Starting in the late 1920s, Mondadori, an Italian publisher, began publishing a series of crime-mystery pulp novels, all with trademark yellow covers.

Thus, these books—and later, the many films they inspired—came to be known as i gialli.

The History of the Giallo

Here’s a brief overview of how the term giallo has evolved over time to describe unique subgenres of literature, and later film:

Literature

In 1929, Mondadori began publishing Italian translations of mystery novels by British and American writers, including Agatha Christie, Edgar Allen Poe, and Edgar Wallace.

This series was known as Il Giallo Mondadori, and each book in the series was characterized by a yellow background on the cover.

These cheap paperbacks were so successful that other Italian publishers quickly took notice and began publishing their own versions, and the term giallo became synonymous with mystery novels in general.

Film

In film, the meaning of giallo shifts slightly from mystery thrillers to refer to any kind of murder mystery or horror thriller.

In Italy, the giallo film subgenre began as close adaptations of the original giallo mystery novels, but more modern directors soon began experimenting with different techniques to create films that more closely resembled psychological thrillers or psychological horror.

Later, many giallo characteristics would be adapted by the American slasher genre.

5 Must-See Giallo Films for Beginners

If you’re new to giallo films, here are 5 movies that will help you get acquainted with this unique genre.

The Girl Who Knew Too Much (1963)

Considered the first giallo film, Mario Bava’s 1963 The Girl Who Knew Too Much follows a young American woman visiting Rome.

Nora is obsessed with giallo paperback thrillers. One day she is mugged, and soon after passes out. She wakes to witness what appears to be a murder—or is it a dream?

In what would become a giallo trademark, Nora knows what she’s seen, but is pressured to believe she might be losing her mind, all while facing threats to her own life.

Blood and Black Lace (1964)

Bava’s next giallo sees a masked killer—complete with raincoat and hat—stalk and kill the beautiful employees of a small design house.

Adding to the whodunnit mystery, a murdered woman’s diary also threatens to expose the secrets of several people.

The Bird with the Crystal Plumage (1970)

In Dario Argento’s directorial debut, an American witnesses an attempted murder during his extended stay in Italy, leading him to get wrapped up in his own investigation, which naturally puts him and his girlfriend in the killer’s path.

The first near-murder involves—you guessed it—a black-gloved assailant, donning a hat and raincoat. Argento puts several twists on what could have been a standard crime thriller, and introduces themes of psychosis, which also became typical of the genre.

The Forbidden Photos of a Lady Above Suspicion (1970)

Minou is a wealthy housewife who craves attention from her husband, who’s always busy with work and rarely home. One day, a stranger attacks Minou, slashes open her clothes, and warns her that her husband is a killer.

The attacker begins to blackmail Minou with evidence of her husband’s guilt, coercing her into sleeping with him, which he secretly videotapes.

Minou goes to the police, but her blackmailer’s apartment is found completely emptied. Doubt rises as to Minou’s sanity, which sends her into a spiral of booze and pills before getting her revenge.

Deep Red (1975)

American Marcus Daly witnesses the brutal murder of a psychic medium in his apartment building, and feels compelled to help solve the case.

He teams up with reporter Gianna Brezzi, who is also interested in the case for her story.

When one of Marcus’s own friends is murdered, he and Gianna realize that they must find the killer’s identity fast before they too fall victim to the killer.

Giallo Characteristics

The following are some of the most common characteristics of the giallo subgenre:

A Mysterious Killer

While giallo films typically have an intense focus on elements of horror, there’s one area where they don’t stray from their literary mystery roots: the presence of a mystery killer, often psychopathic and donning black gloves.

The killer stalks and preys on the protagonist—often an outsider of some type, and frequently female—while leaving a thick trail of blood along the way.

Excessive Violence

An excessive use of violence and gore is another trademark of giallo films.

Brace yourself for a lot of blood, violence, and grotesque murders—although hardly realistic, these films are not for the faint of heart.

Unstable Characters

Naturally, the serial murderers portrayed in these films are usually psychotic, but oftentimes the sanity and mental stability of the protagonist is also put into question.

One common criticism of the giallo is that its female protagonists are often portrayed in a weak and fragile mental state.

However, when both the protagonist (whether female or male) and the killer are presented as unstable, this creates the exaggerated and unfocused narrative gialli are known for.

Strong Cinematic Technique

While the narratives and dialogue are often laughable, giallo films are generally credited for their artful cinematic techniques.

These include stylish camerawork, editing, production design, and musical arrangements.

As film critic and writer Anne Bilson explains, “The Giallo Sound is typically an intoxicating mix of groovy lounge music, nerve-jangling discord, and the sort of soothing lyricism that belies the fact that it’s actually accompanying, say, a slow motion decapitation.”

Sexual or Erotic Themes

Author and filmmaker Michael Mackenzie claims that gialli can be divided into the male-focused m. gialli, in which a male, outsider protagonist witnesses a murder and becomes the next target while attempting to solve the crime; and f. gialli, which feature a female protagonist in a more sexual and psychological story, which usually focuses on her sexuality, psyche, and mental state.

While many gialli have been criticized for their misogyny objectification of women, themes such as feminism, civil rights, and counterculture ideals—all part of the giallo’s peak in the 60’s and 70’s—were often expressed, albeit through brutal violence.

Is Suspiria a Giallo?

Dario Argento is considered a master of the giallo, but his 1977 movie Suspiria is actually a supernatural horror film.

Its 2018 remake, directed by Luca Guadagnino, falls under the same genre. While both films feature plenty of gore and violence (characteristic of the giallo), they deal with supernatural forces, rather than masked mystery killers.

The Influence of the Giallo

Gialli have had a lasting influence not only on Italian cinema, but on the horror and mystery genres in general.

Many of the American slasher films of the 1970s, 80s, and 90s were influenced by the giallo in both their elements of mystery and gore.

Kaelyn Barron

The post What Is a Giallo? 5 Essential Italian Murder Mysteries appeared first on killerthrillers.net.

Because of their relatable settings and characters, domestic thrillers takes vicarious thrills to a whole other level by making us wonder if the same really could happen to us.

10 Must-Read Domestic Thrillers

Below are 10 must-read domestic thrillers that whose plot twists are anything but domesticated.

You might notice that I’ve left out two prominent domestic thrillers from the last decade—Gone Girl and The Girl on the Train. Both are excellent thrillers, but also two of the most well-known, so we’re giving both newer and lesser known titles a moment in the spotlight.

You can, however, check out our list of the best books like Gone Girl.

1. The Husbands by Chandler Baker

In this twist on The Stepford Wives, a successful attorney and her family move to Dynasty Ranch, an exclusive suburban neighborhood. There, Nora meets a group of high-powered women, including a tech CEO, a neurosurgeon, and a best-selling author.

