Psychological thrillers have taken the literary world by storm in recent years, captivating readers with their exploration of the human mind. Dubbed “horror lite” or “grip lit,” these books delve into the psyche of the villain and leave readers questioning their own thoughts and actions. From backwoods murder mysteries to gothic period pieces, this genre has something for everyone.
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1. The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
In 1959, Shirley Jackson published her masterpiece, The Haunting of Hill House. The novel is a gothic horror that centers around Dr. Montague, an aspiring ghostbuster who rents a notoriously haunted house for the summer.
He is joined by three other guests who have also experienced the supernatural. As the story progresses, the ghosts become more and more terrifying, mirroring the trauma of the troubled protagonists. Jackson’s writing style is both psychological and thrilling, making The Haunting of Hill House a must-read for fans of horror and suspense.
2. Misery by Stephen King
Stephen King’s novel “Misery” tells the story of a famous author, Paul Sheldon, who is rescued from a car accident by his number one fan, Annie Wilkes. Annie is a nurse who becomes obsessed with Paul’s fictional character, Misery Chastain. When she discovers that Paul has killed off Misery in his latest novel, she becomes unhinged and holds Paul captive, forcing him to write a new novel that resurrects Misery.
The novel is a chilling exploration of the dark side of fandom and the dangerous consequences of obsession. It delves into themes of madness, isolation, and the power dynamic between captor and captive. “Misery” is widely regarded as one of King’s best works and has been adapted into a successful film and stage play.
3. Home Before Dark by Riley Sager
Maggie Holt, the protagonist of “Home Before Dark,” returns to her childhood home, Baneberry Hall, after 25 years to renovate and sell it. Maggie’s father wrote a book called “House of Horrors,” which documented the family’s ghostly encounters at Baneberry Hall, but Maggie doesn’t believe any of it. However, as soon as she arrives, strange things begin to happen, and Maggie starts to question her skepticism.
The novel is a thrilling mystery that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story is told through alternating chapters between Maggie’s present-day experiences and excerpts from her father’s book. The suspenseful plot, along with the well-developed characters, makes “Home Before Dark” a must-read for fans of the horror and mystery genres.
4. Room by Emma Donoghue
Room by Emma Donoghue is a psychological thriller that draws inspiration from the Fritzl abduction case. The story revolves around a character named ‘Ma’, who is trapped in her captor’s basement for seven years.
The plot is narrated from the perspective of Ma’s son, Jack, who has never known anything beyond the four walls of the room. The book is not only a gripping thriller but also a poignant coming-of-age story. It explores Jack’s journey of discovering the world outside the room and adjusting to the new reality. The book has been adapted into an Academy Award-winning film, which has further popularized the story.
5. The Last Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine
In this posh, feminist homage to the classic The Talented Mr. Ripley, Amber Patterson envies the luxurious life of her neighbor Daphne Parrish. In an attempt to infiltrate Daphne’s world, Amber sets out to manipulate her way into Daphne’s perfect marriage. The Last Mrs. Parrish is a gripping thriller that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.
6. Sin by Josephine Hart
Josephine Hart’s Sin is a classic psychological thriller from the ’90s that explores the dark side of human nature. The novel revolves around Elizabeth, who is adopted by her aunt and uncle after her family dies in a car accident. However, her cousin Ruth has different plans for her.
The novel delves into the themes of lust, envy, and other sins, making it a perfect read for fans of Sharon Stone’s movies. With its gripping plot and well-crafted characters, Sin is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good psychological thriller.
7. Alias Grace by Margaret Atwood
Alias Grace is a novel by Margaret Atwood that has been adapted into a TV series on Netflix. The story is based on the true events of Grace Marks, a mild-mannered servant who has been accused of a double murder.
The plot is narrated through the eyes of a doctor who is attempting to understand criminal behavior while reconciling Grace’s nature with the nature of her crime. The story is set in a meticulous period setting, making it a perfect read for fans of historical fiction. The novel’s plot is similar to that of The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, but with a historical twist.
8. Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter
Twenty years after the disappearance of Julia, a young girl goes missing, and the case bears chilling similarities to Julia’s. Claire and Lydia, Julia’s estranged sisters, reunite to uncover secrets that shatter their perceptions of their sister and the past. As they embark on this journey, they discover shocking truths that change everything they thought they knew.
The novel “Pretty Girls” by Karin Slaughter explores the themes of grief, loss, and the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones. Through the use of suspenseful storytelling and well-crafted characters, Slaughter delivers a thrilling and emotional read that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.
9. The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn
The Woman in the Window is a novel by A.J. Finn that has gained immense popularity in a short amount of time. The story revolves around Anna Fox, an agoraphobe who lives alone in Manhattan.
