The 26 best with a twist books

1. The Girl with All the Gifts by M.R. Carey

In a world ravaged by a zombie apocalypse, "The Girl with All the Gifts" emerges as a thought-provoking and emotionally charged "book with a twist" that challenges our very definition of humanity. Melanie, a young girl with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, narrates this gripping tale from her unique perspective as a zombie with a human intellect. As she explores the boundaries between her monstrous nature and her capacity for compassion, Melanie's journey forces us to confront our own fears, prejudices, and the fragile line that separates us from the "other." M.R. Carey's masterful storytelling and profound insights into the human condition make this novel an unforgettable exploration of what it truly means to be alive. Prepare to be captivated by Melanie's extraordinary narrative as she navigates a world where the lines between good and evil, human and monster, are blurred beyond recognition.

Awards:

• Arthur C. Clarke Award(2015)
• Audie Award(2015)
• British Fantasy Award(2015)
• Tähtivaeltaja Award(2017)
• Goodreads Choice Award(2014)

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2. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

"Gone Girl" is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the dark recesses of marriage and the complexities of human nature. Nick Dunne, a charming and enigmatic man, reports his beautiful wife Amy missing on their fifth wedding anniversary, and as the investigation unfolds, a twisted tale of deceit and manipulation unravels. Gillian Flynn weaves a masterful narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, questioning everything they thought they knew about Nick and Amy. With its unforgettable characters and shocking twists, "Gone Girl" is a "book with a twist" that will leave you breathless and force you to confront the unsettling truths that lie beneath the surface of seemingly perfect relationships.

Awards:

• Barry Award(2020)
• Anthony Award(2013)
• Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award (RT Award)(2012)
• Shirley Jackson Award(2012)
• Edgar Award(2013)

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3. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins

This is a book that everyone should read at least once in their lifetime! "The Girl on the Train" is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the dangerous and twisted world of voyeurism and obsession. Rachel, an alcoholic and divorcee, becomes entangled in a missing person's case after she witnesses something suspicious from her daily train ride. As she investigates the disappearance of Megan Hipwell, a woman she has been watching from afar, Rachel uncovers a web of secrets and lies that threatens to consume her own life. Paula Hawkins weaves a masterful tale of suspense that keeps readers guessing until the very end, exploring the dark and unpredictable nature of human desire and the devastating consequences of obsession.

Awards:

• ITW Thriller Award(2016)
• Audie Award(2016)
• Australian Book Industry Award (ABIA)(2016)
• Goodreads Choice Award(2015)
• Waterstones Book of the Year(2015)

4. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

From the very first pages, this book pulled me into a whirlwind of indescribable emotions. "Big Little Lies" is a captivating exploration of the hidden lives and dangerous secrets that lurk beneath the surface of a seemingly idyllic community. Liane Moriarty weaves a masterful tale of three women, Madeline, Celeste, and Jane, whose paths intertwine in unexpected ways. As they navigate the treacherous waters of marriage, motherhood, and societal pressures, their lives spiral into a shocking and unforgettable climax. Moriarty's razor-sharp wit and incisive social commentary make this "book with a twist" not only a gripping thriller but also a profound exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the dark underbelly of suburban life.

Awards:

• Davitt Award(2015)
• Australian Book Industry Award (ABIA)(2015)
• Goodreads Choice Award(2014)

5. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

In the captivating "book with a twist," "The Silent Patient" Alex Michaelides weaves a gripping psychological thriller that explores the enigmatic case of Alicia Berenson, a talented artist who shoots her husband five times in the face and then refuses to speak another word. As criminal psychotherapist Theo Faber delves into Alicia's silence, he becomes entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and hidden motivations. Michaelides masterfully builds suspense with each twist and turn, blurring the lines between reality and delusion. "The Silent Patient" is a thought-provoking exploration of trauma, the complexities of the human mind, and the profound power of art to both heal and destroy.

Awards:

• Barry Award(2020)
• Goodreads Choice Award(2019)
• Book of the Month Book of the Year Award(2019)
• Barnes & Noble Book of the Year Award(2019)

6. Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn

This book is a journey full of mysteries and surprises, where each page takes you deeper into unexpected twists and turns. "Sharp Objects" by Gillian Flynn is a gripping psychological thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Fresh from a brief stay at a psych hospital, reporter Camille Preaker faces a troubling assignment: she must return to her tiny hometown to cover the unsolved murder of a preteen girl and the disappearance of another. As Camille delves deeper into the investigation, she finds herself identifying with the young victims a bit too strongly. Dogged by her own demons, she must unravel the psychological puzzle of her own past if she wants to get the story—and survive this homecoming. With its razor-sharp prose and unforgettable characters, "Sharp Objects" is a must-read for fans of books with a twist.

