10 Best Thriller Books To Buy Of All Time in 2023

It has been truthfully said though, there is nothing like a good crime novel and in case you didn't know many of the top action films in Hollywood or on Netflix are based on outstanding thriller books.

For many years, the genre of thriller books has kept readers on the edge of their seats. With compelling stories, complex plots, and enduring characters, they capture our attention. The realm of thrillers is filled with everything from suspenseful stories of murder and deceit to heart-pounding spy adventures. And we are here for it all as you are since you tapped on this article.

Whether you want high-stakes espionage stories that take you on a global expedition or psychological thrillers that explore the darkest recesses of the human mind, in our comprehensive guide we have covered it all. Each book in our selection offers a unique reading experience that will have you eagerly turning the pages long into the night.

So with further ado, let's delve into the world of mysteries.

Here’s how we picked these books for you

• Enduring Popularity: We delved into the world of publishing to identify books that have maintained their popularity through the years. Our list comprises the titles that have continued to capture the imaginations of readers long after their initial release.
• Unforgettable Characters: Thrillers are often defined by their compelling characters. We sought out books that feature protagonists and antagonists that have left an indelible mark on readers' minds.
• Page-Turning Plot Twists: No thriller is complete without unexpected plot twists that keep you guessing until the very end. We've chosen books that excel in delivering these heart-pounding moments.
• Sub-Genre Appeal: While thrillers come in many subgenres, we aimed to provide a well-rounded selection that caters to a variety of tastes. From psychological thrillers to espionage adventures, our guide has something for everyone.
• Time-Tested Excellence: We considered both classic thriller novels that have stood the test of time and contemporary masterpieces that have breathed new life into the genre. Our goal was to offer a diverse range of options for every reader.
• Readers Feedback: We took into account the feedback and recommendations of avid thriller readers. After all, what better way to find the best thrillers than by listening to those who love the genre?

Read on, to find some of the best Thriller books of all time

1. The Girl on the Train

Fans of thrillers really must read this book! The literary community has been rocked by this global phenomenon, and with good reason. It is a suspenseful rollercoaster that you won't want to put down because of its brilliant writing and complex storyline twists.

Watch how three women's lives are intricately entangled in a web of lies, secrets, and suspense. When you think you have everything figured out, Paula Hawkins will yank the rug out from under you. Her writing will keep you wondering at every turn.

This is the book that had everyone talking, and it's your chance to find out why. Dive into the world of "The Girl on the Train" and join millions of readers who couldn't resist its tantalising mystery and heart-pounding excitement. Get ready for a thrilling ride that you won't soon forget!

Specifications:

• Price: ₹346
• Genre: Thriller
• Author: Paula Hawkins
• Pages: Approx. 325
• Published: 2015

Pros:

• Gripping suspense
• Complex characters
• Unpredictable plot
• Psychological tension
• Multiple viewpoints

Cons:

• Slow start for some
• Unlikable characters

Readers Review: Completely thrilling and grabbing nerves to the edge, dates mentioned were too important in order to understand the complete story. If you get an opportunity never miss this book.

Why it's worth buying: This book is:worth buying for its heart-pounding suspense and masterful storytelling, as praised by 90% of Amazon readers who rated it 4.1 stars.

Our top pick for you: https://amzn.to/3tdYgKT

2. The Stand

The epic struggle between the forces of good and evil for the future of humanity is depicted in this gripping book, which transports you to a post-apocalyptic world. Stephen King's "The Stand" is a literary masterpiece that's an absolute must-read for fans of suspense, horror, and epic storytelling.

It is set in a world where a devastating pandemic has destroyed the population, and it chronicles the journey of a diverse group of survivors who are brought together in a struggle between good and evil.

You'll find yourself totally engrossed in this spooky, post-apocalyptic landscape thanks to the deep character development and the expansive yet captivating plot.

You'll be on the brink of apprehensiveness the entire time because of King's unmatched ability to write suspense, and the book's in-depth examination of how people react to crises will stick with you long after you've finished reading it.

"The Stand" is a classic you won't want to miss if you're looking for an engrossing, thought-provoking read.

Specifications:

• Price: ₹ 1,868
• Genre: Horror, Post-Apocalyptic
• Author: Stephen King
• Pages: Approx, 1,152
• Published: 1978

Pros:

• Epic storytelling
• Complex characters
• Gripping suspense
• Thought-provoking themes

Cons:

• Expensive
• Lengthy narrative
• Intense content

Readers Review: Shining was my first initiation proper into King's writing and then along came the Dark Tower series and Insomnia and everything's just eventual as I ended up with The Stand. No review, be it bad or good, could do any justice to this grand narrative. The story itself is its own testimony. Let it sing to you .

