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Top 20 Thriller Books of All Time (Ranked) For 2024

Joel Stafford — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

The best thriller books are like a roller coaster ride. It's fast, it's thrilling, and it takes you on a wild journey.

The best action movies in Hollywood or on Netflix are often based on great thriller novels. The best thriller books of all time offer an exciting, suspenseful reads and contains a lot of nerve wrecking action and suspense for you.

In this article we collected the best selling thriller books. These books are extremely well written and we believe that you will enjoy reading them as much as we did. We have included a few of our personal favorites, but there are many more to choose from.

Why Thrillers Are So Popular?

People love to be on the edge of their seats, not knowing what is going to happen next. Thrillers are usually full of suspense, mystery, and action. This combination makes for an exciting and thrilling read.

Some thriller book writers are very successful. James Patterson is one such writer. He has written dozens of best-selling thrillers, many of which have been turned into movies. Stephen King is another popular thriller writer with different voice and genre preferences. His books are often dark and suspenseful, keeping readers in uncertainty.

Thrillers are a very popular genre for a reason. They are exciting and fast-paced, leaving readers wanting more. If you are looking for a book that will keep you entertained from beginning to end, then a thriller book is the right choice for you.

Who Are The Most Prominent Thriller Book Authors?

There are many different thriller book authors that have made a name for themselves in the literary world. But there are several authors who are outstanding from the others:

Stephen King,
Dean Koontz,
Ken Follett,
Harlan Coben,
John Grisham,
and James Patterson

Stephen King is one of the most well-known authors in the genre. He has written over 50 novels, many of which have been adapted into films or television series. His work often deals with horror and suspense, and he has a knack for creating truly harrowing tales.

Dean Koontz is another hugely popular author in the thriller genre. He has written over 100 novels, and his work often features supernatural elements. He is known for creating stories that are both suspenseful and thought-provoking, and his books have sold millions of copies worldwide.

John Grisham is a well-known thriller book author. He has written many bestselling novels, such as The Firm and A Time to Kill. His books have been turned into successful movies, such as The Pelican Brief and Runaway Jury. In addition to being a successful author, Grisham is also a lawyer and philanthropist. He has given millions of dollars to charities, including literacy programs.

James Patterson is a world-renowned author, he has written many novels, including the famous “Alex Cross” series. Patterson's books are known for their fast-paced, suspenseful plotlines. Many of his novels have been made into movies, such as “Kiss the Girls” and “Along Came a Spider”. Patterson is one of the most popular authors in the world, with over 300 million copies of his books sold.

What Are The Most Popular Thriller Book Genres?

The thriller book genre has been around for many years and there are many different types of thrillers. We just collected the most important niches within thrillers:

One of the most popular thriller book genres is the mystery thriller. This type of thriller usually contains a crime that needs to be solved. Another popular type of thriller is the horror thriller. This type of thriller usually contains suspenseful and frightening scenes. The action thriller is also a very popular genre. This type of book usually contains a lot of action and adventure.

What Factors Do We Focused On When We Ranked The Best Thriller Books?

When we set out to rank the best thriller books, there were a few factors we knew were important.

Factor 1: Age
Factor 2: Plot uniqueness
Factor 3: Suspense
Factor 4: Popularity (Amazon, B&N)

First and foremost, the book must be a thriller. That might seem like a given, but you’d be surprised how many books are marketed as thrillers that don’t actually fit the bill.

The book should be extremely well-written. A poorly written book can be a chore to get through, no matter how thrilling the plot is.

The book should be suspenseful. A good thriller will keep you guessing until the very end.

In terms of age

With those criteria in mind, we set out to find the best thrillers of all time. We looked at both classics and modern novels, and we consulted with experts in the genre to make sure our list was comprehensive. We also took into account things like awards and critical acclaim when making our decisions.

What Are The Best Thriller Books of All Time?

Gone Girl, by Gillian Flynn (2012)

Gone Girl is a masterpiece and one of the most acclaimed thriller books of all time.

The book opens on the fifth wedding anniversary of the golden couple, Nick and Amy Dunne. But Nick has questions when his wife suddenly gets lost under disturbing circumstances.

Nick is the top police suspect. Amy’s friends are saying that she was always afraid of him and hid things from him. However, Nick swears that it is a lie.

When the police examine his computer, they find strange search results, but Nick denies ever making them. His mobile phone constantly keeps ringing. But what happened to the beautiful Amy?

Win, by Harlan Coben (2021)

More than two decades ago, Patricia Lockwood was kidnapped when her family’s estate was robbed. She was locked in a cabin, but she and her captors escaped. All the stolen items were never recovered.

Later, a recluse also gets killed in his penthouse, and he lays next to two significant objects- a leather suitcase with the initials WHL3 and a stolen Vermeer painting.

These two objects point the police to one man. They belong to Windsor Horne Lockwood III, but he doesn’t know how the dead man got them.

A dead man’s secrets will fall into an antihero vigilante’s hands, and a dangerous road lies ahead.

Never, by Ken Follett (2021)

Pauline Green, the US president, always says that minor problems are what build up to become catastrophic.

There is a stolen US army drone, a shrinking Sahara Desert oasis, and an unoccupied Japanese island. But to top it all, there is a top country secret of stashed deadly chemical poisons. All these things are linked to promoting an escalating crisis.

Meanwhile, there is a group of people determined to stop the outbreak of a world war; a Jihadist undercover spy, a lady intelligence officer, and a Chinese spymaster. The president is also involved, but her populist election rival beleaguers her.

The Silent Patient, by Alex Michaelides (2019)

Alex Michaelides's psychological thriller, The Silent Patient, follows one woman's act of violence against her husband and the therapist obsessed with tracking down her reason.

Silent Patient is Alicia Berenson. Wife of renowned photographer Gabriel Berenson, she is an artist in her own right, able to fill galleries with her hyper-realistic artwork. She loves her husband more than anything, but then one day she hears gunshots and the police arrive and find her standing over his body with a smoking gun, his arms and legs wired down.

