Welcome to the captivating world of psychological thrillers! If you’re a fan of spine-tingling suspense, mind-bending plot twists, and delving into the darkest corners of the human psyche, you’re in for a treat.
In this article, we’ll take a thrilling journey through some of the best psychological thriller books that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you questioning everything.
From unreliable narrators and psychological manipulations to unsolved mysteries and psychological battles, these books will challenge your perceptions and push the boundaries of your imagination.
1. The Housemaid – Freida McFadden
The Housemaid by Freida McFadden is a gripping psychological thriller. The story revolves around a housemaid hired by the wealthy Winchester family but soon discovers that their perfect life is not as it seems.
The characters are well-developed, and the plot has many twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the end. The writing is crisp and fast-paced, making it an easy and enjoyable read. If you’re a fan of thrillers like The Girl on the Train, you won’t be able to put this book down.
One Goodreads reviewer said, “The Housemaid was an incredible roller coaster ride… This book left me hungry for more, and I could not believe the ending!” This sentiment is echoed by many other reviewers, who all praise the book’s jaw-dropping twist.
2. The Perfect Marriage – Jeneva Rose
Prepare for an enthralling tale of love, betrayal, and an unthinkable crime in “The Perfect Marriage.” Set in the bustling city of Washington D.C., this gripping psychological thriller introduces us to Sarah Morgan, an accomplished attorney whose life takes an unexpected turn when her husband, Adam, embarks on a tumultuous affair with the enigmatic Kelly Summers.
Tragically, Kelly’s life is cut short, and the finger of suspicion points directly at Adam. As the evidence mounts against him, Sarah takes on the daunting task of defending her husband, delving into a labyrinth of secrets and lies.
With its intricate plot and captivating characters, The Perfect Marriage promises a suspenseful journey filled with surprising twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Brace yourself for a sleepless night as you eagerly navigate the web of deception and unveil the truth that lies beneath.
3. The Maid’s Diary: A Novel – Loreth Anne White
The Maid’s Diary by Loreth Anne White is a captivating psychological suspense novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story is told from several points of view, which adds to the complexity and intrigue of the plot.
Kit Darling is the maid, the focus of the story. She has a habit of snooping around her clients’ houses, and she becomes a danger to the couple when she sees something she shouldn’t. Detective Mallory Van Alst is the cop who must solve the crime and determine who is responsible for the heinous act.
One reader said in their review, “I was pleasantly surprised when I got to the end of this book and didn’t have it all figured out. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I’m unsure if that will change if I read more from her. I was intrigued by the first chapter titled ‘How it ends.’ It was an interesting way to begin.” The Maid’s Diary is a must-read if you’re a fan of psychological thrillers. White is a master of suspense, and this book is one of her best.
4. Verity – Colleen Hoover
Verity by Colleen Hoover is a rollercoaster of emotions that will leave you speechless. From the first page, this psychological thriller grabs hold of attention and doesn’t let go. The story follows the life of a struggling writer, Lowen Ashleigh, who is hired to complete the remaining books of a successful author, Verity Crawford, who cannot finish them due to an accident.
As Lowen delves deeper into Verity’s life and work, she discovers dark secrets and twisted truths that threaten to destroy everything.
One reader writes, “I stayed up all night reading Verity by Colleen Hoover. It is brilliantly written, captivating, and full of twists and turns I never saw coming. I am now a fan of Colleen Hoover and can’t wait to read more of her work.”
5. Do Not Disturb – Freida McFadden
Do Not Disturb by Freida McFadden is a thrilling page-turner that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Quinn Alexander is a wife who committed an unthinkable crime and to escape the law, she runs to an isolated hotel. However, the hotel is not what it seems, and Quinn fights for survival.
McFadden’s writing style is easy to read, and with her knack for a good plot twist, you’re bound to keep guessing until the end. One reader says, “It had McFadden’s usual twists, and it moved along nicely…The ending is unexpected. I highly recommend this book to fans of psychological thrillers.”