Awards:

• Barry Award(2007)
• CWA New Blood Dagger(2007)
• Edgar Award(2007)
• CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger(2007)

7. Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind closed doors? In B.A. Paris's gripping psychological thriller, "Behind Closed Doors" we are introduced to the seemingly perfect couple, Jack and Grace Angel. Jack is a successful lawyer with a charming personality, while Grace is a beautiful and devoted wife who appears to have it all. As they host a dinner party for their friends, the façade of their idyllic marriage begins to crack. Grace, who is usually so composed, becomes increasingly agitated and withdrawn. Her behavior raises suspicions among the guests, and as the evening progresses, it becomes clear that something sinister is lurking beneath the surface. With its heart-pounding suspense and shocking twists, "Behind Closed Doors" is a must-read for fans of books with a twist that will keep you guessing until the very end.

Awards:

• Goodreads Choice Award(2016)

8. The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn

If you're a fan of psychological thrillers with a twist, you won't want to miss "The Woman in the Window" by A.J. Finn. Anna Fox is a recluse, living alone in her New York City home, unable to venture outside. She spends her days drinking wine, watching old movies, and spying on her neighbors. When the Russells move into the house across the way, Anna becomes obsessed with their seemingly perfect family. But one night, she witnesses something shocking that shatters her world. As Anna tries to piece together what she saw, she begins to question her own sanity. Is she an unreliable narrator? Is she hallucinating? Or is there something more sinister at play? With its unreliable narrator, shocking twists, and heart-pounding suspense, "The Woman in the Window" will keep you guessing until the very end.

Awards:

• Goodreads Choice Award(2018)
• Book of the Month Book of the Year Award(2018)

9. Before I Go to Sleep by S.J. Watson

In the realm of psychological thrillers, "Before I Go to Sleep" by S.J. Watson stands out as a gripping and unforgettable read. Imagine waking up every morning with no memory of who you are, your name, your identity, or even the people you love. This is the haunting reality for Christine, a woman who has lost her memories to a traumatic accident. As she struggles to piece together her life each day, Christine begins to suspect that someone is lying to her. Is her husband hiding something? Can she trust her own mind? With its unreliable narrator and shocking twists, "Before I Go to Sleep" will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. As Christine's fragmented memories resurface, so too do the dark secrets that have been hidden from her. The boundaries between reality and illusion blur, and the question remains: what is the truth?

Awards:

• Barry Award(2012)
• Macavity Award(2012)
• Anthony Award(2012)
• CWA New Blood Dagger(2011)
• CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger(2011)

10. The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena

Set in a quiet suburban neighborhood, "The Couple Next Door" by Shari Lapena is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the dark secrets that can lurk behind closed doors. When Anne and Marco Conti leave their six-month-old daughter home alone for a dinner party next door, they never expect the unthinkable to happen. Upon their return, they find their baby missing, and their perfect world is shattered. As the police investigate, cracks begin to appear in the Conti's marriage and their relationship with their neighbors. Anne, struggling with postpartum depression, becomes increasingly suspicious of Marco, while Marco's secrets threaten to destroy their family. With its unreliable narrators and shocking twists, "The Couple Next Door" will keep you guessing until the very end. As the investigation deepens, the boundaries between guilt and innocence blur, and the question remains: what would you be capable of when pushed past your limit?

Awards:

• Goodreads Choice Award(2016)

11. The Girl Before by J.P. Delaney

In J.P. Delaney's "The Girl Before" two women find themselves drawn to a mysterious and beautiful house. One Folgate Street is a marvel of minimalist design, but it comes with a set of strict rules. Emma is a young woman looking for a fresh start after a traumatic event. Jane is a woman who has lost everything and is desperate for a new beginning. As the two women move into One Folgate Street, they soon learn about the untimely death of the home's previous tenant. As they delve deeper into the mystery, they uncover a web of deception and danger. With its unreliable narrators and shocking twists, "The Girl Before" is a psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. As the boundaries between reality and illusion blur, the question remains: who can you trust in a house where nothing is as it seems?

