If you’re a fan of murder mysteries with intricate plots and unexpected twists, like the movie Knives Out, you’re in for a treat! This genre captivates readers with thrilling suspense and cleverly crafted whodunits. Below, you’ll find a list of 16 books that will keep you on the edge of your seat, each offering a unique take on the classic murder mystery.
Books Similar to Murder Mystery Knives Out
1. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Stieg Larsson’s novel introduces us to journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander as they investigate a decades-old disappearance. The book is filled with dark secrets and complex characters, making it a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery. The blend of investigative journalism and personal vendettas makes this a gripping tale from start to finish.
2. Gone Girl
Gillian Flynn masterfully tells the story of Nick and Amy Dunne, whose seemingly perfect marriage is shattered when Amy goes missing. The narrative alternates between Nick’s perspective and Amy’s diary entries, revealing shocking twists and turns. This psychological thriller will keep you guessing until the very end.
3. Big Little Lies
Liane Moriarty weaves a tale of three women whose lives are interconnected by secrets and lies. The story builds up to a shocking murder at a school trivia night, with each chapter peeling back layers of deception. This book is a compelling mix of drama, humor, and suspense.
4. The Silent Patient
Alex Michaelides presents a chilling story about Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who stops speaking after being accused of murdering her husband. Psychotherapist Theo Faber becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind her silence. This psychological thriller is full of unexpected twists that will leave you breathless.
5. The Woman in the Window
A.J. Finn tells the story of Anna Fox, an agoraphobic woman who believes she has witnessed a crime in her neighbor’s house. As she tries to piece together what she saw, the lines between reality and imagination blur. This novel is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you guessing.
6. The Da Vinci Code
Dan Brown’s bestseller follows symbologist Robert Langdon as he unravels a series of puzzles and codes related to a murder in the Louvre. The book combines historical intrigue with modern-day suspense, making it a page-turner you won’t be able to put down. It’s a fascinating blend of art, religion, and conspiracy.
7. In the Woods
Tana French introduces us to Detective Rob Ryan, who is investigating the murder of a young girl in a small Irish town. The case has eerie similarities to a traumatic event from his own childhood. This atmospheric and haunting novel is perfect for fans of psychological mysteries.
8. The Cuckoo’s Calling
Robert Galbraith (a pseudonym for J.K. Rowling) delivers a captivating mystery featuring private investigator Cormoran Strike. He is hired to investigate the apparent suicide of a supermodel, only to uncover a web of lies and deceit. The book is a compelling read with well-drawn characters and intricate plotting.
9. Sharp Objects
Gillian Flynn’s debut novel follows journalist Camille Preaker as she returns to her hometown to cover the murder of two young girls. As she delves deeper into the case, she must confront her own dark past. This psychological thriller is both disturbing and enthralling.
10. The Secret History
Donna Tartt crafts a tale of a group of elite college students who become involved in a murder. The story is told from the perspective of one of the students, revealing the psychological and moral complexities of their actions. It’s a richly detailed and thought-provoking novel.
11. The Reversal
Michael Connelly brings us a legal thriller featuring defense attorney Mickey Haller and LAPD Detective Harry Bosch. They team up to retry a convicted child molester who has been exonerated after 24 years. The book is a tense and compelling read with a satisfying conclusion.
12. The Snowman
Jo Nesbø introduces us to Detective Harry Hole, who is investigating a series of disappearances linked to a mysterious snowman. The novel is a chilling and atmospheric thriller with a complex plot and well-developed characters. It’s perfect for fans of Nordic noir.
13. The Girl on the Train
Paula Hawkins tells the story of Rachel, an alcoholic woman who becomes obsessed with a couple she observes from her daily train ride. When the woman goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in the investigation. This psychological thriller is full of twists and turns that will keep you hooked.
14. Before I Go to Sleep
S.J. Watson presents a gripping tale of Christine Lucas, who suffers from amnesia and wakes up every day with no memory of her past. As she tries to piece together her life, she discovers shocking truths. This psychological thriller is both suspenseful and thought-provoking.
15. Magpie Murders
Anthony Horowitz delivers a clever and intricate mystery within a mystery. Editor Susan Ryeland is given a manuscript that appears to be an unfinished novel, but it soon becomes clear that it holds clues to a real-life murder. This book is a delightful homage to classic whodunits.
16. The 7½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle
Stuart Turton presents a unique and mind-bending mystery where the protagonist, Aiden Bishop, must solve the murder of Evelyn Hardcastle by reliving the day of her death in different bodies. This novel is a brilliantly crafted puzzle that will keep you guessing until the very end.