Books Like...
'The Good Samaritan' by John Marrs is a dark and twisted thriller that follows Laura Morris, a volunteer at a suicide hotline, who manipulates callers into taking their own lives. As the plot unfolds, Laura's actions catch the attention of Ryan Smith, a grieving husband seeking revenge. The story cleverly alternates between Laura's and Ryan's perspectives, keeping the reader guessing about the outcome. Marrs weaves a tale of psychological suspense, exploring the depths of depravity and the battle between two disturbed characters.
The writing style of 'The Good Samaritan' is described as enthralling, gripping, and shocking from start to finish. Marrs skillfully builds tension and suspense, drawing readers into a rollercoaster of a narrative that is both captivating and intense. The book delves into dark themes with a unique premise, offering unexpected twists and a compelling exploration of complex and morally ambiguous characters.
If you liked The Good Samaritan, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
'Our Kind of Cruelty' by Araminta Hall is a dark and twisted novel that follows the story of Mike, a successful banker who becomes obsessed with his ex-girlfriend Verity. Mike is convinced that their breakup is just a part of a game they used to play called the Crave, leading to a chilling and suspenseful narrative that blurs the lines between reality and delusion. The book is told entirely from Mike's perspective, providing a deep dive into his mind and creating a sense of unease and tension throughout the story. As the plot unfolds, readers are left questioning the true motives of the characters and the disturbing dynamics of their relationships.
The writing style in 'Our Kind of Cruelty' is described as intense, gripping, and immersive, with an emphasis on the psychological aspects of the characters. The author, Araminta Hall, delves into themes of obsession, desire, and perception, crafting a narrative that keeps readers on edge and engaged until the very end. Through the use of an unreliable narrator and a suspenseful plot, Hall creates a story that challenges perceptions and explores the darker aspects of human relationships.
It is hard to believe that it isn’t even a year since I returned from America. It feels more like a lifetime, two lifetimes even. But the fact is I arrived home at the end of May and as I sit here now... - #2
'The Memory Watcher' by Minka Kent is a psychological thriller that delves into the lives of Autumn Carpenter and Daphne McMullen. Autumn becomes obsessed with the McMullen family after discovering them on social media, especially her biological daughter Grace, who was adopted by the McMullens. As Autumn infiltrates the family as a nanny, secrets and undercurrents begin to unravel, leading to unexpected twists and revelations. The story is narrated from both Autumn and Daphne's perspectives, highlighting the facade of picture-perfect lives portrayed on social media and the hidden truths that lie beneath.
She doesn’t even know me. Of course she didn’t block me, and I “ghost” follow her. I’m not an “official” follower. Official followers require proof of identification due to Instaface’s strict no-dummy... - #3
'The Safe House' by Nicci French follows the story of Dr. Sam Lashcen, a single mother who takes in a young woman, Fiona, after the violent murder of Fiona's parents. The plot revolves around the murder mystery of a wealthy couple and the attempted murder of their daughter, which leads Sam to protect Fiona and help her recover. As the story unfolds, Sam's life is dramatically impacted, and the relationships between characters become central to the narrative. Despite being described as a psychological thriller, the book focuses more on the mother-daughter relationships and the dynamics with Sam's boyfriend, Danny, rather than on intense psychological suspense.
The door was the first thing. The door was open. The front door was never open, even in the wonderful heat of the previous summer that had been so like home, but there it was, teetering inwards, on a ... - #4
'You' by Caroline Kepnes follows the story of Joe Goldberg, a charming and intelligent bookstore owner who becomes obsessed with Guinevere Beck after a chance encounter. What starts as innocent flirtation quickly escalates into a disturbing tale of stalking and manipulation as Joe goes to extreme lengths to integrate himself into Beck's life. The narrative is told from Joe's perspective, providing insight into his twisted thoughts and actions as he rationalizes his obsessive behavior.
The book delves into themes of obsession, manipulation, and the dark depths of the human psyche. Through a gripping storyline and a unique second-person narrative style, readers are taken on a suspenseful journey that challenges their perceptions of right and wrong. As the plot unfolds, the complex characters and unsettling events keep readers on the edge of their seats, culminating in a chilling exploration of the blurred lines between love and obsession.
YOU walk into the bookstore and you keep your hand on the door to make sure it doesn’t slam. You smile, embarrassed to be a nice girl, and your nails are bare and your V-neck sweater is beige and it’s... - #5
'The Earthquake Bird' by Susanna Jones is a psychological crime novel set in Tokyo, following the story of Lucy Fly, a British expat living in Japan who is suspected of murdering her friend Lily. The narrative is told through Lucy's memories, alternating between her childhood, her life in Tokyo, and the events leading up to Lily's murder. Jones' writing style is atmospheric and descriptive, capturing the loneliness and isolation of Lucy while providing insights into Japanese culture and society.
