Previous
10 best-paid American mystery writers
It's no secret that, in the realm of literature, crime pays – big time. And, according to a study cited in The Guardian, American mystery writers receive a particularly staggering payoff for their work. (Totals include book sales, box office returns, license fees, and company accounts.)
Here are America's top-ten best compensated mystery writers.
1. John Grisham, $600 million
Former attorney and Mississippi legislator John Grisham is ranked as America's top-earning mystery writer. As of 2008, his books are estimated to have sold over 250 million copies worldwide.
Edgar Award nominees: 5 mystery novels you don't want to miss
These comments are not screened before publication. Constructive debate about the above story is welcome, but personal attacks are not. Please do not post comments that are commercial in nature or that violate any copyright[s]. Comments that we regard as obscene, defamatory, or intended to incite violence will be removed. If you find a comment offensive, you may flag it.