Entertainment
For many modern readers, books that offer surprises and plot twists are uniquely enjoyable. Sure, it's fun to read stories that follow a traditional plot and come to an ending you can see a mile away. But there's something about the moment of shock when an author catches you by surprise that can be addictive and thrilling. That's why many readers are on the lookout for books that have crazy plot twists and are seriously enthralling. It's fun to get shocked.
Of course, thrillers and mysteries are highly represented in this category — can you imagine a murder mystery without a plot twist? — but plenty of sci-fi and young adult reads also use the element of surprise. Whatever the genre, the best twists leave the reader staring into space and trying to backtrack the plot for potential clues.
In the hands of a capable author, these twists are woven deep into the plots and still make sense once they are revealed. Sometimes, the twist is staring you in the face throughout the entire story, but you're too distracted by other action to notice it. Whatever the case, books with insanely clever plot twists make reading that much more addictive and captivating.
1
'The Girl On The Train' by Paula Hawkins
This book is wildly popular for a good reason. Paula Hawkins' The Girl On The Train is a fast-paced thriller that turns a London suburb into a murder scene. Affairs, alcoholism, and plenty of small-town secrets make this story a standout.
2
'The Murder Of Roger Ackroyd' by Agatha Christie
Many mystery stories hinge on the plot twist, and there are plenty of current writers who pull this off masterfully. But Agatha Christie's The Murder of Roger Ackroyd is definitely worth checking out, because the twist in this mystery is so gripping, it's been freaking out readers for generations. You can't go wrong with anything by Christie, really, but this story's quiet reveal will take even the savviest mystery buff by surprise.
3
'The Family Tree' by Sheri Tepper
Speculative fiction can make for an exciting, unexpected read. And The Family Tree, by Sheri Tepper, follows Dora as she investigates a triple murder. Could the sudden overgrowth of weeds and trees somehow be connected?
4
'Invisible Monsters' by Chuck Palahniuk
The Fight Club author knows his way around a plot twist. And Chuck Palahniuk's Invisible Monsters, which features a fashion model who has to cope with a disfiguring accident, is another exciting read. All you can do is hold on and enjoy the ride.
5
'The Tenth Circle' by Jodi Picoult
How strong is the bond between a parent and child? This question is at the center of Jodi Picoult's The Tenth Circle, which examines a potential violent act against a young teenaged girl. It examines the consequences of trauma and betrayal.
6
'You' by Caroline Kepnes
How much can strangers learn about you through social media? You by Caroline Kepnes explores the story of Joe as he cyber-stalks Guinevere — and uses his knowledge to become her version of the perfect boyfriend. It will make you think twice before posting.
7
'Hexwood' by Diana Wynne Jones
This puzzling fantasy novel unfolds in a surprising way. Linear time is more or less disregarded in Hexwood by Diana Wynne Jones, which combines fable, Arthurian legend, and lives in other galaxies. The protagonist Ann learns that she is so much more than a tween living in the suburbs of London.
8
'Use Of Weapons' by Iain Banks
Iain M. Banks' Use Of Weapons combines sci-fi and brilliant characters. Set on Culture, a utopian civilization, it follows the adventures of people and drones alike. But be prepared for the real story behind Cheradinine's past.
9
'Fingersmith' by Sarah Waters
If you love Charles Dickens, then this story is for you. Sarah Waters' Fingersmith follows the journey of Sue Trinder, an orphan who grows up with a kindly adoptive family in a London slum. But the arrival of a con man with a tempting offer sends her on an unexpected path.
10
'Ender's Game' by Orson Scott Card
If you aren't already familiar with this sci-fi classic, then you're in for a treat. Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card involves children bred for battle, an attacking alien race, and the fate of the Earth itself. You can follow Ender's mission to save the Earth, and the surprising obstacles that he must overcome.
11
'The Cutting Season' by Attica Locke
Attica Locke's The Cutting Season is a murder mystery and so much more. Set on a Louisiana plantation, this novel examines murder, American history, and race and class issues. A mystery with historical roots, it is a thought-provoking read.
