Best Thriller Books of All Time: A Definitive List

Let’s explore some of the best thriller books of all time, from the pioneers of the genre to the latest and greatest authors. If you’re a fan of suspense, mystery, and excitement, then you know that the thriller genre is one of the most popular and enduring genres in literature. From classic novels to modern bestsellers, the world of thrillers is full of unforgettable characters, heart-pounding action, and mind-bending plot twists.

Defining the thriller genre can be a bit tricky, as it encompasses a wide range of sub-genres and styles. At its core, however, a thriller is a story that is designed to keep you on the edge of your seat, with a plot that is full of suspense, danger, and unexpected twists and turns. Whether you prefer psychological thrillers, crime novels, spy thrillers, or something else entirely, there’s a thriller out there for everyone.

Over the years, many authors have made their mark on the thriller genre, from the early pioneers like Edgar Allan Poe and Arthur Conan Doyle to modern masters like Gillian Flynn and James Patterson. Each of these authors has their own unique style and approach, but they all share a common goal: to create stories that are impossible to put down. So, let’s take a closer look at some of the best thriller books of all time, and discover what makes them so unforgettable.

Key Takeaways

• The thriller genre is one of the most popular and enduring genres in literature, encompassing a wide range of sub-genres and styles.
• From classic novels to modern bestsellers, the world of thrillers is full of unforgettable characters, heart-pounding action, and mind-bending plot twists.
• Over the years, many authors have made their mark on the thriller genre, from the early pioneers to modern masters.

Defining the Thriller Genre

Thriller is a genre of literature, film, and television that is known for its suspenseful plot, heightened tension, and excitement. The genre is often associated with mystery and crime novels, but it can also include other sub-genres such as psychological thrillers and domestic thrillers.

Thriller novels are defined by their conventions, which include a fast-paced plot, high stakes, and a sense of danger that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. They often feature a protagonist who is in danger or trying to solve a mystery, and a villain or antagonist who is trying to stop them.

One of the most popular sub-genres of the thriller is the whodunnit, which is a type of detective story that focuses on solving a crime or mystery. This sub-genre was popularized during the Golden Age of detective fiction and is still a popular convention in modern crime novels.

Psychological thrillers are another popular sub-genre of the thriller that focuses on the inner workings of the human mind. These novels often feature unreliable narrators, complex characters, and a sense of unease that keeps the reader guessing until the end.

Domestic thrillers are a newer sub-genre of the thriller that focus on the dangers and secrets that can lurk within a family or household. These novels often feature themes of betrayal, deception, and manipulation.

The thriller genre has also been blended with other genres, such as the literary thriller, which combines elements of literary fiction with the conventions of the thriller. Crime novels are also often considered a sub-genre of the thriller.

Overall, the thriller genre is defined by its ability to keep the reader engaged and on the edge of their seat. With its fast-paced plots, high stakes, and sense of danger, the thriller is a popular genre that continues to captivate readers and viewers alike.

Pioneers of Thriller Genre

When it comes to thriller books, there are a few authors who stand out as pioneers of the genre. These writers paved the way for the suspenseful, heart-pumping, and often twisty tales that we love to read today.

Agatha Christie is one such author. Known as the “Queen of Crime,” Christie’s mysteries have sold billions of copies worldwide and have been translated into over 100 languages. Her iconic detective, Hercule Poirot, and the spinster sleuth Miss Marple, have become household names. Christie’s works are known for their intricate plots, clever twists, and memorable characters. Her most famous work, “And Then There Were None,” is widely considered one of the best mystery novels of all time.

Another pioneer of the thriller genre is Wilkie Collins. His novel “The Woman in White” is often cited as the first detective novel ever written. Collins’ writing style was ahead of its time, with a focus on psychological suspense and complex characters. His works were hugely popular in the Victorian era and continue to be read and studied today.

Arthur Conan Doyle is another author who played a crucial role in the development of the thriller genre. His creation, Sherlock Holmes, is one of the most famous fictional detectives of all time. Conan Doyle’s stories are known for their intricate plots, attention to detail, and the brilliant deductive reasoning of the detective.

