Are you a fan of thrilling mysteries and suspenseful stories? If so, you’ll love diving into the world of missing persons books. These captivating reads are filled with intrigue, gripping plot twists, and unforgettable characters. From heart-pounding thrillers to emotional dramas, there’s a book on missing persons for every reader. Join us as we explore the 20 best books about missing persons that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Books About Missing Persons
- 2 The Silent Patient
- 3 The Girl on the Train
- 4 The Chalk Man
- 5 The Dry
- 6 The Child Finder
- 7 The Lost Man
- 8 The Good Girl
- 9 The Woods
- 10 The Missing
- 11 The Widow
- 12 The Suspect
- 13 The Girl Before
- 14 The Couple Next Door
- 15 The Missing Ones
- 16 The Night Olivia Fell
- 17 The Lost Girls of Paris
- 18 The Other Woman
- 19 The Missing Wife
- 20 Gone Girl
- 21 The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
- 22 Conclusion
- 23
20 Best Books About Missing Persons
The Silent Patient
by Alex Michaelides
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a gripping psychological thriller that centers around a woman named Alicia Berenson who is accused of murdering her husband and then goes silent, refusing to speak a single word. The story is told through the perspective of a psychotherapist, Theo Faber, who becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind Alicia’s silence. As he delves deeper into her mysterious past, he unravels shocking secrets and uncovers the dark and twisted truth behind the murder. This book is a thrilling and suspenseful page-turner that will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the enigma of Alicia’s silence. The Silent Patient is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the human mind and the lengths people will go to in order to protect their darkest secrets. It is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone looking for a compelling missing persons book.
The Girl on the Train
by Paula Hawkins
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the intertwined lives of three women. The story revolves around Rachel, an alcoholic who takes the same train every day and becomes obsessed with a couple she sees from the window. When the woman she watches goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in the investigation. Told from the perspectives of the three women, the novel delves into themes of memory, perception, and the complexities of human relationships. As the mystery unfolds, the reader is taken on a thrilling journey through the dark and tangled web of secrets and lies. This missing persons book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end, with its unexpected twists and shocking revelations.
The Chalk Man
by C.J. Tudor
The Chalk Man by C.J. Tudor is a gripping thriller that follows a group of friends who are haunted by a series of mysterious chalk drawings that lead them to a body. The story alternates between the present day and the 1980s, when the friends first encountered the chilling drawings. As they try to unravel the truth behind the drawings and the disappearance of a young girl, they uncover dark secrets and shocking revelations. The novel is a compelling and atmospheric exploration of the complexities of friendship, the consequences of secrets, and the lingering effects of a traumatic event. This chilling and suspenseful book about missing persons will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
The Dry
by Jane Harper
The Dry by Jane Harper is a gripping mystery novel set in a small Australian town. The story follows Federal Agent Aaron Falk as he returns to his hometown to attend the funeral of his childhood friend who is believed to have killed his family and then himself. As Falk delves into the investigation, he uncovers long-buried secrets and confronts the haunting events of his past. The dry and desolate landscape mirrors the tension and suspense of the plot, making for a thrilling and atmospheric read. This book about missing persons is a masterful combination of a compelling whodunit and a poignant exploration of the impact of tragedy on a tight-knit community. Jane Harper’s debut novel is a must-read for fans of suspenseful thrillers and anyone seeking a thought-provoking missing persons book.
The Child Finder
by Rene Denfeld
The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld is a gripping novel that delves into the world of lost children, exploring the emotional and psychological impact of their disappearances. The story follows Naomi, a talented investigator known as the “child finder,” who is tasked with locating a young girl named Madison, who has been missing for three years. As Naomi delves deeper into the case, she uncovers dark secrets and faces her own haunting past. The novel is a haunting and powerful exploration of loss, resilience, and the enduring hope for reunion. With its evocative prose and deeply moving storytelling, The Child Finder is a must-read for anyone drawn to stories of missing persons, and the human spirit’s capacity for resilience and redemption.
The Lost Man
by Jane Harper
The Lost Man by Jane Harper is a gripping mystery novel set in the unforgiving Australian outback. When the body of Cameron Bright is discovered near a remote grave, questions arise about how he ended up so far from his vehicle in the scorching heat. As secrets and betrayals come to light, Cameron’s brothers must confront their own demons and the harsh realities of life in the outback. This intense and atmospheric story delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the impact of isolation in a harsh environment. The Lost Man is a compelling book about missing persons that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The Good Girl
by Mary Kubica
The Good Girl by Mary Kubica is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the mysterious disappearance of Mia Dennett, a young woman from a prominent family. The story is told from multiple perspectives, including Mia’s mother, the detective assigned to her case, and Mia herself. As the narrative unfolds, dark secrets and unexpected twists are revealed, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. This compelling book about a missing person is a rollercoaster of emotions, suspense, and unexpected revelations. Kubica’s skillful storytelling and complex characters make The Good Girl a must-read for fans of psychological suspense and those who love a good missing persons book.
