5. And Then There Were None - Agatha Christie

This is easily the best mystery novel I've ever read. Published in 1939, it's Agatha Christies best-selling novel, and apparently the worlds best-selling mystery, having sold over 100 million copies to date. "And Then There Were None" is the story of 10 strangers, each lured to Indian Island by a mysterious host. Once the guests have arrived, the host accuses each person of murder. Unable to leave the island, the guests begin to share their darkest secrets -- until they begin to die.

The characters and their reasons for being on the island are fascinating, the dialogue is masterful, and the event after event pacing of the novel kept me hooked straight through to the surprise ending. I highly recommend "And Then There Were None."