17 Gripping Short Thriller Books to Keep You on Edge

Dive into pulse-pounding suspense with our curated list of the best short thriller books, perfect for gripping reads in under 200 pages.
17 Gripping Short Thriller Books to Keep You on Edge

Top Quick Picks For You

Top Money-Saving Choice

Fetching Raymond

Fetching Raymond

Fetching Raymond is an affordable option, making it the best choice for those looking to save money while enjoying a compelling short story.

Best for Quick Reads

Dean Koontz

Dean Koontz

The Neighbor is a short story Kindle Single, perfect for readers who want a quick and engaging read.

Best for Psychological Thrills

Don't Let Her Stay

Don't Let Her Stay

Don't Let Her Stay is an unputdownable psychological thriller that captivates readers with its intense plot twists.

Best for Classic Anthologies

Bad People

Bad People

Bad People offers a collection of four terrifying short novels of suspense, making it an excellent choice for those interested in classic style anthologies.

Best Short Thriller Books

If you're yearning for a pulse-pounding escape wrapped in the pages of a gripping read, look no further. The world of short thriller books is a treasure trove of nail-biting suspense and heart-stopping twists that deliver maximum thrill in minimal time. Whether you're a busy professional or a curious reader seeking a swift literary adventure, these compact tales promise to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Top Money-Saving Choice: Fetching Raymond

Fetching Raymond: A Story from the Ford County Collection
Highlights
Quick and engaging read
Interesting characters
Well-written short story

“Fetching Raymond” stands out as our Top Money-Saving Choice in the realm of short thrillers .

At just 64 pages, it’s a quick and engaging read, perfect for those with a busy schedule or just craving a rapid escape .

The characters are interesting, pulling you into a well-crafted plot that leaves you wanting more .

While some might yearn for a deeper character development, the compelling storyline and affordable price make it a steal for thriller enthusiasts .

With a 3.7-star rating from 17 reviews, this is a delightful dip into suspense that won’t break the bank !

Enjoy the thrill!

Be sure to also check out the best legal thriller books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Fetching Raymond on Amazon

Best for Quick Reads: Dean Koontz

The Neighbor (Short Story) (Kindle Single)
Highlights
Engaging plots
Quick reads
Twists and turns

The Neighbor stands out as our top pick for Best for Quick Reads !

This enthralling Kindle Single offers an engaging plot that pulls you in from the first page, making it perfect for those fleeting moments of downtime .

With its cleverly crafted twists and turns, you'll find yourself racing to the last word .

However, since it's a shorter read, you might miss out on deeper character development and intricate world-building .

But hey, if you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller, shorter character arcs are a small price to pay for such gripping suspense !

Happy reading!

Be sure to also check out the best short history books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Dean Koontz on Amazon

Best for Psychological Thrills: Don't Let Her Stay

Don't Let Her Stay: An unputdownable psychological thriller with a breathtaking twist
Highlights
Quick and engaging read
Keeps you on edge
Suitable for beginners

Don't Let Her Stay steals the spotlight as our pick for "Best for Psychological Thrills." This gripping narrative invites you into a whirlwind of unexpected twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat .

At 292 pages, it's a quick and engaging read, perfect for those new to the genre .

While some may find certain plot points a tad implausible and characters less than likable, the sheer intensity of the story compensates for these flaws .

Get ready to experience a thrilling ride that demands your attention—once you start, there’s no turning back!

Be sure to also check out the best smoothie books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Don't Let Her Stay on Amazon

Best for Classic Anthologies: Bad People

Bad People: Four terrifying short novels of suspense
Highlights
Compelling writing style
Unexpected endings
Spooky and engaging stories

Dive into Bad People, our top pick for classic anthologies, and prepare for a thrilling ride !

This collection features four spine-chilling short novels that showcase compelling writing styles and unexpected endings that'll leave you on the edge of your seat .

We appreciate the spooky and engaging stories that cater to fans of suspense, although some may find the pacing to vary and might experience a touch of anxiety .

Don’t let cultural terminology deter you—each tale grips you with its riveting charm .

If you dare to explore a new definition of terror, look no further than this anthology!

Be sure to also check out the best military thriller books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Bad People on Amazon

Night Shift

Night Shift
Highlights
Engaging collection of stories
Classic Stephen King work
Thought-provoking themes

This collection of short thrillers by Stephen King is a real treat for fans of the genre .