Nora notices that the husbands of these women are remarkably supportive, helping to equally split the “second shift” of household chores and management with their wives.

But when Nora agrees to help with a resident’s wrongful death case, she uncovers a plot that may explain the secret to having it all.

2. The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth

Lucy knows she isn’t the wife Diana had always envisioned for her son. And while Diana keeps Lucy at a cordial distance, Lucy still keeps trying for the sake of her husband and family.

When Diana is found dead, what initially looked like a suicide is quickly ruled a murder by police.

Diana was loved by her community—who could have wanted her dead? And why did she make a last-minute change to her will to disinherit both of her children?

3. Every Last Secret by A.R. Torre

Cat worked hard to get where she is now, with a beautiful home and a successful, handsome husband, William.

When a friendly new couple moves in next door, Cat is cautious, but still welcomes them with open arms.

Unlike Cat, Neena wears off-the-rack dresses, struggles with personal issues, and has a husband who just can’t seem to deliver on his promises. This new move reminds Neena of everything she doesn’t have—everything Cat has, including William.

4. Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

Elena Richardson has always played by the rules, and Shaker Heights is a neighborhood with lots of them. In this quaint, progressive suburb, Elena lives in a perfect home with her perfect family.

Then, Mia Warren moves in with her daughter Pearl and threatens to burst the town’s idyllic bubble.

Mia is an artist and single mother with a mysterious history, and when a custody battle divides the town with Mia and Elena on opposing sides, Elena finds motivation to look into Mia’s secret past.

5. Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty

Nine strangers gather at a remote health and wellness resort in hopes of bettering themselves.

Some want to lose weight, some want to find motivation, and others are there for reasons they can’t even face themselves.

Then there’s their strange and charismatic host, the owner and director of Tranquillum House, who claims to have all the answers. But it’s not long before the nine guests start to question whether they should run while they can.

6. Not a Happy Family by Shari Lapena

After a tense Easter dinner with their three adult kids, Fred and Sheila Merton are found brutally murdered.

Their children are devastated, of course. Aren’t they? They did all stand to inherit millions, and thanks to their vindictive father and neglectful mother, they never were much of a happy family.

7. The Best of Friends by Lucinda Berry

Lindsey, Kendra, and Dani are best friends whose children are involved in a tragedy that leaves one dead, one in a coma, and another too traumatized to speak.

This tragedy soon pits family against family as the mothers make troubling discoveries that lead to chilling questions, making them wonder how much they really knew their children or each other.

8. Mrs. Rochester’s Ghost by Lindsay Marcott

After losing everything—her job, mother, relationship, and home— Jane’s friend arranges for her to work on a Big Sur estate tutoring the wealthy owner’s daughter in exchange for a cottage.

Jane knows that Evan Rochester has been accused of killing his wife, and even though she’s skeptical of his claims that she drowned herself, Jane still falls herself falling for the secretive Evan as she also grows closer to his daughter.

But when a ghostly presence makes repeat appearances, Jane is determined to find answers, and she soon uncovers evidence that makes her question Evan’s innocence. How much will the truth cost her?

9. My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

Korede’s sister, Ayoola, has an inconvenient habit of killing her boyfriends.

Thankfully, Korede knows the best solutions for cleaning blood, has a trunk big enough for a body, and stops Ayoola from posting on Instagram when she should be mourning her “missing” boyfriend.

When the handsome doctor Korede works with and has long been in love with asks her for Ayoola’s phone number, she must decide how long she’s willing to protect her sister.

10. The Girl Before by J.P. Delaney

The Girl Before tells the stories of two women—Emma and Jane—who have lived at different times at One Folgate Street, designed by the neurotic Edward.

Edward retains full control of the home and maintains strict rules: no books, throw pillows, photos, or personal items. Jane, the current resident, unwittingly follows the same patterns, makes the same choices, and experiences the same terror as the girl before.

What Makes a Domestic Thriller?

Domestic thrillers stand in contrast to the classic action-packed stories traditionally associated with the thriller genre.

Instead of rooftop chases and ticking bombs, domestic thrillers often combine elements of crime or psychological thrillers and set them against the backdrop of interpersonal relationships and familiar settings, like the home. In recent years, a popular example is Gone Girl, in which the old ‘it’s-always-the-husband’ trope gets turned on its head.

There might be some sort of secret or mystery standing between a couple or family. The focus on interpersonal relationships makes domestic thrillers relatable for most people, which is why they can feel especially eerie and thrilling.

A Thrilling Twist on the Familiar

Because domestic thrillers use familiar settings and situations, they speak to some of our greatest fears and curiosities, even if some twists seem soap opera–worthy.

Everyone has secrets, and domestic thrillers will make you think about what the person next to you may be hiding—or even what you’ve kept hidden yourself.

Kaelyn Barron

The post 10 Must-Read Domestic Thrillers appeared first on killerthrillers.net.

Sometimes the difference is obvious, but once in a while, you’ll come across an example that seems to contain elements of both.

In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between the thriller and horror genres so you can tell the difference between a thrilling scare and a scary thrill.

Thriller vs. Horror

Below are 3 key ways to distinguish the thriller and horror genres.

1. Intended Reaction

To thrill or to horrify? That is the question; and in our thriller vs. horror discussion, it’s an important one.

The primary goal of a thriller is to thrill readers, whereas the goal of horror is to horrify. We get that thrilling feeling when we’re walking into the unknown; we feel horrified by evil and gore.

Thrillers make us wait. We’re never sure what’s lurking behind the corner, or why certain things are happening. Tension builds as we wait for the big climax.

With horror, we probably know what lurks around the next corner. It could be a flesh-eating zombie, a disfigured monster, or a serial killer with supernatural strength—whatever it is, it’s likely grotesque.

And we don’t have to wait long for the scares to come; we watch or read in horror as the characters meet their unfortunate ends, hoping that ultimately, the evil will be defeated.

It’s important to note that the distinction here is in the intention. Thrillers can certainly scare you, and horror stories might thrill you; but those are side-effects, not the primary intention. In fact, many elements of thrillers and horror novels can overlap, as you’ll learn throughout this post.

2. The Element of Suspense

Thrillers are known for their use of plot twists and elements of suspense.

We’re never quite sure what’s going on, or what’s causing all the tension: Who really killed the new neighbor? Will the protagonist be able to stop the bomb in time? What is that husband hiding from his wife?

And if you think you know the answers early on, there’s probably a reason. Chances are, you’ve been thrown a few red herrings and deliberately thrown off the trail. Get ready for a plot twist! That’s what make thrillers thrilling.

Horror, on the other hand, plays on the fact that you do know what’s coming, and it’s gonna give it to you in all its horrifying, gory glory. The question is whether you dare to keep reading or watching.

