Top 11 Graphic Novels Every Mystery Lover Should Read
Book RaiderDust off your magnifying glass, pull out your detective hat and fasten your trenchcoat. If you've got an appetite for suspense and a taste for beautifully drawn shenanigans, you've come to the right corner of the internet. Welcome, amateur sleuths, to the land of mystery wrapped up in the captivating visuals of graphic novels. Brace yourself for an adventure that will leave you questioning every shadow and suspecting every character.
But fear not would-be detectives, you're not alone on this tumultuous journey. I'm here to guide you through cobblestone alleys of comic-book conundrums. Let's embark on this thrilling exploration of the top graphic novels that every mystery lover should dive into. So make yourself a hot cup of something strong, and prepare to uncover secrets, unravel hidden motives, and delve into places where the lines between the good, the bad, and the ugly merge, blur, and disappear. Buckle up, it's going to be a wild ride.
100 Bullets
by Brian Azzarello
Why 100 Bullets is on this list: Due to its intriguingly complex plot and sense of suspense that'll keep you flipping pages faster than you can say 'whodunit'.
It's a cleverly plotted tale featuring agent Graves who offers wronged people an untraceable gun and 100 bullets to exact revenge. Think of it as a graphic novel version of a dark game show with real life consequences.
What readers like: Readers seem to love the novel's moral quandary - What would you do if you were given a chance for vengeance with no repercussions? They appreciate the gritty artwork and the twisting, turning narrative that bends their mind like a pretzel.
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From Hell
by Alan Moore
Why From Hell is on this list: If you're into mysteries soaked in history, an unparalleled sense of dread, and stories that will stick to your brain cells like glue, then From Hell is your kind of graphic novel.
'From Hell' is a profound deep dive into the mind of Jack the Ripper and his infamous murderous spree in Victorian England. This is not your usual whodunit though! No sir, this one is more interested in delving into the daunting shadows, perplexing sociopolitics, and the grim underbelly of the Victorian era than just pinpointing who wielded the knife.
What readers like: Readers rave about Moore's meticulous research, the intricate plotting, and the stark black-and-white art that paints every distressed line and shadow of this bygone era. Many find this to be a compelling dissection of the Ripper myth that elegantly interweaves historical reality with imaginative speculation.
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Hazardous Tales: One Dead Spy
by Nathan Hale
Why Hazardous Tales: One Dead Spy is on this list: Mystery lovers, get ready to dive headfirst into an intriguing combination of suspense and sketch in this singular graphic novel. From secret codes to concealed identities, this book is a delicious blend of history and mystery that will keep you engaged and guessing.
Taking a comedic twist on historical events, One Dead Spy tells the captivating story of American Revolution spy Nathan Hale. With its detailed graphics, the book literally paints a picture of the turbulent times, giving readers a front-row seat to the mounting tension and danger Hale faces.
What readers like: Readers wash over with praise for the clever storyline, intricate artwork, and carefully crafted humor. They love the way Hale packages history lessons into an exciting mystery, making learning fun. There's a special nod to the endearing characters who add color, life and yes, mystery to this gripping tale.
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Fell, Vol. 1: Feral City
by Warren Ellis
Why Fell, Vol. 1: Feral City is on this list: Graphic novels can add an extra layer of storytelling to the mystery genre, and 'Fell, Vol. 1: Feral City' does this in spades. Its black-and-white visuals enhance the gritty reality of its crime-ridden city, bringing the reader closer to the enigmatic charm and suspense that mystery lovers crave.
'Fell, Vol. 1: Feral City' is set in the noir-inspired city of Snowtown. Detective Richard Fell is forced to navigate its dark corners in his quest for truth and justice. With its eerie atmosphere and cunning storytelling, this graphic novel stands as a fresh, interesting take on classic whodunit tales.
What readers like: Readers appreciate the rich, intricate plot that keeps them hooked and the well-developed characters that bring Snowtown to life on the pages. They also commend the graphic novel for its ability to immerse them in a world that’s raw, a little spooky, and undeniably fascinating.
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Criminal, Vol. 1: Coward
by Ed Brubaker
Why Criminal, Vol. 1: Coward is on this list: Ed Brubaker artfully threads together a gritty detective narrative with stunning visual storytelling in 'Criminal, Vol. 1: Coward'. It's a triple-layered work of a certain class of graphic novels that'll draw you in with conundrums and let you stay for the clean, cinematic illustrations. A dream come true for mystery buffs.
Meet Leo, a professional pickpocket who's nicknamed 'Coward'. A hardened criminal light on his feet, Leo lives by a rule: stay one step ahead of the game to avoid any trouble. With suspense around every corner, Criminal, Vol. 1: Coward is a cunning heist mystery that’ll keep you guessing.
What readers like: Readers fall hard for Brubaker's stylish, noir-inspired artwork that builds this stark, suspenseful world. They're also particularly fond of Leo, our crafty protagonist who is anything but your run-of-the-mill hero. Morally complex, quiet, but always clever, Leo feels real and is a character readers won't soon forget.
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My Friend Dahmer
by Derf Backderf
Why My Friend Dahmer is on this list: This isn't your usual whodunit mystery novel, it's a chilling exploration of the 'why' behind one of America's most notorious serial killers. The author knew Dahmer in high school, adding an insider's touch to the story.
Through Backderf's captivating words and detailed drawings, the book takes a dive into the troubled and horrifying childhood of Jeffrey Dahmer. It presents the slow unveiling of Dahmer's monstrous being, all unfolding amidst the backdrop of teenage awkwardness and high-school drama.