From that point onward, she does not speak.

Reminders of Him, by Colleen Hoover (2022)

After being released from prison, Kenna Rowan has come back home where everything first went wrong. She hopes to be reunited with her daughter.

All the people in her daughter’s life are set on shutting Kenna out despite how hard she tries to prove herself. Well, everyone except Ledger Ward. Ledger is a local bar owner and part of the few and final connections to Kenna’s daughter.

If anyone were to find out how he is gradually becoming a crucial entity in Kenna’s life, they would jeopardize the trust of all those who are important to them. Their romance will grow but so will the risk.

The Locked Door, by Freida McFadden (2021)

Nora Davis has no idea that her dad has been murdering women in their basement until the police show up.

Decades later, her father is already in prison, and Nora is a professional and successful surgeon who lives a quiet and solitary life. None of the people around her have an idea that her dad was a serial killer, and she hopes it can remain so.

Later on, Nora will find out about the murder of one of her female patients. The patient has been murdered in the same way her father used to do it. Someone now knows Nora’s identity, and they want her to take the crime’s fall. But Nora isn’t a killer, and the authorities can’t blame her for anything, provided they don’t check her basement.

I Am Watching You, by Teresa Driscoll (2017)

While on a train, Ella Longfield hears two young men flirting with teenage girls, but she chooses not to think about anything. She then realizes that these men just got out of prison. She goes on high alert, but something stops her from calling for help.

The following day Ella finds out about the disappearance of Anna, who is one of the teenage girls. A year goes by, Anna is not found, and Ella’s guilt is only wracking her. She keeps getting threatening letters causing her more fear.

An anniversary appeal then suggests that Anna’s family and friends hide something. Someone might know where Anna is, but they are only watching Ella.

The Maid, by Nita Prose (2022)

Molly Gray is different from everyone. She is brilliant, but she can’t quite make out the circumstances and people around her. She is a germaphobe and only comfortable in a routine setup. These traits make her perfect for a maid job in Grand Regency Hotel.

To her, there is nothing better than working at the hotel.

Molly will keep following this routine to perfection until one day. She finds the wealthy and infamous Charles Black dead in the hotel’s suite. The police target her as a suspect, and Molly finds herself in a deception web that she can’t untangle.

The Perfect Wife, by Blake Pierce (2018)

Jessie Hunt is sure that she has put her childhood darkness behind her and moved into a beach mansion with her husband, Kyle.

Kyle has gotten a job promotion, and Jessie is almost done with her education for a career in forensic psychology.

But Jessie will begin to notice strange developments that keep happening. Their neighbors seem to be keeping secrets. Kyle is also highly desperate and wants to join a yacht club packed with cheating spouses, mysterious and troubling rules. There is also a serial killer in the psychiatric hospital Jessie is studying in who knows a lot about her life.

As Jessie’s world unravels, she will question everything, including her sanity.

The Guilty Husband, by Stephanie DeCarolis (2021)

Vince Taylor is living the life. He has all that he ever dreamed of; a beautiful home, he is a New York firm’s CEO, but most importantly, his wife is Nicole- the one who stole his heart once he saw her. Nicole and Vince have built an almost perfect life, but a guilty secret is in its middle.

Layla, an intern at Vince’s firm, is found dead, and she had an affair with Vince. This secret could bring down his world, but Vince will do anything to keep it hidden.

The police will discover Vince’s lie and be convinced that he is the killer. If he didn’t disclose the affair, what else is he hiding, and what else could he be guilty of?

Then She Was Gone, by Lisa Jewell (2018)

Ellie Mack was like a jewel, and everyone loved her. But days before she could go on her idyllic summer vacation, she was gone.

Ten years down the line, Ellie hasn’t been found. Laurel Mack, her mother, is attempting to put everything back together. This time is also months from when a clue about Ellie’s case was brought to light.

Laurel meets Floyd, and they flirt, developing something deeper. She meets his daughters within no time, but Poppy is the most breathtaking. She looks like Ellie. Unanswered questions haunt Laurel even more, but Floyd and Poppy also raise questions.

If You Tell, by Gregg Olsen (2019)

For sisters Sami, Nikki, and Tori, the word ‘mom’ triggers memories they have kept secret since childhood. Until now.

Their sadistic mother, Shelly, has been living in their farmhouse for many years. She subjected the sisters to unimaginable torture, abuse, degradation, and psychic terrors. But that’s how the girls created a strong bond making them less vulnerable than their mother could ever imagine.

Other people in Shelly’s household kept being drawn to Shelly’s darkness and perverse web, but the girls were courageous enough to escape a nightmare that only brought about many murders.

Before I Go to Sleep, by S. J. Watson (2011)

Before I Go to Sleep is a story about how memories play a significant role in defining us.

Every time Christine sleeps, her mind erases all her adult memories, all that happens, or all she does in a day.

The next day she always wakes up like the previous one. She thinks she is still a child and has a whole lifetime ahead of her, one with many choices.

Christine forgets her identity, name, past, and her loved ones. But this situation is even worse because her husband, the only person she trusts, is lying. Is it for her good, or is he hiding something?

The Stand, by Stephen King (1990)

In a Defense Department Laboratory, a nanosecond of a computer error is how the world almost comes to an end. A million causal contacts are linked and form a chain death letter.

The day after, there is a new and bleak world. About 99 % of the population has been wiped out, and there are now no institutions. The survivors are only a handful, and if you are lucky to have survived, you are chosen or choose a side.

In this world, the good rides of Mother Abagail and the worst evil nightmares are embodied in the dark man, Randall Flagg. He has unspeakable powers and a lethal smile.

Mirror Image, by Sandra Brown (2019)

A Dallas-bound jet crash results in a tragedy for Avery Daniels, who works as a TV reporter. It becomes an act of fate, giving her an excellent opportunity to further her reporting career. Avery also becomes a critical player in a drama about deadly desires and violent passions.