3. Psychological Appeal

In general, thrillers appeal to our psychology to create tension and suspense. They might create a sense of urgency, uncertainty, or panic.

Plus, the use of tropes like the unreliable narrator make us wonder if we can trust anyone, which further heightens our anxiety.

More often than not, horror uses supernatural elements to produce a big scare. The supernatural can include ghosts, demons, monsters, and pretty much any evil force.

However, there are definitely thrillers that incorporate the supernatural (they’re called paranormal or supernatural thrillers), and there are some horror books and movies that include psychological elements (see our discussion on The Shining below).

More often than not, though, with a thriller you’re trying to figure things out—like a character’s motives or reliability—but in horror, you’re just trying to make it out alive.

Do Thrillers Have to Be Scary?

Thrillers don’t have to be scary, but they can be. In fact, many of the greatest thrillers create an eerie feeling that will send chills down your spine. However, the primary intention of a thriller is to thrill.

Is Jaws a Horror or Thriller?

The 1974 novel Jaws and its 1975 film adaptation may feature a terrifying shark, but they’re best classified as thrillers, not horror.

For one, the antagonist here is a shark, which is a real animal, and not a paranormal force.

Second, the thrill is achieved by appealing to our psychology and the primal fear that many people already feel toward the ocean, and creatures like great white sharks. Technically, the stuff that happens in Jaws could happen to any of us out in the water, and we know that.

And third, there are several very suspenseful scenes featuring close calls, and in the film, we don’t actually get a good look at the shark until at least halfway in.

The film’s numerous sequels, however, seem to tread more into horror territory. Like many horror sequels, these films feature less suspense and more bloodbaths.

What About The Shining?

Jaws‘ classification is pretty straightforward, but what about Stephen King’s The Shining and its film adaptation?

King is known for his brilliant horror novels, including It and Carrie, but many of his works blend elements of horror and thrillers, like Misery.

The Shining also appears to blend the genres. There’s the blood-filled elevator, creepy twins, a crazy woman in a bathtub who seems to transform, and of course, the ax-wielding father—all clearly elements of horror.

But then there’s the constant tension, the ever-present uncertainty about what “the shining” actually is, plus a whole bunch of implied backstory and unanswered questions about the Torrance family.

Nonetheless, The Shining is officially categorized as a horror novel and film, although many critics and scholars qualify it as “psychological horror.”

Kaelyn Barron

The post Thriller vs. Horror: What’s the Difference? appeared first on killerthrillers.net.

Fortunately, many blogs and websites have stepped up to feed our thriller addiction, offering up the best the genre has to offer, including curated lists, special features, and more.

Best Thriller Book Blogs and Websites

Below are 12 of the best blogs and websites that cover everything thrill-seekers desire, from book reviews to author interviews.

1. Murder & Mayhem

Murder & Mayhem is a thrill-seeker’s paradise, with tons of fun insights and recommendations on the best thriller novels, as well as thriller films and TV series.

Must-read posts:

• A World of Sherlocks
• What Mystery To Read Based On Your Favorite Clue Character

2. CrimeReads

CrimeReads is a website founded by Literary Hub for readers who love suspense. It provides smart, entertaining content featuring everything related to thriller culture, including exclusive excerpts, editorial features, and more.

Must-read posts:

• CRIME NOVELS SET ON THE GREEK ISLANDS: SUN, SOUVLAKI AND SINISTER TYPES
• TOXIC MASCULINITY IN PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLERS

3. Mystery Tribune

Mystery Tribune showcases the best mystery and thriller content, including books, art, film, and comics in their print and digital issues. They feature book and film reviews, plus dozens of lists with curated recommendations for the ultimate thriller fans.

Must-read posts:

• 19 Best Time Travel Thriller Books of All Time
• Best Crime And Thriller Movies Coming To Netflix In July 2021

4. Crime by the Book

Crime by the Book is run by Abby, an avid reader of crime fiction. She posts lists of thriller book recommendations, author interviews, reviews, and more. She’s particularly a fan of Scandinavian thrillers.

Must-read posts:

• CBTB’S TOP 10 CRIME BOOKS OF 2021 (SO FAR)
• JULY 2021 MOST-ANTICIPATED CRIME BOOKS

5. BestThrillers.com

BestThrillers.com is dedicated to bringing readers the best thriller and mystery books on the market by delivering premium book recommendations curated by real reviewers.

Must-read posts:

• Best Thriller Book Lists
• New Book Reviews

6. Suspense Magazine

Since 2007, Suspense Magazine has been the source for thriller authors and fans alike. (Their tagline—Anxiety at its highest level—could only sound inviting to dedicated thriller fans.) Their blog and radio show regularly showcase the best of the genre and feature insights from leading thriller and suspense writers.

Must-read posts:

• “Should the Horizons of the Mystery Genre by Expanded?” by author Marie Watts
• Writing Suspense in the style of Alfred Hitchcock by Tony Lee Moral

7. Stop, You’re Killing Me!

Stop, You’re Killing Me! is a massive directory of the best thrillers and mystery novels. Lucinda Surber and Stan Ulrich have indexed thousands of authors and the recommended order for reading their books.

Must-read posts:

• Book Reviews
• Favorite Debuts

8. The Big Thrill

The Big Thrill is the magazine of the International Thriller Writers, an honorary society of thriller authors. Their mission is to promote the thriller genre at an innovative and superior level for and through our Active members; to provide opportunities for mentoring.

Must-read posts:

• What is the primary job of a thriller?
• Between the Lines: Jake Tapper

9. Under the Covers Book Blog

Under the Covers was started by a group of women who connected on Goodreads. They review books from a number of genres, but are particularly fond of thrillers. Check out their latest thriller reviews.

Must-read posts:

• Take Me to the Beach: The Ultimate Summer Guide
• Kindle Unlimited Thriller Recs + TBR

10. Duffy the Writer

Based in Australia, Duffy the Writer reviews thrillers (among other genres) and shares the latest on new releases while shining a light on rising talents.

Must-read posts:

• Book Blast! Travel Mania – If you can’t travel in real life, do it by escaping in a book
• The Husbands – A feminist thriller with a sprinkling of ‘Get Out’

11. Mrs. B’s Book Reviews

Mrs. B. is a mother of two, an early childhood teacher, and an avid reader based in Australia who loves to share her reviews with her followers. She reviews contemporary fiction, and women’s fiction, children’s literature, but especially loves sharing great thrillers and crime novels.

Must-read posts:

• New Release Book Review: Her Last Holiday by C.L. Taylor
• Better Reading Preview: The End of Men by Christina Sweeney-Baird

12. BookBum

BookBum is run by Zuki, a 24-year-old reader and thriller fiend from the UK. She primarily reviews horror, mystery, and thriller novels.

