A compelling thriller engages readers by keeping them on their toes, yet not all novels in this genre succeed in this endeavor. While some thrillers can be disappointingly predictable, revealing their culprits early on, others go to extremes with shocking conclusions that take readers by surprise. However, the latter may not always provide misleading clues or cleverly placed red herrings, leading to a twist that feels unearned.
The excitement of a thriller often lies in the myriad of possible outcomes, captivating readers as they immerse themselves in the unfolding mystery. Solving the puzzle alongside the protagonist adds depth to the reading experience, particularly when the author skillfully interlaces various threads of possibility before revealing a jaw-dropping conclusion. For those in search of such engrossing narratives, here are ten standout thrillers.
10 Gone Girl (2012)
By Gillian Flynn
Since its film adaptation in 2014, Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl has become a household name among thriller enthusiasts. First-time readers can anticipate a roller coaster of suspense from the first page to the last. This novel artfully employs unreliable narration and multiple red herrings, making it nearly impossible to predict where the plot will lead. Even if readers think they have figured it out, the revelations may still catch them off guard.
The effectiveness of Gone Girl in keeping readers guessing is particularly noteworthy given its seemingly straightforward plot centered around a domestic thriller theme.
9 Listen For The Lie (2024)
By Amy Tintera
Listen for the Lie, a notable thriller of 2024, has garnered significant acclaim, including praise from Stephen King. Central to its intrigue is the story of Lucy, a woman haunted by the loss of her best friend Savvy, who died under mysterious circumstances. Lucy’s lack of memory regarding the incident, combined with her presence at the scene, stirs suspicion about her involvement.
As Lucy makes her way back to her hometown to uncover the truth, readers are placed in her shoes, piecing together the puzzle alongside her. The narrative also inspires a podcast about the case, adding another layer of complexity that leads to unexpected developments throughout the story.
8 The It Girl (2022)
By Ruth Ware
Despite its more leisurely pacing, Ruth Ware’s The It Girl excels at maintaining reader suspense through well-placed red herrings. The novel follows a tightly-knit group of friends, keeping readers guessing about the identity of the murderer until the protagonist discovers the chilling truth surrounding her college roommate’s untimely death.
7 Everyone Here Is Lying (2023)
By Shari Lapena
Everyone Here Is Lying certainly embraces its title, crafting a narrative filled with deception and intrigue. The story begins with the troubling disappearance of nine-year-old Avery Wheeler, whose father harbors dark secrets. However, he is not alone in this web of deceit; even the witnesses may not be trustworthy. This constant uncertainty resonates through the town of Stanhope, keeping readers in suspense until the explosive culmination of events.
6 First Lie Wins (2024)
By Ashley Elston
First Lie Wins presents a complex web of dubious motives, making it a thrilling challenge to predict its true direction. The evolving intricacies of the plot immerse readers deeper into the suspense.
5 Dark Matter (2016)
By Blake Crouch
Unlike First Lie Wins, Dark Matter involves action and sci-fi elements that amplify its unpredictability. Following the story of Jason Dessen, who finds himself snatched from his reality into an unfamiliar life, the book generates tension and ambiguity. Readers will benefit from approaching this tale with minimal prior knowledge to truly enjoy the twists and turns that unravel throughout.
4 The Last Time I Lied (2018)
By Riley Sager
Riley Sager is a well-regarded name in thriller literature, and The Last Time I Lied stands out as one of his most enthralling works. Centered on Emma Davis, who was once the last person to see three campers at Camp Nightingale before their mysterious disappearance, this narrative thrusts her back into her past. As she navigates the shadows of her childhood, chilling truths emerge that may finally explain the camp’s dark history.
3 Daisy Darker (2022)
By Alice Feeney
Alice Feeney delivers a captivating story with Daisy Darker, where a family’s gathering on an island during a violent storm leads to a series of tragic events. As they celebrate Nana’s 80th birthday, sinister occurrences unfold, leaving readers in a locked-room mystery filled with family drama. The unveiling of deep-seated secrets keeps readers questioning the motives of each character as the chilling narrative progresses.
2 One Of Us Is Lying (2017)
By Karen M. McManus
Targeting a younger audience than many thrillers, One Of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus still delivers a mind-blowing conclusion that leaves readers astounded. The plot hinges on the complex relationships between students, with each one potentially implicated in the death of Simon, a fellow student. The multilayered approach ensures that the shocking reveal will be a memorable surprise for all who read it.
1 A Good Girl’s Guide To Murder (2019)
By Holly Jackson
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder invites readers into an enigma filled with perplexing questions that are not easily solved. Following Pip as she investigates the murder of Andie Bell—a case dismissed as solved by the community—this YA thriller unravels as she digs deeper, particularly since Sal, Andie’s boyfriend and the presumed killer, also ends up dead. Pip’s relentless pursuit of the truth uncovers numerous suspects and hidden motives, ensuring every twist keeps readers on the edge of their seats.