6. Rock Paper Scissors – Alice Feeney
Get ready for a heart-pounding rollercoaster ride with Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney. From the very first page, Feeney’s gripping storytelling grabs hold of you and refuses to let go. With a masterful blend of suspense and mystery, this domestic thriller keeps you on the edge of your seat, desperate to unravel its tangled web.
The characters are flawlessly crafted, their complexities adding to the unsettling atmosphere that permeates the story. Feeney’s clever and unpredictable plot twists will leave you gasping for breath, and just when you think you have it all figured out, she throws you for a loop. Brace yourself for an unputdownable read that will keep you guessing until the very last page.
7. The Running Girls – Matt Brolly
As Detective Laurie Campbell takes the lead on a chilling murder case reminiscent of a past crime, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Set against the backdrop of a hurricane-battered Galveston, Texas, Laurie races against time to unravel the mystery and prevent crucial evidence from being destroyed.
The character development in this book is nothing short of remarkable, drawing you deeper into their world with every turn of the page. With its dark and twisted plot, filled with unexpected twists and brilliantly executed tension, The Running Girls is a true page-turner that will leave you yearning for more. Buckle up and dive into this heart-stopping thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end.
8. Twenty Years Later – Charlie Donlea
If you’re looking for a thrilling page-turner, look no further than Twenty Years Later by Charlie Donlea. With well-written characters and unexpected plot twists, this book will keep you guessing until the end. Avery Mason, a TV reporter, is determined to uncover the truth behind a gruesome murder that happened twenty years ago.
The case involves a 9/11 victim accused of killing her married lover, and Avery is convinced that her connections and fame can help clear the victim’s name. But other players are in the game, and Avery’s secret past is about to come to light. Readers have called it a “riveting thriller” with “breathtaking pacing and clever plot twists.” Trust us; you won’t be disappointed.
9. The Doctor’s Wife – Daniel Hurst
The Doctor’s Wife by Daniel Hurst is a thrilling page-turner filled with jaw-dropping twists and turns that will get you shivering. Hurst is a master of the domestic psychological thriller; this book is no exception.
The story is told from alternating perspectives, adding depth to the characters and keeping the plot moving forward quickly. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is clever, leaving readers guessing until the final reveal. The Doctor’s Wife is a must-read if you love psychological thrillers. As one reader puts it, “Another Gem from Mr. Hurst!”
10. The Silent Patient – Alex Michaelides
You don’t want to miss The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides. This book is a page-turner on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The story follows the psychotherapist Theo Faber as he tries to help his patient, the famous artist Alicia Berenson, who has gone silent after murdering her husband. With twists and turns that even the smartest readers will not expect, this book is not to be missed.
One reviewer said, “The Silent Patient is, without a doubt, the best psychological thriller I’ve read this year. Love me a plot twist that I know is coming and makes me want to crack it.” And we couldn’t agree more. This book is a no-brainer for anyone who loves a good mystery with a shocking twist.
11. Mothered – Zoje Stage
Zoje Stage’s novel Mothered explores the dark side of a mother-daughter relationship that unravels during a pandemic quarantine. Grace reluctantly agrees to let her newly-widowed mother, Jackie, move in with her. The novel begins with good intentions but quickly becomes a horror story; old wounds fester, and new ones open.
As their relationship deteriorates, the two women are locked in a battle that brings their deep-seated resentments to the surface. Stage’s writing expertly blurs the lines between reality and nightmare. A must-read for psychological thriller fans, Mothered is a dark and unsettling page-turner.
12. The Good Lie – A. R. R. Torre
The Good Lie by A. R. Torre is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story revolves around the infamous Bloody Heart serial killer and a high school teacher, Randall Thompson, who is accused of being the killer. Defense attorney Robert Kavin believes Thompson is innocent and enlists the help of psychiatrist Dr. Gwen Moore to clear his client’s name.
As Gwen delves deeper into the investigation, she begins to suspect that there is more to Robert than meets the eye. The book is well-written and full of unexpected twists and turns that will you guess until the very According to one reader, “The story was interesting and intriguing from the beginning.