Must-read posts:

• Books I added to my TBR in June | June Finds, part 1
• Book review: The Listeners by Jordan Tannahill

More Ways to Thrill

If you’re looking for even more ways to get your thrills in addition to books and blogs, be sure to check out our list of the best thriller podcasts.

And to ensure your library never runs low on suspenseful reads, visit some of the best websites for free thriller ebooks.

Kaelyn Barron

The post 12 Best Thriller Book Blogs and Websites appeared first on killerthrillers.net.

Her riveting mysteries have captivated generations of film audiences as well, with over 44 film adaptations of her novels.

If you’re a mystery or thriller fan, Christie’s works are essential. In this post, we’ve rounded up her 10 most thrilling reads that will keep you hooked until the very last word.

10 Best Agatha Christie Books

Below are the 10 best Agatha Christie books, according to Goodreads ratings.

1. And Then There Were None

Ten strangers, each with their own secrets and fears, are invited to an isolated mansion on an island. When they arrive, they realize their mysterious host is nowhere to be found, and they’re completely cut off from the rest of the world. As the guests share their darkest secrets, they begin to turn up dead, one by one. Will the dwindling guests find the killer among them?

Published in 1939, Christie has said this was the most difficult book to write. It has been adapted for radio, television, film, and stage productions.

2. Murder on the Orient Express

Another murderer-among-us mystery thriller, Murder on the Orient Express joins And Then There Were None among the most widely read Agatha Christie books.

In this classic which has spurred two film adaptations, 13 passengers aboard the famous Orient Express find themselves suspects in a violent murder, and Detective Hercule Poirot is set on finding the killer.

3. The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

Roger Ackroyd knew that his fiancée poisoned her brutal first husband, and when she’s found dead from a suspected suicide, he suspects that someone had been blackmailing her. Then, while reading the evening post, Roger discovered one last fatal piece of information, but before he could finish reading, someone stabbed him to death, in a murder that forces Poirot out of retirement.

The British Crime Writers’ Association voted this the best crime novel ever, and its twist ending is credited with significantly impacting the crime genre.

4. Death on the Nile

Linnet Ridgeway was young, stylish, and beautiful. She appeared to have everything, until someone shot her through the head on an Egyptian river cruise.

In this mysterious web of love, jealousy, and betrayal, Detective Poirot must weed out the killer on board.

5. The A.B.C. Murders

A serial killer is working his way through the alphabet, plunging all of England into a state of panic.

With every murder, the killer appears to grow more confident, even leaving a trail of deliberate clues to taunt Detective Poirot—but that might just prove to be the killer’s first, and fatal, mistake.

6. The Mysterious Affair at Styles

In Christie’s debut novel, we’re introduced to Detective Hercule Poirot, her famously eccentric protagonist. As a Belgian refugee of WWI, Poirot settles in England, but when his wealthy benefactress is found dead, he must put his skills to the test.

So whodunnit: the victim’s much younger husband, her resentful stepsons, her longtime hired companion, a family friend working as a nurse, or the London poison specialist who happens to be in town?

7. A Murder Is Announced

The local gazette announces: “A murder is announced and will take place on Friday, October 29th, at Little Paddocks at 6.30 p.m.”

Naturally, all the villagers of Chipping Cleghorn are more than a little curious. It must be a practical joke or some kind of hoax… but when the curious locals arrive on time at Little Paddocks, the lights suddenly go out and a gun is fired. Only Miss Marple can unravel it the gruesome crime they discover when the lights come back on.

8. 4:50 from Paddington

In the small instant that two trains run side by side, passenger Elspeth McGillicuddy witnessed a murder.

But with no other witnesses, no suspects, and no case, only Elspeth’s friend, Jane Marple, takes her claims seriously.

To crack the case, Miss Marple asks her friend Lucy Eyelesbarrow to infiltrate the Crackenthorpe family, who appear to be at the heart of the mystery.

9. Five Little Pigs

Caroline Crale was convicted of murdering her cheating husband, but there were five other “little pigs” who could have been the culprit: Philip Blake , who went to market; Meredith Blake (who stayed at home; Elsa Greer, who had her roast beef; Cecilia Williams, who had none; and Angela Warren, who cried all the way home.

Sixteen years after the crime, Caroline’s daughter discovers her mother’s posthumous letter that proves her innocence, and asks Hercule Poirot to reopen the case.

10. Evil Under the Sun

Just when Poirot thought he could take a vacation, he arrives at a beach in Devon—only to find a murdered woman among the sunbathers.

Poirot had sensed sexual tension in the air ever since Arlena Stuart arrived, but he suspects that this crime of passion conceals something much more sinister.

What Is Agatha’s Best Selling Novel?

Agatha Christie’s best selling novel to date (and the world’s best-selling mystery ever) is And Then There Were None, with over 100 million sales.

Collectively, her works have sold approximately 2 billion copies, making her the best-selling novelist of all time, with her sales second only to Shakespeare and the Bible.

If you’re interested in discovering more about Christie and other highly talented mystery and thriller writers, check out our list of the best thriller authors.

Kaelyn Barron

The post 10 Most Thrilling Agatha Christie Books appeared first on killerthrillers.net.

That’s placing a lot of responsibility and power in their hands, because the narrator essentially shapes the whole story! But should you believe everything they tell you?

Defining the Unreliable Narrator

In real life, we’re all unreliable narrators when we tell personal stories, because our individual experiences shape our perceptions, so it’s rare for even just two people to recall every detail of an event in the exact same way.

But in literature, a narrator is considered unreliable when we have reason to doubt what they tell us (or wonder what they aren’t telling us).

Writers often use the literary device of the unreliable narrator to make readers consciously doubt or question whether there’s more to the story, and it’s also a common thriller trope that many writers use to keep readers on their toes and at the edge of their seats.

A narrator can be unreliable because they intentionally misrepresent key facts. Other times, their inaccurate reporting might be the result of an innocent misunderstanding or distorted memory.

Just because a narrator is unreliable doesn’t mean they are necessarily “bad” or dishonest; it simply means there may be more to the story, so it’s important to consider how their perspective and biases might influence the way they tell a story. This can also help you to better assess a character’s motivations.

Examples of Unreliable Narrators

Below are 3 examples from literature of unreliable narrators in thrillers, and the effects they had on their stories.

Warning: Spoiler alerts follow!

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

About halfway through Gone Girl, Amy Dunne takes over the role of narrator from her husband. But up until that point, we were led to believe she was probably dead! We soon realize that neither Amy, nor her husband, Nick, have been completely honest about anything.

