If you’re asking what the difference is, here’s my interpretation:
A mystery novel follows a detective of some sort, either amateur or professional, while they attempt to solve a crime. Popular subgenres of mysteries are:
- Police Procedurals
- Hard-boiled Detective Stories
- Cozy Mysteries/Whodunits
- Capers
Some of the most famous mystery novelists include Agatha Christie, Raymond Chandler, Arthur Conan Doyle, and P. D. James. Famous crime novelists include Michael Connelly, known for his novels with LAPD detective Harry Bosch, and Lee Child, author of the famous Jack Reacher series.
As far as mystery movies go, here are some of my favorites:
- Vertigo
- Rear Window
- Chinatown
- Mystic River
- L. A. Confidential
- Gone Girl
A thriller/suspense novel involves the push and pull between the protagonist and the villain. These stories are focused on the main character’s safety and survival and the fear of a future crime instead of one that’s already happened. Famous suspense novelists include Harlan Coben, Stephen King, and Dean Koontz.
These suspense movies gave me chills long after I watched them:
- Psycho
- Zodiac
- The Talented Mr. Ripley
- The Fugitive
- Basic Instinct
- Fatal Attraction
If you enjoy mysteries full of tension and danger, chances are you see a lot of overlap between the two. The important element is that these books are page-turners keeping you glued until the final reveal.