Dive into Suspense: 13 Must-Read Mysteries and Thrillers of 2025 | TNNEWS

Dec 26, 2025 - 17:05
Dec 31, 2025 - 14:58
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Dive into Suspense: 13 Must-Read Mysteries and Thrillers of 2025 | TNNEWS

Dive into Suspense: 13 Must-Read Mysteries and Thrillers of 2025 | TNNEWS

Chilling Reads for Cozy Winter Nights

Whether it’s the chill of winter or the thrill of a gripping story, mysteries and thrillers are perfect companions. This curated list of 13 books, handpicked by NPR’s team, promises to captivate every suspense enthusiast. From eerie suburban tales to witchcraft and missing persons, there’s a story for everyone. For more thrilling reads, explore our annual guide, Books We Love.

Unraveling Secrets: A Selection of Must-Read Thrillers

All the Other Mothers Hate Me, by Sarah Harman

All the Other Mothers Hate Me by Sarah Harman

Breaking out of a reading slump, this novel follows a mother juggling life’s chaos while unraveling the mystery of her son’s missing classmate. With unexpected twists and engaging characters, it’s a page-turner you won’t want to put down. – Elissa Nadworny, correspondent

Audition, by Katie Kitamura

Audition by Katie Kitamura

This Booker Prize finalist blurs the lines of reality as an actress encounters a man convinced she’s his mother. The narrative plays with perception, leaving readers questioning identity and truth. – Andrew Limbong, Culture Desk correspondent

The Buffalo Hunter Hunter, by Stephen Graham Jones

The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones

A complex tale of revenge and history, this novel intertwines narratives of a Blackfeet tribe member seeking justice across lifetimes. It’s a gripping exploration of America’s dark past. – Cory Turner, Education correspondent

Death of the Author, by Nnedi Okorafor

Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor

This dual narrative explores fame and identity through the eyes of a human author and a robot fascinated by human stories. The robot’s journey is particularly captivating, leading to a surprising conclusion. – Rebecca Hersher, Climate Desk correspondent

Elita, by Kirsten Sundberg Lunstrum

Elita by Kirsten Sundberg Lunstrum

Set on a remote island, this Nordic noir follows a scholar investigating a mysterious girl. The story delves into themes of independence and societal constraints, offering a slow-burn mystery. – Kristen Martin, book critic

Heartwood, by Amity Gaige

Heartwood by Amity Gaige

In this emotional thriller, a nurse vanishes on the Appalachian Trail. The narrative weaves through the perspectives of those searching for her, creating a story rich in empathy and hope. – Arielle Retting, Newsroom senior editor

Julie Chan Is Dead, by Liann Zhang

Julie Chan Is Dead by Liann Zhang

Julie assumes her deceased twin’s identity, diving into a world of deception. This haunting tale explores the lengths one will go to maintain a facade, both online and offline. – Hafsa Fathima, assistant producer

The Naming of the Birds, by Paraic O'Donnell

The Naming of the Birds by Paraic O’Donnell

This Victorian mystery combines elements of classic detective stories with a unique twist. As the body count rises, the reader is drawn into a world of dramatic irony and suspense. – Holly J. Morris, digital trainer

Old Soul, by Susan Barker

Old Soul by Susan Barker

Two strangers connect over shared tragedies, leading to a mystery involving a charming woman and strange deaths. This novel intricately weaves together seemingly unrelated stories. – Ilana Masad, book critic

The Stalker, by Paula Bomer

The Stalker by Paula Bomer

Follow the dark journey of Doughty, a manipulative sociopath in New York City. This novel balances humor with serious themes, offering a unique perspective on human nature. – Michael Schaub, book critic

The Tokyo Suite, by Giovana Madalosso, translated by Bruna Dantas Lobato

The Tokyo Suite by Giovana Madalosso, translated by Bruna Dantas Lobato

This dual narrative explores the lives of a busy executive and a nanny who kidnaps her daughter. The story challenges readers’ sympathies and leaves a lasting impact. – Leland Cheuk, book critic

Vantage Point, by Sara Sligar

Vantage Point by Sara Sligar

Set on a secluded island, this mystery involves a wealthy family and a digital-age curse. The story delves into themes of friendship, class, and trauma, wrapped in a thrilling narrative. – Barrie Hardymon, senior editor

Witchcraft for Wayward Girls, by Grady Hendrix

Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix

In the 1970s, young women hidden away in homes for unwed mothers discover empowerment through witchcraft. This novel explores themes of power and identity in a compelling narrative. – Christina Cala, senior producer

Explore more from our collection of over 380 titles in this year’s Books We Love, or browse nearly 4,000 books from the past 13 years.

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