She undergoes plastic surgery that completely transforms her face. She is now mistaken for Tate Rutledge’s wife.

Avery is helpless in the hospital when she discovers that someone close to Tate had a plan for his assassination. She now must save him, but to do so, she will have to live a different life, risking her own.

The Racketeer, by John Grisham (2012)

Judge Raymond Fawcett becomes the fifth dead judge in his country. Who is the Racketeer, and how is he involved with this untimely demise? Currently, it is Malcolm Bannister.

Malcolm knows who murdered Raymond and why but his situation on paper is wanting. The murder scene only reveals two dead bodies of the judge and his secretary. It doesn’t show any forced entry or struggle.

There is also an empty state-of-the-art safe, and the FBI wants to know what was inside. Malcolm would love to tell them, but such information demands a price.

The Girl You Killed, by Leslie Wolfe (2021)

Andrea Brafford lives a nearly perfect life. She is a marine biologist, married to Craig, and they have just moved into a new home in Houston’s suburbs to enjoy life.

Months later, a trial that polarizes the town they live in emerges. Craig has been named as a defendant in Andrea’s murder. The once peaceful serenity of this community is now in shatters.

Everyone is talking about Andrea. Her relationships have been exposed, and her case is all that everyone checks on the internet. Her life remains an unsolved puzzle. Was she happy, like everyone thought?

The Last Nazi, by Andrew Turpin (2017)

Ex-CIA officer and war crimes investigator Joe Johnson unravels the connections between a dangerous British blackmail plot and the presidential campaign financing, the Nazi train.

But this mystery will only become more extensive and touch on Johnson’s personal life in ways he never expected; an SS Holocaust killer got out of his hands years before.

Criminal networks and a high intelligence agency combine their forces against Johnson in no time. Jayne Robinson, his exMI6 colleague, is also involved.

Johnson will find himself entangled in an incredibly challenging situation on a quest to seek justice and revive his dwindling career.

And Then There Were None, by Agatha Christie (1939)

Agatha Christie hold the distinction of being the bestselling mystery writer of all time, having sold well over two billion copies of her 78 books. One of the best titles among her taut oeuvre is And Then There Were None.

In 1939, eight people, all strangers to one another, are invited to Indian Island off the English coast. Where they systematically begin killing each other.

For the survivors, it's now a race against time to find the killer among them, and the identity of their seemingly wealthy host.

The Count of Monte Christo, by Alexander Dumas (1844)

This is a tale of suffering and retribution and one that has a thrilling account of unexpected events that condemn a young man into misery.

Edmond Dantes is thrown in prison for a crime he did not commit. He does not even get the chance to go to trial, and he is soon forgotten.

There, he learns about a treasure on the Isle of Monte Christo. He gets firmly resolved on escaping and unearthing the treasure. He gets the help of a fellow prisoner he befriends and finally manages to escape.

He plans to use the treasure to destroy the men who brought about his incarceration. Edmond plots his revenge while faking his identity.

Final Thoughts on the Top Thriller Books of All Time

Thriller books are some of the most popular books on the market. They are perfect for anyone who loves a good suspenseful story with lots of action. If you're looking for your next read, be sure to check out one of these best sellers.

Looking for another genre? Check out our favorite sci-fi book collection.

Joel Stafford

My profession is online marketing and development (10+ years experience), check my latest mobile app called Upcoming or my Chrome extensions for ChatGPT. But my real passion is reading books both fiction and non-fiction. I have several favorite authors like James Redfield or Daniel Keyes. If I read a book I always want to find the best part of it, every book has its unique value.

medium.com/@joelbooks

The post Top 20 Thriller Books of All Time (Ranked) For 2024 appeared first on Joelbooks.

Top 12+ Mystery Spy & Espionage Thriller Books For 2023

Joel Stafford — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Mystery spy and espionage thriller books are often characterized by their intricate plots and high-stakes, globe-trotting action. They typically revolve around a protagonist, often a spy or intelligence officer, working against time to solve a mystery or foil a serious threat. This may involve political machinations, uncovering secrets, or dealing with deceptions.

The narrative usually features a layered and sophisticated storyline where nothing is as it seems, often involving enigmatic characters, covert operations, and complex political situations. Twists and turns, suspense, and a sense of imminent danger are paramount, as the protagonist navigates a world filled with betrayal and uncertainty.

One of the most critical elements of these books is the authenticity of details, especially pertaining to spycraft, geopolitics, and the various settings. Accurate portrayal of technological tools and techniques used in espionage, nuanced understanding of international relations, and a strong sense of place all contribute to the credibility and immersive nature of the narrative.

These novels also lean heavily on character development, focusing on the protagonist's skills, motivations, and personal dilemmas while living a life of secrecy and constant risk. The emotional toll and ethical quandaries arising from leading such a life, along with a relentless pursuit of truth, form the backbone of many such thrilling narratives.

I collected some of the best spy and espionage thriller books from the recent years, and arranged them in reverse chronological order.

What Are The Top Modern International Mystery & Spy Thriller Books?

The Midnight Conspiracy (Joe Mason Book 3), by David Leadbeater

The third outing in the Joe Mason series proves that the charm of a series doesn't always reside in its debut, but often in its ability to mature and refine its essence. This narrative showcases a deft blend of familiar rhythm and novel intrigue, reminiscent of hallmark characteristics found in the works of literary giants such as Lee Child and Clive Cussler. The golden basin at the story's heart is more than just a coveted artifact; it's a loaded emblem of historical power and ecclesiastical significance. Mason's journey, imbued with the tenacity one would expect from an ex-MI5 operative, takes the reader through a maze of treachery, where the stakes are not just personal but profoundly global.

The Guild of Night, with its shadowy agenda, serves as a chilling antagonist, reflecting the dangerous precipices of unchecked fanaticism. This installment isn't merely a continuation, but a testament to the series' evolving depth and the genre's potential for reinvention.

