9 Books About Midwestern Towns Full of Dark Secrets

Published by Likewise | Jan 17, 2025 Dive into the eerie allure of the Midwest through these gripping novels that intricately explore the dark undercurrents of small-town life.

Sharp Objects

NOW AN HBO® LIMITED SERIES STARRING AMY ADAMS and nominated for eight Emmy awards, Sharp Objects is a masterful thriller from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Gone Girl. The story centers on Camille Preaker, a reporter fresh from a psych hospital, as she returns to her small hometown to cover the gruesome murders of two preteen girls. Amidst the tension with her neurotic mother and her eerie half-sister, Camille finds herself deeper entangled in the psychological mystery surrounding the victims. Praised as “Nasty, addictive reading” by the Chicago Tribune, and “Skillful and disturbing” by the Washington Post, this novel combines elements of horror and psychological insight, making it a haunting literary experience.

A Simple Plan delivers a thrilling exploration of moral degradation when three ordinary men discover the wreckage of a plane. Inside, they find four million dollars in cash, leading to their descent into a life of crime. Dubbed “Spectacular” and “ten shades blacker” than John Grisham by Entertainment Weekly, this novel skillfully dissects how a simple decision can spiral into chaos, exposing the dark underbellies of small-town lives.

Shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize, Eileen is a strikingly original debut novel by Ottessa Moshfegh. It unfolds the story of a troubled young woman, Eileen Dunlop, navigating the complexities of her life as a secretary at a juvenile correctional facility while caring for her alcoholic father. The narrative becomes increasingly tense as Eileen develops a dangerous friendship with a new counselor. Dubbed “creepy” and “profoundly funny,” this novel captures an unsettling psychological landscape.

The debut novel History of Wolves by Emily Fridlund captivates with its exploration of adolescence intertwined with hidden dangers in the Minnesota woods. Following teenage Linda, the story unveils her struggles with isolation and familial secrets as profound events unfold around her. A finalist for the Man Booker Award, this haunting tale is recognized as one of the New York Times’ 100 Notable Books of 2017, evolving into a poignant commentary on youth and trust.

Neil Gaiman's American Gods blends fantasy and reality, revealing the struggles faced by deities in a modern society. Focusing on Shadow Moon, a man who finds himself drawn into an ancient conflict, the story is rich with dark humor and profound themes. Celebrated as an award-winning epic, it has garnered acclaim from various adaptations, making it a must-read narrative that encapsulates the mythical charm of the Midwest and beyond.

The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides is a haunting narrative that chronicles the tragic fate of the five Lisbon sisters in suburban Detroit. Their mysterious allure and ultimate suicides draw the fixation of neighborhood boys, culminating in an exploration of obsession and despair. Sympathetic yet unsettling, this novel portrays the complexities of adolescence and the dark secrets that haunt a seemingly idyllic community.

Universal Harvester by John Darnielle tells the eerie story of a small-town video store clerk grappling with mysterious footage appearing on the store’s VHS tapes. As Jeremy delves deeper, the narrative uncovers layers of trauma and haunting memories tied to a community. Dubbed “impossibly strange,” this literary thriller is a captivating journey into the unknown, reflecting the potent feelings of nostalgia and fear.

Ohio by Stephen Markley captures a single transformative night in 2013, when four former high school classmates reunite in their hometown. As their pasts intertwine, they unearth long-buried secrets and reveal a tapestry of societal struggles and personal turmoil in contemporary America. Markley’s narrative is a compelling examination of place, relationships, and the haunting echoes of unresolved histories.

From bestselling author Alicia Thompson, The Quarry Girls illuminates chilling mysteries as Heather and Brenda navigate the sinister undercurrents of their small community amidst the backdrop of the 1977 Minnesota summer. When a series of disappearances intertwines with their dark secret, the novel explores themes of friendship, fear, and the quest for truth. This gripping narrative is inspired by true crime, reflecting on the darker aspect of youth and small-town life.

These nine novels draw readers into the profound complexities of Midwestern town life, where each story encapsulates the intersection of familiar comforts and unsettling secrets. Each book weaves a rich tapestry of dark themes that challenge perceptions and reveal the hidden realities of America’s heartland. Whether you're a casual reader or a literary aficionado, these titles offer a compelling glimpse into the twisted and enigmatic nature of small-town existence.