The best 20 Crime Thriller books

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Crime Thriller Books: Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

Big Little Lies

Liane Moriarty

What's Big Little Lies about?

Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty is a gripping novel that delves into the lives of three women whose seemingly perfect lives unravel to reveal dark secrets and lies. Set in a picturesque coastal town, the book explores themes of friendship, motherhood, and domestic violence, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Who should read Big Little Lies?

  • Readers who enjoy mystery and suspense
  • People interested in exploring the complexities of female friendships and relationships
  • Those looking for a thought-provoking novel that addresses societal issues such as domestic violence and bullying

2
Crime Thriller Books: I Am Watching You by Teresa Driscoll

I Am Watching You

Teresa Driscoll

What's I Am Watching You about?

I Am Watching You by Teresa Driscoll is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When a woman overhears a conversation on a train that sets off alarm bells, she becomes obsessed with finding out the truth. As the story unfolds, dark secrets and unexpected twists reveal the chilling reality of what can happen when someone is watching you.

Who should read I Am Watching You?

  • Anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers and suspenseful mysteries
  • Readers who like stories with multiple perspectives and unreliable narrators
  • People who are interested in exploring the consequences of not speaking up and taking action in critical situations

3
Crime Thriller Books: The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

The Girl on the Train

Paula Hawkins

What's The Girl on the Train about?

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the story of Rachel, an alcoholic who becomes obsessed with a seemingly perfect couple she sees from the train every day. When the woman goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in the investigation and uncovers dark secrets about the people involved. Filled with twists and turns, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read The Girl on the Train?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with unreliable narrators
  • Those looking for a captivating and suspenseful story with unexpected twists
  • People who are interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of obsession

4
Crime Thriller Books: Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane

Shutter Island

Dennis Lehane

What's Shutter Island about?

Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane is a mind-bending psychological thriller that takes place in an eerie, isolated mental institution. U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels and his partner are sent to the island to investigate the disappearance of a patient. As they delve into the mystery, they uncover disturbing secrets and question their own sanity. With its unexpected twists and thought-provoking themes, this gripping novel will keep you hooked until the very end.

Who should read Shutter Island?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with mind-bending twists
  • Those interested in exploring the depths of human psychology and the nature of reality
  • Anyone looking for a gripping and immersive storytelling experience

5
Crime Thriller Books: The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

The Silent Patient

Alex Michaelides

What's The Silent Patient about?

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When Alicia Berenson is accused of murdering her husband and then goes silent, refusing to speak a single word, psychotherapist Theo Faber becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind her shocking act. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia's past and her dark, twisted mind, he unravels a web of secrets and lies that will leave you stunned.

Who should read The Silent Patient?

  • Those who enjoy psychological thrillers and suspenseful stories
  • Readers who are intrigued by complex and unpredictable characters
  • People who appreciate clever plot twists and well-crafted narratives

6
Crime Thriller Books: The Woods by Harlan Coben

The Woods

Harlan Coben

What's The Woods about?

The Woods by Harlan Coben follows a gripping tale of long-buried secrets and the search for the truth. When a shocking discovery is made in the woods near a summer camp, it brings back haunting memories for attorney Paul Copeland. As he delves into the past, he uncovers dark secrets and must confront the truth about what really happened all those years ago.

Who should read The Woods?

  • Readers who enjoy suspenseful thrillers with unexpected twists and turns
  • Those who are drawn to stories with complex family dynamics and hidden secrets
  • Individuals who appreciate well-crafted character development and multi-layered narratives

7
Crime Thriller Books: The Shining by Stephen King

The Shining

Stephen King

What's The Shining about?

The Shining is a gripping novel by Stephen King that tells the story of the Torrance family, who move into the isolated Overlook Hotel for the winter. As the hotel becomes snowbound, terrifying supernatural forces start to take hold, driving the father, Jack, to madness and putting his wife and son in grave danger. This chilling tale explores themes of isolation, addiction, and the power of the supernatural.

