Le Figaro has compiled a definitive list of the 80 greatest crime novels of the past two centuries, based on a survey conducted with 120 renowned authors in the genre. Writers such as Franck Thilliez, Bernard Minier, Maxime Chattam, and others participated in this unique survey where they voted for their top picks from both contemporary (living) and classic (deceased) crime authors. This endeavor aims to highlight the best works within the crime fiction genre, reflecting the opinions of those who have significantly contributed to it.

The survey posed a compelling question to the participating writers: which five contemporary crime novels and which five classic crime novels would they elevate above the rest? This dual approach allows for a distinct exploration of the evolution of crime fiction over the years while grounding the ranking in the expertise and preferences of established figures in the literary scene. By relying on the insights from these authors, the ranking seeks to create an authoritative and irrefutable compilation of must-read crime novels.

As crime fiction celebrates its 200th anniversary, with its origins traced back to foundational texts such as Thomas de Quincey’s 'On Murder Considered as One of the Fine Arts' from 1826, this ranking serves as a testament to the genre's enduring popularity and significance in literature. It offers both readers and scholars a curated list that captures the essence and diversity of crime novels throughout history, showcasing the genre's evolution and its pivotal works.