If you’re a fan of the gripping mystery and thriller genre, you’ve likely been captivated by Stieg Larsson’s The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. The book’s intricate plot, compelling characters, and dark, suspenseful atmosphere have set a high bar for thrillers. If you’re searching for your next thrilling read, here are 19 books that will keep you on the edge of your seat just like The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
Books Similar to Dragon Tattoo
1. The Girl on the Train
Paula Hawkins’ The Girl on the Train is a psychological thriller that revolves around Rachel, an alcoholic who becomes entangled in a missing person investigation. The unreliable narration and intricate plot twists will keep you guessing until the very end. If you enjoyed the complex characters and suspense in The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, this book is a must-read.
2. Gone Girl
Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl is a masterclass in psychological suspense. The story follows the disappearance of Amy Dunne and the subsequent media frenzy and suspicion that falls on her husband, Nick. With its dark themes and unexpected twists, this book is perfect for fans of Larsson’s work.
3. The Silent Patient
Alex Michaelides’ The Silent Patient tells the story of Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who stops speaking after being accused of murdering her husband. The narrative unfolds from the perspective of her psychotherapist, Theo, who is determined to uncover the truth. This psychological thriller will keep you hooked with its suspenseful plot and shocking revelations.
4. Big Little Lies
Liane Moriarty’s Big Little Lies delves into the lives of three women who become embroiled in a murder investigation. The book masterfully blends humor and dark themes, creating a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of friendship, marriage, and secrets. Fans of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo will appreciate the intricate storytelling and character development.
5. Sharp Objects
Another gem by Gillian Flynn, Sharp Objects follows journalist Camille Preaker as she returns to her hometown to cover the murder of two young girls. The novel’s dark atmosphere and complex characters make it a gripping read that will appeal to fans of Larsson’s series.
6. Before I Go to Sleep
S.J. Watson’s Before I Go to Sleep is a psychological thriller about Christine Lucas, who loses her memory every day when she falls asleep. As she pieces together her past, she begins to question everything and everyone around her. The book’s suspenseful narrative and unexpected twists make it a compelling read for thriller enthusiasts.
7. The Snowman
Jo Nesbø’s The Snowman is part of the Harry Hole series and follows the detective as he investigates a series of gruesome murders. The chilling atmosphere and complex plot make this novel a standout in the Scandinavian crime fiction genre, much like The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
8. The Woman in the Window
A.J. Finn’s The Woman in the Window tells the story of Anna Fox, an agoraphobic woman who believes she has witnessed a crime in her neighbor’s house. The novel’s unreliable narration and suspenseful plot will keep you engrossed from start to finish.
9. The Reversal
Michael Connelly’s The Reversal features defense attorney Mickey Haller and LAPD detective Harry Bosch as they team up to retry a high-profile case. The book’s legal drama and intricate plot make it a thrilling read for fans of complex mysteries.
10. In the Woods
Tana French’s In the Woods is the first book in the Dublin Murder Squad series and follows detective Rob Ryan as he investigates the murder of a young girl. The novel’s atmospheric setting and psychological depth make it a compelling read for those who enjoy dark, character-driven mysteries.
11. The Secret History
Donna Tartt’s The Secret History is a psychological thriller that delves into the lives of a group of college students who become involved in a murder. The book’s exploration of morality and its richly developed characters make it a captivating read.
12. Dark Places
Gillian Flynn’s Dark Places follows Libby Day as she revisits the massacre of her family, which she survived as a child. The novel’s dark themes and intricate plot twists make it a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers.
13. The Girl with a Clock for a Heart
Peter Swanson’s The Girl with a Clock for a Heart is a suspenseful thriller about George Foss, who is drawn back into the life of his college girlfriend when she reappears after twenty years. The book’s fast-paced plot and unexpected twists make it a gripping read.
14. The Girl Who Played with Fire
Stieg Larsson’s The Girl Who Played with Fire is the second book in the Millennium series and continues the story of Lisbeth Salander and Mikael Blomkvist. The novel’s complex plot and strong characters make it a worthy follow-up to The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
15. The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest
The third book in Stieg Larsson’s Millennium series, The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest, brings the story of Lisbeth Salander to a thrilling conclusion. The novel’s intricate plot and compelling characters make it a must-read for fans of the series.
16. The Girl in the Spider’s Web
David Lagercrantz’s The Girl in the Spider’s Web continues the story of Lisbeth Salander, picking up where Stieg Larsson left off. The novel’s suspenseful plot and familiar characters make it a satisfying addition to the Millennium series.
17. The Couple Next Door
Shari Lapena’s The Couple Next Door is a domestic thriller that revolves around the disappearance of a baby and the secrets that unravel in its wake. The book’s fast-paced plot and shocking twists make it a compelling read for fans of suspenseful mysteries.
18. The Cuckoo’s Calling
Robert Galbraith’s The Cuckoo’s Calling introduces private detective Cormoran Strike as he investigates the apparent suicide of a supermodel. The novel’s intricate plot and well-developed characters make it a standout in the mystery genre.
19. The Girl with the Red Balloon
Katherine Locke’s The Girl with the Red Balloon combines historical fiction with elements of fantasy and mystery. The story follows Ellie Baum as she is transported back to 1988 East Berlin by a magical red balloon. The book’s unique premise and engaging plot make it a captivating read.