At Crime Fiction Lover, we’ve always championed the creativity and innovation that independent authors and publishers bring to the crime genre. While the big publishers often dominate headlines and bestseller lists, indie crime fiction offers a fresh perspective and daring storytelling that push boundaries. That’s why we’re thrilled to present this year’s shortlist for the Best Indie Crime Book, as nominated by our readers.
These books aren’t just contenders for awards – they’re hidden gems waiting to be discovered. If you haven’t already, cast your vote for your favourite indie crime novel using the link below. Voting closes soon, so don’t miss your chance to support these incredible authors!
CLICK HERE TO VOTE ON OUR SHORTLISTS!
The Corpse with the Pearly Smile by Cathy Ace
Cathy Ace’s The Corpse with the Pearly Smile, the 14th book in the Cait Morgan series, delivers a classic closed-circle mystery with a tropical twist. Set in a luxurious Tahitian resort, the story follows Welsh-Canadian criminal psychologist Cait Morgan and her retired-cop husband Bud Anderson as they investigate the suspicious death of Vaiarii Teriimana, a famed pearl diver and model, whose body is found floating near their bungalow. The lush setting, rich in cultural and historical details, contrasts sharply with the dark intrigue as Cait uncovers secrets about the resort’s staff and guests. With her sharp observational skills and eidetic memory, Cait peels back layers of deception, leading to a dramatic Agatha Christie-style reveal. A blend of armchair travel and puzzle-solving, this cosy mystery is a treat for crime fiction fans who enjoy exotic locales and clever whodunnits.
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A Killer of Influence by JD Kirk
A Killer of Influence by JD Kirk, the 20th book in the DCI Jack Logan series, is a tense thriller that masterfully blends dark humour, gripping suspense and a uniquely Scottish voice. When eight social media influencers vanish after a Highlands convention, their horrifying plight is revealed through livestreams forcing them into deadly competitions for likes. DCI Logan and his team race against time to navigate the eerie world of viral fame and online depravity to stop a tech-savvy killer who is always one step ahead. With its cleverly plotted twists and emotionally resonant team dynamics, the story is both thrilling and hilarious. While seasoned fans will appreciate the rich history of recurring characters, newcomers can still enjoy its pulse-pounding narrative and distinctive charm. Kirk’s signature mix of gritty crime and razor-sharp wit makes this a standout read for fans of police procedurals with a twist.
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Bronco Buster by AJ Devlin
Bronco Buster, the fourth instalment in AJ Devlin’s Hammerhead Jed series, delivers a fast-paced, action-packed mystery set against the quirky backdrop of a Canadian rodeo and country fair. Jed Ounstead, a pro wrestler turned reluctant PI, finds himself drawn back into investigative work after discovering the body of a murdered lumberjack, a friend he recently connected with. Over the course of a single chaotic day, Jed and his cousin Declan navigate a colourful cast of characters, from rodeo clowns to lasso experts, while facing bribery, corruption and escalating violence. Blending humour, tension and outlandish plot twists, Devlin crafts an engaging story brimming with dramatic action, quirky charm and a distinctly Canadian flavour. It’s perfect for readers seeking a wild, entertaining escape.
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Westerwick by George Paterson
Westerwick by George Paterson is a chilling and intricately woven urban gothic tale that blends psychological suspense, folklore and dark comedy. When notorious serial killer Angus John MacMillan surrenders to the police after decades on the run, troubled lawyer Thomas Leven is drawn into a sinister web of secrets and supernatural malevolence. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Glasgow’s West End and the haunting bay of Westerwick, the story explores themes of faith, sanity and the pervasive nature of evil. Paterson skilfully crafts a claustrophobic narrative filled with unreliable characters, vivid cultural references and eerie twists, keeping readers gripped until the final page. Both unsettling and engrossing, Westerwick is a must-read for fans of gothic thrillers and modern devilry.
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Namaste Mart Confidential by Andrew Miller
Namaste Mart Confidential by Andrew Miller is a witty and compelling noir novel set in the vibrant chaos of Los Angeles in 2013. Grocery clerks Adam Minor, a brooding aspiring novelist, and Richie Walsh, an unpredictable comedian, moonlight as unlicensed PIs and take on a case involving a missing lingerie store employee. Their investigation leads them into the gritty underworld of mobsters, cults and Hollywood oddities, blending sharp wit with high-stakes drama. Miller’s edgy prose and richly drawn characters – flawed, engaging and full of tension – anchor the story, while the vivid setting and unexpected twists keep readers hooked. A fresh take on classic detective fiction, it’s a love letter to LA and a thought-provoking exploration of identity, faith and friendship.
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Dying For Crystal by Katherine Black
Dying for Crystal by Katherine Black is the fifth gripping instalment in the DCI Nash series, which delves into the harrowing consequences of a criminal drug network infiltrating a small town. As Nash investigates the deaths of several young people, including the son of a friend, the stakes intensify with the arrival of a specialist city unit and the involvement of his own family. This case pushes Nash and his team to their limits, testing their resilience and resolve in a high-stakes battle against organised crime. With gritty realism, compelling new characters and an explosive finale, this book raises the bar for the series. The story masterfully balances emotional depth with fast-paced action, creating a narrative that is both chilling and deeply human. Perfect for fans of twist-filled, high-stakes police dramas, it’s both deeply personal and chillingly relevant.
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Click here to see all the books nominated across the categories in our 2024 awards.
