top supernatural thriller novels

One key characteristic is the creation of a spooky atmosphere. In novels like 'The Amityville Horror', the detailed descriptions of the haunted house and the strange noises and events that occur there really set the mood. The characters also play an important role. They are usually in a vulnerable position, like in 'It' by Stephen King, where the children are the main characters facing a terrifying, shape - shifting entity. This vulnerability makes the reader more empathetic and increases the tension. Additionally, the plot often has unexpected twists and turns. Just when you think you know what's going to happen, the story takes a different direction, as seen in many of Dean Koontz's works.

I would recommend 'The Haunting of Hill House' by Shirley Jackson. This novel is a classic in the supernatural thriller genre. It creates an atmosphere of unease and mystery with its description of the haunted Hill House. The characters' experiences in the house and the strange happenings keep the reader on edge. Also, 'American Gods' by Neil Gaiman is a great choice. It blends different mythologies and the modern world in a really interesting way, with a lot of supernatural events and a complex, engaging story.

Well, 'The Da Vinci Code' by Dan Brown is often considered among the top. It combines mystery, thriller elements and historical facts in a fast - paced plot. 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie is a masterpiece of the thriller genre, with a group of people in a deadly situation. 'The Shining' by Stephen King is also a great one, with its creepy hotel setting and psychological horror.

Some well - known thriller novels that might be in the top 50 are 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex plot full of mystery and a strong female lead. Another could be 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn which keeps readers on the edge with its twists and turns regarding a missing woman and her husband's secrets.

Some excellent supernatural thriller novels include 'Hell House' by Richard Matheson. It's set in a haunted mansion and the exploration of the supernatural within its walls is truly spine - chilling. 'The Haunting of Hill House' by Shirley Jackson is another masterpiece. The way the house seems to have a life of its own and the psychological terror it inflicts on the characters is remarkable. 'American Gods' by Neil Gaiman also fits in. It weaves together different mythologies and gods in a modern - day setting, creating a thrilling and often mysterious and supernatural narrative.

'The Terminal List' by Jack Carr is also highly regarded. It follows a Navy SEAL who uncovers a conspiracy after his platoon is ambushed. The story is full of gritty action scenes, and Carr's first - hand knowledge of military operations adds a lot of authenticity to the novel.

One of the top mystery thriller novels is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex plot filled with mystery, a strong female lead, and it delves deep into dark secrets. Another great one is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. The story is full of twists and turns, making it a real page - turner. It plays with the reader's expectations and keeps you guessing throughout.

Some of the top modern thriller novels include 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. It has a complex plot full of twists and turns regarding a missing woman and the secrets within her marriage. Another one is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It features a journalist and a hacker investigating a decades - old mystery filled with dark family secrets and brutal crimes.

One of the top crime thriller novels is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex plot filled with mystery and a strong female lead.

Some of the top spy thriller novels include 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold' by John le Carré. It's a classic that delves deep into the murky world of Cold War espionage. Another one is 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy' also by le Carré. It has a complex plot filled with double - agents and mind - games. 'Eye of the Needle' by Ken Follett is also great. It's a tense thriller about a German spy in Britain during World War II.