Best Thriller Books for Beginners

Thriller novels are an exciting genre. They captivate readers with suspense, mystery, and twists. For beginners, choosing the right books to start with can make all the difference in developing a love for this genre. In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best thriller books for beginners. These books are known for their engaging plots, relatable characters, and edge-of-your-seat storytelling. If you’re new to thrillers or want easy, gripping reads, these picks will hook you. Let’s dive into detailed descriptions of each book!

Best Thriller Books for Beginners

• Then She Was Gone: A Novel
• Escape Room (Underlined Paperbacks)
• Ivy and Bean’s Treasure Box: (Beginning Chapter Books, Funny Books for Kids, Kids Book Series) (Ivy + Bean)
• The Family Across the Street: A totally unputdownable psychological thriller with a shocking twist
• The New York Times Best of the Week Series: Monday Crosswords: 50 Easy Puzzles (The New York Times Crossword Puzzles)
• The Locked Door
• Fiction Writing 101: Tips, Tricks and Exercises to Guide Beginner Fiction Writers

Then She Was Gone: A Novel by Lisa Jewell

• Overview: This gripping thriller follows Laurel Mack, a mother. She struggles to accept the ten-year-old disappearance of her teenage daughter, Ellie. Laurel meets a man named Floyd and his young daughter. The girl looks just like Ellie. This turns Laurel’s world upside down as she uncovers shocking truths. For readers seeking emotional depth alongside suspense, this book pairs well with insights from the Best Gottman Books for Couples, as it explores complex relationships and trust.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Lisa Jewell’s fast-paced, accessible style. The story has emotional depth, suspense, and twists. It’s perfect for new thriller readers.
• Themes: Grief, family secrets, and the lengths a mother will go to for answers.

Escape Room (Underlined Paperbacks) by Maren Stoffels

• Overview: This thriller is about four teens in an escape room. Their lives are at stake. Trapped and scared, they must solve puzzles and face their deepest fears to survive.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: The book is short, intense, and action-packed. Its simple language and relatable teen characters make it a great intro to thrillers for young readers or those seeking a light, engaging read.
• Themes: Trust, survival, and facing fears.

Ivy and Bean’s Treasure Box by Annie Barrows and Sophie Blackall

• Overview: This book series is not a typical thriller. It adds suspense and problem-solving, but in a kid-friendly way. Ivy and Bean go on fun, mysterious adventures. They hunt for treasure and solve puzzles. These stories entertain young readers.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: It’s ideal for kids who are new to thrillers or suspense stories. The writing is simple, funny, and engaging. It’s great for building reading confidence.
• Themes: Friendship, adventure, and curiosity.

The Family Across the Street by Nicole Trope

• Overview: A gripping thriller set in a typical neighborhood. A perfect family there hides dark secrets. Told from multiple perspectives, the story unravels the mystery behind a shocking crime.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: The book is fast-paced and unputdownable. It has short chapters and cliffhanger endings. It’s perfect for readers who want to explore psychological thrillers. They don’t want overly complex stories.
• Themes: Domestic secrets, trust, and suspenseful twists.

The New York Times Best of the Week Series: Monday Crosswords

• Overview: This isn’t a typical thriller. But, it’s a fun way to sharpen problem-solving skills. It can complement a love for mystery and thrillers. These crosswords are beginner-friendly and great for unwinding while still engaging your mind.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: Easy puzzles provide a sense of accomplishment and keep the mind sharp. It’s a light addition to a thriller routine for those who enjoy challenges.
• Themes: Puzzle-solving and logical thinking.

The Locked Door by Freida McFadden

• Overview: This intense thriller is about Nora, a surgeon with a dark family history. A string of murders unfolds. Nora becomes a suspect. She must confront her past and its chilling secrets.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: The book’s engaging style and shocking twists make it hard to put down. It’s a straightforward and exciting read, perfect for those new to the thriller genre.
• Themes: Secrets, suspense, and morality.

Fiction Writing 101 by Gardner Dozois

• Overview: This book isn’t a thriller. But, it has tips for new writers who want to write thrilling stories. It includes exercises, techniques, and insights into building suspense and creating compelling narratives.
• Why It’s Great for Beginners: This book is a guide for aspiring writers. It helps them understand and create thrilling fiction.
• Themes: Storytelling, creativity, and writing techniques.

FAQs About Thrillers for Beginners

What makes a thriller beginner-friendly?

Thrillers with simple language, straightforward plots, and relatable characters are beginner-friendly. They should balance suspense and resolution. This will engage readers without overwhelming them.

Are thrillers suitable for all ages?

Yes, but it depends on the content. There are thrillers for kids, teens, and adults. So, choose age-appropriate books.

Can thrillers help improve problem-solving skills?

Yes, reading thrillers can improve your analytical thinking. You try to solve the mysteries alongside the characters. This sharpens your attention to detail.

How do I choose the best thriller book for me?

Consider your interests and comfort level with suspense. If you’re new to the genre, start with lighter, fast-paced thrillers or ones with themes that resonate with you.

Conclusion

Thrillers are a great genre for fans of suspense, mystery, and plot twists. The books listed above cater to a wide range of readers, from kids and teens to adults and aspiring writers. Whether you’re solving puzzles with Ivy and Bean or uncovering dark secrets in The Locked Door, this genre has something for everyone. Start with a beginner-friendly thriller. You might get hooked on the genre for life!