Table of Contents
Sidney Sheldon was a master storyteller known for his gripping narratives and compelling characters. He often blurred the lines between mystery and thriller, creating captivating crime fiction that kept readers on the edge of their seats. Here are eight crime fiction books that Sheldon would likely recommend, showcasing suspense, intricate plots, and unforgettable characters.
1. The Other Side of Midnight by Sidney Sheldon
One of Sheldon’s own classics, this novel weaves a tale of love, betrayal, and revenge set against the backdrop of World War II. The story follows the intertwining lives of two women, Noelle Page and Kate Browning, and their encounters with the enigmatic man, Larry Douglas. The plot takes readers through France, America, and Greece, exploring themes of ambition and the consequences of revenge. Sheldon’s hallmark twists and character development shine in this thrilling read.
2. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
A modern psychological thriller, this novel tells the story of Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who inexplicably shoots her husband and then stops speaking entirely. Theo Faber, a psychotherapist, becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind her silence. Michaelides crafts a suspenseful narrative filled with unexpected twists, making it a riveting choice for fans of Sheldon's dramatic storytelling.
3. Before I Go to Sleep by S.J. Watson
This gripping psychological thriller centers on Christine Lucas, who suffers from amnesia and wakes up every day with no memory of her past. Through her journal, she pieces together the truth about her life, leading to shocking revelations. The novel’s exploration of memory and identity echoes the tension and intrigue found in Sheldon’s works, making it a compelling recommendation.
4. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
A contemporary classic in the crime fiction genre, "Gone Girl" explores the complex relationship between Nick and Amy Dunne. When Amy goes missing, the media frenzy and police investigation unravel the couple’s secrets, revealing dark truths and manipulations. Flynn's sharp writing and unexpected twists resonate with Sheldon’s flair for suspense and his ability to keep readers guessing until the very end.
5. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
This international bestseller introduces readers to journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander as they investigate a decades-old disappearance in Sweden. Larsson’s intricate plotting and well-developed characters create a gripping narrative filled with mystery and intrigue. The themes of power, corruption, and revenge are reminiscent of Sheldon’s storytelling style, making it an excellent addition to any crime fiction collection.
6. The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn
In this psychological thriller, Anna Fox, an agoraphobic woman, spends her days observing her neighbors from her window. When she witnesses a crime, her world unravels as she becomes entangled in a web of deception. Finn's novel explores themes of isolation and the reliability of perception, echoing the suspenseful atmosphere often found in Sheldon’s works.
7. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Moriarty's novel delves into the lives of three women entangled in a murder mystery at a school trivia night. Through cleverly interwoven narratives, the story explores themes of friendship, domestic abuse, and the facades people maintain. The blend of humor and darkness, alongside the suspenseful unraveling of secrets, aligns well with Sheldon’s penchant for intricate plots and character-driven storytelling.
8. The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling)
In this debut novel of the Cormoran Strike series, private investigator Strike is hired to investigate the death of a supermodel, Lula Landry. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a world of secrets, lies, and unexpected truths. Rowling’s intricate plotting and rich character development resonate with Sheldon’s storytelling style, making this a compelling read for fans of crime fiction.