10 Best Psychological Thrillers Books 2025 in the United States

‘The Boyfriend’ is a compelling psychological thriller by Freida McFadden that has garnered significant attention, ranking highly in several categories on Audible. Narrated by Victoria Connolly and Robb Moreira, the audiobook spans 9 hours and 20 minutes and is released by Hollywood Upstairs Press. This unabridged version ensures that listeners get the full experience as intended by the author.

The story's plot complexity keeps listeners engaged with its intricate twists and turns, making it a standout in the genre. The characters are well-developed, each with their own depth and backstory, which adds to the suspense and intrigue. Some listeners might find the pacing uneven; certain parts are thrilling and fast-paced, while others might feel a bit slower and drawn out.

The themes explored in the book, such as trust, deception, and relationships, are thought-provoking and resonate well within the psychological thriller category. McFadden's writing style is gripping and descriptive, pulling the reader into the world she has created. A few readers might find the detailed descriptions slightly overwhelming at times. This book is ideal for fans of crime and domestic thrillers who appreciate a well-crafted plot and complex characters. If you enjoy being on the edge of your seat and piecing together a suspenseful narrative, ‘The Boyfriend’ will likely be a satisfying listen.

‘Here One Moment’ by Liane Moriarty is a psychological thriller audiobook that stands out in the genre. It ranks highly in Audible Books & Originals, particularly within Women's Fiction, Family Life Fiction, and Psychological Thrillers, indicating its broad appeal and popularity. Narrated by Caroline Lee and Geraldine Hakewill, the audiobook spans nearly 16 hours, providing an immersive experience for listeners.

The plot complexity is a strong point, with intricate twists and turns that keep the listener engaged. Moriarty’s writing style is accessible yet sophisticated, making it a good fit for both casual readers and those looking for deeper themes. Themes of family dynamics, personal identity, and the human psyche are explored in depth, adding layers to the narrative.

Character development is well-handled, with protagonists that feel real and multi-dimensional. The narration by Lee and Hakewill is engaging and adds a distinct dimension to the storytelling. ‘Here One Moment’ is ideal for fans of psychological thrillers who appreciate well-developed characters and complex plots.

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a captivating psychological thriller that has earned a strong position in the genre. The plot is intricately woven, offering a high level of complexity that keeps readers guessing until the very end. This ensures an engaging experience as the story unravels with unexpected twists and turns. Character development is another strong point, with the protagonist, Theo Faber, being deeply explored, making readers invested in his journey. The enigmatic Alicia Berenson also adds to the intrigue with her complex personality and mysterious silence.

Pacing is generally well-maintained, though some readers might find certain sections slightly slow. However, these slower parts help build tension and deepen character backgrounds. The themes explored in the book, including trauma, trust, and the search for truth, are thought-provoking and add significant depth to the story. Alex Michaelides' writing style is accessible yet sophisticated, providing a smooth reading experience while effectively conveying the psychological tension.

The audiobook version features narrators Jack Hawkins and Louise Brealey, whose performances enhance the storytelling with their engaging narration. At a listening length of 8 hours and 33 minutes, it is a substantial yet manageable commitment for audiobook listeners. The unabridged version ensures that no details are missed, which is suitable for those who appreciate a comprehensive narrative. 'The Silent Patient' is an excellent choice for fans of psychological thrillers who enjoy complex plots, well-developed characters, and themes that provoke thought.