For fans of true crime, modern novels often blend the allure of fictional storytelling with the intrigue of crime investigation, creating compelling and riveting reads. Here are eight modern novels that will captivate any true crime aficionado with their suspenseful plots and detailed narratives.
“The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins
Paula Hawkins’ psychological thriller revolves around Rachel, who witnesses something suspicious from her daily train ride. The novel’s multi-perspective narrative and unreliable characters make it a gripping read for true crime enthusiasts.
“Sharp Objects” by Gillian Flynn
In “Sharp Objects,” journalist Camille Preaker returns to her hometown to cover the murder of two young girls. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she confronts her own dark past. Flynn’s masterful storytelling and complex characters offer a chilling and immersive experience.
“Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty
Liane Moriarty’s “Big Little Lies” weaves a tale of domestic secrets and murder set in a seemingly perfect suburban community. The novel’s exploration of friendship, betrayal, and the dark side of idyllic lives makes it a compelling read.
“The Woman in the Window” by A.J. Finn
A.J. Finn’s psychological thriller follows agoraphobic Anna Fox, who believes she has witnessed a crime in her neighbor’s house. The novel’s suspenseful plot and twists keep readers on edge, blending elements of true crime and psychological suspense.
“You” by Caroline Kepnes
“You” by Caroline Kepnes is a chilling narrative told from the perspective of Joe Goldberg, a bookstore manager who becomes obsessively infatuated with a customer. The novel’s exploration of obsession, manipulation, and stalking offers a disturbing yet fascinating look into the mind of a criminal.
“The Wife Between Us” by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
This psychological thriller presents the tangled relationships between a wife, her ex-husband, and his new fiancée. With its unexpected twists and turns, “The Wife Between Us” keeps readers guessing and delves into themes of jealousy, betrayal, and deception.
“Then She Was Gone” by Lisa Jewell
Lisa Jewell’s “Then She Was Gone” tells the story of a mother searching for answers about her daughter’s disappearance a decade earlier. The novel’s emotional depth and intricate plot provide a heart-wrenching and suspenseful read, perfect for true crime fans.
“The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
Alex Michaelides’ debut novel follows Alicia Berenson, a woman who has stopped speaking after being accused of murdering her husband, and the psychotherapist determined to unravel her mystery. The novel’s psychological depth and shocking twists make it a standout thriller.
