7 Must-Read Crime & Thriller Books for February 2025

As February 2025 approaches, crime and thriller enthusiasts can look forward to a thrilling lineup of new releases. From psychological suspense to gritty detective tales, this month promises a diverse range of stories to captivate readers. Let’s delve into seven must-read crime and thriller books guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat.

1. Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney

Alice Feeney, dubbed the “Queen of Twists,” returns with Beautiful Ugly, releasing on January 30, 2025. The novel follows author Grady Green, whose wife, Abby, disappeared a year ago. Grady travels to a remote Scottish island to rebuild his life, only to encounter a woman who looks exactly like Abby.

Feeney's mastery of psychological suspense and unexpected twists shines in this atmospheric novel. Themes of marriage, revenge, and identity are explored against the haunting backdrop of an isolated island. If you’re a fan of slow-burn mysteries that leave you questioning reality, this book is a must-read.

2. Making A Killing by Cara Hunter

Set to release on February 13, 2025, Making A Killing promises another intricate police procedural from Cara Hunter. While details about the plot remain under wraps, Hunter’s reputation for crafting complex characters and surprising twists makes this release highly anticipated. Fans of the DI Fawley series and tightly woven crime stories won’t want to miss this one.

3. Death Takes Me by Cristina Rivera Garza

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Cristina Rivera Garza delivers a genre-bending thriller with Death Takes Me, releasing on February 25, 2025. The story follows a protagonist named Cristina Rivera Garza, who discovers the body of a castrated murder victim. As more bodies are found, Cristina is pulled into the investigation by the police.

This novel explores themes of gender-based violence and victimhood, challenging societal norms while delivering a gripping narrative. With its literary finesse and unique premise, Death Takes Me stands out as one of the most innovative releases of the year.

4. Line of Sight by Claire Askew

Claire Askew’s Line of Sight promises another atmospheric and character-driven thriller. While details are scarce, Askew’s previous works have been praised for their gripping narratives and deep psychological insights. Readers can expect a tension-filled journey when this book hits shelves in February.

5. The Seventh Floor by David McCloskey

David McCloskey, known for his intricate plotting, adds another compelling thriller to his repertoire with The Seventh Floor. While the exact release date remains unconfirmed, early buzz suggests a suspenseful and intricately crafted story. If McCloskey’s previous work is any indication, this book will deliver a nail-biting experience for fans of the genre.

6. An Ethical Guide To Murder by Jenny Morris

Debut author Jenny Morris brings a fresh perspective to the crime thriller genre with An Ethical Guide To Murder. Described as darkly twisted and thought-provoking, the novel challenges readers to question their understanding of morality and justice. This unique debut promises a gripping narrative that stands apart from traditional crime thrillers.

7. Cold as Hell by Kelley Armstrong

In Cold as Hell, Kelley Armstrong transports readers to a remote Yukon town in the grip of a blizzard. A pregnant detective investigates a chilling murder, unraveling secrets in an isolated community. Known for her atmospheric writing, Armstrong delivers a suspenseful thriller with a hauntingly vivid setting. Fans of tightly plotted mysteries will find this book hard to put down.

The State of Crime and Thriller Fiction in 2025

Crime and thriller fiction continues to evolve, offering readers complex themes and innovative storytelling. This February’s lineup highlights several trends shaping the genre:

• Psychological Suspense: Alice Feeney’s Beautiful Ugly epitomizes the growing demand for twist-filled stories that blur the lines between reality and perception.

• Genre-Bending Narratives: Cristina Rivera Garza’s Death Takes Me demonstrates how authors are blending literary fiction with crime elements to tackle societal issues.

• Fresh Voices: Jenny Morris’s debut, An Ethical Guide To Murder, showcases the genre’s openness to new perspectives and storytelling approaches.

• Atmospheric Settings: From the Scottish islands to the snowy Yukon, these books use vivid backdrops to heighten tension and immerse readers in their narratives.

What Readers Can Expect

This February, crime and thriller fans can look forward to:

1. Diverse Narratives: From traditional police procedurals to experimental and genre-bending stories.

2. Themes That Resonate: Many of these books tackle timely issues like gender dynamics, morality, and the complexities of human relationships.

3. Unpredictable Twists: Whether it’s Feeney’s shocking reveals or Morris’s darkly twisted narrative, these books promise plenty of surprises.

4. Immersive Worlds: Atmospheric settings play a crucial role in creating tension and mood, drawing readers deeper into each story.

Conclusion

February 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting month for crime and thriller enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of psychological suspense, gritty detective stories, or genre-bending narratives, this lineup offers something for everyone.

Mark your calendars, pre-order your favorites, and prepare for a month filled with suspense, intrigue, and unforgettable storytelling. These seven books are sure to leave you breathless and eager for more.

FAQs

1. Which book is best for fans of psychological suspense?Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney is perfect for readers who love twisty, atmospheric stories with complex characters.

2. Are there any debut novels on this list?Yes, An Ethical Guide To Murder by Jenny Morris is a highly anticipated debut offering a fresh take on the crime thriller genre.

3. What’s the most unique premise among these books?Death Takes Me by Cristina Rivera Garza stands out for its genre-bending approach, blending literary fiction with crime elements.

4. Are there any police procedurals?Making A Killing by Cara Hunter is a classic police procedural that fans of the genre will thoroughly enjoy.

5. Which book has the most atmospheric setting?Cold as Hell by Kelley Armstrong uses the remote Yukon and a raging blizzard to create a chilling, immersive backdrop.

6. Do I need to read other books before any of these?Most books on this list are standalone stories, making them accessible to new readers.

7. When does Beautiful Ugly release?It will be available on January 30, 2025.

8. What themes can readers expect in Death Takes Me?The novel explores gender-based violence, victimhood, and societal norms through a gripping and unconventional narrative.

9. Are there books with morally complex characters?Yes, An Ethical Guide To Murder dives deep into moral ambiguity, challenging readers’ perceptions of right and wrong.

10. Which book should I pick if I love twist endings?Alice Feeney’s Beautiful Ugly is renowned for its unexpected and jaw-dropping twists.