r/mysterybooks

Ive been on a mystery and thriller kick recently but i have a problem where i figure out the twist super early in the book. The last 3 ive read ive fugured out the ending within the first 5 chapters. Dont get me wrong i still enjoyed them but sometimes the autistic pattern recognition goes a little too hard. I want a true mystery that will keep me guessing, but i also like having a trail of breadcrumbs to follow so i can pretend like i can figure the mystery out.

If possible, id also prefer one that doesn't unclude a lot of rape/violence against women as that can sometimes be a bit much for me.

Thanks in advance for your recommendations!

As someone who has only recently started getting into mystery novels, I think *Strange Pictures* by Uketsu is a pretty good read. However, if you’re an avid mystery reader, it might come across as a little childish or simplistic.

Since the book is translated, I also wonder if that plays a part. The original Japanese might carry a completely different tone, with the choice of words, phrasing, and overall writing style adding something that may not translate quite the same way.

*Strange Houses*, on the other hand, is definitely a level above *Strange Pictures*. I think you’ll really enjoy it, especially if you like getting immersed in the little details. The floor plans in particular make the reading experience so much more interesting.

(Will update this once I’ve read *Strange Buildings* as well!)