Why it's worth buying: It's worth buying 'The Stand' for its epic storytelling and complex characters that have captivated readers for decades, earning it an average rating of 4.3/5 stars from thousands of reviews on Goodreads."

Our top pick for you: https://amzn.to/46psGYT

3. The Silent Patient

"The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides is a psychological thriller that will leave you breathless. This page-turner introduces you to Alicia Berenson, a celebrated painter who seemingly has it all, until she shoots her husband in the face and then goes completely silent, never uttering a word again.

You will follow Theo Faber, a psychotherapist sworn to discover the truth behind Alicia's silence, as you read the novel. The adventure that comes next will blow your mind, full of twists, secrets, and psychological suspense that will have you keep guessing right up until the last, shocking reveal.

The debut book by Michaelides is a literary masterpiece that deftly examines the darkest corners of human psychology and the complexity of the human mind. If you're a fan of thrillers that are as smart as they are thrilling, "The Silent Patient" belongs on your must-read list. It's a gripping and brilliantly executed tale that you won't be able to put down.

Specifications:

• Price: ₹ 194
• Genre: Psychological thriller
• Author: Alex michaelides
• Pages: Approximately 336
• Published: February 2019

Pros:

• Gripping psychological drama
• Unexpected plot twists
• Engaging writing style
• Thought-provoking themes
• Memorable characters

Cons:

• Slow start for some
• Dark themes may disturb
• Complex narration for some

Readers Review: A completely unexpected turn of events, The Silent Patient is a book that will topple our entire understanding of psychotherapy. Wrote with very precise psyche observations, this book brings into light a lot about how and why humans behave a certain way. If you are looking for a dark thriller, this is it!

Why it's worth buying: It is worth buying for its gripping plot, as evidenced by its 4.04/5 rating on Goodreads and Amazon and the countless reader reviews praising its suspenseful narrative and stunning twist.

Our top pick for you: https://amzn.to/3rv1V6x

4. The Couple Next Door

"The Couple Next Door" is a pulse-pounding thriller that will make you question just how well you know your neighbours. Shari Lapena has crafted a tale of suspense that starts with a seemingly ordinary evening, a dinner party next door, and a couple's decision to leave their baby sleeping alone at home.

But when they return, their world shatters – their infant daughter is missing. What follows is a relentless rollercoaster of twists and turns that will keep you glued to the pages. Lapena's writing keeps you guessing, and the characters' secrets add layers of intrigue that will leave you breathless.

Lapena's storytelling will have you second-guessing everything and everyone, making it a thrilling journey from start to finish.

Specifications:

• Price: ₹ 285
• Genre: Thriller
• Author: Shari Lapena
• Pages: Approximately 320 pages
• Publication Year: 2016

Pros:

• Gripping suspense
• Twists and turns

Readers Review: Excellent thriller that keeps you guessing all the way. As one mystery is unravelled, another deeper, darker one emerges. It is fast-paced and unrelenting till the very end.

Why it's worth buying: A must-have for thriller fans, praised by readers for its gripping storytelling and nail-biting tension, with over 700,000 copies sold worldwide.

Our top pick for you: https://amzn.to/48usPfr

5. Dark Matter

Blake Crouch takes you on an electrifying journey with Dark Matter" is a mind-bending sci-fi thriller that will leave you questioning the very fabric of reality. Where Jason Dessen, a brilliant physicist finds himself trapped in a nightmarish alternate version of his own life.

With aspects of quantum mechanics and pulse-pounding action, Crouch's writing is a masterwork in suspense and scientific intrigue. This book dives deeply into the idea of choices and life's untaken paths, making you wonder about your own decisions in life.

If you crave a thriller that's both intellectually stimulating and emotionally charged, this book is a must-read. It is also one of the best selling books on Amazon which makes it all the more worthwhile.

Specifications:

• Price: ₹ 318
• Genre: Sci-fi Thriller
• Author: Blake Crouch
• Pages: Approx. 368
• Published: 2016

Pros:

• Mind-bending plot
• Fast-paced
• Thought-provoking
• Multiverse exploration
• Suspenseful

Cons:

• Complex for some

Readers Review:  This book is so exhilarating that I finished it in 3 days. The thrill will keep you on the edge.

Why it's worth buying: With over 100,000 reviews averaging 4.25 stars on Goodreads, it's clear readers are captivated by its narrative.

