author Of Where Angels Pass

From Ellen's 3 favorite reads in 2023.

Why am I passionate about this?

Author Avid reader Experienced editor Amateur genealogist Classic movie fan

Ellen's 3 favorite reads in 2023

Ellen Gable Why did Ellen love this book?

Fallen Graces is a wonderful story that illustrates forgiveness amidst a challenging situation and is my favorite book of the Fr. Tom series.

The entire Boston community is baffled by a series of macabre murders. Fr. Tom risks his life to unmask (and humanize) the killer. The theme of forgiveness is portrayed with sensitivity.

This is a riveting, page-turning mystery/thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat until the end.

By Jim Sano,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Fallen Graces as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

When a dead man’s body is found in the upper basin of a historic fountain in Boston Common with a cryptic message in his pocket, Detective Brooks reluctantly calls in Father Tom and Angelo to help solve the clues in the hunt for a killer set on justice and revenge. Fallen Graces, the fifth book of the award-winning Father Tom series, delves into the psychological and religious complexities of a killer who becomes as equally unpredictable as dangerous to the parish neighborhood of St. Francis, and Father Tom has no choice but to become more involved, risking his own life…


Book cover of The Stranger in the Lifeboat

Eve Gaal Author Of The Happy War

From my list on adventure books that will make you forget reality.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a survivor. Whether flaming engines on a plane, a hurricane, or breast cancer, I have made many unusual journeys. The way I see it, I am also a writer, and God keeps giving me material for my adventure novels. Of course, I’m also a reader and could fill this page with more than five recommendations. Hopefully, you’ll want to read one of these awesome books. I guarantee they will make you escape reality.

Eve's book list on adventure books that will make you forget reality

Eve Gaal Why did Eve love this book?

I loved this book because I’ve sailed across the ocean a few times and have experienced hurricanes and rain storms. Honestly, I have faced death while traveling many times.

This book is a faith-based story that I couldn’t put down. The twists and turns are unexpected, and the writing is superb. 

By Mitch Albom,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Stranger in the Lifeboat as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

THE INSTANT NO.1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

The stunning new novel from the bestselling author of global phenomenon Tuesdays with Morrie

'Mitch Albom sees the magical in the ordinary' Cecelia Ahern
____________

Adrift in a raft after a terrible shipwreck, ten strangers try to survive while they wait for rescue.

After three days, short on water, food and hope, they spot a man floating in the waves.

They pull him on board - and the survivor claims he can save them.

But should they put their trust in him?

Will any of them see home again?

And why did the…


Book cover of The Vanishing at Loxby Manor

Michelle Griep Author Of Lost in Darkness

From my list on to satisfy Jane Austen and Jane Eyre lovers.

Why am I passionate about this?

Though I live in the foothills of the Ozarks, I’m an Anglophile at heart, loving all things Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. I spent much of my angsty adolescence tucked away in Regency and Victorian England with my nose stuck in a book. As a result, I now jump at every chance I get to skip across the pond and roam the English countryside, listening hard to hear all the voices from the past—which is why my stories are always tied to British history. So whether you love ballrooms or shadowy tales set in gothic manors, here’s a great list for you.

Michelle's book list on to satisfy Jane Austen and Jane Eyre lovers

Michelle Griep Why did Michelle love this book?

Gothic stories are some of my favorite, especially when paired with the English countryside. This one entangles relationships that are sometimes tricky to navigate—much like real life, which I really appreciated. Truth is timeless, and I find that I often learn lessons from historical fiction that help me in my contemporary life. Such is the case for The Vanishing at Loxby Manor. I love how misunderstandings are cleared up between the characters for a very satisfying ending.

More Jane Eyre than Jane Austen.

By Abigail Wilson,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Vanishing at Loxby Manor as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A story of second chances and secrets, this mysterious Regency romance will transport you to 19th-century England as one young lady reunites with her childhood love to find his missing sister.

Her friend is missing.

After five years abroad, Charity Halliwell finally returns to Loxby Manor, the home of dear friends-and her lost love. No longer a young girl, she is now haunted by a painful secret and the demise of her dreams. Instead of the healing and happiness she hopes to find, she encounters a darkness lurking in the shadows of the once-familiar house. When her friend, Seline, disappears…


Book cover of Sovereign

Brendan Gerad O'Brien Author Of Gallows Field

From Brendan's 3 favorite reads in 2023.

Why am I passionate about this?

Author Family man Avid reader Passionate walker Swimmer

Brendan's 3 favorite reads in 2023

Brendan Gerad O'Brien Why did Brendan love this book?

This is a historical fiction set in 1541 but written in such a beautifully crafted style you feel the immediacy of it as if you were living it right now.

Author CJ Sansom obviously does forensic research but compliments this with a fantastic imagination. Essentially, this is a murder mystery set around the time King Henry takes his procession of a thousand caravans all the way up to York. 

Sent to York to assist in some legal work, Lawyer Matthew Shardlake is unfortunately given a special task by Archbishop Cranmer – to ensure the safety of an important and dangerous prisoner who is to be taken back to London for interrogation. But the murder of a local glazier drags Shardlake even deeper into a dangerous conspiracy that threatens the very future of the Tudor throne.

CJ Sansom’s writing style is so smooth you forget you’re actually reading a book, and…

By C.J. Sansom,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Sovereign as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Following on from Dissolution and Dark Fire, Sovereign is the third gripping historical novel in C. J. Sansom's number one bestselling Shardlake series, for fans of Hilary Mantel and Philippa Gregory.