The Woods
by Harlan Coben
The Woods is a gripping novel by Harlan Coben that delves into the mystery surrounding a missing person. The story follows Paul Copeland, a county prosecutor whose sister disappeared along with her friends during a summer camp. When a murder victim is discovered in the same woods where the disappearances occurred, Copeland is forced to confront the traumatic events of his past. As he digs deeper into the case, he uncovers shocking secrets and realizes that the truth may be more complicated than he ever imagined. The Woods is a thrilling and suspenseful book about missing persons that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The Missing
by C.L. Taylor
The Missing by C.L. Taylor is a gripping book about missing persons that delves into the haunting mystery of two missing teenagers. When a girl vanishes without a trace, her friend is left grappling with guilt and the fear of being next. As the search for the girls intensifies, dark secrets and lies are unearthed, and the truth becomes more elusive. The story is packed with suspense, twists, and heart-pounding moments that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. This missing persons book is a rollercoaster of emotions, as it explores the devastating impact of disappearances on loved ones and the lengths they will go to in order to uncover the truth. With its compelling narrative and complex characters, The Missing is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and mysteries.
The Widow
by Fiona Barton
The Widow by Fiona Barton is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the murky world of crime and the media. The book follows Jean Taylor, the widow of a man accused of a heinous crime, as she grapples with the truth about her husband and the secrets she has been hiding. Told from multiple perspectives, this compelling novel explores the impact of a high-profile case on the lives of those involved, as well as the relentless pursuit of the media for a sensational story. With its intricate plot and well-developed characters, The Widow is a page-turner that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. This book about missing persons will leave you questioning the truth and the lengths people will go to in order to protect their own secrets.
The Suspect
by Fiona Barton
The Suspect by Fiona Barton is a gripping thriller that delves into the world of missing persons. The story follows two best friends, Alex and Rosie, who disappear while on a trip to Thailand. Journalist Kate Waters becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind their disappearance, as she delves deeper into the lives of the missing women and their families. The novel explores the emotional turmoil and the frantic search for answers that follows a disappearance, as well as the impact it has on those left behind. With a compelling narrative and complex characters, The Suspect is a page-turner that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. If you’re a fan of mysteries and thrillers, this missing persons book is a must-read.
The Girl Before
by JP Delaney
The Girl Before by JP Delaney is a gripping psychological thriller that follows two women who both fall for the same minimalist house with strict rules. As they become entangled with the enigmatic architect, their lives take a dark and dangerous turn. With its intricate plot and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. If you enjoy psychological suspense and a fast-paced narrative, this is the book for you. Delaney’s masterful storytelling will keep you guessing and leave you questioning everything you thought you knew. This is a must-read for fans of thrillers and mysteries, as it delves deep into the complexities of human nature and the consequences of our choices.
The Couple Next Door
by Shari Lapena
The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena is a gripping mystery novel that follows the story of Anne and Marco, a couple who attend a dinner party next door, leaving their baby at home. When they return, they find their baby missing. The novel delves into the complexities of marriage, trust, and betrayal as the couple becomes entangled in a web of secrets and lies. Lapena masterfully weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they unravel the truth behind the disappearance. This compelling book about missing persons will leave readers guessing until the very end, making it a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and mystery novels.
The Missing Ones
by Patricia Gibney
The Missing Ones by Patricia Gibney is a gripping mystery novel that delves into the world of disappearances and unsolved cases. Set in the small town of Ragmullin, the book follows Detective Lottie Parker as she investigates a series of missing persons cases that seem to be connected. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers dark secrets and long-buried lies that threaten to unravel the fabric of the tight-knit community. The novel is a chilling and atmospheric exploration of the impact of missing persons on families and communities, as well as the toll it takes on those tasked with finding them. With its compelling characters and intricate plot, The Missing Ones is a must-read for anyone interested in a thrilling and thought-provoking missing persons book.