Awards:

• Goodreads Choice Award(2017)

12. The Last Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine

This is a book that everyone should read at least once in their lifetime! "The Last Mrs. Parrish" by Liv Constantine is a twisty and suspenseful thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. Amber Patterson is a woman who is fed up with her life of mediocrity. She wants more, and she's willing to do whatever it takes to get it. When she meets Daphne Parrish, a beautiful and wealthy socialite, Amber sees her chance. She insinuates herself into Daphne's life, becoming her closest confidante. But Amber has a secret agenda. She plans to take everything from Daphne, including her husband, Jackson. As Amber's plan unfolds, she uncovers dark secrets about Daphne and her family. The lines between right and wrong blur as Amber becomes entangled in a web of lies and deceit. With its shocking twists and complex characters, "The Last Mrs. Parrish" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers.

13. The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

As a child, I was captivated by the fairy tales my grandmother told. Reading "The Light Between Oceans" by M.L. Stedman brought me back to those dreamy, magical days. Set in 1926 Australia, the novel tells the story of Tom Sherbourne, a lighthouse keeper, and his wife, Isabel. After years of trying to conceive, Isabel hears a baby's cries on the wind. A boat has washed up onshore carrying a dead man and a living baby. Against Tom's judgment, they claim the baby as their own and name her Lucy. But their choice has devastating consequences. As Tom and Isabel struggle to keep their secret, they must confront the moral and ethical implications of their actions. With its lyrical prose and unforgettable characters, "The Light Between Oceans" is a heartbreaking and thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you finish it.

Awards:

• Australian Independent Booksellers Indie Book Award(2013)
• Australian Book Industry Award (ABIA)(2013)
• Women's Prize for Fiction(2013)
• Goodreads Choice Award(2012)
• HWA Debut Crown(2013)

14. The Girl Who Lived by Christopher Greyson

From the mind of Wall Street Journal bestselling author Christopher Greyson comes a psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the last page: "The Girl Who Lived" Ten years ago, four people were brutally murdered. One girl lived. No one believes her story. Faith Winters is the lone survivor of a horrific massacre. The police think she's crazy. Her therapist thinks she's suicidal. And everyone else thinks she's a dangerous drunk. But as the anniversary of the murders approaches, Faith is released from the psychiatric hospital and determined to track down her sister's killer. With its twists and turns that take the reader on a journey of light and dark, good and evil, to the edge of madness, "The Girl Who Lived" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. As Faith uncovers the truth, she discovers that she's the one being hunted. How can one woman uncover the truth when everyone's a suspect—including herself?

15. The Girl in the Ice by Robert Bryndza

This is a book that everyone should read at least once in their lifetime! "The Girl in the Ice" by Robert Bryndza is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. When a young boy discovers the body of a woman beneath a thick sheet of ice in a South London park, Detective Erika Foster is called in to lead the murder investigation. The victim, a beautiful young socialite, appeared to have the perfect life. But as Erika begins to dig deeper, she starts to connect the dots between the murder and the killings of three prostitutes, all found strangled, hands bound, and dumped in water around London. As Erika inches closer to uncovering the truth, the killer is closing in on her. With its complex characters and shocking twists, "The Girl in the Ice" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. Detective Erika Foster is a strong and determined woman who will stop at nothing to find the killer. But will she get to him before he strikes again?

Awards:

• Goodreads Choice Award(2016)

16. The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson

Contributor: Reg Keeland(Translator)

This is a book that everyone should read at least once in their lifetime! "The Girl Who Played with Fire" by Stieg Larsson and Reg Keeland is a captivating and suspenseful thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Ex-security analyst Lisbeth Salander is wanted for murder. Her history of unpredictable and vengeful behavior makes her an official danger to society. But no one can find her. The only way Salander can be reached is by computer. But she can break into almost any network she chooses. When a young couple is found dead in their Stockholm apartment, it's a straightforward job for Inspector Bublanski and his team. The killer left the weapon at the scene, and the fingerprints on the gun point in only one direction. But as Bublanski and Salander investigate deeper, they uncover a dark and dangerous conspiracy involving sex trafficking and corruption at the highest levels of power. With its complex characters, shocking twists, and relentless pacing, "The Girl Who Played with Fire" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers.

Awards:

• Anthony Award(2010)
• Dilys Award(2010)
• CWA International Dagger(2009)
• Svenska Deckarakademins pris för bästa svenska kriminalroman(2006)
• Goodreads Choice Award(2009)

17. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

Contributor: Reg Keeland(Translator)

Set in the depths of a cold and unforgiving Swedish winter, "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" by Stieg Larsson and Reg Keeland is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Harriet Vanger, a scion of one of Sweden's wealthiest families, disappeared over forty years ago. All these years later, her aged uncle continues to seek the truth. He hires Mikael Blomkvist, a crusading journalist recently trapped by a libel conviction, to investigate. He is aided by the pierced and tattooed punk prodigy Lisbeth Salander. Together they tap into a vein of unfathomable iniquity and astonishing corruption. With its complex and unforgettable characters, shocking twists, and relentless pacing, "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and crime fiction. As Blomkvist and Salander delve deeper into the mystery, they uncover a dark and deadly secret that has haunted the Vanger family for generations.