We trusted everyone and no one at the same time. The ending was perfect when everything came together in such an insane way-saying, like a puzzle coming together.”
13. The Girl in the Woods – Patricia MacDonald
Patricia’s The Girl in the Woods is a thriller that grips its readers from the first page to the last. The story is about Blair, who decides to solve the mystery behind her best friend’s murder 15 years ago. Blair’s sister’s deathbed confession was the catalyst that set her on the path of finding the real killer.
The book is an intense and nail-biting story with several twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It is a page-turner that will keep you guessing until the very end. Fans of the thriller genre will love this book, and the five-star reviews of the readers are proof. A reader says, “Amazing!! My heart was racing at the end.”
14. Someone Else’s Life – Lyn Liao Butler
Lyn Liao Butler’s Someone Else’s Life is a captivating psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows Annie Lin, a woman who moves to Hawaii with her husband and son in search of a fresh start after a series of traumatic events. However, strange things start happening, and Annie feels someone is watching her.
When a woman shows up at her doorstep during a storm, Annie feels an unexplainable bond with her. As the night progresses, Annie realizes the woman is no stranger, and their lives are inextricably intertwined. The book is a page-turner and will keep you guessing until the end.
15. Two Little Girls in Blue – Mary Higgins Clark
Two Little Girls in Blue, written by Mary Higgins Clark, is a thrilling mystery that delves into the intriguing phenomenon of twin telepathy. The story follows Margaret and Steve Frawley, whose twin girls are kidnapped and presumed dead. However, Kelly, one of the twins, believes her sister Kathy is still alive and communicates with her through their twin bond.
As the FBI begins to investigate, the story takes turns unexpectedly and the suspense builds to a shocking conclusion. Readers describe it as an edge-of-your-seat thriller that keeps them hooked from beginning to end. Two Little Girls in Blue is worth the read if you enjoy a good mystery with unpredictable twists and turns.
16. The House in the Pines – Ana Reyes
If you’re looking for a great page-turner, look no further than Ana Reyes’ debut novel, The House in the Pines. This psychological thriller explores the power of memory and the lengths to that people will uncover the truth.
From the opening chapter, you’ll be hooked, following Maya as she sets out to uncover the mysterious death of her friend Aubrey. Don’t just take our word for it; bestselling author Lisa Gardner says she “read in a single sitting, totally enthralled!”
17. The Sleepover – Keri Beevis
Keri Beevis has once again captivated readers with her latest psychological thriller, “The Sleepover.” The narrative revolves around the Hixton Five, a close-knit group of friends who endure a profoundly traumatic event that profoundly affects them. Two decades later, they reunite and delve into their past, confronting their deepest fears and endangering their lives in the process.
Beevis skillfully crafts a complex and enthralling story filled with unexpected twists and turns, ensuring that readers remain riveted throughout. The character development is masterfully executed, allowing readers to intimately connect with the protagonists, and the pacing of the narrative is meticulously balanced.
One reviewer exclaimed, “This book is an absolute page-turner, replete with unpredictable plot twists. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking an enthralling tale of fate’s caprices.”
18. I Have Some Questions for You – Rebecca Makkai
Rebecca Makkai’s latest novel, I Have Some Questions for You, is a gripping and enthralling mystery that explores the slippery nature of memory, collective trauma, and the search for truth. The story follows Bodie Kane, a film professor, and podcaster who returns to her old boarding school to teach a course on podcasting. However, she gets drawn into the case of a former roommate’s murder, which happened during their senior year, and begins to question the circumstances surrounding it.
Makkai’s writing is impeccable, and she deftly weaves together themes of race, sex, and class in a story that is both thought-provoking and deeply unsettling. The characters are rich, and the plot twists and turns unexpectedly.
According to one reader, “This book is everything I could ask for in a mystery novel. It’s a page-turner that kept me guessing until the very end. But it’s also so much more than that, with its exploration of memory, power, and the lingering effects of trauma. I couldn’t put it down.”
