Books Like...
"Falling" by Christopher Pike is a suspenseful novel that intertwines the stories of two criminals, Matt Conner and Kelly Fienman. Matt seeks revenge on his ex-girlfriend by kidnapping her son, while Kelly hunts down a serial killer known as The Acid Man. The book is filled with twists and turns, detailed escapes, and intricate plots that keep readers guessing until the very end. The characters are described as flawed yet compelling, with the author's unique storytelling style shining through in the complex narratives and unexpected revelations.
The writing in "Falling" is described as engaging and fast-paced, with a mix of suspense, thrills, and detailed descriptions that draw readers into the intricate web of the plot. The book features elements of crime fiction, mythology tie-ins, and suspenseful storytelling that keep readers on the edge of their seats, making it a compelling read for fans of Christopher Pike's work.
If you liked Falling, here are the top 55 books to read next:
- #1
Memory Man by David Baldacci follows the story of Amos Decker, a former NFL player turned police detective with hyperthymesia, a perfect memory of every detail. After the brutal murder of his family, Decker's life takes a dark turn as he becomes involved in solving cases that challenge his abilities. The book intertwines themes of tragedy, memory, and redemption, leading Decker on a suspenseful journey to uncovering the truth behind the crimes he encounters. Baldacci's writing style presents a mix of thrilling suspense, intricate plot twists, and well-developed characters, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged throughout the book.
AMOS DECKER WOULD forever remember all three of their violent deaths in the most paralyzing shade of blue. It would cut into him at unpredictable moments, like a gutting knife made of colored light. H... - #2
'Someone We Know' by Shari Lapena is a fast-paced thriller set in a suburban neighborhood filled with secrets and lies. The story revolves around a missing woman, Amanda, whose murder leads to the unraveling of numerous secrets among the neighbors. As suspicion falls on various characters, the reader is taken on a journey of deception, twists, and unexpected revelations. Lapena's writing style keeps the reader engaged with multiple layers of the plot and a narrative that unfolds through different perspectives, ultimately culminating in a shocking ending that leaves the neighborhood reeling.
Olivia Sharpe sits in her kitchen drinking a cup of coffee, gazing blankly out the glass sliding doors to the backyard. It’s mid-October, and the maple tree near the back fence is looking splendid in ... - #3
'The Force' by Don Winslow is a gritty crime fiction novel that delves into the corrupt world of the NYPD, focusing on Detective Sergeant Denny Malone and his elite task force in Manhattan North. The story follows Malone's descent from a respected cop to a dirty officer involved in corruption, drugs, and violence. The plot unfolds through flashbacks, showcasing the blurred lines between good and bad, as well as the impact of corruption on individuals and the system. The writing style is described as detailed, compelling, and immersive, painting a vivid picture of the seedy underbelly of New York City.
Malone turns around and indulges in the hot water pounding on the back of his neck and shoulders. Running down the tattooed sleeves of his arms. It feels good, he could stand there all day, but he has... - #4
The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware follows the story of Harriet Westaway, also known as Hal, who receives a letter about an inheritance from her grandmother, Hester Westaway, a woman she never knew existed. Desperate for money, Hal decides to attend the funeral and reading of the will, only to uncover a web of family secrets and mysteries that she must navigate. As she delves deeper into the Westaway family, Hal finds herself in danger and must untangle the truth about her parentage amidst a backdrop of isolation, deception, and dark revelations.
Ruth Ware's writing in The Death of Mrs. Westaway is described as engrossing, gothic, and suspenseful, reminiscent of classics like Rebecca. The book combines elements of family turmoil, long-buried secrets, and a brooding Cornish mansion, all wrapped up in a twisty mystery that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With a compelling protagonist, shifty characters, and a questionable will, Ware's storytelling style draws readers in and immerses them in a modern take on the classic gothic mystery genre.
The girl leaned, rather than walked, into the wind, clutching the damp package of fish and chips grimly under one arm even as the gale plucked at the paper, trying to unravel the parcel and send the c... - #5
Just Watch Me by Jeff Lindsay introduces Riley Wolfe, a master thief who is both fascinating and morally ambiguous. As a sociopath, he navigates his world of crime with a mix of dark humor and thrilling audacity, particularly as he plans an impossible heist to steal the Iranian crown jewels. Readers are drawn into the intricacies of his elaborate schemes, but despite his charming wit, one can't help but question his lack of morality. The narrative unfolds with a slow burn, blending caper elements with psychological exploration, all while keeping readers hooked on Wolfe’s unpredictable journey.