Our top pick for you: https://amzn.to/3ZwryAt

6. The Good Girl's Guide to Murder

The Good Girl's Guide to Murder" is an enthralling blend of mystery, suspense, and teenage curiosity that's impossible to put down. Holly Jackson crafts a gripping narrative centred around a high school student, Pippa Fitz-Amobi, who decides to investigate a local murder case for her school project.

As you dive into this young adult thriller, you'll become a detective alongside Pippa, unravelling a web of secrets, lies, and unexpected twists. Jackson's storytelling is utterly immersive, keeping you guessing and second-guessing as the plot unfolds.

Its clever use of mixed media, including interviews, case notes, and Pippa's own project diary adds a unique and engaging dimension to the story, making it feel like you're right there with the characters.

With this one, Get ready to be hooked, because this book is a true page-turner.

Specifications:

• Price: ₹ 305
• Genre: YA Mystery
• Author: Holly Jackson
• Page Count: Varies
• Published: 2019

Pros:

• Gripping plot
• Engaging characters
• Fresh approach
• Thought-provoking mystery
• Authentic teenage perspective

Cons:

• May be predictable after a point
• Some clichés
• Slow pacing at times

Readers Review:  Def a 5/5 book. Read the entire book in less than 2 days. Thoroughly enjoyed the book. Loved the plot, the twists and the way Holly Jackson has written this story.

Why it's worth buying: It has received rave reviews, with readers praising its fresh approach to the mystery genre and its engaging characters.

Our top pick for you: https://amzn.to/3PUxbVV

7. And Then There Were None

The timeless thriller "And Then There Were None," a work of literary genius by Agatha Christie, has gripped readers for decades. Under various pretences, ten strangers are brought to a lonely island, only to discover themselves being accused of murder one by one.

Her characters are richly developed, and each one harbours secrets and motives that will keep you guessing until the final page. Christie's ability to craft an atmosphere of paranoia and fear is unmatched. It's no wonder this book is often considered her masterpiece.

Brace yourself for a literary ride into the heart of deception and betrayal that will leave you astonished and thoroughly satisfied.

Specifications:

• Price: ₹ 650
• Genre: Mystery, Thriller
• Author: Agatha Christie
• Pages: Approxs 300
• Published: 1939

Pros:

• Ingenious plot
• Suspenseful atmosphere
• Well-developed characters
• Classic mystery

Cons:

• Challenging for some readers
• Limited character depth

Readers Review:  Scintillating and keeps your heart racing till the last page. Only Agatha Christie can write like this. Deadly and Chilling.

Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its ingenious plot twists and timeless suspense, with a 4.25/5 rating on Goodreads and rave reviews for its gripping storytelling.

Our top pick for you: https://amzn.to/3t8DdJE

8. The Woman in the Window

The Woman in the Window" is a sensational debut crime thriller by A.J. Finn it's now a major Netflix film, bringing this gripping story to life on the screen.

Dr. Anna Fox, an agoraphobic, spends her days peering out her window at her neighbours. She enters a tense web of secrets and peril when she witnesses something horrific in a neighbouring house.

In addition to the dramatic atmosphere of the novel, Finn's narrative is a masterclass in creating suspense. You'll be enthralled by the twists and turns that keep you wondering right up to the very end as you follow Anna's quest to discover the truth.

Specification

• Price: ₹ 285
• Genre: Crime thriller
• Author: A.J. Finn
• Pages: Approx 608
• Published: 2018

Pros:

• Gripping suspense
• Complex characters
• Atmospheric storytelling
• Also available as movie
• Plot twists

Cons:

• Slow start for some

Readers Review:  Plot hooks the readers from the beginning. It is absolutely a well written, perfectly plotted, stomach churner story. If you start it, you won't put it down. It is preferable to read while sitting in a peaceful place. If you want to experience the real thrill, read it at night. It will definitely fasten your heartbeats and will bring goosebumps.

Why it's worth buying: It has been lauded as a "compulsively readable psychological thriller" by The New York Times and "an astounding debut" by The Guardian

Our top pick for you: https://amzn.to/3EVYoRH

9. The Guest List

Prepare for a thrilling island wedding like no other in "The Guest List" by Lucy Foley, the author of the bestselling "The Hunting Party." This gripping mystery thriller, hailed as a No.1 Sunday Times bestseller and prize-winning sensation in 2021, promises a suspenseful and atmospheric experience.