19. Lovely Girls – Margot Hunt
Prepare to be entangled in the thrilling web of “Lovely Girls” by Margot Hunt. Following the devastating loss of her husband, Kate Turner and her daughter Alex seek solace in a new Florida town, Shoreham. Little do they know the seemingly picturesque community harbors a group of moms and daughters whose charm is but a facade.
In this domestic mystery/thriller, Hunt masterfully delves into the complexities of parenting, high school culture, bullying, friendship, loyalty, and self-deception. With impeccable prose, cunning twists, and captivating dialogue, “Lovely Girls” will keep you on the edge of your seat until the shocking finale. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through the shadows of suburban secrets.
20. Off the Deep End – Lucinda Berry
This gripping thriller introduces us to Jules Hart, a former therapist turned stay-at-home mom whose life takes a devastating turn when she’s involved in a car accident on an icy lake with her son and another teenager. In a heart-wrenching moment, Jules must make an impossible choice and save only one of the boys.
The traumatic aftermath propels Jules into a harrowing downward spiral, and when the boy she rescued mysteriously vanishes, she becomes the focal point of a massive police investigation. Berry skillfully keeps readers on the edge of their seats, weaving a suspenseful tale that will leave you captivated until the final page. As one reviewer aptly put it, “I was unable to tear myself away from the gripping narrative until I unraveled the truth.”
21. The Family at No. 12 – Anita Waller
If you are a fan of psychological thrillers, you won’t want to miss Anita Waller’s latest book, The Family at No. 12. From the moment you start reading; you’re sure to find this story intriguing and unique.
The book tells the story of Janette, who runs a dog boarding business from her home. One day, a customer comes to her door with nefarious intentions, and Janette finds herself in a dangerous situation. But that’s just the beginning of her troubles, as she soon discovers she is pregnant and must navigate a secret life.
Waller weaves a gripping and explosive tale. One reviewer writes, “The author takes the reader on a fascinating roller coaster ride on the first page. I couldn’t put it down and finished in a night.”
22. A Flicker in the Dark – Stacy Willingham
A Flicker in the Dark is a captivating psychological thriller from debut author Stacy Willingham. Chloe Davis is a psychologist who has learned to deal with her past, where her father committed unspeakable crimes, but when a local teenager goes missing, she starts to fear the past has caught up with her. Is it possible that her father’s crimes have influenced a new killer?
The book is exhilarating, with a fast-paced plot and plenty of twists. The author’s writing style is pitch-perfect and lyrical, making it a page-turner. Readers will undoubtedly enjoy the gripping and twisty story that Willingham has crafted.
23. Intensity – Dean Koontz
Prepare yourself for an electrifying journey through the pages of Dean Koontz’s “Intensity,” a riveting thriller that will leave you breathless with anticipation. Meet Chyna Shepard, a courageous young woman whose life takes a horrifying turn when she becomes trapped inside her friend’s home with a deranged and bloodthirsty maniac. Edgler Foreman Vess, a self-proclaimed “homicidal adventurer,” embodies a chilling embodiment of evil as he revels in a life devoid of fear, remorse, or boundaries.
Chyna, driven by her will to survive, faces a relentless battle against her captor, knowing that she will never be the same again. Koontz masterfully weaves a web of intensity that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. Prepare yourself for a spine-tingling experience, as one reader aptly states, “Intensity is an aptly named masterpiece, truly pushing the boundaries of suspense and leaving you utterly captivated!”
24. All Her Little Lies – Becca Day
This gripping novel will keep you guessing until the very last page, delivering a shocking twist that will leave you speechless. Follow Alex, a desperate mother driven to tell a web of lies to protect her son after her best friend’s daughter mysteriously vanishes. However, as her deceptions multiply, she unwittingly finds herself ensnared in a perilous situation from which there may be no escape.
Day’s skillful writing and breakneck pacing make this a true page-turner that will have fans of the genre utterly captivated. Brace yourself for an addictive and heart-pounding journey, as one reader exclaimed, “This book took me on a thrilling rollercoaster ride! A true page-turner that had me glued from start to finish!”