Lindsay's writing style is both vivid and engaging, effectively immersing readers in Riley's mind while building anticipation throughout the heist setup. While some might find the pacing allows more planning than action, others appreciate the fine details of the plot. With characters that are complex and morally gray, Lindsay invites readers to root for Riley even as they grapple with his darker instincts. This makes Just Watch Me a compelling start to a new series, appealing especially to fans of thrillers and heist stories.
- #6
'Lightning' by Dean Koontz is a thrilling tale that intertwines time travel, suspense, and mystery. The story follows Laura Shane, a woman who is saved from various life-threatening situations by a mysterious guardian angel who turns out to be a time traveler from 1944 Berlin. As Laura grows older, she unravels the secrets behind her guardian's actions and discovers the importance of her own existence. The narrative weaves together elements of romance, action, and historical intrigue, creating a captivating plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
Koontz's writing style in 'Lightning' is described as fast-paced, suspenseful, and imaginative. explores themes of love, redemption, and the consequences of altering the course of history through time travel. The characters are well-developed, with complex relationships and emotional depth that add layers to the storyline. The novel combines elements of science fiction and thriller genres, offering a unique take on the concept of time travel and its impact on the lives of the characters involved.
Wednesday, January 12, 1955, was frigid, gray, and somber. At twilight thick, fluffy snowflakes spiraled out of the low sky, and the people of Denver huddled in expectation of a Rocky Mountain blizzar... - #7
'The Lincoln Lawyer' by Michael Connelly follows the story of Mickey Haller, a criminal defense attorney who operates out of the back of his Lincoln Continental. Haller is hired to defend Louis Roulet, who is accused of attempting to rape and murder a woman. As Haller delves into the case, he is faced with ethical dilemmas and has to navigate through a complex legal system to uncover the truth. The plot is described as fast-paced, suspenseful, and filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Connelly's writing style is praised for its simplicity, clean prose, and ability to maintain a compelling narrative throughout the book.
The morning air off the Mojave in late winter is as clean and crisp as you’ll ever breathe in Los Angeles County. It carries the taste of promise on it. When it starts blowing in like that I like to k...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Harry Bosch Universe ) - #8
"What the Night Knows" by Dean Koontz follows the story of John Calvino, a family man and police detective haunted by the brutal murder of his own family by a psychotic killer when he was just 14 years old. Now, twenty years later, similar murders start occurring in the neighborhood, leading John to question if the dead always stay dead and if his family is in danger once again. The plot weaves together supernatural elements, evil spirits, and a sense of impending danger that keeps the reader on edge throughout the book. The writing style is described as creepy, compelling, and filled with eerie twists that add to the suspense of the narrative.
Suddenly at noon, six days after the murders, birds flew to trees and sheltered roosts. As if their wings had lanced the sky, the rain fell close behind their flight. The long afternoon was as dim and... - #9
'14' by Peter Clines is a mystery novel that follows Nate, a man who moves into a peculiar apartment building in L.A. As Nate starts to uncover strange occurrences within the building, he teams up with his neighbors to investigate further. The story unfolds as they delve into the mysteries behind the building, encountering oddities like glowing mutant cockroaches, mysterious lights, and locked apartment doors. The plot combines elements of mystery, horror, and science fiction, leading to a thrilling and entertaining adventure for the characters and readers alike.
The writing style of '14' is characterized by a slow build-up that gradually reveals the oddities and mysteries surrounding the apartment building. The author, Peter Clines, expertly weaves together elements of cosmic horror, science fiction, and fantasy, creating a unique and engaging narrative that keeps readers intrigued. The book balances humor, mystery, and suspense, offering a blend of genres that appeals to fans of intricate puzzles and unconventional storytelling.
The building was a cube of red bricks lined with gray mortar, the type of building one pictured in New York or San Francisco. Two rectangles of concrete sat in the brick at the third story, each beari... - #10
'Mountain Man' by Keith C. Blackmore is a zombie apocalypse series set in Canada, following the story of Augustus Berry, a survivor who is resourceful, anti-social, and often drunk. The series is described as post-apocalyptic with a mix of humor, dark humor, and horror elements. The main character, Gus, is portrayed as a tough individual who fights zombies, makes friends, and faces various challenges in a world overtaken by the undead.
The writing style of 'Mountain Man' is praised for its engaging and immersive storytelling, with readers highlighting the character development of Gus and the unique perspective of the story being told from a lone survivor's point of view. The series is commended for its humor, suspense, and the way it explores themes of survival, friendship, and resilience in the face of a zombie outbreak.
Augustus Berry rolled over to the edge of the stained hardwood deck and vomited. He squeezed his eyes closed, the pressure behind them forceful enough to almost pop them from their orbital cavities. H...