Books matching: tense atmosphere
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- #1
Save:A chilling, twist-packed thriller that’s perfect for fans of cult stories and psychological suspense - but brace yourself for some tough topics along the way.
'In The Clearing' by J.P. Pomare is a psychological thriller that follows two main characters, Amy and Freya, whose lives become intertwined by a mysterious link. Amy lives in a secluded commune called the Clearing, while Freya, a mother and teacher, tries to maintain a quiet life with her son Billy. However, when a local girl goes missing, Freya's past resurfaces, and dark secrets begin to unravel. As the story unfolds, the secrets of the past come to light, exposing the dark underbelly of the rural Australian town.
The book delves into themes of cults, manipulation, trauma, and identity, creating a tense and suspenseful atmosphere that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. With unexpected twists and turns, the story explores the complexities of relationships, the impact of past traumas, and the blurred lines between victim and villain, making for a gripping and compelling read.
A CHILD WAS taken, it was on the news, and I just had to get out of the house. You see, there are some things Freya Heywood – that is to say, I – can’t see without changing. I’m like you, but then aga...December 2019•353 pages - #2
Save:A binge-worthy, atmospheric whodunit that cleverly keeps you guessing - ideal for fans of modern, character-driven mysteries (though the twists and structure aren't for everyone).
'The Guest List' by Lucy Foley is a suspenseful thriller set on a remote Irish island where a wedding turns deadly. The plot unfolds through multiple character perspectives, revealing secrets, lies, and motives for murder. The writing style is described as engaging, with a fluid timeline, clever plotting, and a gripping atmosphere reminiscent of Big Little Lies.
In an instant, everything is in darkness. The band stop their playing. Inside the marquee the wedding guests squeal and clutch at one another. The light from the candles on the tables only adds to the...March 2020•344 pages - #3
Save:A solid start to a promising series - part police procedural, part heartfelt family drama, with just enough romance and suspense to keep you hooked. Great for anyone who enjoys character-driven mysteries with depth.
"Cross Her Heart" in the Bree Taggert series by Melinda Leigh revolves around Bree Taggert, a homicide detective living in Philadelphia, who is forced to return to her hometown after her sister Erin is found dead. The plot unfolds as Bree teams up with former sheriff's investigator Matt to find out who killed Erin, unraveling a complex web of suspects and personal traumas from the past. The writing style is described as fast-paced, action-packed, and engaging, keeping readers guessing until the very end with a mix of suspense, family drama, and a touch of romance.
“Bree,” she said in a small voice. She didn’t think Daddy would hear her, but if he did, then Bree would get the same as Mommy. She looked down the hall. Her parents’ door was open, and Daddy was yell...March 2020•332 pages - #4
Save:A darkly entertaining, morally complex Stephen King classic - quick to read, hard to put down, and perfect for fans who crave something unsettling with bite.
Thinner by Stephen King, writing under the pseudonym Richard Bachman, follows Fairview attorney Billy Halleck as he is cursed by an old Gypsy leader, Tadiz Lemke, resulting in relentless weight loss after being exonerated in a tragic accident. As Billy's weight loss becomes inexplicable, the health care profession considers it to be guilt-derived and psychosomatic. The novel weaves a gripping narrative delving into themes of justice, retribution, and the consequences of one's actions, as Billy realizes he is cursed and sets out to track down the Gypsy clan to break the curse.
The story of Thinner unfolds with complex characters and a supernatural element that adds depth to the plot, making it more than just a traditional crime or thriller story. Stephen King's signature storytelling prowess shines through in creating a suspenseful and eerie atmosphere, with vivid and thought-provoking writing. The novel also raises ethical questions about accountability and the nature of justice, leaving readers contemplating the consequences of their own actions.
'Thinner,' the old Gypsy man with the rotting nose whispers to William Halleck as Halleck and his wife, Heidi, come out of the courthouse. Just that one word, sent on the wafting, cloying sweetness of...November 1984•346 pages A profoundly moving, essential oral history of September 11, capturing the chaos, heroism, and heartbreak of the day through hundreds of firsthand voices. It may not be easy to read, but it’s unforgettable - and possibly the best 9/11 book to understand the human side of history.
'The Only Plane in the Sky: An Oral History of 9/11' by author Garrett M. Graff is a captivating and emotional recounting of the events of September 11, 2001, through the firsthand accounts of those who experienced the tragic day. The book weaves together the voices of individuals from various backgrounds, including survivors, first responders, politicians, and ordinary citizens, to provide a detailed and harrowing narrative of the multi-layered terrorist attacks on the United States.
The book offers a unique perspective on the impact of 9/11, focusing on the human stories and emotions behind the tragedy rather than the political or tactical aspects. Through a chronological presentation of personal testimonies, 'The Only Plane in the Sky' immerses readers in the events leading up to the attacks, the moments of crisis on the hijacked planes, the responses of the government and rescue workers, and the aftermath of the day that forever changed the world.
On August 12, 2001, NASA astronaut Frank Culbertson arrived at the International Space Station aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery. He would live and work aboard the Space Station for 125 days. On Sept...September 2019•516 pages- #6
Save:A chilling, unconventional noir classic - a must-read for fans of psychological suspense, but don’t expect a typical whodunit or a likable hero.
