True crime books experience resurgence in 2026 despite shift to streaming

True crime books are showing renewed strength in 2026, with the genre recording 41 titles in the Top 50, according to The Bookseller. The surge comes after a fallow period for print publishing, as much of the creative energy in true crime shifted toward streaming platforms and podcasts. The Bookseller reported that NielsenIQ BookScan's True Crime sub-category previously reached over 10 million pounds through the Total Consumer Market, but has only once crossed the six million pound mark in recent years. [1]

Despite sales figures remaining below historic peaks of five to 10 years ago, major book releases have generated significant consumer interest this year. According to The Bookseller, massive hits in 2026 include London Falling, The Crash, Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart, and Killer Couple: Love on Trial. [1]

True crime is a non-fiction genre in which authors examine real criminal acts, the individuals affected, and the motives of perpetrators. These works frequently document violent crimes and high-profile cases, employing either a journalistic emphasis on established facts or a speculative approach focusing on author conclusions. [5]

The wider true crime sector also continues to expand globally across television and film production. Deadline reported that the Association of True Crime Producers in the United Kingdom has opened its membership to international independent production companies for the first time. The new members include United States producers Gennie Studios, My Entertainment, and Texas Crew Productions, as well as companies from Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. [3]