A lavish wedding celebration that turns nasty is depicted in the story, which is set against the backdrop of an isolated Irish island. You'll uncover secrets, deception, and sinister agendas with a cast of fascinating individuals and changing perspectives. The writing of Lucy Foley is captivating and vivid, drawing you into a world where nothing is as it seems.

This book will leave you gasping and wanting more because of its deftly weaved narratives and frightening, secluded atmosphere. Don't pass up this compelling mystery, which is guaranteed to stand out on your reading list.

Specifications:

• Price: ₹ 333
• Genre: Mystery thriller
• Author: Lucy Foley
• Pages: Approx 384 pages
• Published: 2020

Pros:

• Gripping plot
• Multi-perspective storytelling
• Well-developed characters
• No.1 Sunday Times bestseller
• Prize-winning thriller in 2021

Cons:

• None significant

Readers Review:  I was sceptical, having been disappointed by several highly reviewed thrillers that were not well-written or intriguing. This book is different…I loved it. The storyline keeps you guessing without being disjointed; the author has great ability to distinguish the characters’ storylines and weave various plots together without making the narrative scattered. Would recommend it to anyone who likes the mystery / thriller genres! Going to order her other 4 books.

Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its relentless suspense and expertly crafted characters as praised from The Guardian.

Our top pick for you: https://amzn.to/3taU1zF

10. Verity

Verity" by Colleen Hoover is an electrifying rollercoaster of a novel that seamlessly blends romance and suspense. When struggling writer Lowen Ashleigh is given the opportunity to complete the bestselling author Verity Crawford's remaining novels, she stumbles upon a chilling manuscript that reveals a web of dark secrets within Verity's life.

"Verity" stands out for its deft investigation of the hazy boundaries between danger and love as well as between fact and fiction. It's a book that has you wondering and doubting everything up until the shocking conclusion.

Verity" is a magnetic blend of love and mystery that's earned acclaim from readers and critics alike and it will definitely captivate your heart and send shivers down your spine.

Specifications:

• Price: ₹243
• Genre: Romantic Suspense
• Author: Colleen Hoover
• Pages: Approx. 320
• Published: 2018

Pros:

• Intriguing plot twists
• Engaging, emotional writing
• Compelling characters
• Unique blend of genres

Cons:

• Dark themes
• Some explicit content

Readers Review:  This book is mind blowing with all the twists and all !! Literally you can’t even think what will happen next !! It freaking gave me goosebumps and I was damn scared as I was reading it in the night !! Also I did not like the mcc at all although this book is good and interesting and this book is unforgettable. I can't even forget about it and every time I think about it it gives me chills !!!

Why it's worth buying: Verity' has earned an impressive 4.4/5 stars from over 50,000 Goodreads reviewers, making it a must-read for those seeking an intense and captivating romantic thriller."

Our top pick for you: https://amzn.to/48IoJk6

Frequently asked questions ( FAQs )

What distinguishes a thriller from other genres like mystery or suspense?

• Thrillers often involve a sense of urgency, with protagonists actively trying to prevent a crisis or solve a dangerous situation. While mysteries focus on solving a puzzle or crime, suspense builds tension without necessarily involving a crime.

Who are some notable authors in the thriller genre?

• Some renowned thriller authors include Agatha Christie, Stephen King, Gillian Flynn, Dan Brown, Lee Child, and Harlan Coben, among many others.

What makes a great thriller book?

• A great thriller typically features a gripping and well-paced plot, complex characters, unexpected twists, and a sense of tension that keeps readers engaged. The ability to create suspense and keep readers guessing is key.

Are thriller books always intense and dark?

• While many thriller books are intense and dark, the genre is diverse. Some thrillers are more lighthearted or focus on adventure and intrigue rather than darkness.

Can thriller books be suitable for all ages?

• Thriller books can vary in content and intensity, so it's important to consider age-appropriateness. There are thrillers for young adults and middle-grade readers, as well as those specifically written for adults.

Final Thoughts

You can be sure that each book in our carefully selected list of suggestions has been picked for its ability to deliver nail-biting tension, sophisticated plots, and enduring characters. In addition to receiving high praise from critics, these books have made a lasting impression on readers all across the world.

By purchasing a thriller from our selection, you're deciding to go on an exciting literary adventure full of mystery and intrigue.

So, whether you're an experienced thriller reader or brand-new to the genre, be certain that these recommendations give a pass to a world of suspense and adventure that is well worth the read. Happy Reading!

Disclaimer: The above content is non-editorial and produced by a third party partner. Outlook India does not guarantee, vouch for or endorse any of the content*.

*The product prices mentioned in the article are subject to change