Finally, Raymond Chandler is considered one of the fathers of the hard-boiled detective genre. His character, Philip Marlowe, is a classic example of the tough, cynical, and street-smart detective. Chandler’s writing style was marked by his use of vivid imagery, snappy dialogue, and a distinct sense of place. His novels, such as “The Big Sleep” and “Farewell, My Lovely,” are still considered some of the best examples of the genre.

These authors paved the way for the thriller genre as we know it today. Their works continue to inspire and influence writers and readers alike.

Modern Thriller Authors

If you are a fan of modern thrillers, you are in luck. There are many talented authors producing gripping, suspenseful stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Here are some of the most notable modern thriller authors that you should definitely check out:

• Gillian Flynn: Known for her dark, twisted plots and complex characters, Flynn has become one of the most popular thriller writers of our time. Her breakout novel, “Gone Girl,” is a must-read for anyone who loves a good psychological thriller.
• Stieg Larsson: Although he passed away in 2004, Larsson’s “Millennium” trilogy continues to captivate readers with its intricate plots and unforgettable characters. If you haven’t read “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” yet, you’re missing out.
• Ruth Ware: With her atmospheric settings and clever twists, Ware has become one of the most popular thriller writers in recent years. Her debut novel, “In a Dark, Dark Wood,” is a masterclass in suspense.
• Tana French: French’s Dublin Murder Squad series has earned her critical acclaim and a devoted following. Her novels are character-driven, atmospheric, and often explore complex themes.
• Paula Hawkins: Hawkins burst onto the scene with “The Girl on the Train,” a gripping thriller that kept readers guessing until the very end. Her subsequent novels have been just as suspenseful and engaging.
• Lucy Foley: Foley’s novels are perfect for fans of Agatha Christie-style whodunits. Her latest book, “The Guest List,” is a tense and twisty thriller set on a remote island.
• Caroline Kepnes: Kepnes’s “You” series has become a cultural phenomenon, thanks in part to the hit Netflix adaptation. Her writing is dark, disturbing, and utterly addictive.
• Patricia Highsmith: Although she passed away in 1995, Highsmith’s novels continue to influence modern thriller writers. Her most famous creation, Tom Ripley, is a fascinating and complex antihero.
• Stephen King: King is known for his horror novels, but many of his books could also be classified as thrillers. His ability to create tension and suspense is unparalleled, and his characters are always memorable.
• Alex Michaelides: Michaelides’s debut novel, “The Silent Patient,” was a runaway bestseller that earned him critical acclaim. His writing is atmospheric and suspenseful, and he has a talent for creating unexpected twists.
• Dennis Lehane: Lehane is a master of the crime thriller genre, and his novels are always gripping and suspenseful. His most famous book, “Mystic River,” was adapted into an Oscar-winning film.
• Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen: This writing duo has become known for their twisty, psychological thrillers that keep readers guessing until the very end. Their latest book, “An Anonymous Girl,” is a must-read.
• Harlan Coben: Coben is a prolific author who has written dozens of bestselling thrillers. His writing is fast-paced, suspenseful, and always entertaining.
• Rachel Howzell Hall: Hall’s novels are often described as “gritty” and “realistic,” and she has become known for her strong female protagonists. Her latest book, “And Now She’s Gone,” is a tense and twisty thriller.
• Megan Abbott: Abbott’s novels often explore the darker side of human nature, and her writing is always atmospheric and evocative. Her latest book, “The Turnout,” is a tense and twisty thriller set in the world of ballet.
• John le Carré: Although he passed away in 2020, le Carré’s legacy as one of the greatest spy thriller writers of all time lives on. His novels are complex, intelligent, and always suspenseful.

