The best 26 Suspense Thriller books

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1
Suspense 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

2
Suspense Thriller Books: The Good Girl by Mary Kubica

The Good Girl

Mary Kubica

What's The Good Girl about?

The Good Girl by Mary Kubica is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end. The story follows the mysterious disappearance of a young woman named Mia, and the shocking truths that are unraveled as her family and the detective assigned to the case delve deeper into her past and the reasons behind her abduction.

Who should read The Good Girl?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers
  • Those interested in exploring themes of identity and deception
  • People who like complex and unreliable narrators

3
Suspense 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

4
Suspense 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

5
Suspense 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

6
Suspense Thriller Books: The Outsider by Stephen King

The Outsider

Stephen King

What's The Outsider about?

The Outsider by Stephen King is a gripping thriller that blurs the lines between the supernatural and the real world. When a beloved little league coach is accused of a heinous crime, detective Ralph Anderson is determined to uncover the truth. But as the evidence mounts, it becomes clear that something truly sinister may be at play. With King's trademark blend of suspense and horror, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read The Outsider?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and suspenseful stories
  • Fans of Stephen King's writing style and unique storytelling
  • Those who are intrigued by the concept of innocence and guilt, and the complexities of human nature

7
Suspense 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

8
Suspense 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

9
Suspense 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

10
Suspense 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

11
Suspense 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

12
Suspense Thriller Books: Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough

Behind Her Eyes

Sarah Pinborough

What's Behind Her Eyes about?

Behind Her Eyes by Sarah Pinborough is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. When Louise strikes up an affair with her new boss, David, she also befriends his wife, Adele. As secrets unravel and the past collides with the present, the story takes an unexpected turn that will leave you shocked. It's a mind-bending tale of obsession, manipulation, and the power of the human mind.

Who should read Behind Her Eyes?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with unexpected twists and turns
  • Individuals who are fascinated by complex and manipulative characters
  • People who appreciate stories that explore the intricacies of human relationships and the dark side of love

13
Suspense Thriller Books: Dark Matter by Blake Crouch

Dark Matter

Blake Crouch

What's Dark Matter about?

Dark Matter by Blake Crouch is a gripping science fiction thriller that explores the concept of parallel universes and the choices we make. Jason Dessen is living an ordinary life until he is abducted and wakes up in a reality that is not his own. As he embarks on a mind-bending journey to find his way back, he uncovers the terrifying consequences of his own decisions. This thought-provoking and suspenseful novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Dark Matter?

  • Individuals who enjoy mind-bending and thought-provoking science fiction
  • Readers who are fascinated by the concepts of alternate realities and the nature of existence
  • Those who appreciate fast-paced storytelling and unexpected plot twists

14

What's In a Dark, Dark Wood about?

In a Dark, Dark Wood by Ruth Ware is a gripping psychological thriller that takes place at a bachelorette party in an isolated cabin. As secrets from the past are revealed, the tension builds and the line between friend and foe becomes blurred. With its eerie atmosphere and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read In a Dark, Dark Wood?

  • Those who enjoy psychological thrillers and suspenseful narratives
  • Readers who like stories with unreliable narrators and unexpected plot twists
  • People who appreciate atmospheric settings and a sense of creeping dread

15
Suspense Thriller Books: Final Girls by Riley Sager

Final Girls

Riley Sager

What's Final Girls about?

Final Girls by Riley Sager is a gripping thriller that follows Quincy Carpenter, one of three sole survivors of separate mass murders. Dubbed a 'final girl' by the media, Quincy tries to move on from her traumatic past. But when one of the other final girls is found dead and the third shows up on her doorstep, Quincy is forced to confront the truth about what really happened that night.

Who should read Final Girls?

  • Readers who enjoy suspenseful and gripping psychological thrillers
  • Those interested in exploring the concept of “final girls” and survival in the aftermath of trauma
  • People who appreciate well-crafted plots with unexpected twists and turns

16
Suspense 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

17
Suspense 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

18
Suspense 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

19
Suspense 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

20
Suspense 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

21
Suspense 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

22
Suspense Thriller Books: Into the Water by Paula Hawkins

Into the Water

Paula Hawkins

What's Into the Water about?

Into the Water by Paula Hawkins is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the dark secrets of a small town. When a single mother is found dead in a river, it uncovers a history of mysterious deaths and hidden truths. The novel weaves together multiple perspectives and keeps you guessing until the very end.

Who should read Into the Water?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological suspense and complex, multi-layered stories
  • Those who appreciate compelling and well-developed characters
  • People who are intrigued by the exploration of secrets, guilt, and the darkness that can lie beneath seemingly ordinary lives

23

What's The Turn of the Key about?

The Turn of the Key by Ruth Ware is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When a young nanny takes a job at a remote Scottish mansion, she soon realizes that things are not as they seem. Told through a series of letters, this book will leave you guessing until the very end.

Who should read The Turn of the Key?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers
  • Those who are intrigued by mysteries involving smart home technology
  • People who appreciate a complex and unreliable narrator

24
Suspense 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

25
Suspense 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

26
Suspense Thriller Books: Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell

Then She Was Gone

Lisa Jewell

What's Then She Was Gone about?

Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell is a gripping psychological thriller that unravels the mystery of a young girl's disappearance. Told through multiple perspectives, the story delves into the dark and twisted secrets of a seemingly perfect family. With unexpected twists and turns, it keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Then She Was Gone?

  • Crime and mystery enthusiasts looking for a gripping and suspenseful story
  • Readers who enjoy exploring complex family dynamics and psychological twists
  • Those who appreciate well-crafted and emotionally impactful storytelling

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 FAQs 

What's the best Suspense Thriller book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard The Stand as the ultimate read on Suspense Thriller.

What are the Top 10 Suspense Thriller books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • The Stand by Stephen King
  • The Good Girl by Mary Kubica
  • Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter
  • The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena
  • The Client by John Grisham
  • The Outsider by Stephen King
  • Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
  • The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
  • Behind Closed Doors by B. A. Paris
  • Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

Who are the top Suspense Thriller book authors?

When it comes to Suspense Thriller, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Stephen King
  • Mary Kubica
  • Karin Slaughter
  • Shari Lapena
  • John Grisham