The Men In The Shadows, by Matt Currie

In this pulse-pounding thriller, readers are plunged into a shadowy world of espionage, moral complexity, and looming global catastrophe. Centered around Wayne Cohen, a seasoned officer of the Canadian Tactical Unit, and Shane Keaty, a covert operative, the narrative tackles high-stakes international crises that force both characters to grapple with moral uncertainties and ethical dilemmas. The author masterfully weaves together intricate plotlines, shifting alliances, and psychological tension, creating an elaborate chessboard where every move could result in dire consequences for humanity.

While the story excels in its nuanced portrayal of ethical complexity and geopolitical intricacies, it occasionally risks bogging down the reader with its labyrinthine subplots. A tighter edit could make the narrative even more compelling without sacrificing its thematic richness.

This is a book that will appeal to fans of political thrillers and suspenseful action. Beyond its page-turning qualities, it serves as a thought-provoking exploration of human choices in a world teetering on the brinkk. Its compelling characters and intricate plot make it a must-read for anyone intrigued by the delicate balance of power and the profound impact of individual decisions.

Crack in the Red Ice (A Red Ant Mystery), by J. Jones

In this gripping narrative, our protagonist, Donna Roybal, a luminary in environmental problem-solving, finds herself on treacherous ground. Roybal's reputation for creating innovative solutions is critically challenged when a Russian shipyard director discloses an alleged malfunction in her award-winning water treatment system.

The shadow of a past accident and hurried lab work leaves readers questioning whether Donna has compromised her own standards, as she struggles to keep her dream of universal clean drinking water from slipping away.

The plot intensifies as Roybal confronts a cascade of obstacles that mount an assault on her professional commitment and personal life. Her steely resolve is tested by a devastating lab fire, an aggrieved Russian chemist, and a marital relationship strained by her constant travel. Against a backdrop of rising geopolitical tension near Ukraine, the narrative takes a gripping turn as Roybal, undeterred by concerns of her colleagues, ventures back into the icy Russian frontier with a corrective plan.

However, the ominous hint of a Russian countermove adds a tantalizing twist. This suspense-filled saga masterfully combines elements of environmental science, international intrigue, and personal resilience. Readers will be captivated by Donna's relentless pursuit of her vision and her courageous battle against all odds.

The Last Protector (Clayton White Book 1), by Simon Gervais

In The Last Protector, author Simon Gervais debuts an adrenaline-laced thriller that introduces readers to an unforgettable new hero in Clayton White. This story kicks off the Clayton White series with a bang, inviting readers into a world fraught with political intrigue, shadowy enemies, and dangerous secrets.

White, a former air force combat rescue officer turned Secret Service agent, is a well-drawn character, embodying a combination of grit, intellect, and heart. His evolution from a mundane escort mission agent to the titular Last Protector forms the backbone of this pulse-pounding narrative. Clayton is a complex hero with a past that's hinted at but never fully disclosed, setting the stage for character exploration in subsequent entries of the series.

The plot unfurls at a relentless pace as South African mercenaries' attempt on Veronica's life at an awards gala catapults both her and Clayton into a vortex of lies, betrayal, and high-stakes government secrecy. The author demonstrates a knack for interweaving fast-paced action sequences with intricate plot details, producing a multi-layered narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

House of Spies (Gabriel Allon Book 17), by Daniel Silva

Daniel Silva delivers an intricately plotted thriller that blends high-stakes action, compelling character development, and an unnervingly realistic global backdrop. Gabriel Allon, Silva's multifaceted protagonist—an art restorer and a respected global operative—finds himself summoned from the canvas to a perilous mission in London. What begins as an effort to restore a priceless painting swiftly becomes a confrontation with a menacing terror network threatening to dismantle everything Gabriel stands for.

Newcomers to the series and seasoned fans alike will find “House of Spies” equally accessible and engaging. Silva's vividly detailed and suspenseful narrative, underpinned by sharp, clear prose, keeps readers riveted from start to finish. For series veterans, the novel offers a deeper exploration of Gabriel's character, layered with fresh and suspenseful plot twists.

Silva's masterful storytelling, steeped in real-world issues, reaffirms his place as a leading voice in the world of espionage thrillers. “House of Spies” is a heart-pounding, intellectually stimulating read that strikes a remarkable balance between complexity and accessibility.

The Rescue (Ryan Decker Book 1), by Steven Konkoly

As a Washington Post bestseller, the novel lands with a punch that will undoubtedly resonate with fans of Lee Child and Tom Clancy, its high-stakes plot and well-crafted suspense promising to keep readers enthralled from the first page to the last.

Ryan Decker, a former CIA agent turned mercenary with a penchant for rescuing kidnap victims, is the lynchpin of the narrative. Konkoly expertly crafts Decker as a deeply flawed yet resolutely driven protagonist, whose journey invites readers into a labyrinthine web of government duplicity and cutthroat power plays. Decker's specialty may hint at the direction the narrative takes, but Konkoly's adept plotting keeps readers guessing.

Will Decker succeed in his mission, or will the powers that be prove too formidable?

The Quantum Spy: A Thriller, by David Ignatius

The story is a riveting tale of cutting-edge technology, espionage, and international stakes that couldn't be higher. Set against the backdrop of a high-stakes technological race between the USA and China, the story centers on the quest for a game-changing hyper-fast quantum computer—a technological marvel that promises to give its possessor an unparalleled edge, akin to having the nuclear codes in one's pocket. The narrative may initially feel like a political thriller, but it quickly evolves into something far more complex.

The tension escalates when evidence surfaces that American laboratories appear to be compromised by a Chinese mole. Not just any mole, but one deep within the layers of America's intelligence community, skilled enough to leave few traces. The urgency to unmask this individual becomes a frantic mission, turning the story into a pulse-pounding race against time. Local agencies are thrown into disarray as they scramble to identify and capture the mole before their secrets are irrevocably exposed, potentially tipping the global balance of power.