Spanning 544 pages, it presents engaging stories that delve into thought-provoking themes—each one masterfully crafted, though some may leave you wanting more with their weak endings .

While the inconsistent story quality might deter casual readers, for King aficionados, this anthology is pure gold .

We appreciate the compact size that makes it easy to relish on the go .

So if you're ready for a thrilling journey that may just keep you up at night, this book is not to be missed!

Be sure to also check out the best historical thriller books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Night Shift on Amazon

Then She Was Gone

Then She Was Gone: A Novel
Highlights
Engaging character development
Well-written and suspenseful
Fast-paced narrative

If you’re craving an engaging read that’s both suspenseful and fast-paced, we think you’ll appreciate this short thriller .

With 384 pages of gripping narrative, the book captivates through its dynamic character development .

Yes, it’s true—some fans might find a few plot twists predictable, but that doesn’t diminish the thrill of the chase .

While some readers might feel it takes a bit to gather steam, the payoff is undeniably rewarding .

With an impressive 4.5-star rating, it’s clear many have enjoyed the ride .

Ideal for a quick escape, this book perfectly balances intriguing elements of character and plot!

Be sure to also check out the best short romance books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Then She Was Gone on Amazon

Escape Room Short Thriller Books

Escape Room (Underlined Paperbacks)
Highlights
Engaging for young readers
Fast-paced read
Intriguing plot twists

If you're on the lookout for an engaging thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat, look no further! This book is perfect for young readers craving a fast-paced adventure .

We love how it strikes a balance between intriguing plot twists and a gripping narrative that grabs attention from the very first page .

However, be aware that some sexual content might not be suitable for younger audiences, and adults may find certain aspects a bit predictable .

Still, for those seeking a thrilling escape, this book is a delightful choice to ignite your imagination!

Be sure to also check out the best reptile books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Escape Room on Amazon

Home Before Dark

Home Before Dark
Highlights
Engaging writing style
Well-developed characters
Keeps readers guessing

Ready to dive into a gripping tale ?

This short thriller is a delightful ride that showcases an engaging writing style and well-developed characters, making each twist and turn utterly irresistible .

We appreciate how the story keeps us guessing, leaving us perched on the edge of our seats .

However, the ending felt a bit rushed for our taste, and the plot twist didn't quite deliver the punch we anticipated .

Nevertheless, if you're after a quick read that packs a thrill, this book could be a stellar choice .

Just grab your favorite spot and prepare for an intense journey!

Be sure to also check out the best short stories dostoevsky for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Home Before Dark on Amazon

I Am Watching You

I Am Watching You
Highlights
Gripping storyline
Strong character development
Surprising twists

When diving into this thriller, we were immediately captured by its gripping storyline and the way characters unfold on the pages .

It’s a delightful mix of suspense and psychological depth, though we noticed that mild suspense at times may lead to a predictable outcome .

The surprising twists keep you on your toes, making it a compelling read despite some variable pacing .

With its 299 pages of thrills, it’s perfect for a quick binge .

Fans of the genre will appreciate the strong character development, ensuring you're invested until the last page .

Overall, it’s a must-check for any thriller enthusiast!

Be sure to also check out the best mocktail books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for I Am Watching You on Amazon

The Surgeon Short Thriller Books

The Surgeon
Highlights
Thrilling plot twists
Engaging characters
Fast-paced narrative

We delved into this gripping thriller published by Grand Central Publishing, and wow, does it deliver on suspense !

With 288 pages and a fast-paced narrative, we were quickly drawn into a world filled with engaging characters and thrilling plot twists that kept us on the edge of our seats .

While the initial pace might feel a tad slow, it certainly picks up, racing toward an ending that some might find a bit rushed .

Despite a few moments where believability wobbles, this book is still a must-read for any thriller aficionado .

Get ready for a wild ride!

Be sure to also check out the best submarine books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for The Surgeon on Amazon

Courier

Courier
Highlights
Fast-paced narrative
Unpredictable twist ending
Engaging villain perspective

We are excited to share our thoughts on this fast-paced thriller that clocks in at just 171 pages .

With an engaging villain perspective and a plot laden with unpredictable twists, it's sure to keep you on the edge of your seat .

However, do note that some characters might feel inconsistent, and while the ending is thrilling, it doesn’t entirely break new ground .

That said, for those seeking a quick, suspense-filled read, this book delivers excitement in spades .

For its lightweight feel and captivating narrative, we think it’s a solid addition to your reading list—just don’t expect a lengthy saga!