Her only companions are her wine and her window, through which she observes her neighbors. As she delves deeper into their lives, she uncovers a dark and violent underbelly that lies beneath their seemingly happy facade. However, due to her condition, no one believes her.
The novel offers a unique take on the psychological thriller genre and also sheds light on the issues of mental illness and agoraphobia. It has been compared to the classic movie Rear Window. The book’s success has led to its adaptation into a motion picture.
10. Sunburn by Laura Lippman
In this 2018 novel, Laura Lippman presents a modern twist on the private detective genre. The story follows Polly, a woman who abandons her family after being sentenced and pardoned for the murder of her husband.
She takes a waitressing job in a small town in Delaware, where she meets Adam, a charming traveling salesman who also decides to work at the restaurant. The novel is a combination of psychological thriller and classic noir, making it an ideal read for those looking for a captivating page-turner.
11. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
The Silent Patient is a gripping psychological thriller by Alex Michaelides. The novel revolves around the life of Alicia Berenson, a woman who lives in a big house in London with her famous painter-husband. However, her perfect life takes a gruesome turn when she murders her husband one evening when he returns home from work.
Years after the incident, Alicia remains silent and is now living in a secure forensic unit in North London, away from the world that is curious to know the truth behind the tragedy. Criminal psychotherapist Theo Faber is eager to talk to Alicia and unravel the mystery behind her case. As Theo delves deeper into the Berenson file, his own motivations begin to warp, and his search for the truth threatens to consume him.
The Silent Patient is a well-crafted novel that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. The book explores themes of love, obsession, and the human psyche. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good psychological thriller.
12. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn is a bestselling novel that explores the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface of a seemingly perfect marriage. On the morning of their fifth wedding anniversary, Amy Dunne goes missing, and her husband Nick becomes the prime suspect in her disappearance.
As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that their marriage was far from perfect, with both partners keeping secrets and hiding their true selves. The novel raises important questions about the nature of love, trust, and the lengths people will go to protect their own interests.
13. My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing
Samantha Downing’s novel, My Lovely Wife, follows the lives of a seemingly ordinary couple who have been married for fifteen years and are searching for ways to add some excitement to their relationship.
However, their solution to their boredom is far from conventional. Instead of taking a trip or learning a new skill, they turn to a more sinister hobby – murder. As the story progresses, the question arises whether they will be able to get away with their crimes.
The novel offers a unique twist on the domestic thriller genre, exploring the darker side of human nature and the lengths people will go to in order to satisfy their desires. Downing’s writing style is engaging and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, making My Lovely Wife a must-read for fans of the thriller genre.
14. Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
For those who enjoyed Gone Girl, Gillian Flynn’s Sharp Objects is a must-read. The tightly-structured thriller follows a traumatized investigative journalist, Camille Preaker, as she returns to her hometown to report on a series of murders.
The novel delves into the complex relationships between Camille and her family, as well as the twisted nature of the killer’s motives. Recently adapted into an HBO Limited Series starring Amy Adams, Sharp Objects received critical acclaim for its dark and gripping storyline. Readers should hold off on watching the series until they’ve read the book to fully appreciate the depth of Flynn’s writing.
15. Hidden Bodies by Caroline Kepnes
In “Hidden Bodies,” Caroline Kepnes continues the story of Joe Goldberg, the protagonist of her debut novel, “You.” In this sequel, Joe is now in his thirties and has been hiding the bodies of his victims in New York City for the past ten years. He decides to leave his past behind and start fresh in Los Angeles, where he gets a job at a bookstore and begins a relationship with his journalist neighbor.
However, Joe soon realizes that love has a way of exposing the darkest parts of oneself, and he must confront his hidden past. Kepnes’ writing style is engaging and suspenseful, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Joe’s journey.
For those who enjoy true crime stories, Kepnes’ novels offer a fictional take on the genre. If you’re looking for more true crime books to add to your reading list, check out the “43 best true crime books of all time” for more captivating stories.
16. The Snowman by Jo Nesbø
In “The Snowman,” Jo Nesbø introduces Norway’s first serial killer who exclusively targets married mothers and leaves a snowman at the scene of the crime. The novel follows Detective Harry Hole as he works to solve this twisted mystery and stop the killer before he strikes again.
Despite the recent film adaptation starring Michael Fassbender receiving mixed reviews, Nesbø’s book has sold over 33 million copies worldwide, making it a must-read for fans of the crime genre. With its unique modus operandi and complex characters, “The Snowman” is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
17. The Elizas by Sara Shepard
Sara Shepard’s novel, The Elizas, follows Eliza Fontaine, a novelist who has survived five near-death experiences, the first four of which were suicide attempts. After claiming that she was pushed in her latest accident, Eliza’s parents dismiss her allegations due to her history of mental health issues.