25. Atonement – Ian McEwan
Ian McEwan’s Atonement is a symphonic masterpiece that keeps readers engaged and enthralled from the very beginning. It tells the story of Briony Tallis, who, as a young girl, witnesses a flirtation between her sister and a childhood friend. Briony’s precociousness, coupled with her limited understanding of adult motives, leads to a crime that alters the course of their lives.
The repercussions of that event ripple through the chaos of World War II and continue into the 21st century as characters seek redemption for their past mistakes. This book is a brilliant, thought-provoking masterpiece that readers will enjoy from beginning to end. As one reviewer said, “Truly one of the most inspiring and ultimately absorbing novels I’ve read to date.”
26. The Wife Before – Shanora Williams
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, then The Wife Before by Shanora Williams is a must-read! Samira Wilder’s fairytale marriage to pro-golfer Roland Graham quickly turns into a prison of secrets when she discovers hidden journals belonging to Roland’s late wife, Melanie.
As she uncovers the truth about Melanie’s troubles last days, Samira realizes that her perfect husband may not be as perfect as she thought. With devilishly messed up psychodrama, this book will leave your brain in scrambles.
According to readers, the book is “Sexy, scandalous, and striking; this twist-filled psychodrama, like a cosmo, is worth the hype.”
27. Sharp Objects – Gillian Flynn
Gillian Flynn’s Sharp Objects is a psychological thriller about Camille Preaker, a Daily Post reporter who must return to her hometown to investigate the murders of two preteen girls. But Wind Gap isn’t just any town; it’s a dark place.
As she approaches solving the case, she realizes how intertwined her past is with the present. This gripping novel will leave you in suspense, with twists that will leave you gagged. According to a review, “Flynn delivers a great whodunit…and genuinely terrifying.”
28. The Couple Next Door – Shari Lapena
The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena revolves around a young couple, Anne and Marco Conti, whose baby goes missing while they attend a dinner party next door. As the investigation unfolds, secrets and lies are revealed, and suspicion falls on everyone involved.
Lapena’s writing is fast-paced, and the twists and turns in the plot will leave you guessing until the end. This book is perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn and Paula Hawkins. The Couple Next Door is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery.
According to one reader, “It’s a good story with twists and plots, and the end is a surprise!” Another says it’s an “easy read that keeps you enthralled when each new detail emerges!” Mary Huckaby simply states, “Loved.”
29. The Silent Wife – A. S. A. Harrison
Delve into the chilling depths of A.S.A. Harrison’s psychological thriller, “The Silent Wife,” where suspense reigns supreme from the first page to the last. Through alternating chapters that unveil the perspectives of Jodi and Todd, we witness a slow and unsettling disintegration of their once seemingly solid marriage.
Todd’s infidelity becomes the catalyst for Jodi’s descent into the treacherous realms of madness. Harrison’s writing prowess brilliantly captures the twisted complexities of her characters’ lives, immersing readers in a dark and haunting world. Garnering exceptional acclaim, “The Silent Wife” has garnered masterful reviews, leaving readers unnerved yet irresistibly compelled to turn each page. Brace yourself for an unnerving tale that will linger in your thoughts, as one reader confesses, “This story unsettled me, making me apprehensive about what awaited on the next page.”
30. The Woman in the Window – A. J. Finn
Step into Anna’s world, where her days are consumed by the voyeuristic act of peering into the lives of her neighbors. However, one fateful night, she bears witness to a forbidden sight that shatters her existence. Finn’s impeccable writing unveils well-rounded characters and delivers a gripping narrative that will keep readers perched on the precipice of their seats.
Esteemed authors Gillian Flynn, Stephen King, Ruth Ware, and Louise Penny have lauded this novel for its ingenious plot, its commanding potency, and its sharp intellect. Immerse yourself in a labyrinth of intrigue and prepare to be captivated by a psychological thriller that will leave you breathless.
31. My Lovely Wife – Samantha Downing
Samantha Downing’s debut novel, My Lovely Wife, is a twisted, dark thriller that leaves the reader on edge. The story revolves around a married couple, and, as the title suggests, the husband calls his wife “my lovely wife.” However, their marriage has become dull, and they’re looking for something new and exciting, which is murder.
