Book Report: Thrillers

Do you go through book stages? Sometimes I find myself obsessively reading memoir after gritty memoir of childhood dysfunction. Then I’ll go through a World War II/Tudor England/Renaissance Italy/Civil War historical fiction phase, followed by a sudden need to read every book short-listed for the year’s National Book Award. Occasionally, I’ll decide to “improve” myself and go on a short-lived non-fiction kick.

Lately though, I’ve been in the mood for thrillers—fast, easy page-turners that keep me engaged and guessing from start to finish. These are the perfect books to read on the beach, by the pool, or—in my case—on the couch, while my husband watches basketball (it is March, after all). Here are three of my recent favorites—and a big thanks to my friend Wendy for the great recommendations.

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
Are they crazy, or aren’t they? Each of the three women who narrate this addictive book aren’t quite what they seem, and you never know whose story to trust—if any. There’s Rachel, the heartbroken alcoholic voyeur; Anna, the mistress-turned-wife; and Megan, the golden girl whose sudden disappearance is at the heart of the mystery. A must-read!

The Silent Wife by A. S. A Harrison
Between a philandering husband and a cold-as-ice wife, you might not feel any love for the characters, but you will get obsessed nonetheless. She’s ignored his cheating for decades in favor of the lifestyle he provides, but when she’s finally had enough, she shows what can happen when a person feels they have nothing left to lose.

The Jury Master by Robert Dugoni
I discovered this Seattle lawyer-turned-author a few months ago and have enjoyed his fast-paced thrillers (some of which include references to the Northwest). In his debut novel, he introduces attorney David Sloane, who finds out more about his own past than he bargained for when a close friend of the President is found dead under mysterious circumstances.

Have you read any good page-turners lately? Let us know!