The story doesn't just keep you guessing about the mole's identity or whether the agencies will successfully thwart the threat in time. It dives into the ethical and psychological dimensions of espionage and technological supremacy, questioning how far nations are willing to go to ensure their dominance on the world stage. The Quantum Spy delivers a complex web of deceit, ambition, and moral ambiguity, making it a must-read for anyone intrigued by the shadowy realms where technology and international intrigue intersect.

The Eighth Sister: A Thriller (Charles Jenkins Book 1), by Robert Dugoni

Things seem to settle down for Charles Jenkins. He has retired from the CIA. He is now in his early 60s and has a nice family, including a baby on the way.

His company is not doing too good though and sooner or later, he knows his place will go bankrupt.

One day, his former chief pops at his door with a mission – go undercover to Moscow and discover the Russian agent who kills members of an American spy cell. The former agent accepts the job, but once he gets there, he realizes everything is a big joke – no one is who they claim to be.

Recall Zero (An Agent Zero Spy Thriller Book 6), by Jack Mars

In this sixth book of the collection, the President's translator could be the key to changing the world. She is the only person who witnessed and help during a private conversation. But then, everyone knows it, so someone decides to hunt her down and kill her. Agent Zero is called back to help.

His life is not the best right now – he tries to get back on track and regain his girls, but without going back to work. He simply cannot say no to this kind of job though. But then, as he meets the translator, he realizes things are not always as they seem to be.

He might as well fall for her…

The Spy And The Traitor: The Greatest Espionage Story Of The Cold War, by Ben Macintyre

Oleg Gordievsky came from a KGB family – both parents were part of the agency. He went to the best Soviet schools and was polished in the best rated local institutions. With all these, he grew up to see the communism as murder.

In 1968, he took the first mission for Moscow and ended up in London, but he quickly became a secret worker for MI6. He did it for around a decade, during the Cold War. All this time, the CIA was dying to know who London's source is.

This obsession put Gordievsky down though – the CIA officer sent to find the source was Aldrich Ames, who was later identified as working for the Soviets.

The Spies Of Zurich (Alex Kovacs Thriller Series Book 2), by Richard Wake

Alex Kovacs, our resourceful protagonist, finds himself in Zurich after the fall of Czechoslovakia. While a semblance of normalcy persists with a new job and romantic interest, the pull of his past life in espionage remains strong. His former spy comrades, armed with potential knowledge of Hitler's next target, strive to have their voices heard. Amidst the mounting tension and imminent threat of invasion, Alex is driven by an unwavering resolve to ensure that their warnings do not fall on deaf ears.

Wake skillfully weaves a suspenseful and tense narrative, enhancing the sense of impending danger with a ticking-clock storyline that expertly interlaces historical events with fictional intrigue. The reader is left guessing as to whether Alex and his team's warnings will be heeded in time to thwart disaster.

The Spies of Zurich excels as a thought-provoking historical thriller that challenges the reader to grapple with the human cost of war and the desperate measures people resort to in the face of looming disaster. It's a riveting addition to the Alex Kovacs series and a must-read for fans of espionage thrillers and historical fiction alike.

The Red Cobra (James Ryker Book 1), by Rob Sinclair

The protagonist, Carl Logan—now living under a new identity as James Ryker—is a retired operative who yearns for a peaceful life after serving in the Joint Intelligence Agency (JIA) for two decades. But his quest for tranquility is soon shattered when his former boss draws him back into the shadowy world he thought he left behind.

The catalyst for Ryker's return is a murder in Spain, the victim being an infamous, retired assassin known only as the Red Cobra. Her fingerprints at the scene stir a storm within the intelligence community, indicating that someone might be hunting down retired operatives. With the chilling prospect that his cover has been blown just as the Red Cobra's had, Ryker finds himself ensnared in a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Sinclair’s deft storytelling keeps the reader on a knife's edge as the plot thickens and the threats escalate. The author’s understanding of espionage is reflected in his detailed descriptions and tightly woven plot, making The Red Cobra a masterclass in spy thrillers. Sinclair's protagonist, Ryker, is a nuanced character whose struggles between his longing for peace and the call of duty make him a compelling figure.

Sanction: A Spy Thriller, by William Hunter

The thriller starts with Sean Garrett on an assignment in England. He witnesses elite assassin David Laurent execute a Cambridge professor. His cover is now blown, so he has to turn for his life. Not only that, but the authorities believe he is the murderer.

The story goes in a different direction and the Secret Intelligence Service is somehow linked to this murder too. They have a different story and suspects.

All in all, everyone chases everyone in this spy thriller and when things are about to blow, a secret from the World War II comes to life.

Classic Spy & Espionage Quotes From Mystery Thriller Books

“This is a war,” Lemas replied. “It's graphic and unpleasant because it's fought on a tiny scale, at close range; fought with a wastage of innocent life sometimes, I admit. But it's nothing, nothing at all besides other wars – the last or the next.

―John le Carré, The Spy Who Came In from the Cold

Published in 1963, the novel is about British agent Alec Leamas, who is asked to stay “in the cold” (i.e., remain an active agent) after a series of his operations fail. The plot is an intricate web of deceit and double-crossing, presenting a morally complex and realistic portrayal of the world of espionage. The book was a critical and commercial success and helped establish le Carré as one of the preeminent writers in the spy thriller genre.

“People are islands,' she said. ‘They don't really touch. However close they are, they're really quite separate. Even if they've been married for fifty years.”

—Ian Fleming, Casino Royale

The first novel in the James Bond series, this book has become iconic for its blend of high-stakes espionage and stylish, action-packed adventure.

Final Thoughts on International Mystery Thrillers

Mystery spy and espionage thriller books have long held a cherished place in literature due to their intriguing mix of suspense and intrigue. What makes these stories compelling is not just the plot twists and tense action scenes, but also the nuanced characters who must navigate these treacherous landscapes.