Who should read The Shining?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological horror and supernatural phenomena
  • Fans of Stephen King's writing style and storytelling ability
  • Those interested in exploring themes of family dysfunction and the human psyche

8
Crime Thriller Books: Before I Go to Sleep by S. J. Watson

Before I Go to Sleep

S. J. Watson

What's Before I Go to Sleep about?

Before I Go to Sleep by S. J. Watson is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows Christine Lucas, who wakes up every day with no memory of her past due to a mysterious accident. As she starts to uncover the truth about her life, she realizes that things are not as they seem. Filled with twists and turns, this book will make you question everything you think you know.

Who should read Before I Go to Sleep?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with unexpected plot twists
  • Those interested in exploring the complexities of memory and identity
  • Individuals who appreciate stories that keep them guessing until the very end

9
Crime Thriller Books: Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

Sharp Objects

Gillian Flynn

What's Sharp Objects about?

Sharp Objects is a psychological thriller by Gillian Flynn that delves into the dark and twisted mind of its protagonist, journalist Camille Preaker. Assigned to cover a series of murders in her hometown, Camille is forced to confront her own troubled past and unravel the secrets that have haunted her family for years. With its gripping narrative and shocking revelations, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Sharp Objects?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers
  • Those interested in complex and flawed female protagonists
  • People who appreciate dark and atmospheric storytelling

10
Crime Thriller Books: Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter

Pretty Girls

Karin Slaughter

What's Pretty Girls about?

Pretty Girls is a chilling and suspenseful thriller by Karin Slaughter that delves into the dark and disturbing secrets hidden within a seemingly ordinary family. When a woman goes missing, it unravels a web of lies and reveals the truth about what really happened to her sister years ago. This gripping novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Pretty Girls?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with gripping and intense storylines
  • Those interested in exploring the complexities of family relationships and secrets
  • Individuals who appreciate a mix of crime fiction, suspense, and character-driven narratives

11
Crime Thriller Books: The Firm by John Grisham

The Firm

John Grisham

What's The Firm about?

The Firm by John Grisham is a legal thriller that follows a young attorney named Mitch McDeere as he joins a prestigious law firm in Memphis. However, he soon discovers that the firm has some dark secrets and is involved in illegal activities. As Mitch tries to escape the firm's grip, he becomes entangled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse.

Who should read The Firm?

  • Readers who enjoy legal thrillers and suspenseful stories
  • Those interested in exploring the dark side of big law firms and corporate corruption
  • People who appreciate complex characters and intricate plots

12
Crime Thriller Books: A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle

A Study in Scarlet

Arthur Conan Doyle

What's A Study in Scarlet about?

A Study in Scarlet (1887) is a detective novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It introduces the iconic characters Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson as they solve a mysterious murder case in London. Filled with thrilling twists and turns, this book marks the beginning of the legendary Sherlock Holmes series.

Who should read A Study in Scarlet?

  • Readers who enjoy classic detective fiction
  • People with an interest in the original Sherlock Holmes stories
  • Those who appreciate complex and intriguing mystery plots

13
Crime Thriller Books: The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena

The Couple Next Door

Shari Lapena

What's The Couple Next Door about?

The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the secrets and lies of seemingly ordinary people. When a couple's baby goes missing during a dinner party at their neighbor's house, dark truths and hidden motives are revealed. With unexpected twists and a tense atmosphere, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read The Couple Next Door?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and mystery novels
  • People who are interested in exploring the complexities of marriage and parenthood
  • Those who like plot twists and unexpected turns in a story

14
Crime Thriller Books: Dark Places by Gillian Flynn

Dark Places

Gillian Flynn

What's Dark Places about?

Dark Places by Gillian Flynn is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of family, memory, and the aftermath of a brutal massacre. The story follows Libby Day, the sole survivor of her family's murder, as she investigates the events of that fateful night and uncovers shocking truths about her past. With its dark and twisted plot, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Dark Places?

  • Readers who enjoy dark and suspenseful thrillers
  • Those who appreciate complex and morally ambiguous characters
  • People who are interested in exploring the dark side of human nature and society

15
Crime Thriller Books: The Client by John Grisham

The Client

John Grisham

What's The Client about?