The plot is chilling and unpredictable, making it an absolute page-turner. The characters are interesting, and the writing style is engaging. A reviewer wrote, “The book was so good that I couldn’t stop thinking about it long after I finished reading it.”
32. The Confessions of Frannie Langton – Sara Collins
The Confessions of Frannie Langton by Sara Collins is a debut novel that takes the reader on a journey from a Jamaican sugar plantation to the streets of Georgian London. The book is a gripping historical thriller that tells the story of Frannie Langton, a formerly enslaved servant accused of murdering her employers.
The characters are complex and well-developed, and the writing is beautiful and evocative. The Confessions of Frannie Langton is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and gothic novels.
According to a reviewer, “I loved this novel. Like the author, I’m a huge fan of 19th-century gothic novels and so enjoyed seeing a woman of color take the leading role in a book of this genre.”
33. When No One Is Watching – Alyssa Cole
When No One Is Watching is a gripping thriller that explores the sinister side of gentrification in Brooklyn. As the neighborhood changes, longtime resident Sydney Green becomes increasingly paranoid as her neighbors disappear and condos pop up overnight.
Teaming up with Theo’s new arrival to uncover the truth, Sydney soon realizes there is more to the revitalization effort than meets the eye. With expertly crafted characters and plot twists that keep readers guessing until the end, this book is mandatory for fans of psychological thrillers. As one reviewer raves, “I recommend SO HIGHLY.”
34. Freefall – Jessica Barry
Prepare to be consumed by the gripping pages of Jessica Barry’s “Freefall,” a thriller that defies all attempts to put it down. At its heart is the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter, Maggie and Allison, who find themselves separated by distance but bound by an unwavering connection.
When Allison’s fiancé’s private plane plummets into the unforgiving Colorado Rockies, leaving everyone to assume her demise, Maggie refuses to accept this tragic fate. Driven by a mother’s love, she embarks on a desperate quest for answers, unearthing dark secrets about Allison’s life and the enigmatic circumstances surrounding the crash.
With a seamless flow, Barry’s writing effortlessly enthralls, delivering a razor-sharp narrative that leaves readers breathless. An addictive read, it demands to be devoured in a single day, as one reader challenges, “I dare you to resist the urge to immerse yourself in its mesmerizing depths.”
35. Imaginary Friend – Stephen Chbosky
Imaginary Friend by Stephen Chbosky is an engaging, chilling, and complex novel. The story of a single mother and her son’s journey to Mill Grove, Pennsylvania, to start a new life is a heartbreaking yet captivating tale that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
The character development is well-thought-out, and the plot is intricate and gripping, full of twists and turns. Chbosky has crafted a horror masterpiece that will keep you up at night.
A reader says, “This book was amazing; it had me up reading until the wee hours of the morning. The writing style and the way Chbosky tells the story will captivate you from the first page.”
36. The Need – Hellen Phillips
Helen Phillips’ The Need is a haunting novel about motherhood, surrealism, and the subconscious. The story follows a mother of two young children, Molly, who is faced with a masked intruder in her own home, leading her down a trippy, mind-bending rabbit hole. The author delves into the complexities of motherhood, exploring both the light and dark sides.
The Need is worthwhile for those who enjoy surreal and thought-provoking novels.
One reader said, “The Need is a thrilling, dark, and surreal journey through the mind of a mother in crisis.”
37. The Girl on the Train – Paula Hawkins
Prepare to be captivated by the lingering impact of Paula Hawkins’ debut novel, “The Girl on the Train.” This compelling narrative will seep into your thoughts, refusing to release its grip. Far more than a mere page-turner, it skillfully dismantles your preconceptions about the individuals inhabiting your world, leaving you questioning everything. Through the perspectives of three women, each harboring their own secrets and deceptions, readers embark on a thrilling journey.
Hawkins’ masterful prose weaves an intricate and suspenseful plot, captivating the imagination from beginning to end. With a narrative that resonates long after the final page, “The Girl on the Train” is an exceptional work that defies easy dismissal. Prepare for an unforgettable experience that will leave you pondering the depths of human complexity.
