As an avid book lover, I understand the feeling of wanting a cozy night in with yourself, away from the worries of classes the next morning. Whether you’re bored and can’t find a new series, or simply don’t know what to read, I’ve got you! Here are three of my favorite thriller and mystery books that kept my heart racing.
‘Night Watcher’ by daphne woolsoncroft
Night Watcher is a thriller by Daphne Woolsoncroft. The story follows Nola, who survived an encounter with a notorious serial killer known as the “Hiding Man.” Years later, while hosting her show, a caller experiences a live home invasion that matches the killer’s methods.
This is one of the best books I’ve read so far in 2026. The ending is a chilling experience that you don’t want to miss. The way Nola takes matters into her own hands to unmask the killer is truly impressive. In addition, Woolsoncroft’s ability to create a paranormal environment that you can visually imagine and feel is something I haven’t experienced in a long time. In my opinion, you should give this book a try because you’ll experience the anxiety and nervousness of a person who isn’t even real.
‘Murder in the Family’ by cara hunter
Murder in the Family unfolds like a streaming true-crime show that gathers experts to re-investigate the 20-year-old unsolved murder of filmmaker Guy Howard’s stepfather.
I love the way the book is set up like a mystery where you must stay wide awake and alert to solve the case alongside the characters. If you read this book, you must do better than me by keeping track of the names of each character because there are family members, detectives, and side characters connected to the murder victim. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, another character appears, and the story takes a completely different direction. I cannot forget the time I spent the whole night reading, trying to get to the point of the biggest plot twist in the book, only for everything to turn out completely differently than I expected.
‘You Shouldn’t Have Come Here’ by jeneva rose
You Shouldn’t Have Come Here by Jeneva Rose is a psychological thriller about Grace Evans, an overworked New Yorker who books an isolated Airbnb on a Wyoming ranch owned by charming Calvin Wells.
This book is the definition of red flags in romance and in a person. How can someone date a walking red flag while knowing they’re a red flag? That’s something I’ve never read about quite like this before! If you like books involving psychological manipulation, this is the one for you. This story does something you don’t usually see in dark thriller romances: it makes you question whether the person you believe is innocent or guilty is shaping your understanding of the story through their own narrative and perspective.
Build Your Fall TBR
Three books, three crazy plots! Even though these are only three of the many options out there, thrillers and mysteries can become your new fall activity. And hey, cute fall romances that are easy on the brain can make reading just as enjoyable. So grab a blanket, make your favorite cozy drink, and add a new mystery to your TBR!