A legal thriller that follows 11-year-old Mark Sway as he becomes entangled in the dangerous world of the mafia after witnessing a lawyer's suicide. With the help of attorney Reggie Love, Mark must navigate the legal system and outsmart the mafia in order to protect himself and his family. The Client is a gripping tale of suspense and power.

Who should read The Client?

  • Readers who enjoy legal thrillers and suspenseful plots
  • Individuals interested in the complexities of the legal system and courtroom drama
  • Those who appreciate well-developed characters and intricate storytelling

16
Crime Thriller Books: The Stand by Stephen King

The Stand

Stephen King

What's The Stand about?

The Stand is a post-apocalyptic horror novel by Stephen King. Set in a world ravaged by a deadly virus, it tells the story of a group of survivors who are drawn into a final stand between the forces of good and evil. With its complex characters and gripping narrative, the book explores themes of societal collapse, redemption, and the battle for the soul of humanity.

Who should read The Stand?

  • Readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic stories
  • Fans of Stephen King’s writing and storytelling
  • Those interested in exploring themes of good vs. evil and the human condition

17
Crime Thriller Books: Deception Point by Dan Brown

Deception Point

Dan Brown

What's Deception Point about?

Deception Point by Dan Brown is a gripping thriller that takes the reader on a journey through deception and conspiracy. When a NASA satellite uncovers a mysterious object buried deep in the Arctic ice, it sets off a chain of events that will challenge everything we know about science, politics, and the pursuit of truth. With twists and turns at every corner, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Deception Point?

  • Readers who enjoy fast-paced and thrilling novels
  • Those with an interest in conspiracy theories and government cover-ups
  • People who appreciate thought-provoking fiction with a scientific and technological backdrop

18
Crime Thriller Books: The Day of the Jackal by Frederick Forsyth

The Day of the Jackal

Frederick Forsyth

What's The Day of the Jackal about?

The Day of the Jackal by Frederick Forsyth is a gripping thriller that follows an anonymous assassin, known as the Jackal, as he is hired to kill Charles de Gaulle, the President of France. With meticulous planning and a relentless pursuit by the authorities, the Jackal embarks on a deadly mission that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Who should read The Day of the Jackal?

  • Readers who enjoy suspenseful and intricately plotted thrillers
  • Those interested in political intrigue and the world of espionage
  • People who appreciate meticulous research and attention to detail in a novel

19
Crime Thriller Books: Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris

Behind Closed Doors

B. A. Paris

What's Behind Closed Doors about?

Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the dark and twisted reality of a seemingly perfect marriage. The story follows Grace, who appears to have it all – a handsome husband, a beautiful home, and a luxurious lifestyle. But as the truth unravels, we discover the horrifying secrets that lie behind closed doors.

Who should read Behind Closed Doors?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with a focus on domestic suspense
  • Those interested in exploring complex and manipulative relationships
  • People who appreciate a fast-paced and addictive storytelling style

20
Crime Thriller Books: Eye of the Needle by Ken Follett

Eye of the Needle

Ken Follett

What's Eye of the Needle about?

Eye of the Needle is a gripping spy thriller set during World War II. Written by Ken Follett, it follows a ruthless German spy known as "The Needle" who possesses crucial information about the Allies' plans. As he attempts to escape to Germany, a determined woman stands in his way, leading to a thrilling game of cat and mouse.

Who should read Eye of the Needle?

  • Readers who enjoy historical fiction set during World War II
  • Those interested in espionage and spy thrillers
  • People who appreciate well-researched and detailed narratives

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 FAQs 

What's the best Crime Thriller book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Big Little Lies as the ultimate read on Crime Thriller.

What are the Top 10 Crime Thriller books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
  • I Am Watching You by Teresa Driscoll
  • The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
  • Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane
  • The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
  • The Woods by Harlan Coben
  • The Shining by Stephen King
  • Before I Go to Sleep by S. J. Watson
  • Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
  • Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter

Who are the top Crime Thriller book authors?

When it comes to Crime Thriller, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Liane Moriarty
  • Teresa Driscoll
  • Paula Hawkins
  • Dennis Lehane
  • Alex Michaelides