However, Eliza is determined to prove them wrong and uncover the truth. The novel’s meta layer adds an exciting element to the story, making it a must-read for aspiring psychological thriller writers. The Elizas is a gripping tale of memory loss and attempted murder that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.
18. I Know Where She Is by S.B. Caves
S.B. Caves’ debut novel, I Know Where She Is, is a gripping thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Francine, a mother whose daughter went missing 10 years ago, receives a cryptic note that reads “I know where she is”.
This sets off a chain of events that leads Francine on a dangerous journey to uncover the truth behind her daughter’s disappearance. Caves’ writing style is heart-stopping, and readers will be unable to put the book down until the very end. I Know Where She Is is a must-read for anyone who loves a good thriller.
19. We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver
We Need to Talk About Kevin is a novel that explores the themes of murder and mental illness. The story follows Eva Khatchadourian, a mother who looks back on her son’s childhood for warning signs after he is arrested for killing nine classmates in a fictional school shooting.
The novel was published in 2003 and has gained significance in light of the increasing prevalence of these types of tragedies. The book provides a vivid portrayal of the psyche of a sociopath and the emotional turmoil of a mother trying to come to terms with her son’s actions.
We Need to Talk About Kevin is a poignant and thought-provoking read for those interested in exploring the complexities of mental illness and its consequences.
20. Bellevue Square by Michael Redhill
Bellevue Square by Michael Redhill, released in 2017, is a gripping novel that follows Jean Mason as she discovers a doppelgänger in the city park. Two strangers inform her of the lookalike, only to end up dead soon after.
The novel initially follows the “grip lit” script before taking unexpected twists and turns, making it a must-read for fans of mistaken identity, murder mysteries, and the supernatural. Without giving away too much, Bellevue Square is a captivating and unique novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
21. The Gone World by Tom Sweterlitsch
Tom Sweterlitsch’s The Gone World is a thrilling science fiction novel that combines elements of classic noir, dystopian fiction, and psychological suspense. The story follows Shannon Moss, a time-traveling agent for the NCIS who uncovers a conspiracy spanning multiple decades. This fusion of genres creates a stunning and unique reading experience that fans of Michael Crichton and Stieg Larsson will surely enjoy.
22. Into The Water by Paula Hawkins
Paula Hawkins’ second novel, Into The Water, is a psychological thriller that follows Jules Abbott as she returns to her hometown after the death of her sister.
The story is told from the perspectives of 11 different characters, each providing their own unique insight into the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death. With its cinematic prose and Hitchcockian influences, fans of Hawkins’ first novel, The Girl On The Train, will find Into The Water just as gripping.
23. See What I Have Done by Sarah Schmidt
Sarah Schmidt’s historical fiction novel, “See What I Have Done,” delves into the infamous Fall River Axe Murders that occurred in Massachusetts in 1892. The novel focuses on the primary suspect, Lizzie Borden, who was acquitted of the murder of her father and stepmother.
Schmidt’s writing style creates a chilling and captivating thriller that draws readers in. The novel offers a unique perspective on the well-known murders, making it a must-read for true crime enthusiasts and historical fiction fans alike.
24. The Butterfly Garden by Dot Hutchison
In “The Butterfly Garden” by Dot Hutchison, a man known as “The Gardener” imprisons a group of women he calls his “butterflies” in the courtyard of a remote mansion. The novel is a bestselling psychological thriller on Amazon, and it’s not hard to see why.
The concept of a man treating his captives like specimens in a bug collection is original and compelling. In a market oversaturated with cookie-cutter thrillers, “The Butterfly Garden” stands out as a unique and chilling read.
25. In the Dark Dark Wood by Ruth Ware
The novel “In the Dark Dark Wood” by Ruth Ware is a thrilling mystery that takes place in a remote cabin in the woods. The story follows a group of old friends who reunite for a bachelorette party, but things quickly take a dark turn when secrets from their past begin to emerge. The novel is filled with suspense and unexpected twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
26. Fever Dream by Samanta Schweblin
Fever Dream by Samanta Schweblin is a psychological thriller novel with magical realist undertones. The story revolves around a woman who wakes up in a hospital bed and a mysterious boy who is not hers kneeling beside her.
The boy unravels the events that led to her hospitalization, leading to a mind-bending plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Despite its slim size and play-like structure, Fever Dream is an excellent thriller that is perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn and Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
Summary
Psychological thriller books are a popular genre that often explores the dark side of human nature. These books typically feature unreliable narrators, unexpected plot twists, and intense psychological suspense.
Some well-known authors in this genre include Gillian Flynn, Paula Hawkins, and Tana French. Psychological thriller books can be a great way to explore complex human emotions and motivations, and they often leave readers on the edge of their seats.