You do have a few good stories to keep you thrilled on a cold Friday night or while enjoying the summertime in your backyard. There are a few other good titles that could have made it on the list, but these are the front runners. If you think we miss any of excellent titles just write us to our social media.

Are you looking for more? Check also our favorite political thriller books.

Joel Stafford

medium.com/@joelbooks

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Top 8 Military Thrillers (2023) Historical Fictions, Navy Books, Investigations and Mystery

Joel Stafford — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 09:46:35 +0000

Nothing beats a good military thriller. I’ll be honest with you, I’m into thrillers more than I’m into military books. But then, it makes you think for a second. Sure, there’s quite a bit of imagination in these books, but there has to be a bit of reality in such books.

Despite the fictional profile, I believe such things could happen, or maybe they've already happened. All in all, throw in a bit of thrill and action to the mystery, and you have the perfect book. Here are my favorite military thrillers released over the past years.

What Are The Top Military Thriller with a Blend of Mystery?

Fair Winds of Deceit, by Billy R. Wade (2023)

The action takes us back to the fall of 1971, a time in history we all know for the cold conflicts around the world. It's been a few good months since one of the best scientists in the Navy has disappeared without leaving any clues.

It may not be such a big deal, but the scientist has nearly finished a top secret submarine project. Working on the project by himself, no one can really complete it. In other words, the government must find him, no matter what.

Then, the story takes us to Colt. With years of experience in Navy investigations, Colt is the primary choice for difficult cases that most agents can't solve. This project is different from what he's used to, though.

He has been given a free hand by the government, so he takes advantage and builds a small team of old friends for the case. Torn between the mission and the new relationship he's in, Colt also has to face a bunch of assaults affecting his small crew.

It sounds like mission impossible, but a few plot twists change everything in Colt’s favor. With help from unexpected directions, the decorated officers are in a tight race against time. Only if he could actually survive, and this is where I'll stop with the spoilers and let you discover the rest.

Straight Shot, by Jack Lively (2020)

This is the first book in the series, and trust me, once you're done with it, you'll crave more action. The action takes us from the harsh war fields in the Middle East to the beautiful hills of France. Anyway, the story follows Tom Keeler.

Tom has done more than enough for his country after fighting in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. It's now time for his discharge from the Air Force squadron. He's still not sure what he'll do next, but for a start, he's planning a very long holiday in Alencourt, France, a place where his mother used to go as a kid.

Tom gets to Alencourt, and within his first hour there, three men try to murder him. It's not the best start for the experienced soldier, and he suspects there's more than just a random murder attempt.

His first thought is to jump on the first train and go back, but then, there’s something drawing him to this beautiful French town. It could be the fact that it feels like a holiday, with everyone around him speaking a different language. Maybe it's the laid back lifestyle, the cuisine, or perhaps his new crush.

Tom falls for a stunning policewoman, Cecile. During an investigation, she tells him that the murder attempt was aimed at someone else, a case of mistaken identity. Tom thinks those three men are the same thugs who left his French cousin paralyzed, so he decides to investigate further.

At this point, you won’t know what to believe anymore. There are connections with asylum seeking girls from the Middle East, missing people in the area, as well as his previous experience in combat. Tom's fighting spirit kicks in, and he starts an investigation on his own. And that's when things get messy.

Going Dark, by Neil Lancaster (2019)

The first book in the series follows Tom Novak and his real life experience after the army. He knows that his army years changed him as a person. He has got blood on his hands and a dark past he doesn’t want to talk about.

His first years as a refugee didn’t give him too much hope, but hard work put him in the elite Special Reconnaissance Regiment. He has passed his military days, but his military action years just won't let go of him, despite his new career as a police officer.

Things get messy when he has asked to go undercover and infiltrate a group of people traffickers. His cover goes down the drain, so he ends up chased by both Serbian thugs and other police officers.

He knows something is fishy when the Serbian mafia seems to know every move he makes. Someone in the police is a snitch for them, so he knows that he can’t trust anyone. At this point, he only has one option, to go dark.

Get ready for some gritty suspense and plenty of action. And more importantly, let me clear this out first, the book comes from a former detective sergeant, so you’ll get a pretty realistic story that feels like an inside job, totally worth it.

Red Metal, by Mark Greaney and Lieutenant Colonel Hunter Ripley Rawlings IV. USMC (2019)

With a severe military crisis in Asia and a few issues in Europe, it sounds like the perfect scenario for the Kremlin to attempt to take the eastern side of Africa over. Who would notice? Everyone's busy with all kinds of problems, and then, Africa has some incredible deposits of rare earth minerals.

Having access to such resources would make Russia the top leader in the hi-tech sector for many generations.

But the Americans have a different idea. A Marine lieutenant colonel and a captain from the French Special Forces team up with a Polish partisan fighter, a pilot, and a few other professionals to strike from behind enemy lines.

They know their countries have too much to worry about, so there’s no chance anyone would get involved with the Russians in Africa. But these guys are willing to give it a try.

The action spreads from land to sea and air, bringing a small unit of experts fighting in African jungles against Russian forces, only to prevent Russia from reaching world dominance. And to top all these up, there’s also the threat of a Russian nuclear detonation. Who’s going to win?

Raven One, by Kevin Miller (2017)

No guns, no armor, and lost in a hostile world, it sounds like the worst possible scenario. It's more than enough to give you some thrills, but wait until the action unfolds. This is one of those military thrillers so well written, you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the action.

This isn't one of those Navy books where the hero gets stuck behind enemy lines. The action takes you inside a plane cockpit, and while it doesn’t seem so exciting at first, trust me, you’ll feel chills down your spine.

To give you a few hints, Wilson faces an enemy fighter plane. Across the space between them, he sees the pilot's eyes. They're dark, and they don't show any emotion whatsoever. The plane goes above him and gets in control of the situation.