Iconic/Best Thriller Books of All Time

If you are a fan of thriller books, you must have heard of some of the most iconic books in the genre. These books have become classics and have been read by millions of people around the world. Here are some of the most iconic thriller books that you should definitely read:

• Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn: This book has become a modern classic and is a must-read for any fan of the thriller genre. The story follows a man whose wife goes missing and he becomes the prime suspect in her disappearance. The book is full of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
• The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson: This book is the first in the Millennium series and has become a worldwide phenomenon. The story follows a journalist and a young computer hacker as they investigate a wealthy family’s dark secrets. The book is full of suspense and will keep you guessing until the very end.
• And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie: This book is a classic and is considered one of the best mystery novels of all time. The story follows ten strangers who are invited to an island and are murdered one by one. The book is full of suspense and will keep you guessing until the very end.
• The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins: This book is a psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. The story follows a woman who witnesses a crime while on a train and becomes involved in the investigation. The book is full of twists and turns and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
• Misery by Stephen King: This book is a classic and is considered one of King’s best works. The story follows a writer who is held captive by his number one fan. The book is full of suspense and will keep you guessing until the very end.
• Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane: This book is a psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. The story follows two U.S. Marshals as they investigate a missing person case on an island that is home to a mental institution. The book is full of twists and turns and will keep you on the edge of your seat.

These are just a few of the most iconic thriller books of all time. If you are a fan of the genre, you should definitely check them out.

Characteristics of Thriller Books

Thriller books are a genre of literature that is defined by their ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats. They are known for their fast-paced plots, suspenseful storylines, and unexpected twists and turns. Here are some of the characteristics of thriller books:

Narrator

Thriller books typically use a third-person narrator, which allows the reader to see the story from multiple perspectives. This can help build tension and suspense as the reader is given insight into the thoughts and motivations of different characters.

Unreliable Narrator

Some thriller books use an unreliable narrator, which is a narrator whose credibility is compromised. This can add an extra layer of mystery and intrigue to the story, as the reader is left to question what is true and what is not.

Hero

Thriller books often feature a hero who is working to solve a crime or stop a villain. The hero is typically portrayed as brave, intelligent, and resourceful, and often goes to great lengths to achieve their goal.

Villain

The villain in a thriller book is usually the antagonist who is causing chaos and conflict. They are often portrayed as cunning, ruthless, and dangerous, and their actions drive the plot forward.

Murder/Killer

Murder and killers are common themes in thriller books. The mystery surrounding the identity of the killer and their motives can keep readers engaged and guessing until the end.

Kidnapped/Escape

Kidnapping and escape are also common themes in thriller books. The tension and suspense that come with these themes can keep readers on the edge of their seats as they root for the protagonist to escape their captors.

Evidence

Evidence is a key element in many thriller books. The protagonist often has to use evidence to solve a crime or prove their innocence, and the presence or absence of evidence can create suspense and tension.

Mystery

Mystery is a central element of many thriller books. The mystery surrounding a crime or event can keep readers engaged and guessing until the end, as they try to piece together clues and solve the puzzle.

Missing Woman

The theme of a missing woman is often used in thriller books. The search for the missing woman can create suspense and tension, as the protagonist races against time to find her.

Torture

Torture is a controversial theme that is sometimes used in thriller books. While it can create tension and suspense, it is important to handle this theme with sensitivity and care.

Unsolved Crime/Murder

The theme of an unsolved crime or murder is often used in thriller books. The mystery surrounding the crime and the search for the killer can create tension and suspense, as the protagonist races against time to solve the case.

Real People

Some thriller books are based on real people or events. This can add an extra layer of intrigue to the story, as readers are able to learn more about the real-life events that inspired the book.

