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Shocking Mystery Books You Can't Put Down

Published by Likewise | Apr 17, 2025Discover a curated list of shocking and gripping mystery novels that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From psychological thrillers to dark family dramas, this collection promises to deliver suspenseful storytelling that captivates readers.

The Guest List

The Guest List
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

In this thrilling novel by Lucy Foley, wedding celebrations take a sinister turn. Set on a secluded Irish island, the guests gather to witness a marriage that promises glamour and elegance. However, dark secrets bubble to the surface amid laughter and toasts, leading to a shocking twist as one guest turns up dead. The intricate plotting, reminiscent of Agatha Christie classics, keeps readers doubting who among them is capable of murder. With alternating viewpoints and a relentless buildup of tension, _The Guest List_ is a must-read for mystery aficionados. Explore more here.

The Silent Patient

The Silent Patient
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Alex Michaelides’ _The Silent Patient_ presents a chilling psychological puzzle surrounding Alicia Berenson, a painter who shoots her husband five times and then falls into silence. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of her therapist, Theo Faber, who becomes obsessed with uncovering the reasons for her shocking act. As he attempts to navigate Alicia’s cryptic existence, readers are drawn into a web of deception and trauma that questions the reliability of perception and truth. This gripping tale is praised for its intricate storytelling and unexpected twists. Read more here.

The Woman in the Window

The Woman in the Window
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AJ Finn’s acclaimed debut, _The Woman in the Window_, introduces Anna Fox, an agoraphobic woman who suspects that her neighbors are hiding something sinister. As she spies on their seemingly perfect family, she witnesses something that shatters her comfortable world. The seamless blend of psychological tension and classic thriller elements keeps readers enthralled, challenging them to discern reality from illusion. This modern homage to Hitchcock’s narratives reflects the intricacies of human emotion and vulnerability. Discover further details here.

Gone Girl

Gone Girl
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Gillian Flynn’s bestselling sensation, _Gone Girl_, turns the traditional marriage narrative upside down. On their fifth wedding anniversary, Nick Dunne finds his wife, Amy, missing. As public scrutiny grows and secrets unfurl, the couple’s relationship unveils disturbing truths. This deeply psychological thriller has captivated readers with its sharp social commentary on marriage, media, and deception, making it a modern classic. Learn more about the book here.

Then She Was Gone

Then She Was Gone
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Lisa Jewell’s gripping narrative in _Then She Was Gone_ delves into the heart-wrenching aftermath of a young girl’s disappearance. Laurel Mack struggles to regain control of her life ten years after her daughter Ellie vanished. As she rebuilds her world, she meets a charming man whose daughter resembles Ellie, which ignites a spiral of unresolved emotions and lingering mysteries. This poignant exploration of grief intertwines with suspenseful storytelling, leading to a shocking conclusion. Check it out here.

Big Little Lies

Big Little Lies
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Liane Moriarty’s _Big Little Lies_ intricately weaves together the lives of three women—Madeline, Celeste, and Jane—as they navigate their tumultuous existences marked by secrets and lies. When a murder occurs during a school trivia night, the story unfolds through a non-linear narrative filled with humor, heartbreak, and drama. This compelling put-together dissects the complexities of relationships and the lengths people will go to protect themselves and loved ones. Explore the book further here.

The Chain

The Chain
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Adrian McKinty’s enthralling novel _The Chain_ portrays a chilling scenario where a mother must abduct another child to save her own. This harrowing life-or-death game unfolds as Rachel is dragged into a twisted chain of kidnapping, forcing her into moral dilemmas that challenge her every instinct. This tense thriller captivates as it explores the lengths one will go to for family, portraying fear and ingenuity in a gripping narrative. View more on this title here.

Before I Go To Sleep

Before I Go To Sleep
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

In _Before I Go To Sleep_ by S.J. Watson, readers are thrust into the bewildering life of Christine Lucas, a woman who loses her memories every evening. As she struggles to piece together snippets of her life using her journal, an unsettling realization emerges, leading to shocking truths about her husband and her past. This suspenseful narrative keeps readers guessing until the very end, exploring identity, trust, and the fragility of memory. Discover the book here.

Sometimes I Lie

Sometimes I Lie
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Alice Feeney’s _Sometimes I Lie_ is a provocative thriller that blurs the lines between truth and deceit. As Amber Reynolds navigates her hospital bed in a coma, she reflects on her turbulent life, her unloving husband, and the circumstances that led her to this point. This gripping narrative invites readers to unveil the layers of storytelling and examine trust, betrayal, and the darker sides of human relationships. Find out more here.

These enthralling mystery novels collectively represent the genres’ undeniable allure and highlight the ways in which storytelling can captivate and enthrall its audience. Whether you’re drawn to psychological thrillers or intricate plots surrounding relationships, this list captures the essence of suspense and human emotion, ensuring every reader finds a compelling story to dive into.

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