Thriller books are part of a popular genre that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly flipping through pages to discover the next twist in the plot. With so many books to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best thriller books that you should add to your reading list.
1. “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins
“The Girl on the Train” is a psychological thriller that has captured the attention of readers around the world. The story follows Rachel, a troubled alcoholic who becomes obsessed with a couple she sees every day on her commute. When the woman in the couple goes missing, Rachel becomes embroiled in the investigation, unsure if she can trust her own memories and motivations.
Hawkins masterfully weaves together different perspectives and timelines to keep readers guessing until the very end. This book is a great choice for fans of suspenseful, character-driven thrillers.
2. “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn
“Gone Girl” is a novel that starts with the disappearance of Amy Dunne, the beautiful and brilliant wife of Nick Dunne. As the investigation into her disappearance unfolds, secrets are revealed, and Nick becomes the prime suspect. The story alternates between Nick’s perspective and Amy’s diary entries, giving readers a glimpse into the minds of both characters.
Flynn’s writing is sharp and unrelenting, and the twists and turns in the plot will keep you guessing until the very end. “Gone Girl” is a modern classic in the thriller genre and a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery.
3. “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris
“The Silence of the Lambs” is a classic thriller that has stood the test of time. The book follows Clarice Starling, an FBI trainee, as she works to catch a serial killer known as Buffalo Bill. To do so, she enlists the help of Dr Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant psychiatrist and cannibalistic killer who is currently in prison.
Harris’s writing is dark and chilling, and the complex characters he creates are both fascinating and terrifying. “The Silence of the Lambs” is a must-read for anyone who loves a good psychological thriller.
4. “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown
“The Da Vinci Code” is a fast-paced thriller that has sold millions of copies worldwide. The story follows Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon as he investigates a murder in the Louvre Museum in Paris. Along the way, he uncovers a series of clues that lead him on a hunt for the Holy Grail, with the help of cryptologist Sophie Neveu.
Brown’s writing is filled with historical and religious references, adding to the intrigue of the plot. “The Da Vinci Code” is a perfect choice for fans of fast-paced, adventure-filled thrillers.
5. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson
“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” is a novel that has gained a massive following since its publication in 2005. The book follows Mikael Blomkvist, a journalist who is hired to investigate the disappearance of a wealthy businessman’s niece. Along the way, he teams up with Lisbeth Salander, a computer hacker with a troubled past.
Larsson’s writing is gripping and suspenseful, and the characters he creates are complex and fascinating. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” is a great choice for fans of dark, gritty thrillers.
6. “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote
“In Cold Blood” is a true crime novel that tells the story of the brutal murder of the Clutter family in rural Kansas. Capote spent years researching the case and conducting interviews with the killers, Dick Hickock and Perry Smith, before writing the book. The result is a chilling and immersive account of the crime and its aftermath.
Capote’s writing style is gripping and engaging, making it easy for readers to become fully invested in the story. “In Cold Blood” is a must-read for fans of true crime and anyone interested in the psychology behind violent crimes.
7. “The Bourne Identity” by Robert Ludlum
“The Bourne Identity” is the first book in a series of thrillers featuring Jason Bourne, a former CIA operative who suffers from amnesia and must piece together his past while avoiding assassins who are trying to kill him. The book is filled with action-packed sequences and complex characters, making it a must-read for fans of spy thrillers.
Ludlum’s writing is fast-paced and engaging, making it easy for readers to become fully invested in the story. “The Bourne Identity” is a great choice for anyone looking for a thrilling and suspenseful read.
8. “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
“The Silent Patient” is a recent addition to the thriller genre that has garnered a lot of attention for its unique and twisty plot. The book follows Alicia Berenson, a famous artist who has been convicted of murdering her husband and has not spoken a word since the crime. Theo Faber, a psychotherapist, becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind Alicia’s silence and the events leading up to the murder.
Michaelides’ writing is gripping and atmospheric, and the characters he creates are complex and well-developed. “The Silent Patient” is a great choice for fans of psychological thrillers.
9. “The Stand” by Stephen King
“The Stand” is a post-apocalyptic thriller that has become a classic in the genre. The book follows a group of survivors who must band together to fight against a deadly virus that has wiped out most of the population. As the survivors struggle to rebuild their lives, they are forced to confront a group of evil beings who have risen to power in the wake of the pandemic.
King’s writing is masterful and immersive, and the characters he creates are both relatable and fascinating. “The Stand” is a must-read for fans of post-apocalyptic thrillers.
10. “The Andromeda Strain” by Michael Crichton
“The Andromeda Strain” is a science fiction thriller that explores the potential consequences of a deadly virus being released into the world. The book follows a group of scientists who are tasked with containing and studying a virus that has killed everyone in a small town. As they work to unravel the mystery of the virus, they uncover a conspiracy that threatens to destroy everything they’ve worked for.
Crichton’s writing is fast-paced and engaging, and the scientific aspects of the story are well-researched and plausible. “The Andromeda Strain” is a great choice for fans of science fiction and thrillers.
In conclusion, these are just some of the best thriller books that you should add to your reading list. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, post-apocalyptic stories, or fast-paced action, there is something on this list for everyone. So settle in with a good book, and get ready for a wild ride.
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