Night Sins by Tami Hoag (Deer Lake #1)

Tami Hoag's "Night Sins" begins the Deer Lake series, focusing on the unsettling kidnapping of young Josh after hockey practice, shaking the small town. Central characters include his parents, Hannah and Paul, and local sheriff Mitch Holt alongside Agent Megan O'Malley. The book effectively builds tension and character depth, setting the stage for the sequel.

Kill For Me, Kill For You by Steve Cavanagh

Kill For Me, Kill For You by Steve Cavanagh is a gripping thriller about Amanda and Wendy, two grieving mothers seeking justice for their murdered daughters. Their intertwined lives lead to a murder swap plan, but complications arise when secrets are revealed. The plot is engaging yet can be complex, with an unexpected twist at the end.

The Ship by Antonia Honeywell

The Ship by Antonia Honeywell is a dystopian novel following Lala, a sheltered teen aboard a ship for survivors. As she confronts the harsh realities orchestrated by her parents, her unlikable character traits hinder reader engagement. Despite an intriguing premise, the plot and characters often disappoint, leading to a 5/10 rating.

Daughter of Mine by Megan Miranda

"Daughter of Mine" by Megan Miranda is a gripping mystery thriller centered around Hazel, who returns home after her father's unexpected death. As family secrets surface following the discovery of a submerged car, Hazel navigates complicated relationships with her brothers and the tight-knit community, revealing hidden truths and deep emotional connections. The engaging narrative and well-developed characters make it a compelling read.

House Rules by Jodi Picoult

In Jodi Picoult's "House Rules," the Hunt family struggles with disability, secrets, and murder. The story unfolds when Jacob, an 18-year-old with autism, is accused of killing his aid. Emma, his mother, fights for her son's innocence amid flawed perceptions of autism in a gripping narrative that explores complex family dynamics and justice.

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

"Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen is a captivating historical fiction novel set in the 1930s circus world, depicting themes of friendship, romance, grief, and mental health. The book intricately weaves a gripping narrative with compelling characters, evoking both heartwarming and heartbreaking moments. Despite initial skepticism, the novel's depth and realism earn it a solid 9/10 rating."

Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera

"Listen for the Lie" by Amy Tintera is a popular and gripping thriller that revolves around Lucy, a woman accused of her best friend's murder. The story is narrated through a true crime podcast and Lucy's perspective, creating a mysterious and engaging plot. With compelling characters and unexpected twists, it's a recommended summer read.

Everyone Here is Lying by Shari Lapena

The book "Everyone Here is Lying" by Shari Lapena is a thrilling mystery revolving around a family with deep secrets and a missing daughter. The story explores the struggles within the Wooler family. It delves into complex themes and unexpected twists, leading to a rating of 7/10.

The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose

"The Perfect Marriage" by Jeneva Rose is a twisty, fast-paced thriller following the breakdown of a seemingly good relationship. Defense attorney Sarah's decision to represent her husband, accused of murdering his mistress, leads to shocking revelations and an unexpected twist. The book's unique plot and complex characters make it a compelling read, earning an 8/10 rating.

Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay

"Horror Movie" by Paul Tremblay follows the unsettling journey of an unnamed character known as the Thin Kid, whose involvement in a disturbing film shapes his present. Despite its gripping moments, the book falls short in delivering consistent scares. Tremblay's character development enriches the story, making it a compelling read for fans of eerie, movie-themed narratives.