Horrified, he realizes he's exposed, and there's not much he can do about it. And in the last moment, he realizes his enemy has an extra weapon that can end everything.

I’ll stop here with the spoilers, and I believe it's enough to get you hooked. Once you go through the first few pages, you’ll crave for action. The tension buildup is simply amazing.

Man Down, by Marine Mark Ormrod (2009)

This is one of those military thrillers written from a personal point of view. It's not just a random author using their imagination, but an actual former marine who loved the action. He spent much of his career fighting on the Afghan front, gathering plenty of prime time experience and detailed insight into the war.

But then, like any other soldier, he had a fear. And the unimaginable did happen one day.

A landmine took his right arm away, as well as both of his legs. Such catastrophic injuries took ages to fix, and the mental trauma is still there.

Written as a memoir, I believe this book is a must for everyone who loves Navy books. It's not a personal journal but detailed action right from the front. I'd go further and say it's also a motivational book for anyone who struggles with a physical disability.

But then, what did it for me was the detailed graphics of the war action. It feels like you’re there. And although many aspects feel like pure fiction, the fact that everything’s real makes this book even better.

All in all, this action-packed book is written with brutal and tough honesty. It’s dramatic at times, but it also exposes the harsh reality of war.

The Hunting, by Stephen Leather (2021)

When you think about doctors, you think about people in white uniforms who save lives. But then, can a doctor actually change his career and start taking lives instead?

This book tells the story of a British doctor, Raj Patel. Deployed in Syria, he has the primary mission to take care of injured military troops, as well as civilians. His great medical skills save lives. But like everyone else in a war zone, he has some fears.

And one day, those fears become a reality when he's mistaken for someone else and taken hostage.

The story takes us to billionaire Jon van der Sandt. His family has been murdered by jihadist terrorists, and he wants revenge. He hires a team of experienced mercenaries and former soldiers and sends them to Syria to find terrorists and transport them to his estate in the USA.

Unfortunately, these mercenaries also snatch Raj by mistake. And when the killing game begins, he realizes it's too late for him to explain his situation. Instead, he ends up caught in a sophisticated survival game, and he has to do whatever it takes to survive.

Get ready for an extraordinary action and, by far one of the most intense military thrillers out there. The pressure buildup stands out, and to be honest with you, I think this is one of those books that will make it into a movie one day.

Call to Kill, by Billy Billingham and Conor Woodman (2022)

This is the first book in a longer series and, by far one of my favorite military thrillers out there, packed with action, tension, and quite a few plot twists.

Mace ends up deployed in Yemen. He has one mission, saving some hostages. All odds are against him and his team. Despite having a decent plan in place, the mission fails.

Now, things are less likely to go in the right direction anyway because the local political scene is too corrupt.

On one side, General Ruak Shahlai is a local warlord who controls many politicians. On the other hand, American arms dealer Erica Atkins has some impressive connections too. She wants the war to go on, it’s just money for her.

Mace and his men team up with CIA agent Redford to prevent a catastrophe that will take Yemen even deeper into war, not to mention causing a horrible environmental disaster that would ruin the region.

It feels like the type of plot that anyone can anticipate, but there are a bunch of plot twists that will change everything. War is such a profitable business that pretty much everyone has some sort of an interest, and sooner or later, Mace realizes there aren't too many people he can actually trust.

Bottom line

I could probably go on with this list even further. There are plenty of good military thrillers and Navy books out there, some of them based on tough war realities, others written from pure fiction.

However, I believe the above mentioned list will satisfy your hunger for action, mystery, drama, and thrillers. And to make things even better, I've also included a few series with great endings, excellent for follow-ups and further action.

Check out also our favorite historical mystery books!

Joel Stafford

medium.com/@joelbooks

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The Third Testament by Pierre Rehov

Joel Stafford — Sat, 17 Jul 2021 14:50:32 +0000

A Breathless Hunt Against The Backdrop of Current Events and Historical Facts

1992. In the underground archives of the KGB, agent Alexei Soloviev discovers by chance a secret testament of Adolf Hitler seized in his bunker by the Red Army
Thirty years later, unusual disturbances in Islamist circles connected with neo-Nazi organizations lead the young Intelligence Services analyst, Melanie Carson, to infiltrate a group of white supremacists in Pennsylvania.
A discovery as terrifying as it is unexpected will lead her into a dangerous adventure with her new companion, Jeff Cartright.

Would the Nazi expeditions to Tibet in the 1930's have enabled Himmler to find the original text of the Karma of Kalachakra, an esoteric work attributed to the Buddha himself, which allows the followers of Dalai Lama's to find the reincarnation of their leader? Could neo-Nazis, whose rallying sign is the number “88” – an 8 for each “H” in “Heil Hitler” – have succeeded in taking control of several terrorist organizations, with the common objective of upsetting the world order and perhaps resurrecting the Third Reich?

From Washington to Pennsylvania, from Boston to Moscow, from Eastern Germany to Banda Aceh and the suffocating jungles of Sumatra, The Third Testament takes the reader on a breathtaking adventure where reality often surpasses fiction.

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Joel Stafford

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Spies Like Me by Doug Solter

Joel Stafford — Thu, 08 Jul 2021 09:26:01 +0000

The Gems Spy Series Book 1

A personal message from the author:

I sometimes ask myself this question, “why do I like writing stories about teenagers?” Shouldn't I be writing about the adult experience? Isn't that more of a “serious” subject worthy of serious literature? Well, I've found that I'm not interested in the normal teen problems of who to date or who to take to prom, or why was that girl staring at me in biology? What I do love is writing from a teen's point of view. How they see the world. Their hopes and dreams. Their fears and concerns. I know what adults think about, and quite frankly, it's not that interesting because I already live that life every day. So I tend to enjoy writing stories about the experiences of extra-ordinary teen characters who lead fascinating lives. Or lives I wish I had when I was a teen.