The Night Olivia Fell
by Christina McDonald
The Night Olivia Fell by Christina McDonald is a gripping mystery novel that follows the story of a mother, Abi Knight, as she unravels the truth behind her daughter’s mysterious fall. When Olivia is found unconscious at the bottom of a bridge, the police rule it as an accident, but Abi refuses to believe it. Determined to uncover the truth, Abi delves into Olivia’s life and discovers shocking secrets. As the investigation progresses, Abi realizes that Olivia’s fall may not have been an accident after all. This heart-wrenching and suspenseful book on missing persons is a rollercoaster of emotions, with twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Christina McDonald’s compelling storytelling and complex characters make this a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling mystery.
The Lost Girls of Paris
by Pam Jenoff
The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff is a captivating historical fiction novel that delves into the world of espionage and intrigue during World War II. This gripping tale follows the lives of three remarkable women who become embroiled in a web of secrets and danger as they work as secret agents in occupied Europe. Inspired by true events, The Lost Girls of Paris is a compelling story of courage, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. With its blend of mystery, suspense, and heart-wrenching emotion, this book about missing persons will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
The Other Woman
by Sandie Jones
The Other Woman by Sandie Jones is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This thrilling book delves into the complexities of relationships and the lengths one woman will go to in order to protect her husband from his manipulative and deceitful mistress. The story unfolds with unexpected twists and turns as the protagonist uncovers the truth about the other woman in her husband’s life. This suspenseful novel will captivate readers with its well-developed characters and suspenseful plot. A must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and anyone looking for a captivating book about missing persons with a twist.
The Missing Wife
by Sheila O’Flanagan
The Missing Wife by Sheila O’Flanagan is a gripping novel that delves into the complexities of relationships and the search for truth. When Imogen’s husband disappears without a trace, she is left to unravel the secrets he has been hiding. As she embarks on a journey to find him, she uncovers a web of lies and deceit that leads her to question everything she thought she knew about her marriage. This compelling book on missing persons is filled with suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. O’Flanagan’s skillful storytelling and well-developed characters make this a captivating read for anyone interested in a book about missing persons.
Gone Girl
by Gillian Flynn
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the mysterious disappearance of Amy Dunne. The novel follows the perspectives of Nick and Amy, a seemingly perfect couple whose marriage takes a dark turn when Amy vanishes on their fifth wedding anniversary. As the investigation unfolds, secrets and lies unravel, leaving readers questioning the truth and the characters’ motives. Flynn’s masterful storytelling keeps readers on the edge of their seats, while exploring themes of deception, manipulation, and the complexities of relationships. This page-turner is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling mystery and a compelling narrative. If you’re looking for a riveting book about missing persons, this is the one for you.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
by Stieg Larsson
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson is a captivating mystery novel that follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist as he investigates the disappearance of a young woman from a wealthy family. He is aided by the enigmatic and brilliant hacker, Lisbeth Salander, who has a troubled past and a talent for uncovering the truth. The book delves into the dark underbelly of Swedish society, weaving a complex and gripping tale of corruption, family secrets, and revenge. With its intense plot and compelling characters, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a thrilling missing persons book that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Conclusion
There you have it, the 20 best books about Missing Persons that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From gripping thrillers to heart-wrenching mysteries, these books offer a compelling exploration of the human experience when a loved one goes missing. Whether you’re a fan of crime fiction or psychological drama, there’s a book on this list that’s sure to captivate you. So, grab a copy of one of these gripping reads and immerse yourself in the world of missing persons.
Which Missing Persons book is best?
The best book on Missing Persons can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
- The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
- The Chalk Man by C.J. Tudor.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Missing Persons?
For those looking to learn about Missing Persons, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
- The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
- The Chalk Man by C.J. Tudor,
- The Dry by Jane Harper,
- The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld,
- The Lost Man by Jane Harper,
- The Good Girl by Mary Kubica,
- The Woods by Harlan Coben,
- The Missing by C.L. Taylor,
- The Widow by Fiona Barton
These books offer a range of perspectives on Missing Persons, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books on Missing Persons?
The best books on Missing Persons include:
- The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
- The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
- The Suspect by Fiona Barton,
- The Girl Before by JP Delaney,
- The Woods by Harlan Coben,
- The Lost Man by Jane Harper.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Missing Persons are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Missing Persons books of all time?
Choosing the best Missing Persons books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
- The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
- The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
- The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld,
- The Woods by Harlan Coben,
- The Widow by Fiona Barton,
- The Girl Before by JP Delaney,
- and The Suspect by Fiona Barton.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Missing Persons and continues to be influential today.