Awards:

• Barry Award(2010)
• Macavity Award(2009)
• Anthony Award(2009)
• Glass Key Award(2006)
• CWA International Dagger(2008)

18. The Girl Who Takes an Eye for an Eye by David Lagercrantz

Contributor: George Goulding(Translator)

The main character in this book, a woman with a dragon tattoo, is not one to forgive. Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant hacker and relentless seeker of justice, finds herself confined to the secure unit of a women's prison. But for a mind like hers, no barrier is insurmountable. She provides Mikael Blomkvist, investigative journalist and publisher of Millennium magazine, with a lead that could expose a sinister experiment and unlock the mystery of her own harrowing childhood. With her trademark dragon tattoo serving as a constant reminder of her vow to fight injustice, Lisbeth will stop at nothing to uncover the truth, no matter the cost. "The Girl Who Takes an Eye for an Eye" is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that delves into the darkest corners of society and the indomitable spirit of one woman determined to expose the truth.

19. The Girl Who Lived Twice by David Lagercrantz

Contributor: George Goulding(Translator)

Prepare to embark on a heart-pounding journey with "The Girl Who Lived Twice" the electrifying sixth installment in the Millennium series. Following the success of Stieg Larsson's "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo," David Lagercrantz masterfully continues the legacy, introducing a new chapter in the indomitable Lisbeth Salander's relentless pursuit of justice. "I shall be the hunter and not the hunted," Lisbeth declares, setting the stage for a breathtaking collision between two formidable women. This gripping tale scales the heights of Everest and delves into the sinister depths of Russian troll factories. Join Lisbeth as she confronts her nemesis and uncovers a conspiracy that reaches the highest echelons of power. Get ready for a literary adventure that will leave you on the edge of your seat as the lines blur between personal vendettas and political turmoil. Dive into "The Girl Who Lived Twice" today and experience the captivating blend of suspense, intrigue, and unwavering determination that has made the Millennium series a global sensation.

20. The Girl Who Was Taken by Charlie Donlea

Prepare yourself for a heart-stopping thriller with "The Girl Who Was Taken" a gripping novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat from the first page to the last. If you've devoured "Gone with the Wind" and crave another tantalizing tale of suspense, this book is your next must-read. "Sometimes true terror lies in finding exactly what you've been looking for . . ." proclaims the haunting premise of this gripping story. When two teenage girls vanish without a trace, one returns traumatized and forever changed, while the other remains missing. A year later, the survivor's account of her ordeal becomes a bestseller, but cracks in her story begin to emerge. As a forensic pathologist investigates the case, she suspects that the missing girl's fate is far more sinister than anyone could have imagined. With each twist and turn, the lines between the past and present blur, and the truth threatens to shatter everything. "The Girl Who Was Taken" is a masterful blend of suspense, mystery, and relentless determination that will leave you breathless and questioning the darkness that lurks beneath the surface.

21. The Girl Who Came Back by Susan Lewis

Prepare yourself for a gripping novel of suspense with "The Girl Who Came Back" a powerful story that will haunt you long after you finish reading. Imagine the unimaginable: your worst nightmare coming true, and the person responsible for shattering your life walking free. "In her heart she knew what Aileen was thinking, it was what she was thinking too, but neither of them was prepared to speak the words aloud in case fate overheard and turned them into an unthinkable reality." This haunting quote encapsulates the raw emotions and chilling suspense that await you in this unforgettable tale. When Amelia Quentin is released from prison after serving time for a heinous crime, Jules Bright's world is turned upside down. Determined to avenge her daughter's murder, Jules must confront her own inner demons and decide how far she will go to seek justice. As friends and family rally around Jules, they must grapple with the consequences of Amelia's return and the darkness that threatens to consume them all. "The Girl Who Came Back" is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that explores the complexities of grief, justice, and the resilience of the human spirit. It will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.