'When it comes to intriguing Tudor-based narratives, Hilary Mantel has a serious rival' - Sunday Times
'Sansom has the trick of writing an enthralling narrative. Like Hilary Mantel, he produces densely textured historical novels that absorb their readers in another time' - Andrew Taylor, Spectator

Autumn, 1541: King Henry VIII has set out on a spectacular Progress to the North to attend an extravagant submission of his rebellious subjects…


Book cover of Tombland

Terry Morgan Author Of Whistleblower

From my list on international crime exotic locations nasty politics.

Why am I passionate about this?

What I look for in a book is something that triggers my serious side. So be it if that removes a whole range of fantasy books or those that merely titillate. Because I’ve traveled a lot, ‘feasible fiction’ is what I write and what I look for in other books. A story might be entirely fictitious, but as long as it’s not far-fetched, has a cast of realistic characters, an international or historic location, and keeps me on my toes to the very end, that’s great. If it’s got some politics and science thrown in, that’s even better. I hope my list lives up to expectations. 

Terry's book list on international crime exotic locations nasty politics

Terry Morgan Why did Terry love this book?

C. J. Sansom, a historian, died just recently, but he’s left a legacy of historical crime novels based around the time of Henry VIII. The main character is a charismatic, hunchbacked lawyer called Matthew Shardlake.

If, like me, you like books with strong characters, then, together with Sansom’s skill at weaving in the sights, sounds, smells, political shenanigans, and countless characters of Tudor England, Tombland is a fantastic read. It’s a long book (800 pages), so take your time on it, but I think this is historical crime fiction at its best. 

By C.J. Sansom,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked Tombland as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Tudor England is brought vividly to life in Tombland, the seventh novel in C. J. Sansom's number one bestselling Shardlake series, for fans of Hilary Mantel and Philippa Gregory.

'When it comes to intriguing Tudor-based narratives, Hilary Mantel has a serious rival' - Sunday Times
'Sansom has the trick of writing an enthralling narrative. Like Hilary Mantel, he produces densely textured historical novels that absorb their readers in another time' - Andrew Taylor, Spectator

The Sunday Times Number One Bestseller

England, 1549: Two years after the death of Henry VIII, England is sliding into chaos . . .

The nominal…


Book cover of Deep Fried Trouble

Danyelle Scroggins Author Of Blame It On My Boots

From my list on for spiritual growth, healing, and hope.

Why am I passionate about this?

In every book that I have recommended, you’ll find the dynamics of family and love. I’ve been a pastor for over fifteen years and now work as an author of both Christian fiction and non-fiction books. I'm a Chaplain for a Trauma One leveled hospital, and I counsel people of all ages. My master's degree in Religious Education is also a much-used tool as I’ve used education to deepen my quest to obtain knowledge. My love of books about family and love began when I lived in Yokosuka, Japan. I was far away from my family, beginning a new chapter with my own family, but right on the verge of learning how friends can truly turn into family.

Danyelle's book list on for spiritual growth, healing, and hope

Danyelle Scroggins Why did Danyelle love this book?

I am the girl who loves old people. I get a kick out of listening to their stories and wisdom on life. If you’re ever looking for me and can’t find me, go to the old person who I consider as my mentor. So, Tyora Moody in this five book series introduces the world to Mrs. Eugeena Patterson, a widow and retired teacher who knows almost everyone in her community and stays in their business. This book series will make you laugh and cry beginning with book one. I call her books my pick-me-up books.

By Tyora Moody,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Deep Fried Trouble as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Widowed and officially retired, EUGEENA PATTERSON throws herself into organizing the neighborhood association. This presents a great opportunity to re-connect with old friends and get to know new neighbors like recently widowed Amos Jones, that is until Eugeena stumbles upon her estranged neighbor’s dead body. Eugeena’s daughter is fingered as a prime suspect, but where is she? Determined to find her missing daughter, Eugeena and Amos sort through a list of neighbors with shady or unknown backgrounds. The more she searches, the more Eugeena becomes unsure about this neighborhood association idea. Someone closer than Eugeena thinks, wants to keep it…


Book cover of Hazardous Duty

Joni M. Fisher Author Of North of the Killing Hand

From my list on contemporary mysteries with outsider female sleuths.

Why am I passionate about this?

Growing up in a violent household drove me to find refuge in books and libraries. By vicariously experiencing other lives, I found inspiration in strong heroines. I am continuously attracted to stories where women who are victims of crime or injustice fight back with grit, brains, and strategy to win. That being said, in a worldly society that demands conformity in behavior and thought, the outsider—that independent thinker who embraces her individuality and faith—is my very favorite kind of heroine. The outsider heroine is also the kind I create in my books to inspire women to complain less and achieve more.

Joni's book list on contemporary mysteries with outsider female sleuths

Joni M. Fisher Why did Joni love this book?

I am captivated by Gabby’s witty internal monologue and her unwanted contributions to investigations. Her refusal to back down from threats proves her strength and resilience.

Gabby St. Clair longs to complete her degree in forensic science, and while working as a crime scene cleaner, she uncovers clues. Fluent in sarcasm, Gabby says half of what she wants to say and adds a touch of humor and relatability to her underdog character. She yearns to complete her degree to become a licensed investigator. I am especially pleased the story has no porn or profanity.

By Christy Barritt,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Hazardous Duty as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Gabby St. Claire dropped out of school on her way to completing a degree in forensic science. Instead, she did the next best thing: she started her own crime scene cleaning business. When a routine cleaning job uncovers a murder weapon the police overlooked, she realizes that the wrong person is in jail. But the owner of the weapon is willing to do anything to keep Gabby quiet. With the help of her neighbor, Riley Thomas, Gabby plays detective. But can Riley help her before another murder occurs?