There's nothing like the adrenaline rush that comes with diving into certain Books, where the suspense of the story consumes you to the core. These novels are the ultimate roller coaster of the imagination, taking you on dizzying twists and turns, stunning revelations and breathtaking moments. These are immersive escapades that keep you feverishly turning the pages, even if you have to sacrifice your sleep or cancel your family or friends plans. The simple pleasure of being captivated by a well-crafted plot and unforgettable characters is an exhilarating escape from everyday life. Who knew the prospect of danger could be so delectable?
The best thrillers to devour urgently
The Master of Illusions by Donna Tartt
The Master of Illusions by Donna Tartt
Donna Tartt's book is a psychological thriller that explores, through the dark side of a university, the theme of obsession. Set in an elite institution, the novel follows a group of eccentric students led by a mysterious professor who engage in dangerous intellectual pursuits. The author's immersive prose draws readers into a world of Greek mythology, murder, and moral ambiguity. The suspense lies not so much in “who” committed the crime, but in the “why”, gracefully unraveling the motivations and complex relationships between the characters. Its tension, combined with philosophical underpinnings, makes it an intense read that continues long after you've finished it.
Millennium: Men who didn't like women Stieg Larsson
Millennium: The Men Who Didn't Love Women by Stieg Larsson
The first volume of the saga Millennium is a captivating thriller that masterfully blends mystery, crime and social analysis. It follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist and enigmatic hacker Lisbeth Salander as they investigate the decades-old disappearance of the niece of a wealthy industrialist. Stieg Larsson weaves a complex tale filled with dark family secrets, corruption and revenge, which keeps readers on the edge of their seats with its twists and turns and in-depth character development. The novel's complex plot and Salander's fascinating, rebellious character make for a must-read.
On my skin de Gillian Flynn
On My Skin by Gillian Flynn
If you're looking for a haunting psychological thriller, this book, which delves into the complexities of trauma, family dysfunction, and small-town secrets, is for you. The story follows Camille Preaker, a tormented journalist, who returns to her hometown to cover the brutal murders of two young girls. Gillian Flynn's writing is sharp, dark and unflinchingly raw, drawing readers into Camille's emotionally scarred world. As she unravels the mystery, disturbing truths about her own past come to light, creating an atmosphere of dread creeping in the shadows. Watch the OCS series instead Sharp Objects after reading the book, starring Amy Adams as Camille Preaker.
Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane
Shutter Island de Dennis Lehane
This gripping psychological thriller skillfully blurs the lines between sanity and madness. In 1954, US Marshal Teddy Daniels investigates the disappearance of a patient at a remote psychiatric hospital on Shutter Island. The intensity of the narration and the sinister atmosphere of Dennis Lehane weave a labyrinth of suspense, dark secrets and twists that keep you in suspense until the denouement, the exploration of guilt and perception in the novel adding from depth to mystery. The film adaptation, directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, brilliantly recreates the chilling atmosphere of the book published in 2003.
Presumed innocent de Scott Turow
Scott Turow presumed innocent
The plot revolves around prosecutor Rusty Sabich who, after a torrid affair with a colleague, finds himself the main suspect in the latter's murder. Scott Turow's plot and rich character exploration make this book a gripping read with themes of power, corruption, and justice. The twists and turns keep you in suspense until the end, impatient as you are to turn each page. And if you want more, the adaptation on MyCanal and Apple TV+ with Jake Gyllenhaal offers the same suspense, with its share of stars to go with it.
On the bones of the dead d'Olga Tokarczuk
On the bones of the dead by Olga Tokarczuk
Set in a remote Polish village, this book features Janina, an eccentric woman whose fascination with astrology and animals leads her into a series of enigmatic deaths. Olga Tokarczuk's beautifully crafted prose and Janina's eccentric character give this novel a special appeal. The gradual build-up of tension, combined with an evocative setting and surprising revelations, makes this novel an exciting and unconventional read. For those who like thrillers imbued with social criticism and a touch of the unusual, this book offers a unique experience.
Death in the Woods by Tana French
Death in the Woods by Tana French
Death in the Woods by Tana French is a gripping psychological thriller that expertly combines mystery, character depth, and emotional tension. The novel follows Inspector Rob Ryan as he investigates the murder of a young girl in a small Irish town, a case eerily similar to his own childhood trauma. Tana French's writing is rich in detail, immersing readers in both the atmosphere, the investigation, and Ryan's fractured psyche. The plot is full of unexpected twists and turns, while the complex relationships between the characters add a surprisingly charged emotional weight. This novel is so excellent that it has won numerous awards, including the 2008 Edgar Award for Best First Novel.
Originally published on GQ India