What readers like: Readers appreciate the unique perspective that Backderf brings to the book, having known Dahmer personally. There's also a lot of love for the skilful combination of mystery, horror, and suspense, weaving an eerily unforgettable visual storytelling. Reading it feels like watching a tragic horror movie, something that mystery buffs can’t resist.
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Paper Girls, Vol. 1
by Brian K. Vaughan
Why Paper Girls, Vol. 1 is on this list: If you're a mystery lover with a side of sci-fi and think Stranger Things would be great as a comic book, then Paper Girls is the perfect pick.
In a nutshell, Paper Girls follows four 12-year-old newspaper delivery girls during their early-morning route on Halloween 1988. What starts as a typical paper round turns into a wild, time-traveling adventure filled with all sorts of creepy, strange mysteries. The novel is a vibrant, nostalgic blast from the past combined with an intricate, intriguing mystery narrative.
What readers like: Fans have praised this graphic novel for its addictive, page-turning adventure style storytelling and its mind-bending plot twists. They also love the engaging characters, the atmospheric use of color and the sharp, witty dialogues. Sounds like a killer combo, huh?
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Gideon Falls, Vol. 1: The Black Barn
by Jeff Lemire
Why Gideon Falls, Vol. 1: The Black Barn is on this list: Gideon Falls intertwines mystery and horror within a graphic novel setting like no other. Fans of classic who-done-it tales will be delighted by the unexpected twists and engaging plot of this comic.
In Gideon Falls, the lives of a reclusive young man obsessed a conspiracy in the city's trash and a washed-up priest arriving in a small town full of dark secrets become intertwined around the mysterious legend of The Black Barn - an otherworldly building claimed to have appeared in both the city and the small town, throughout history, bringing death and madness in its wake. The intertwining mystery amid a lingering supernatural element sets up a perfect arena for mystery lovers.
What readers like: Readers have acclaimed Gideon Falls for its intelligent storytelling, compelling characters, and uniquely horrific apropos. The powerful art style brilliantly captures the eerie atmosphere and keeps readers on edge. If you're the type of person who pulls out a flashlight to read under the covers, this is for you.
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Rachel Rising, Vol. 1: The Shadow of Death
by Terry Moore
Why Rachel Rising, Vol. 1: The Shadow of Death is on this list: Nail-biting suspense and thrill are the best parts of reading a mystery novel. So why not add eye-catching illustrations to that thrill and double the excitement? That's exactly what Terry Moore's Rachel Rising brings to the table - a spine-chilling mystery packed in a gripping graphic novel.
Rachel Rising starts with a 'waking up from the dead moment' for the main protagonist, Rachel. In this eerie tale, she digs up her own grave to find out she was strangled, and someone close to her might be the killer. The plot thickens with every page as she embarks on an adrenaline-pumped journey to uncover her mysterious death. But be warned, this isn't your typical 'whodunit' mystery - it has a special dose of supernatural and horror elements added.
What readers like: Readers rave about the compelling storytelling, the artistry of the graphics which intensify the chilling mood, and the rollercoaster of emotions that Terry Moore's writing invokes. The unexpected plot twists and character development keeps readers constantly hooked. If you like your chilling mysteries served with an eerie atmosphere and unexpected turns, then Rachel Rising should definitely be on your shelf.
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Kill or Be Killed, Vol. 1
by Sean Phillips
Why Kill or Be Killed, Vol. 1 is on this list: This book is just perfect for all the whodunit fans out there who fancy a bit of eye-popping art along with their crime-solving capers. It's the cinammon to their hot chocolate, the chip to their fish. Basically, it's got that beautiful graphic storytelling going hand-in-hand with a riveting mystery tale - like two peas in a pod.
Our protagonist is an average Joe known as Dylan, who one day gets a rather peculiar visitor. A demon makes him an offer - for every life he takes, he gets to live another month. Pretty wild, huh? So, poor old Dylan is stuck between a rock and a hard place, trying to make sense of his life, while also doing his bit to reduce the population. Classic Tuesday, am I right? The narrative arcs and dynamic art will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning the pages.
What readers like: Readers love the sharp dialogue, the morally complex characters and the rollercoaster twists. They absolutely can't get enough of the psychological depth weaved into the story. And let's not forget the praise for the gorgeous artwork that enhances the storytelling. They all agree - It's like a hearty bowl of soup on a cold, rainy day. Comforting, surprising, and leaving you wanting more.
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Four Kids Walk Into a Bank: A Torrid Tale of Child Crime
by Matthew Rosenberg
Why Four Kids Walk Into a Bank: A Torrid Tale of Child Crime is on this list: This graphic novel spins a unique mystery with a heavy dose of noir. The well-woven plot and clever use of suspense places it right up there in the league of must-read graphic novels for mystery buffs.
The story revolves around four 12 year-old kids who stumble into a nefarious plot involving their parents and a gang of criminals. Instead of doing the sensible thing and going to the authorities, our quartet of mini detectives decides to stick it to 'the man' and tackle the mystery head-on, teetering on the edge of legality themselves, a bit like The Goonies but with a darker twist.
What readers like: Readers have appreciated the sharp, witty dialogues and the twisty plot, along with the nostalgic bittersweet tone of 80's movies. The intricate artwork brings to life the raw emotion and cunning of kids managing adult-level trouble. More than anything, fans love the clever blend of humor and suspense that keeps you on your toes.
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