Books that evoke goosebumps and chills aren’t limited to just the horror genre. Emotional, thought-provoking, and suspenseful tales can also have this effect, leaving readers with an unforgettable and intense experience.
1. The Tattooist of Auschwitz.(Heather Morris)
Genre: Historical fiction, world war II, romance
Length: 272 pages
First published: January 11, 2018
Opinion: Reading “The Tattooist of Auschwitz” was a profoundly stirring experience that left me trembling with emotion. Heather Morris’ poignant portrayal of Lale Sokolov’s harrowing journey through the horrors of the concentration camp evoked a visceral response. I was shocked and moved to the core by the resilience and humanity amidst unimaginable darkness, feeling goosebumps with each turn of the page. Read More
Plot: “The Tattooist of Auschwitz” by Heather Morris recounts the true story of Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew imprisoned in Auschwitz during World War II. As the camp’s tattooist, Lale is forced to brand his fellow prisoners with identification numbers. Amidst the horrors of the Holocaust, Lale finds hope and love when he meets Gita, a fellow inmate. Risking their lives, Lale and Gita embark on a clandestine romance, defying the brutality of the Nazis. Through courage, determination, and love, they navigate the darkest of times, offering a poignant testament to the resilience of the human spirit amidst unimaginable suffering.
2. The Silence Of The Lambs. (Thomas Harris)
Genre: Horror, Thriller, Crime
Length: 421 pages
First published: July 1, 1988
Opinion: Reading “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris was a gripping and chilling experience that left me on the edge of my seat. Harris’ masterful storytelling and intricately crafted characters filled me with a sense of unease and anticipation. With each page, I felt a mix of fascination and dread, captivated by the psychological depth of the narrative and the intense cat-and-mouse game between FBI agent Clarice Starling and the brilliant but monstrous Hannibal Lecter. It’s a book that kept me enthralled from beginning to end, leaving a lasting impression long after I turned the final page.Read More
Plot: “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling as she seeks the help of incarcerated cannibalistic serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter to catch another serial killer, Buffalo Bill. As Clarice delves deeper into the twisted mind of Lecter, she becomes entangled in a dangerous game of psychological manipulation. Meanwhile, Buffalo Bill continues his gruesome spree, kidnapping young women to create a “woman suit.” Harris weaves a suspenseful tale of cat-and-mouse, filled with intense psychological suspense and chilling revelations, culminating in a heart-pounding climax that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
3. Anxious People. (Fredrik Backman)
Genre: Fiction, Contemporary, mystery
Length: 336 pages
First published: April 25, 2019
Opinion: Reading “Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman left me shaking with laughter and choked with emotion. Backman’s unpredictable yet humorous storytelling struck a chord, evoking goosebumps with every turn of the page. The quirky characters and unexpected plot twists kept me captivated, making it impossible to put the book down. It’s a rollercoaster ride of emotions that leaves a lasting impression.Read More
Plot: “Anxious People” by Fredrik Backman follows a failed bank robber who, during a hostage situation, inadvertently finds himself inside an apartment viewing. The situation escalates as a diverse group of individuals, each with their own anxieties and burdens, becomes entangled. Through humor and empathy, the novel delves into the complexities of human connection, exploring themes of love, loss, and the power of forgiveness. As the narrative unfolds, secrets are revealed, bonds are formed, and lives are changed, culminating in a heartwarming tale of redemption and second chances.
4. Misery. (Stephen King)
Genre: Horror, thriller
Length: 370 pages
First published: June 8, 1987
Opinion:
Reading “Misery” by Stephen King was a heart-pounding experience that left me with goosebumps and chills in the best way possible. King’s skillful storytelling and intricate plot kept me completely engrossed, as I was taken on an intense journey through the mind of a deranged fan and her captive author. The suspense and tension were palpable, and I found myself eagerly turning pages to see how the story would unfold.Read More
Plot:
“Misery” by Stephen King follows the story of Paul Sheldon, a popular novelist who finds himself trapped in a remote cabin after a car accident. His captor, Annie Wilkes, is a devoted fan who is not happy with the ending of Paul’s latest book. As Paul struggles to escape, Annie’s obsession with him escalates, leading to a chilling and intense psychological battle. The novel explores themes of obsession, madness, and the power of storytelling, as Paul grapples with his captor’s erratic behavior and fights to regain his freedom. It’s a gripping and suspenseful tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
5. The Secret History. (Donna Tartt)
Genre: Mystery, thriller, classics
Length: 559 pages
First published: September 16, 1992
Opinion: Reading “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt was an intense and captivating experience that left me with goosebumps and chills. Tartt’s masterful storytelling and richly drawn characters pulled me into the dark and twisted world of a group of eccentric college students entangled in a murder plot. The novel’s atmospheric setting and suspenseful plot kept me on the edge of my seat, and the shocking and unexpected twists left me reeling. It’s a thrilling and unforgettable read that will leave you with chills long after you finish the last page.Read More
Plot:
“The Secret History” by Donna Tartt follows the story of a group of eccentric college students at Hampden College in Vermont, who become entangled in a murder plot. The novel is narrated by Richard Papen, a transfer student who is drawn into the inner circle of the group, which includes the enigmatic and charismatic Henry Winter, the seductive and unpredictable Bunny Corcoran, the beautiful and aloof Camilla Macaulay, and the brilliant and rebellious twins Charles and Camilla Macaulay. As the group becomes increasingly isolated and secretive, they become involved in a series of increasingly dangerous and criminal activities, leading to a shocking and unforgettable conclusion.
6. Where The Crowdads Sing. (Delia Owens)
Genre: Historical fiction, mystery, romance
Length: 384 pages
First published: August 14, 2018