Another perk of writing young adult fiction is being able to finally understand a group of humans that have eluded me for over thirty-five years. Women. Now, do I fully understand them? No. But– hear me out–I have learned how to empathize with their worldview and understand their fears and concerns. Reading about those young female heroines of YA novels gave me a new perspective on how women think. For instance, how they see other women, how they see themselves, and how they see men. Also, the anxieties and fears we both share. Similarities that define both sexes as human beings. It's been an eye-opening experience.

I wish I had this knowledge when I was a young man because it would have helped me understand that girls were not these strange creatures with alien-type brains…but they were more like me than I could ever imagine.

In terms of the young adult book world, I think my approach to writing young adult novels is different from other authors. I tend to write larger-than-life stories full of escapism, instead of a teen drama set in high school. There ‘s nothing wrong with those types of books. Far from it. Many of those books help teens navigate through serious subjects and provides them with the power to take control of their problems and concerns. Or sometimes it can show them that they are not alone.

But I think some teens want that escapism from their normal lives. They want to dream. They want to be inspired. They want to stretch themselves beyond what they think is possible.

If I can help one young reader think beyond their four walls of existence, and embrace the larger world around them, then I consider my job done.

— Doug Solter

Can she bring these girls together? When she discovers her father's plane crash wasn't an accident, sixteen-year-old Emma wants to punish those responsible. Even if it means becoming a spy for a mysterious organization known as The Authority.

They want Emma to join the Gems…four young women who know how to handle themselves in dangerous situations. Like sneaking into a mountain stronghold to stop terrorists from incinerating the world's food supply.

The Authority thinks Emma is the missing link to make this team work.

Emma thinks The Authority is her only chance for revenge.

Spies Like Me is the first book in The Gems Young Adult spy series that features fast-paced action, crazy thrills, girl-power bonding, International intrigue, and a touch of romance.

If you like culturally-diverse characters, fun dialogue, cool spy gadgets, and a romance with a complex boy to figure out, then the first book in Doug Solter's exciting new spy series is for you.

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Joel Stafford

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Winston Churchill’s Renegade Spy by Steve Haberman

Joel Stafford — Fri, 21 Aug 2020 01:03:39 +0000

Mid-1940, the darkest of the nights for Britain during WWII. Adolf Hitler's unstoppable military has conquered most of Europe, including France, only twenty miles from the English coast. It is now set to conquer the island-nation itself. Plotting to aid this onslaught, a German spy lurks somewhere within Winston Churchill's government.

Only $1.95 for a limited time!

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Joel Stafford

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Beyond Red Lines by Pierre Rehov

Joel Stafford — Sun, 24 May 2020 19:00:00 +0000

A globe-trotting novel in which suspense is everywhere

A personal message from the author:

I am a reporter and documentary filmmaker working in war zones. This fiction book reflects my personal experience. After 4 novels published in French and German, this is my first one published in English.

— Pierre Rehov

It was an unexpected offer, the job of a lifetime.

Who wouldn’t want to lead a team of computer experts on a top secret project in the heart of Mexico?
But Theo had other gifts and a very special talent…
A talent which would change his destiny.

As a young conscript, Theo Collin is noticed by his superior officer for his unique abilities. Luckily, a freak accident saves him from being sent to the front in Iraq, but his officer will never forget him.

A decade later, married and the father of a little girl, Theo is offered a prestigious position as Chief Computer Scientist in Mexico. What he doesn't know is that behind this unexpected promotion lies a deadly trap.

In the New York offices of his multinational corporation, Gregory Cheston is dead set on avenging his brother, the victim of an Islamist terrorist attack. Head of a colossal fortune and convinced that political correctness is hindering democracy's fight against terrorism, Gregory takes thing into his own hands. Born is the White Cells organization, a group free to do what it takes to get justice.

With unlimited resources and the help of the local mafia, the White Cells set up secret training camps in the Sierra Madre, recruiting thousands of mercenaries. But how many of them are really mercenaries? And how many were recruited against their will?

It's in one of these camps that Theo experiences hell on earth. After months of vigorous training in subhuman conditions, all he can think of is his family. All he wants to do is find his wife and daughter at all cost. Nothing will stop him, not even the White Cells or Gregory Cheston. He will take them all down if he has to.

If you enjoy Military Action Fiction, then Beyond Red Lines is for you.

Beyond Red Lines is available for .99c till June the 10th

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Joel Stafford

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The Knucklehead of Silicon Valley by G Craig Vachon

Joel Stafford — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 09:29:32 +0000

“The Knucklehead is a great eye-opening read. Vachon weaves a story that is both impossible to believe and impossible to ignore — It is ridiculously funny and frighteningly real. Be prepared to learn, to laugh and yes, to worry about what's happening behind the cyber world curtain.”― Rick Roth – Former Global CEO, Ogilvy Action

Ralph Gibsen isn't your typical spy. In fact, he may not be a spy at all. He's lumpy, blundering and abysmal at chatting up the fairer sex. Yet, he is attracting a significant amount of attention from the intelligence community. After all, as a 30-year Silicon Valley mainstay, he can phish your passwords, bust firewalls, and has developed software used by millions to circumvent government censorship. And now, he thinks he has stumbled upon a cabal who is pushing to misuse his own technology for world domination. Ralph helps create an educational Tool that maps a learner's neurological processes and pinpoints the exact moment a student learns. But the Tool can also manipulate people's beliefs. At least, that what several influential people think. Soon, Ralph finds himself the target of increasingly complex attacks on his businesses, reputation, freedom, and life. Ralph enlists an eclectic group of ‘frenemies' to thwart this nefarious plot. McKenna may or may not still work for the CIA. Beautiful Eva may work for the Chinese government, who wants the Tool for themselves. Even Ralph's lovely wife Jen could be involved… Ralph simply isn't equipped to figure it out. And the world is closing in.

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Joel Stafford

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