Early this morning, several hours before my arrest, I was awakened by an earth tremor. I mention the incident not to suggest that there was a connection—that somehow the fault lines in my life came cr... - #6
'What Lies Between Us' by John Marrs is a psychological thriller that delves into the twisted and dysfunctional relationship between a mother, Maggie, and her daughter, Nina. The story unfolds in a domestic setting, revealing dark secrets and unexpected twists that keep the readers on edge. The narrative alternates between Maggie and Nina's perspectives, creating unreliable narrators that add layers of suspense and intrigue to the plot. Marrs skillfully weaves a tale of manipulation, abuse, and hidden truths, leaving readers questioning the reality of the characters' motives and actions.
The book is praised for its gripping and disturbing storyline that explores the depths a mother would go to protect her daughter, even if it means resorting to extreme measures. Marrs' writing style is commended for its ability to captivate the readers, with each chapter unraveling shocking revelations and keeping the suspense high until the very end. The plot is described as a rollercoaster ride full of twists and turns, offering a unique and intense reading experience that sets it apart from traditional psychological thrillers.
You can’t see me from my place up here in the crow’s nest. No one going about their business in the street can. I know that because I must have waved at my neighbours hundreds of times and they’ve nev... - #7
In 'The Talented Mr. Ripley,' Tom Ripley is sent to Europe by Dickie Greenleaf's father in an attempt to persuade Dickie to return home. Instead, Ripley becomes obsessed with Dickie and decides to take over his life, leading to a series of deceptions and close calls that create suspense throughout the novel. The story delves into the chilling portrayal of a young man's descent into becoming a serial killer, showcasing themes of paranoia, narcissism, and manipulation.
The narrative follows Ripley's calculated actions as he navigates through Europe, inserting himself into Dickie's life and facing the consequences of his immoral decisions. Patricia Highsmith's writing style is described as clinical yet engaging, offering readers a glimpse into Ripley's mind and his twisted motivations, creating a suspenseful and thrilling reading experience.
‘He’s been in Europe for two years. The Schrievers spoke very highly of you, and thought you might have some influence on Richard if you were to write to him. I want him to come home. He has responsib... - #8
The Bridesmaid by Ruth Rendell is a tale of madness and obsession as experienced through the protagonist, Philip, who falls under the spell of the mysterious and beautiful Senta. The story delves into the complexities of their passionate but dangerous relationship, where reality and fantasy blur, leading to violence and death. Rendell's writing style is described as descriptive, allowing readers to delve into the mind of the protagonist and experience the unfolding events through his perspective.
The plot of the book revolves around the intense connection between Philip and Senta, with the latter being portrayed as an enigmatic and unsettling character living in a world of her own making. As the story progresses, Philip is confronted with the consequences of his involvement with Senta, leading to a gripping narrative filled with tension, intrigue, and a gradual unraveling of the characters' true natures.
Violent death fascinates people. It upset Philip. He had a phobia about it. Or that was what he called it to himself sometimes, a phobia for murder and all forms of killing, the wanton destruction of ... - #9
'Codename Villanelle' by Luke Jennings is a spy thriller that follows the story of an emotionless professional assassin named Villanelle, who was once a poor, motherless Russian girl named Oksana. The plot delves into Villanelle's exotic assignments and her transformation into a ruthless killer. The writing style is described as having exquisite imagery, detailed descriptions, and elegant yet raw character interactions that bring the characters to life.
The Palazzo Falconieri stands on a promontory on one of the smaller Italian lakes. It’s late June, and a faint breeze touches the pines and cypresses that cluster like sentinels around the rocky headl... - #10
'The One' by John Marrs explores a world where a company claims to have discovered a gene that can scientifically determine soulmates through DNA testing. The book follows the stories of five couples who have been matched by this technology, revealing the shocking consequences of relying on genetic science to find true love. The plot is filled with suspenseful twists and turns, keeping readers engaged as they navigate through various characters' lives and relationships. The writing style of the book is described as fast-paced, compelling, and thought-provoking, with chapters dedicated to different characters' experiences linked together in a clever and surprising manner.
The shirtless man had cropped, light-brown hair, and posed on a beach with his legs spread apart with the top half of his wetsuit rolled down to his waist. His eyes were the clearest shade of blue. Hi...