22. The Girl Who Fell from the Sky by Heidi W. Durrow

Have you ever wondered what happens when a young girl, grappling with the loss of her family, embarks on a journey to discover her true identity amidst a world obsessed with labels? "The Girl Who Fell from the Sky" by Heidi W. Durrow is a captivating debut novel that explores the complexities of race, class, and beauty through the eyes of Rachel, a biracial girl with light brown skin and piercing blue eyes. After surviving a family tragedy, Rachel moves to a mostly black community in the 1980s, where she struggles to reconcile her unique appearance with the societal expectations placed upon her. As she navigates the complexities of her new surroundings, Rachel learns to confront her grief and embrace the power of her own voice. "In the tradition of Jamaica Kincaid's Annie John and Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye, here is a portrait of a young girl - and society's ideas of race, class, and beauty," proclaims the book's description. With its poignant storytelling and exploration of timeless themes, "The Girl Who Fell from the Sky" is a must-read for anyone seeking a powerful and thought-provoking novel about identity, resilience, and the search for belonging.

Awards:

• Goodreads Choice Award(2010)
• Carnegie Medal(2011)
• PEN/Bellwether Prize for Socially Engaged Fiction(2008)

23. The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon by Stephen King

Prepare yourself for a thrilling adventure with "The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon" a captivating novel by master storyteller Stephen King. Journey with nine-year-old Trisha McFarland as she embarks on a treacherous six-mile hike in the wilderness with her family. Amidst sibling quarrels and parental indifference, Trisha ventures off on her own, only to find herself utterly lost in the unforgiving maze of the Maine-New Hampshire woods. As darkness descends and danger lurks around every corner, Trisha's only solace comes from her Walkman, where she tunes in to the comforting voice of Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Tom Gordon. With each crack of the bat and roar of the crowd, Trisha draws strength from her unlikely hero. Yet, as the signal fades and her hope wanes, she senses a sinister presence lurking in the shadows—an ancient evil that preys on the lost and vulnerable. "The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon" is a gripping tale of survival, resilience, and the indomitable power of the human spirit. Stephen King weaves a masterful blend of psychological suspense, supernatural elements, and heartwarming moments, creating a truly unforgettable and immersive reading experience.

Awards:

• Lincoln Award(2005)

24. The Girl Who Died by Ragnar Jónasson

Contributor: Victoria Cribb(Translator)

From the very first pages, "The Girl Who Died" by Ragnar Jónasson and Victoria Cribb pulls you into a whirlwind of indescribable emotions. Experience the haunting tale of Una, a teacher seeking a fresh start in the remote Icelandic village of Skálar. As darkness descends upon the isolated hamlet, Una finds herself entwined in a chilling mystery that echoes a tragic event from the past. The villagers, once welcoming, become increasingly guarded, leaving Una alone to confront the shocking truth that has been buried for generations. With its eerie setting, enigmatic characters, and an atmosphere of palpable tension, "The Girl Who Died" is a gripping and atmospheric thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. Immerse yourself in the haunting beauty and unsettling secrets of Skálar as Una's search for the truth leads her down a path filled with both danger and revelation.

25. The Girl Who Knew Too Much by Amanda Quick, Jayne Ann Krentz

As the author once said, 'Every story is a journey into the reader's heart.' This book is a vivid testament to that. A tale of murder, mystery, and deceit in the tantalizing allure of 1930s Hollywood, "The Girl Who Knew Too Much" by Amanda Quick will capture your heart and keep you on the edge of your seat until the final, shocking twist. When reporter Irene Glasson finds herself staring down at a beautiful actress at the bottom of a pool, she inadvertently stumbles upon an illicit secret that threatens to shatter the perfect illusions of both Hollywood and her own life. With the help of Oliver Ward, a former master of deception and now the owner of the exclusive Burning Cove Hotel, Irene must navigate a treacherous path of danger and intrigue to uncover the truth, all while grappling with her own hidden past and the growing attraction between them. A thrilling roller coaster of love, loss, and shocking revelations awaits you in this unforgettable tale of a woman who dared to know too much.

26. The Girl Who Wasn't There by Vincent Zandri

In the heart-pounding thriller "The Girl Who Wasn't There" by Vincent Zandri, the boundaries of trust and betrayal are blurred in a tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. When Sidney O'Keefe, an ex-con wrongfully imprisoned for a decade, reunites with his family for a peaceful vacation, their idyllic weekend turns into a nightmare after his young daughter vanishes without a trace. As Sidney delves into the harrowing search for Chloe, he uncovers a chilling conspiracy that reaches far beyond his past and threatens to destroy everything he holds dear. Suspicion falls on him, forcing Sidney to take matters into his own hands and navigate a treacherous path filled with violence, deception, and secrets that could shatter his world. This gripping page-turner will leave you breathless and questioning everything you thought you knew, proving that in the labyrinth of truth and lies, the only certainty is that no one is who they seem.