Are you a fan of the gripping and often intense world of psychological thrillers? If so, you’re in for a treat! We’ve compiled a list of 19 books that will keep you on the edge of your seat, questioning every twist and turn. These novels are perfect for anyone who loves to dive deep into the human psyche and explore the darker corners of the mind.
Books Similar to Whoa
1. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Gone Girl is a masterclass in suspense, centering on the mysterious disappearance of Amy Dunne. As the investigation unfolds, secrets about her marriage to Nick come to light, leading to a chilling conclusion. Recommended for its unpredictable plot and complex characters, this book is a must-read for thriller enthusiasts.
2. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
In The Girl on the Train, Rachel Watson becomes entangled in a missing person’s investigation that reveals more than she bargained for. The novel’s shifting perspectives and unreliable narrators keep readers guessing until the very end. This book is highly recommended for its intricate storytelling and psychological depth.
3. Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
Sharp Objects follows journalist Camille Preaker as she returns to her hometown to cover the murder of two preteen girls. As she digs deeper, she uncovers dark secrets about her own past. This novel is recommended for its haunting atmosphere and compelling exploration of trauma.
4. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
The Silent Patient tells the story of Alicia Berenson, a renowned painter who stops speaking after allegedly murdering her husband. Psychotherapist Theo Faber is determined to uncover the truth behind her silence. This book is recommended for its shocking twists and psychological insight.
5. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Big Little Lies weaves together the lives of three women, each hiding their own secrets, culminating in a murder at a school trivia night. The novel’s blend of humor and suspense makes it a standout in the genre. Recommended for its engaging characters and unexpected revelations.
6. The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn
In The Woman in the Window, agoraphobic Anna Fox spends her days watching her neighbors until she witnesses something she shouldn’t have. As she tries to uncover the truth, her own sanity is called into question. This book is recommended for its Hitchcockian suspense and psychological complexity.
7. Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris
Behind Closed Doors explores the seemingly perfect marriage of Jack and Grace Angel, which hides a terrifying reality. The novel’s tension and fast-paced narrative make it a compelling read. Recommended for its chilling portrayal of domestic abuse and psychological manipulation.
8. The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena
The Couple Next Door revolves around the disappearance of a baby during a dinner party, leading to a web of lies and secrets. The book’s relentless pacing and surprising twists make it hard to put down. Recommended for fans of domestic thrillers with a psychological edge.
9. The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen
The Wife Between Us is a tale of a love triangle with a dark twist, challenging readers’ assumptions about the characters. The novel’s clever structure and multiple perspectives create a gripping psychological puzzle. Recommended for its intricate plot and unexpected turns.
10. The Girl Before by JP Delaney
The Girl Before follows two women, Emma and Jane, who live in the same minimalist house at different times, each facing mysterious and dangerous situations. The book’s dual timelines and psychological tension make it a riveting read. Recommended for its innovative narrative and suspenseful atmosphere.
11. The Last Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine
The Last Mrs. Parrish centers on Amber Patterson, who infiltrates the life of socialite Daphne Parrish with a sinister agenda. The novel’s blend of glamour and psychological manipulation keeps readers hooked. Recommended for its engaging plot and shocking twists.
12. You by Caroline Kepnes
You delves into the mind of Joe Goldberg, a charming bookstore manager who becomes dangerously obsessed with a customer. The novel’s unique perspective and dark humor make it a standout. Recommended for its unsettling portrayal of obsession and manipulation.
13. The Perfect Nanny by Leila Slimani
The Perfect Nanny explores the relationship between a seemingly perfect nanny and the family she works for, leading to a tragic outcome. The book’s exploration of class and maternal instincts adds depth to the psychological tension. Recommended for its thought-provoking themes and suspenseful narrative.
14. The Breakdown by B.A. Paris
The Breakdown follows Cass, who becomes paranoid after witnessing a car breakdown and later learning the driver was murdered. As she unravels, the line between reality and delusion blurs. This novel is recommended for its intense psychological suspense and unexpected twists.
15. The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
The Woman in Cabin 10 features travel journalist Lo Blacklock, who witnesses a woman being thrown overboard on a luxury cruise, only to be told no one is missing. The novel’s claustrophobic setting and unreliable narration heighten the suspense. Recommended for its atmospheric tension and gripping plot.
16. The Other Woman by Sandie Jones
The Other Woman tells the story of Emily, whose relationship with Adam is complicated by his manipulative mother, Pammie. The novel’s exploration of familial conflict and psychological manipulation keeps readers engaged. Recommended for its relatable characters and suspenseful drama.
17. The Good Daughter by Karin Slaughter
The Good Daughter follows sisters Charlie and Sam, who are forced to confront their traumatic past when a new tragedy strikes. The novel’s blend of crime and psychological thriller elements makes it a compelling read. Recommended for its emotional depth and intricate plot.
18. The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson
The Kind Worth Killing revolves around a chance meeting between Ted and Lily, who plot to kill Ted’s unfaithful wife. The novel’s twists and morally ambiguous characters create a gripping psychological thriller. Recommended for its clever plot and dark themes.
19. The Lying Game by Ruth Ware
The Lying Game follows four friends who are reunited by a sinister secret from their past. The novel’s exploration of friendship and deception keeps readers hooked. Recommended for its suspenseful narrative and well-drawn characters.
Dive into these psychological thrillers and prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions and surprises. Happy reading!