38. Gone Girl – Gillian Flynn
This thriller will send shockwaves through your very being, as you navigate the perplexing disappearance of Amy Dunne, a captivating and cunning wife who vanishes on a day meant for celebration. With mounting pressure from the relentless scrutiny of both the police and media, her husband Nick’s actions take a disturbing turn, leaving you questioning his every move.
Flynn’s mastery of storytelling shines through in this riveting tale, where meticulously crafted characters come to life, leading you on a relentless journey towards an unpredictably satisfying finale. Brace yourself for a mesmerizing rollercoaster of darkness, deceit, and irresistible suspense that will haunt your thoughts long after you turn the final page.
39. As Long as We Both Shall Live – Joann Chaney
With an enthralling premise, this novel unravels the complexities of a deteriorating marriage, leaving readers spellbound. The characters within these pages are meticulously crafted, their actions unpredictable, amplifying the impact of the tantalizing plot twists that await. The suspenseful narrative skillfully keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly turning each page.
One reader aptly describes the female characters as formidable forces of nature, while the plot twists themselves are a delectable blend of darkness, akin to the gripping intensity found in “Gone Girl” and “Big Little Lies.” Be prepared for a riveting journey into the depths of human relationships, where nothing is as it seems.
40. Pursuit – Joyce Carol Oates
Joyce Carol Oates’ Pursuit is a haunting, psychological thriller that will leave readers on edge. The novel centers around newlywed Abby, who must confront her ugly past. After a traumatic incident lands, her in the hospital, her husband Willem begins to uncover clues about her past that Abby has kept hidden.
Oates skillfully weaves a suspenseful and disquieting tale, alternating between the present and Abby’s troubled childhood. One reader praised Oates as a master storyteller, declaring that the first two pages alone prove her skill. “Pursuit” is a must-read for fans of dark, psychological thrillers.
Here’s Why You Should Grab a Psychological Thriller Book
Nothing beats the adrenaline rush of a good psychological thriller, and the 40 books on this list are sure to deliver. From classic novels to contemporary bestsellers, these books offer twists, turns, and psychological depth.
Whether you’re a genre fan or just looking for something new and exciting, these books offer a thrilling and thought-provoking reading experience that will leave you breathless. So, pick up a book and take a break from reality.
10 Tips to Choose a Gripping Psychological Thriller Book
A great psychological thriller book is an excellent pastime as it provides a gripping story that will get your heart racing. Here are ten tips and tricks to know before choosing an amazing psychological thriller book:
- Consider the Author: Check out the author’s previous work to see if their writing style and genre of interest suit you.
- Check out the Blurb: A blurb will briefly summarize the book, its plot, and its characters. It can help you determine if it suits your interests.
- Read Reviews: Check out reviews to see if the book is widely appreciated and if it’s a good fit for your taste.
- Check Awards and Nominations: If a book has won an award, you can safely assume it’s good.
- Research the Sub-Genre: Psychological thrillers have various sub-genres, such as domestic, legal, medical, etc. Research these sub-genres and find which one interests you the most.
- Check out the Publisher: Often, publishers have a theme for the type of books they publish. Check out the publisher and see if the book aligns with the publisher’s theme.
- Consider the Length: If you’re looking for a book to keep you occupied for a while, consider choosing a longer book.
- Check the Release Date: If the book was released long ago, it might not have the modern twists you expect. Check the release date to see if it’s recent or older.
- Check the Reading Level: Psychological thrillers can be easy to difficult. Determine the reading level you can comfortably read.
- Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover: It may sound cheesy, but a book with an average cover often has a gripping plot. Don’t be put off by the book’s cover. The vice versa applies. It’s always the plot that matters.
Wrapping Up
Psychological thrillers offer a captivating escape into the depths of the human psyche. With their gripping narratives, unpredictable twists, and complex characters, these books keep readers on the edge of their seats, leaving them yearning for more. Prepare to be enthralled by the dark and intricate world of psychological thrillers.
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