American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis

Patrick Bateman is a handsome, successful Wall Street investment banker by day, but a brutal serial killer committing the most gruesome crimes by night. Patrick actually confesses to his crimes, but no one believes him—how could someone like him possibly be guilty of such atrocious things? But the real question is whether Patrick is faking his “normal” life, or if he’s truly oblivious to his own darkness.

Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane

In both the film and book, U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels arrives on Shutter Island with his partner, Chuck Aule. The island is home to a hospital for the criminally insane, and the pair is there to investigate the disappearance of a murderess—but Teddy soon uncovers shocking realizations about the island and himself.

What Are the Types of Unreliable Narrators?

In a 1981 study, writer William Riggin identified and analyzed different types of unreliable narrators. From his study, five distinct types have been adapted by literary analysts. They are:

• The Pícaro: This narrator has a tendency to lie or exaggerate, usually to boost their own image or social standing. For example, in Daniel Defoe’s 1722 novel Moll Flanders, the titular character and narrator lies about being born to a mother in prison so she can wed wealthy men.

• The Madman: The Madman does not intentionally lie or exaggerate, but rather suffers from a mental illness or trauma, such as schizophrenia, paranoia, or post-traumatic dissociation. One example is the psychotic serial killer and narrator of American Psycho, Patrick Bateman.

• The Clown: The Clown doesn’t take their job as narrator very seriously. They intentionally play with conventions and reader expectations, like Tristram Shandy in The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman.

• The Naïf: This narrator is also not intentionally deceptive, but their immaturity or naivety limit their perception. Examples include Forrest Gump and Huckleberry Finn.

• The Liar: The Liar is a mature narrator of sound mind who deliberately misrepresents themselves and important information, usually to obscure their own past actions. Amy from Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl is an example of this type, as she deliberately schemes and tells lies to present herself as a victim of her husband’s actions.

Signs a Narrator Is Unreliable

There are some signs you can look for to identify a potentially unreliable narrator.

According to author and literature professor Ansgar Nünning, those signs can be broken into the following three categories:

• Intratextual: The narrator says something that contradicts themselves, displays memory gaps, or blatantly lies to other characters.
• Extratextual: The narrator says something that contradicts your basic knowledge, or logical possibilities.
• Literary competence: You, the reader, know enough about literary tropes, archetypes, or other conventions that you can identify the unreliable narrator.

Evaluating Narrator Reliability

You can’t believe everything you read—that goes for both fiction and real life.

But in literature and film, unreliable narrators can add a layer of depth while keeping you on your toes, as you try to piece together what and whom you should believe.

Kaelyn Barron

The post What Is an Unreliable Narrator? Definition and Examples from Thrillers appeared first on killerthrillers.net.

While self-publishing is always an option, there are dozens of publishers out there looking for excellent thriller stories, from small, independent presses to large, traditional publishers.

In this post, you’ll find 36 thriller publishers that are currently accepting submissions.

Thriller Publishers Open to Unsolicited Submissions

The following thriller publishers accept unsolicited submissions and do not require an agent to submit your work.

1. Brash Books

Brash Books was founded by award-winning mystery authors Lee Goldberg and Joel Goldman. They specialize in thrillers, mysteries, whodunits, and stories of suspense.

Submission Guidelines: www.brash-books.com/submissions

2. Hard Case Crime

Hard Case Crime specializes in hardboiled fiction novels, as well as thrilling graphic novels and comics.

Submission Guidelines: www.hardcasecrime.com/submissions

3. Joffe Books

Joffe Books was founded in 2014 by Jasper Joffe. They were proud to shortlisted for Independent Publisher of the Year at the British Book Awards in 2020 and 2021, and specialize in thrillers, crime fiction, and suspense novels.

Submission Guidelines: www.joffebooks.com/submissions

4. Seventh Street Books

Seventh Street Books is an award-winning publisher of mystery, thriller, and crime fiction.

Submission Guidelines: www.seventhstreetbooks.com/submissions

5. Bella Books

Bella Books publishes unique stories across all genres, including mysteries and thrillers, that celebrate the diversity of the lesbian, queer, bisexual, and gender non-conforming communities.

Submission Guidelines: www.bellabooks.com/submission-guidelines

6. Bitter Lemon Press

Bitter Lemon Press is a London-based independent publisher that specializes in thrillers and other contemporary crime fiction books. 

Submission Guidelines: www.bitterlemonpress.com/submissions

7. Bloomsbury Publishing

Bloomsbury is an independent publishing house established in 1986, and is also the original publisher of the Harry Potter series. They publish a variety of fiction genres, including crime, thriller, and mystery novels.

Submission Guidelines: www.bloomsbury.com/submissions

8. Bold Strokes Books

Bold Strokes Books publishes a variety of genres including thrillers, with a special focus on YA fiction and LGBTQ fiction.

Submission Guidelines: www.boldstrokesbooks.com/submissions

9. Camel Press

Camel Press publishes mysteries, cozy mysteries, mystery thrillers, romantic suspense, romance (historical and contemporary), westerns and select historical fiction.

Submission Guidelines:
www.camelpress.com/submissions

10. Carina Press

Carina Press is a digital publisher that specializes in romance and romance subgenres, including romantic suspense thrillers. They also release select titles in print and audio.

Submission Guidelines: www.carinapress.com/submission-guidelines

11. Felony & Mayhem Press

Felony & Mayhem publishes mystery fiction for adults. The company launched in 2005 and now has over 100 titles in print.

Submission Guidelines: www.felonyandmayhem.com/submissions

12. Kensington Books

Kensington Publishing was founded in 1974 in New York City. It’s a multi-generational family business and publishes over 500 titles each year across many genres, including thrillers, romance, historical fiction, cozy mysteries and non-fiction.

Submission Guidelines: www.kensingtonbooks.com/submissions

13. North Star Press of St. Cloud

North Star Press is a family business that specializes in a variety of genres, including mysteries and thrillers.

Submission Guidelines: www.northstarpress.com/submissions

14. Crooked Lane Press

Crooked Lanes Press was founded in 2014. They’re dedicated to crime fiction in both print and digital formats.

Submission Guidelines: crookedlanebooks.com/contact/

15. Dark Edge Press

Dark Edge Press is relatively new to the game, founded in 2020. They’re the number one crime fiction publisher in Wales, and also publish literary fiction, contemporary romance novels, and popular historical fiction.

Submission Guidelines: www.darkedgepress.co.uk

16. Fahrenheit Press

Fahrenheit Press publishes crime and thrillers exclusively and accepts both agented and unagented submissions.

Submission Guidelines: www.fahrenheit-press.com/submissions.html

17. Level Best

Level Best accepts submissions in crime fiction, including mystery, thriller, suspense, historical, traditional, and contemporary novels.