'In a Lonely Place' by Dorothy B. Hughes is a classic noir psychological thriller set in post-war Los Angeles, narrated from the point of view of a serial killer named Dix Steele. The story follows Dix, a disturbed and misogynistic man, as he navigates his relationships with his old army friend turned detective, Brub Nicolai, Brub's wife Sylvia, and his new girlfriend Laurel. As the city is terrorized by a serial killer, the reader is taken on a suspenseful journey through Dix's twisted mind and dark actions, all while experiencing the vividly described Los Angeles setting of the 1940s.
The book is praised for its gripping plot, expertly crafted characters, and the unique perspective of being told from the killer's point of view. Dorothy B. Hughes' writing style is commended for its terse and hardboiled prose, effectively portraying Dix's psychological state, toxic masculinity, and the postwar male loneliness and rage prevalent throughout the narrative.
It was good standing there on the promontory overlooking the evening sea, the fog lilting itself like gauzy veils to touch his face. There was something in it akin to flying; the sense of being lifted...1947•249 pages - #7
Save:A unique and quietly powerful novel that delivers a new angle on WWII history. While it may not be for everyone, it's a compelling choice for those interested in nuanced, character-focused wartime fiction.
'At the Wolf's Table' by Rosella Postorino follows the story of Rosa Sauer and her fellow food tasters who work at Hitler's hideout, The Wolf's Lair. The narrative delves into the experiences of the women conscripted to taste Hitler's food, the relationships among the tasters, and Rosa's personal struggles during the last year of the war. The writing style captures the complexities of the characters, particularly Rosa, and provides insight into the disillusionment and conflicting beliefs prevalent among Germans at the time.
The plot unfolds with Rosa navigating her duties as a food taster, dealing with personal tragedies such as her missing husband, Gregor, and forming unexpected relationships, notably with the SS lieutenant. Postorino's storytelling skillfully weaves together historical events like Von Stauffenberg's attempt on Hitler's life with the daily lives and emotional turmoil of the characters, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
We entered one at a time. We had waited for hours outside, lined up in the hallway. The room was large, its walls white. In the center of it, a long wooden table already laid out. They gestured for us...January 2019•284 pages - #8
Save:A twisty, creepy thriller that mixes crime and horror in all the right ways - impossible to put down and perfect for fans of eerie small-town secrets.
The Taking of Annie Thorne by C.J. Tudor is a gripping blend of crime and horror that captivates readers with its dark themes and eerie atmosphere. The story follows Joe Thorne, who returns to his troubled childhood town of Arnhill, haunted by the disappearance of his sister Annie. The narrative unfolds with a series of mysterious and unsettling events, as Joe grapples with his past and the sinister occurrences surrounding him. Tudor's writing style is engaging and vivid, weaving suspenseful moments and clever dialogue that draws comparisons to authors like Stephen King.
This book is a fast-paced page-turner, filled with unexpected twists and cliffhangers that keep readers eagerly turning the pages. The characters are richly developed, each with their distinct flaws that add depth to the storyline. While some readers found the ending somewhat lacking in comparison to the rest of the book, the overall impression of The Taking of Annie Thorne is overwhelmingly positive. C.J. Tudor's talent for creating a sense of dread and her ability to balance elements of horror and crime make this novel a must-read for fans of the genre.
Never go back. That’s what people always tell you. Things will have changed. They won’t be the way you remembered. Leave the past in the past. Of course, the last one is easier said than done. The pas...August 2019•354 pages - #9
Save:'72 Hours' by Bella Jewel is a gripping thriller that follows the story of Noah and Lara as they are kidnapped, drugged, and placed in an unknown environment with a psychopath hunting them. The tension, fear, and anticipation are palpable throughout the story, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as Noah and Lara race against time to survive the deadly game they have been unwillingly thrust into. Bella Jewel expertly intertwines romance and passion between the two main characters with the darker subject of being hunted by a psychopath, creating a fast-paced and thrilling narrative that hooks readers from the beginning.
The emotional journey of Noah and Lara, as they navigate their past relationship and breakup while facing a murderous psychopath, adds depth to the plot. The suspenseful writing style of Bella Jewel, combined with the well-developed main characters, creates a story that is intense, bone-chilling, and impossible to put down until the very end.
She giggles. “I think so. Anyway, it was kind of weird because we just sort of bumped into each other and he started talking to me. He was so charming. Next thing I knew I was going out with him. He w...April 2017•304 pages - #10
Save:A compelling, darkly layered psychological mystery packed with secrets and flawed characters. Not Jewell's most pulse-pounding, but intriguing, thought-provoking, and guaranteed to make you question your assumptions. Worth picking up if you enjoy domestic suspense with a deeper edge.
Invisible Girl by Lisa Jewell is a psychological thriller that follows the disappearance of troubled teen Saffyre Maddox and the suspects involved, including a narcissistic therapist, a creepy neighbor associated with incel culture, and other mysterious characters. The story is narrated from multiple points of view, revealing dark secrets, toxic masculinity, and the complexities of human relationships. As the plot unfolds, twists and turns abound, keeping readers engaged in a well-plotted and character-driven mystery.
The novel delves into themes of incel culture, toxic masculinity, rape myths, and the impact of false accusations, all while exploring the intricacies of human behavior and the consequences of hidden secrets. Lisa Jewell's writing style is nuanced and thought-provoking, creating a dark and tense atmosphere that builds suspense and keeps readers guessing until the end.
I am mostly Welsh on my dad’s side and partly Trinidadian, partly Malaysian, and a tiny bit French from my mum. Sometimes people try to guess my heritage, but they always end up getting it wrong. If a...October 2020•406 pages