Be sure to also check out the best hspt prep books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Courier on Amazon

Those Empty Eyes

Those Empty Eyes: A Chilling Novel of Suspense with a Shocking Twist
Highlights
Engaging plot twists
Well-defined characters
Captivating storytelling

We absolutely adore this upcoming thriller from Kensington !

With engaging plot twists and well-defined characters, it delivers a spellbinding experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat .

The captivating storytelling draws you into its intricate web—perfect for any adrenaline junkie .

However, be prepared for some pacing that can feel a tad slow at times .

With a whopping 432 pages, it’s a bit longer than your average thriller, and you may find yourself juggling a few characters .

But trust us, the suspense is well worth the ride !

Overall, this is a page-turner you won’t want to miss.

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Price history for Those Empty Eyes on Amazon

You Like It Darker Short Thriller Books

You Like It Darker: Stories
Highlights
Engaging and thrilling stories
Diverse range of topics
Perfect for King fans

These short thriller books deliver an exhilarating punch in a compact package .

Each story is uniquely crafted, ensuring our reading adventure is always fresh and engaging .

If you're a fan of Stephen King, you'll appreciate the diverse range of eerie topics that keep your heart racing .

However, be prepared for a mixed bag—some tales may not hit the mark, and the varying story lengths can disrupt the flow .

Plus, a bit of context knowledge might enhance your experience .

Overall, these thrillers are perfect for those eager for suspense without dedicating hours to each tale .

Happy reading!

Be sure to also check out the best motherhood books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for You Like It Darker on Amazon

The Wife Before

The Wife Before: A Spellbinding Psychological Thriller with a Shocking Twist
Highlights
Engaging plot twists
Compelling writing style
Fast-paced & easy read

Dive into a whirlwind of suspense with this gripping short thriller !

Published by Dafina and released in June 2022, we love its engaging plot twists and compelling writing style that keep readers glued to the pages .

At just 320 pages, it's a fast-paced read that pulls you in without a second thought .

While a few may find the ending a touch predictable, the overall experience is undeniably thrilling .

It's perfect for those looking for a quick yet satisfying literary escape .

Just remember, not every reader may resonate with its style, but we say — take the plunge!

Be sure to also check out the best automotive books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for The Wife Before on Amazon

The Gift

The Gift: A Christmas Thriller Novelette
Highlights
Quick, engaging read
Surprising plot twists
Holiday-themed suspense

We absolutely loved diving into this short thriller !

With just 50 pages, it’s an ideal choice for those looking for a quick, engaging read, especially during the holiday season .

The surprising plot twists kept us on our toes, making it hard to put down .

However, the brief format may leave some readers wanting more, as there’s limited depth to the characters .

Additionally, a few seemed confused by their motivations .

Though it boasts a mixed bag of reviews, its unique holiday-themed suspense offers a fresh escape .

For thrill-seekers in a hurry, this could be your next guilty pleasure!

Be sure to also check out the best bridge books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for The Gift on Amazon

Last Seen Alone Short Thriller Books

Last Seen Alone
Highlights
Fast-paced narrative
Stand-alone story
Engaging characters

If you’re craving a fast-paced read that pulls you into a world of suspense, this book from Berkley is a solid choice .

With engaging characters and a complete, stand-alone narrative, we found ourselves eagerly flipping pages to uncover each twist .

However, some readers noted repetitive descriptions and issues with editing that might detract from the overall experience .

While the romance subplot received mixed reviews, it didn’t overshadow the thrilling central plot .

With a respectable 4.4-star rating, this gem certainly deserves a spot on your shelf .

So, buckle up for a ride that’s sure to keep you on your toes!

Be sure to also check out the best orchid book for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Last Seen Alone on Amazon

Something in the Water

Something in the Water: Reese's Book Club: A Novel
Highlights
Engaging and suspenseful plot
Strong character development
Intriguing writing style

We loved diving into this short thriller !

The plot is irresistibly engaging, pulling us into a web of suspense that kept us on the edge of our seats .

The strong character development made each twist hit harder, allowing us to truly connect with the story .

We particularly enjoyed the author’s intriguing writing style—it felt fresh and captivating .

However, we did notice a slow build-up at the beginning, which might test your patience before the action kicks in .

Plus, the abrupt ending left us wanting more, giving it an almost movie-like feel .

Overall, this book is a thrilling escapade worth your time!

Be sure to also check out the best archery books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Something in the Water on Amazon

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