Submission Guidelines: www.levelbestbooks.us/submissions.html

18. Tule Publishing

Tule Mystery is a newly developed imprint that ranges from amateur mysteries to in-depth crime novels. They’re open to submissions of cozy mysteries, thrillers, and more.

Submission Guidelines: tulepublishing.com/submissions/

19. Bancroft Press

Bancroft Press is proud to publish stories they’re passionate about, regardless of the genre.

Submission Guidelines: www.bancroftpress.com/submission

20. Black Best Sheet Books

Black Bed Sheet Books publishes horror, sci-fi, fantasy, thrillers, and anything with a dark tone.

Submission Guidelines: blackbedsheetbooks.com/submissions/

21. Penmore Press

Penmore Press is an Arizona-based independent publisher that publishes mysteries and thrillers, as well as other fiction and nonfiction genres.

Submission Guidelines: www.penmorepress.com/submissions/

22. Bluewater Press

BluewaterPress is a small publishing company whose books include include exciting non-fiction, inspirational self-help, educational manuals, thriller novels, and more.

Submission Guidelines: bluewaterpress.com/pages/how-to-publish-with-bluewaterpress-llc

Agent Required

The following publishers require a literary agent to submit your manuscript.

23. Simon & Schuster

Simon & Schuster is one of the “Big Five” publishers, and the third largest publisher in the U.S.

Submission Guidelines: www.simonandschuster.biz/submissions

24. Poisoned Pen Press

Poisoned Pen Press is an independent publisher of mystery novels based in Scottsdale, Arizona. They publish all kinds of thriller and mystery subgenres, from ghost stories to political thrillers.

Submission Guidelines: poisonedpenpress.com/submissions/

25. Allison and Busby

Allison & Busby is an independent publisher established in 1967. They publish many fiction genres, including crime, mystery, and thriller novels.

Submission Guidelines: www.allisonandbusby.com/submission-guidelines

26. Grove Atlantic

Grove Atlantic is an independent publisher based in New York City. They publish a variety of genres, including mysteries and thrillers.

Submission Guidelines: www.groveatlantic.com/submissions

27. Hachette Book Group USA

Hachette Book Group (HBG) is a division of the educational publisher Hachette Livre. HBG publishes both nonfiction and fiction, including mysteries and thrillers.

Submission Guidelines: www.hachettebookgroup.com/submissions

28. Harlequin

Since 1949, Harlequin has been a leading publisher of books for women across dozens of genres and subgenres, including all sorts of thrillers.

Website: www.harlequin.com

29. HarperCollins

HarperCollins is one of the world’s largest book publishing companies and one of the Big Five. They’ve published mystery novels by greats like Agatha Christie and Karin Slaughter.

Submission Guidelines: www.harpercollins.com/submissions

30. No Exit Press

No Exit Press is an imprint of Oldcastle Books. Since 1987, No Exit Press has primarily published crime fiction.

Submission Guidelines: www.noexit.co.uk/submissions

31. Oceanview Publishing

Oceanview is a fast-growing independent publisher of mystery, thriller, and suspense titles.

Submission Guidelines: www.oceanviewpub.com/submissions

32. Soho Press

Soho Press is an independent book publisher that produces 80-90 books a year and is known for its award-winning international crime fiction, and groundbreaking young adult fiction.

Submission Guidelines: www.sohopress.com/submissions

33. Tyndale House Publishers

Tyndale is a Christian publisher that publishes books in a variety of genres, including suspense and mystery thrillers.

Submission Guidelines: www.tyndale.com/faq

34. Amphorae Publishing Group

Amphorae is a woman- and veteran-owned publishing house that publishes literary fiction, historical fiction, science fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, and mystery/thrillers. They actually do not require an agent to submit, but agented submissions are reviewed first, and unagented submissions can take 9–15 months to review.

Submission Guidelines: www.amphoraepublishing.com/about/

35. Angry Robot Books

Since 2009, Angry Robot has been publishing adult science fiction and fantasy, including sci-fi thrillers.

Submission Guidelines: www.angryrobotbooks.com/submissions/

36. Belle Books

BelleBooks was founded in 1999 with a focus on Southern fiction, and in 2008 added a second imprint, Bell Bridge Books, to expand its offerings.

Submission Guidelines: www.bellebooks.com/Contact

Publishing Your Thriller

Finding a potential home for your manuscript is just the first step toward getting your story published.

Whether you plan to approach a literary agent or publisher next, you should make sure you know how to write an outstanding query letter so you can effectively pitch your story.

Kaelyn Barron

The post 36 Thriller Publishers Currently Accepting Submissions appeared first on killerthrillers.net.

So when you come across a truly great thriller, you know the writer has some serious talent, which might be why authors of this genre are some of the most recognized names in writing.

In this post, we’ve rounded up the best of the best so you can plan your next thrilling read.

The Best Thriller Authors

Below are 15 must-read thriller authors that you’ll definitely want to start with if you’re new to the genre.

1. Stephen King

Often referred to as the King of Horror, many of Stephen King’s best works can actually be considered psychological thrillers.

From The Shining to Misery, King’s masterful storytelling and often less-than-stable characters will have you anxiously trying to catch your breath, right up until the chilling end.

Must-Read: Misery

2. John Grisham

Best known for his riveting legal thrillers, John Grisham has real-life experience as an attorney and a politician.

He published first novel, A Time to Kill, in 1989. Grisham is one of only three authors to sell two million copies on a first printing, alongside Tom Clancy and J.K. Rowling, and many of his novels have been adapted for the big screen, including The Firm, which stars Tom Cruise.

Must-Read: A Time to Kill

3. Agatha Christie

Dame Agatha Christie holds the title of the best-selling fiction author of all time (tied only with Shakespeare).

Best known for her detective thriller novels, Christie’s 66 books and 14 short stories have collectively sold more than 2 billion copies.

Must-Read: And Then There Were None

4. Gillian Flynn

Gillian Flynn is best known for her mega-hit Gone Girl, which was adapted into an award-winning film starring Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike.

Although Gone Girl was Flynn’s first book to reach #1 on the New York Times Bestseller List, it was actually her third psychological thriller, preceded by Sharp Objects (2006) and Dark Places (2009). Following the success of Gone Girl, both of these novels were also adapted for film or television.

Must-Read: Gone Girl

5. James Patterson

A legend in the thriller genre, James Patterson has over 100 New York Times bestsellers to his name, and in recent years has collaborated with all kinds of talent, including former President Bill Clinton.

Patterson’s co-author partnerships have allowed him to publish so many titles, and he has said that he is better at thinking up exciting plots than crafting sentence after sentence.

Must-Read: Along Came a Spider

6. Lee Child

James Dover Grant CBE, better known by his pen name Lee Child, is the author of the best-selling Jack Reacher series.

The series follow the adventures of a former American military policeman, Jack Reacher, who is arrested for a murder he didn’t commit in the first book.