Thrillers Adapted for Screen

Many of the best thriller books of all time have been adapted into movies and TV series. Some of these adaptations have been incredibly successful, while others have been less so. Here are a few examples of thrillers that have been adapted for the screen:

• Gone Girl: Gillian Flynn’s 2012 novel was adapted into a film in 2014, directed by David Fincher. The movie starred Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike and was a critical and commercial success. The story follows a man who becomes the prime suspect in the disappearance of his wife.
• The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo: Stieg Larsson’s 2005 novel was adapted into a film in 2009, directed by Niels Arden Oplev. The movie starred Noomi Rapace and Michael Nyqvist and was a hit in Sweden. The story follows a journalist who teams up with a computer hacker to investigate a wealthy family’s dark secrets.
• Big Little Lies: Liane Moriarty’s 2014 novel was adapted into a TV series in 2017, created by David E. Kelley. The show starred Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, and Shailene Woodley and was a critical and commercial success. The story follows a group of mothers in a wealthy California community whose lives are turned upside down by a murder.
• Shutter Island: Dennis Lehane’s 2003 novel was adapted into a film in 2010, directed by Martin Scorsese. The movie starred Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo and was a box office success. The story follows two US Marshals investigating the disappearance of a patient from a mental institution on an isolated island.
• The Da Vinci Code: Dan Brown’s 2003 novel was adapted into a film in 2006, directed by Ron Howard. The movie starred Tom Hanks and Audrey Tautou and was a commercial success, despite receiving mixed reviews. The story follows a symbologist who becomes involved in a murder investigation that leads him to uncover a conspiracy involving the Catholic Church.

Many of these adaptations are available to stream on popular platforms like Netflix and Hulu, making it easy to enjoy these thrilling stories from the comfort of your own home.

Ranking and Marketing of Thriller Books

When it comes to ranking the best thriller books of all time, there are several factors to consider. One of the most important factors is the author’s ability to create suspense and keep readers on the edge of their seats. Some of the best thriller authors of all time include Stephen King, Gillian Flynn, James Patterson, and Dan Brown.

Marketing also plays a crucial role in the success of a thriller book. Publishers often invest heavily in promoting their best thriller books, using various marketing channels such as social media, book clubs, and book signings. They also rely on positive reviews from book critics and readers to generate buzz and attract new readers.

In recent years, psychological thriller books have gained popularity among readers. These books focus on the psychological state of the characters and their motives, often leaving readers guessing until the very end. Some of the best psychological thriller books include “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn, “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins, and “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides.

Another popular genre is suspense books, which often involve a crime or mystery that needs to be solved. Some of the best suspense books of all time include “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown, “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris, and “The Bourne Identity” by Robert Ludlum.

Mystery novels are also a popular subgenre of thriller books. These books often involve a detective or amateur sleuth trying to solve a crime or mystery. Some of the best mystery novels include “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” by Arthur Conan Doyle, “Murder on the Orient Express” by Agatha Christie, and “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson.

Overall, the best thriller books of all time combine elements of suspense, mystery, and psychological drama to keep readers engaged from beginning to end. Whether you prefer psychological thriller books, suspense books, or mystery novels, there are plenty of great options to choose from.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular thriller books on BookTok?

BookTok is a social media platform where users share videos about books. It has become a popular place to find new book recommendations. Some of the most popular thriller books on BookTok include “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides, “The Maidens” by Alex Michaelides, “The Sanatorium” by Sarah Pearse, and “The Last Thing He Told Me” by Laura Dave.

What are some classic thriller books that are still popular today?

Some classic thriller books that are still popular today include “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris, “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson, “The Bourne Identity” by Robert Ludlum, and “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown.

What are some of the best mystery thriller books?

Some of the best mystery thriller books include “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn, “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins, “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides, and “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown.

What are some of the best thriller books for beginners?

If you’re new to the thriller genre, some good books to start with include “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins, “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides, “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown, and “The Bourne Identity” by Robert Ludlum.

What are some of the best thriller books for guys?

Some of the best thriller books for guys include “The Bourne Identity” by Robert Ludlum, “Red Dragon” by Thomas Harris, “The Hunt for Red October” by Tom Clancy, and “The Day of the Jackal” by Frederick Forsyth.

What are some of the best thriller books of all time according to Reddit users?

According to Reddit users, some of the best thriller books of all time include “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris, “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson, “The Bourne Identity” by Robert Ludlum, and “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown.