This article highlights ten thrilling mystery novels that are sure to keep readers guessing until the end. From “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides, which follows a criminal psychotherapist’s obsession with unlocking the mystery of a painter’s silence after shooting her husband, to “The Ice Twins” by S.K. Tremayne, which takes readers on a journey to uncover the truth behind the sudden loss of one of a couple’s identical twin daughters, these books offer complex plots, intrigue, and unexpected twists. Whether readers are fans of Dan Brown’s historical and religious thrillers or Ruth Ware’s exploration of deceit and family secrets, there is a mystery novel for everyone on this list.
10 Thrilling Mystery Novels That Will Keep You Guessing Until the End
Mystery novels have stood the test of time and remain a popular genre among readers. One of the best things about thrillers and mystery novels is the anticipation of not knowing what will happen next. Here are top ten mysterious novels that promise to keep you guessing until the end.
1. “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
In “The Silent Patient,” acclaimed painter Alicia Berenson has been locked up in a secure forensic unit for shooting her husband five times in the face. Her refusal to speak about the crime shocks the world, and her silence has kept her mystery alive for six years. Enter criminal psychotherapist, Theo Faber, who is obsessed with Berenson’s case and will stop at nothing until he finds out what really happened on the night of the murder.
2. “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn
“Gone Girl” is a gripping thriller that revolves around the disappearance of New York City-based writer Nick Dunne’s wife, Amy. The novel takes readers on a journey of twists and turns, showcasing the complexity of relationships, the expectations of marriage, and the lengths people will go to get what they want.
3. “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson
The Millennium Trilogy’s first book, “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo,” is about Lisbeth Salander, a young computer hacker with a traumatic past. She teams up with investigative journalist Mikael Blomkvist to investigate the disappearance of a wealthy family member. The book’s intricate plot is both thrilling and shocking, dealing with topics such as financial corruption, sexual violence, and revenge.
4. “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown
“The Da Vinci Code” is a controversial book that has sparked discussions among readers since its release. The book follows symbologist Robert Langdon, who is brought in to help investigate the murder of a prominent member of the Louvre museum. The novel is incredibly fast-paced, full of symbolism and coded messages, and is a page-turner from start to finish.
5. “The Word Is Murder” by Anthony Horowitz
In “The Word is Murder,” famous writer Anthony Horowitz meets with an eccentric detective, Daniel Hawthorne, to write a book about a recent suspicious murder. Horowitz’s book depicts real-life events, making the reader question what is fact and what is fiction. The book’s ending will leave readers speechless, and Horowitz’s writing style will keep readers engaged and curious throughout the story.
6. “Angels and Demons” by Dan Brown
“Angels and Demons” is another Dan Brown thriller that follows Robert Langdon, who is summoned by the Swiss CERN institute after a colleague is found brutally murdered. Langdon finds himself on a mission to stop an Illuminati plot to destroy the Vatican City. The book’s historical and religious themes add depth to the thrilling plot, making for a captivating read.
7. “The Death of Mrs. Westaway” by Ruth Ware
In “The Death of Mrs. Westaway,” Harriet Westaway receives a letter of inheritance from her grandmother, who has recently died. However, Westaway knows there must be some mistake; her grandmother passed away years ago. Westaway decides to attend her grandmother’s funeral to clear up the confusion and ends up uncovering family secrets and deceitful behaviors.
8. “The Cuckoo’s Calling” by Robert Galbraith
In “The Cuckoo’s Calling,” private investigator Cormoran Strike is hired by a brother whose sister has committed suicide, or so everyone believes. The investigation leads Strike down a twisted path of lies, betrayal, and secrets. Written by J.K. Rowling under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, this novel will leave readers guessing until the end, and the unique character development will leave readers wanting more.
9. “The Witch Elm” by Tana French
“The Witch Elm” is a thriller set in Ireland about Toby Hennessy, a happy-go-lucky man, who is drastically altered after a home invasion leaves him permanently disfigured. One day, an old-school friend comes to Hennessy for help investigating a murder, and as the two work together, they fall deeper into a complicated web of secrets and betrayals.
10. “The Ice Twins” by S.K. Tremayne
“The Ice Twins” is about a couple struggling in the aftermath of the sudden loss of one of their identical twin daughters. They move to a remote Scottish island to start anew. However, when one twin insists that she is the other one, the couple must uncover the truth about their daughter’s death and navigate the island’s mysteries.
In conclusion, the mystery and thriller genre continues to capture readers’ attention, and there are endless thrilling novels to choose from. These ten novels are just a few of the many options available that will promise to keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.