Tom Cruise stars as Reacher in the film adaptation of Child’s 2005 novel One Shot.

Must-Read: Killing Floor

7. Stieg Larsson

Stieg Larsson was a Swedish journalist and author who passed away in 2004 at age 50.

In 2008, Larsson was the second-best-selling fiction author in the world, thanks to the success of the English translation of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, which became a big-screen success starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara.

Must-Read: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

8. Dan Brown

Dan Brown is a thriller author best known for his historical conspiracies, especially the Robert Langdon novels, which include Angels & Demons and The Da Vinci Code.

His novels typically involve treasure hunts that take place over a period of 24 hours, which makes them all the more thrilling.

Must-Read: The Da Vinci Code

9. David Baldacci

David Baldacci is a trained attorney best known for his suspense novels and legal thrillers.

While practicing law, he began writing his first novel, Absolute Power, which took three years to complete. Baldacci has published 40 best-selling novels for adults, plus seven novels for younger readers.

Must-Read: Memory Man

10. Dean Koontz

Dean Koontz is famous for his suspense thrillers, which frequently incorporate elements of horror, sci-fi, fantasy, and satire.

Following his high school graduation, he worked as a high school English teacher and wrote his first novel, Star Quest, during his spare time.

Koontz has written under 10 different pen names and published over 105 novels, plus many novellas and short story collections.

Must-Read: Phantoms

11. Thomas Harris

Thomas Harris is best known for creating one of the most famous characters in fiction, Hannibal Lecter.

The author avoids publicity, and did not give a major interview between 1976 and 2019. He broke his silence that year to promote his latest book, Cari Mora.

Must-Read: The Silence of the Lambs

12. Alex Michaelides

Alex Michaelides is a British-Cypriot author who studied English literature at Trinity College, Cambridge University.

Michaelides also studied psychotherapy and worked for two years at a secure unit for young adults, which provided much of the inspiration for his first novel, The Silent Patient, which was the bestselling hardback debut of 2019 in the U.S.

Must-Read: The Silent Patient

13. Tom Clancy

Tom Clancy worked as an insurance agent before writing his first book, The Hunt for Red October, about a Russian submarine crew’s defection. His debut novel was an instant bestseller and was praised by President Reagan.

The book also introduces the character Jack Ryan, who appears in 21 novels and has been portrayed by John Krasinski, Alec Baldwin, and other high-profile actors.

Must-Read: The Hunt for Red October

14. Clive Cussler

In addition to writing novels, Clive Cussler was also an underwater explorer. He authored over 80 books, many of which revolve around oceanic adventures.

Cussler also founded the National Underwater and Marine Agency, which has discovered over 60 shipwreck sites.

Must-Read: Pacific Vortex!

15. Tana French

Tana French is an American-Irish writer famous for her psychological and crime thrillers, which have earned her the nickname of “the First Lady of Irish Crime.”

French is also trained as a professional actor, and began writing her debut novel between castings.

Must-Read: In the Woods

The Best Thriller Writers

Skilled writers who know how to take us for a ride and keep us guessing are why we love the thriller genre.

By reading the best thriller authors, you’re sure to find an entertaining story that you won’t soon forget. And for even more thrills, be sure to check out our list of the most addictive thriller podcasts.

Kaelyn Barron

The post 15 Must-Read Thriller Authors appeared first on killerthrillers.net.

In this post, we’ll explore 10 of the most riveting legal thrillers that will keep you guessing, and sometimes point out a few critical flaws in the justice system.

10 Must-Read Legal Thrillers

Below are 10 must-read legal thrillers that will keep you engrossed in all the courtroom drama.

1. The Firm by John Grisham

This John Grisham bestseller was adapted into a 1993 film starring Tom Cruise as Mitch, a young, promising lawyer. He signs with a firm that leases him a BMW, pays off his school loans, arranges a mortgage, and even hires a decorator for him and his wife.

But it soon becomes evident that most of the firm’s clients are on the wrong side of the law, and when the FBI comes calling, some partners are willing to kill anyone who threatens to blow their cover.

2. Anatomy of a Murder by Robert Traver

This 1958 classic was written by Michigan Supreme Court Justice John D. Voelker under the pen name Robert Traver. Voelker based the novel on an actual murder case in which he was the defense attorney.

Paul Biegler is a DA on his way out of office after the people of his small town have elected a new hero. Soon he’s given a chance to prove he’s as good at defending as he is prosecuting, but he’ll have to closely examine the seething emotions beneath the surface of his tranquil town.

3. Mistaken Identity by Lisa Scottoline

Attorney Bennie Rosato’s newest client is accused of murdering her own lover, a police detective. Bennie is shocked to see that her client, Alice Connolly, looks exactly like her, and even more stunned at the claim that she is Bennie’s identical twin.

This legal thriller combines courtroom drama with an emotional exploration of family, as Bennie takes on a case that may unlock the secret of her own identity.

4. Confessions of an Innocent Man by David R. Dow

When Rafael Zhettah meets Tieresse—a billionaire philanthropist and sophisticated bombshell—knows he’s found the one. But just as he feels his life has begun again, Tieresse is brutally murdered in their home, and Rafael is convicted of the crime and sentenced to death row.

But once he recaptures his freedom, Rafael will stop at nothing to bring justice to those who took everything from him.

5. Every Reasonable Doubt by Pamela Samuels Young

Vernetta is tasked with defending a socialite on trial for murder. She’s not thrilled about working with Neddy McClain, but the two women must join forces against a ruthless prosecutor and endure the uncertainties of trial, the pain of betrayal, and unimaginable pressures.

Meanwhile, their client’s case starts to interfere with Vernetta’s personal life, including her marriage.

6. A Killer’s Wife by Victor Methos

Nearly 15 years ago, prosecutor Jessica Yardley’s husband went to prison for a series of brutal murders. Just as she’s finally managed to move on and create a new life with her daughter, a new series of homicides has all the markings of her ex-husband, Eddie’s, crimes.

The FBI asks Jessica for help catching the copycat killer, which means she must meet and collaborate with her ex-husband, and Jessica must decide who she can trust.

7. Contempt by Michael Cordell

Lawyer Thane Banning has spent five years in jail for a murder he didn’t commit. Now that he’s finally out, he’s hounded with death threats from the victim’s family, and must also face a corrupt DA who has a grudge to settle.

When another innocent man’s life is on the line, Thane returns to the court room one more time to ensure justice is served—and this time, he’ll have to break a few rules to come out unscathed.

8. A Nearly Normal Family by M.T. Edvardsson

Stella Sandell is an ordinary 18-year-old from an upstanding family, except that she’s just been accused of the brutal murder of a shady businessman 15 years older than her.

