Nine Thrilling Novels that Evoke a Sense of Real-Life Criminality
In the realm of crime fiction, a new wave of captivating novels is making waves among readers who appreciate the thrill of a good mystery. These books, reminiscent of real-life cases, offer a compelling alternative for those seeking intrigue without the heaviness of real-life tragedies.
"Tell Me What You Did" by Carter Wilson is a standout example. The narrative follows a podcast host who invites criminals to confess, only to find herself entangled in a confounding situation when a man claims to have murdered her mother, previously believed to be deceased.
Victoria Helen Stone's "Bald-Faced Liar" is another noteworthy addition. The story revolves around a woman who lies to everyone she meets to protect herself after a Satanic panic trial thirty years ago. She claims to be stalked by someone who knows her secrets, creating an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue.
"Too Old for This" by Samantha Downing delves into the production of a true crime podcast and the dangers that can arise when investigating a suspected killer. Meanwhile, "Jill Is Not Happy" by Kaira Rouda explores a seemingly perfect marriage that unravels, involving a hit and run, suspicious fires, missing money, and a strange road trip.
For those who prefer a more fast-paced, real-time reading experience, Audrey J. Cole's "Missing in Flight" and Laurie L. Dove's "Mask of the Deer Woman" are recommended. "Missing in Flight" reads like a livestream of a crime unfolding, while "Mask of the Deer Woman" evokes the style of a podcast like "Someone Knows Something."
Laura Lee Bahr's "Who Is the Liar" presents a chilling tale that, if it were a true crime story, would be written as an eerie and horrifying memoir.
In the realm of contemporary true crime, a growing trend is the use of genetic genealogy to solve old crimes due to new public interest. This development has led to a surge in fascinating cases and captivating documentaries, further fuelling the appetite for crime narratives.
For those seeking a break from real-life crime stories, there are a plethora of fictional crime novels that deliver the same thrill. Some highly-rated, recently published books include "They All Fall the Same" by Wes Browne, "Blood in the Water" by Tiffany D. Jackson, and "The Good Liar" by Denise Mina.
These novels, noted for their realistic procedural details, complex characters, and settings that evoke real-life criminal investigations, are ideal for true crime enthusiasts who want a fictional twist on their favourite genre.
In conclusion, whether one prefers the gritty Appalachian thriller of "They All Fall the Same," the social depth of "Blood in the Water," or the psychological suspense of "The Good Liar," there is a wealth of captivating fictional crime novels to satisfy any true crime enthusiast's appetite for mystery and intrigue.
"They All Fall the Same" by Wes Browne offers a gripping read, providing true crime enthusiasts with a fictional twist, featuring a gritty Appalachian setting and intricate plot twists. For readers desiring psychological suspense, "The Good Liar" by Denise Mina is another promising choice, combining realistic procedural details and complex characters. These novels cater to true crime fans who want a captivating replacement for the genuine article, providing entertainment and suspense through their storylines.