Stella’s parents, a pastor and a criminal defense attorney, must defend their daughter, all while struggling to understand why she is a suspect in the first place.

9. Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke

Darren Mathews is a Black Texas Ranger who was the first in his family to get as far away from Texas as he could. But a pair of murders has Darren traveling back to his home state, to the small town of Lark, where a black man from Chicago and a local white women have both been found dead.

The murders have stirred up a lot of resentment and have Lark’s long-standing racial tensions at a boil. Love, race, and justice intersect in this legal thriller by a writer and producer of Fox TV’s Empire.

10. Clean Hands by Patrick Hoffman

In Clean Hands, Elizabeth Carlyle’s New York law firm is working on a high-stakes case when a phone containing all of the most important, secret documents goes missing.

The files get into the wrong hands, and someone starts blackmailing the firm. It gets even worse when stories about the documents get leaked to the press, and a tragic suicide appears staged, hinting that something even murkier is going on beneath the surface.

Is To Kill a Mockingbird a Legal Thriller?

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a classic legal thriller in which a Black man is accused of assaulting a white girl.

It explores the case from the point of view of a child, and delves into themes of racial injustice, gender roles, and the loss of innocence.

What Is a Legal Thriller?

A legal thriller is a subgenre of the broader thriller genre. This type of crime fiction typically focuses on an investigation, legal proceedings, and the impact that a case has on the characters. 

The protagonist in a legal thriller is usually a lawyer, as their actions ultimately determine the outcome and impact for other characters’ lives—the question is always if and how they’ll be able to save the day.

Who Writes the Best Legal Thrillers?

John Grisham is one of the most popular and successful writers of legal thrillers.

He’s one of only three writers to sell two million copies on a first printing (along with J.K. Rowling and Tom Clancy), and nine of his novels have been adapted for the big screen. Check out a list of Grisham’s best legal legal thrillers.

Kaelyn Barron

The post 10 Must-Read Legal Thrillers appeared first on killerthrillers.net.

Thriller podcasts bring the creaking staircases, the pounding heartbeats, and all the other sounds of your favorite genre to life, making the experience that much more satisfying. In this post, we’ve rounded up the best thriller podcasts so you can get your fill of frights and adventure.

The Best Thriller Podcasts

From sci-fi to crime and the supernatural, here are 15 of the best thriller podcasts you can add to your playlist.

1. Relic Radio Thrillers

Step back into the 1950s with Relic Radio Thrillers, which serves up the best of thrillers and old-fashioned radio drama. Listen from the edge of your seat to suspenseful tales of crime, mystery, espionage, and more. The vintage audio is a bonus for anyone nostalgic for a bygone era.

2. Alice Isn’t Dead

From the creators of Welcome to Night Vale comes Alice Isn’t Dead, the story of a truck driver’s cross-country journey to find her wife, whom she had long presumed dead. Along the way, she encounters serial killers that aren’t quite human, travels through towns that are literally lost in time, and finds herself wrapped up in a conspiracy that involves far more than her missing wife.

3. CBS Radio Mystery Theater

If early-20th-century murder mysteries are more your thing, consider listening to one of the 1,399 radio dramas available on CBS Radio Mystery Theater. Fans of The Twilight Zone and Alfred Hitchcock Presents will love this podcast.

4. Meet the Thriller Author Podcast

For die-hard thriller fans, this podcast offers interviews with the top writers of mystery, thriller, and suspense books. Learn about your favorite thriller authors’ writing processes, the inspiration behind their riveting stories, and exciting news about their upcoming books and sequels.

5. The Black Tapes Podcast

The Black Tapes Podcast is a docudrama that follows one fictional journalist’s investigation into the dark secrets of her own past. Mix in some paranormal activity, ghosts, spirits, and demons, and you’ve got yourself one thrilling ride.

6. The Horror of Dolores Roach

In this podcast, the titular character is released from prison after 16 years to find that much has changed in her New York City neighborhood. For one, her boyfriend is missing; and the only person who recognizes her is an old stoner friend, who offers her a job. But when her newfound stability is threatened, she’s pushed to extremes to survive.

7. Limetown

Ten years ago in a small Tennessee town, 326 men, women, and children mysteriously vanished, with no witnesses or clues to what happened. In this fictional podcast, investigative journalist Lia Haddock seeks answers, and Limetown follows her as she makes her first major breakthrough.

8. Read or Dead

Book Riot’s Read or Dead is a bi-weekly podcast that covers the worlds of mystery and thriller fiction, includiSng book recommendations for crime fiction and true crime stories. The hosts even discuss current events, with episodes covering topics like true crime and racial injustice.

9. A Stab in the Dark

Mark Billingham, author of the Tom Thorne series, hosts this podcast dedicated to all things crime fiction in both books and television. In each episode, Billingham hosts two guests who discuss the process of creating crime fiction, their favorite books and characters, and more.

10. Blackout

Blackout stars Academy Award winner Rami Malek as a small-town radio DJ who must fight to protect his family after the power grid goes down nationwide and upends modern civilization. One of his biggest challenges is figuring out who he can and cannot trust.

11. Ostium Podcast

Ostium is a fictional mystery/thriller podcast that follows a man who discovers a secret, abandoned town in Northern California. There he finds many doors that lead him to strange and interesting places across time and space.

12. The Thriller Zone

The Thriller Zone is a new podcast hosted by David Temple, a writer, filmmaker, voice actor, and former radio host. This is a great show for anyone who loves thriller or aspires to write them, as Temple invites different writers to discuss all things related to the genre.

13. Fatal Attractions

This podcast is dedicated to erotic thrillers, mostly films, such as its namesake, Fatal Attraction, and others like Basic Instinct. Film critics Matthew Turner, Leslie Pitt, Amelie Thomas, and Paul Costello share what they love and hate about “trashy” thrillers from the ‘80s and ‘90s.

14. Stories from Among the Stars

This sci-fi thriller podcast features forbidden love, a crashed UFO, and an alien heist. Humans are left to depend their planet from an alien invasion, set against the backdrop of China’s Cultural Revolution. Some form political factions, while others embrace the oncoming changes of the invasion.

15. The Seventh Daughter

The Seventh Daughter is set in the early 20^th century and follows a mysterious woman who trains a young girl in the skills of mind reading and clairvoyance, but a bittersweet coming of age story soon becomes a diabolical revenge thriller set against medicine shows and vaudeville amusement halls.

Podcasts for Thriller Fans

If you love reading thrillers, you should definitely consider adding some thriller podcasts to your library.

This unique medium allows you to experience all the thrills through another sense (sound), and its serialized format means you can look forward to the next installment each or every other week.

Kaelyn Barron

The post 15 Thriller Podcasts That Will Have You Hooked appeared first on killerthrillers.net.