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Page-Turning Thrillers Set in New York City

Published by Likewise | Jan 14, 2025Discover a captivating collection of thrilling novels set against the backdrop of New York City, where tension, suspense, and intricate plots entwine to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

New York City has long served as a muse for artists, writers, and filmmakers alike, often embodying the pulse of vibrant life and the complexities of human experience. Within this urban landscape, a genre of literature has flourished, captivating readers with intricate plots and suspenseful narratives. In this article, we explore a collection of thrilling novels that transport readers deep into the heart of the city, revealing layers of deceit, passion, and intrigue. Here are ten riveting reads that will leave you breathless:

When No One Is Watching

When No One Is Watching
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Average Rating: 3.7

Set against the backdrop of Brooklyn, this psychological thriller unfolds the story of Sydney Green, who watches as her neighborhood transforms under the pressure of gentrification. Partnering up with newcomer Theo, they embark on a walking tour that quickly turns sinister as they uncover the truth behind their neighbors' disappearances. This gripping narrative reflects the horrors of societal change while challenging the characters’ ability to trust each other, or themselves.

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The Other Black Girl

The Other Black Girl
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Average Rating: 3.2

What happens when two young Black women navigate the landscape of a predominantly white book publishing firm? In this electric debut, Nella Rogers finds herself increasingly alienated until she is thrilled by the arrival of Hazel. But as Hazel rises in her career, envy leads to eerie notes that threaten Nella's very existence. This thrilling narrative delves into themes of race and workplace dynamics, capturing the fear and tension of accessibility in an often unforgiving environment.

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The Boyfriend

The Boyfriend
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Average Rating: 4.0

Sydney Shaw's quest for love takes a dark turn when she meets Tom, her seemingly perfect boyfriend. Frightened by a spate of murders linked to those he's dated, Sydney cannot shake the feeling that Tom might harbor secrets of his own. As her suspicions deepen, the suspense escalates, leading to a chilling confrontation that will keep readers glued to the pages.

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Severance

Severance
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Average Rating: 3.7

Set against a backdrop of societal decay, Candace Chen meanders through office life until a plague emerges, forcing her to confront her doing and desires as she navigates a dystopian Manhattan. This witty and thought-provoking narrative blends humor and horror, unraveling both personal fractures and communal ties in the face of apocalypse.

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You

You
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Average Rating: 3.8

In a twist on the modern love story, Joe Goldberg’s obsession with aspiring writer Guinevere Beck spirals into chaos when he turns from smitten admirer to manipulative predator. This novel explores the dark corners of obsession and romance, dissecting the psychological underpinnings behind unyielding passion and the lengths one will go to keep it.

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An Anonymous Girl

An Anonymous Girl
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Average Rating: 3.9

Jessica Farris immerses herself in a psychological study that blurs the lines between morality and reality. As each session with Dr. Shields unfolds, Jess realizes she’s become a pawn in a more dangerous game. This thriller captures the essence of manipulation and obsession, making it a compelling read about ethics and the consequences of our choices.

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Social Creature

Social Creature
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Average Rating: 5.0

A fresh take on obsession set against opulent New York nightlife, Louise Wilson's friendship with the wealthy Lavinia Williams veers from admiration to envy and desperation. This sharp debut novel explores class disparities, ambition, and the dark side of yearning. Louise’s journey is a modern twist on the age-old tale of longing and identity amidst the buzz of the city.

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Lock Every Door

Lock Every Door
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Average Rating: 3.8

As Jules Larsen begins her job apartment-sitting at a luxury building in Manhattan, she becomes enmeshed in the twisted history of the Bartholomew. With its strict rules and the disappearance of fellow sitters, this thriller unveils the dark secrets hidden within the building's walls. Riley Sager's adept storytelling ensures a read that keeps one in suspense until the very end.

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Harlem Shuffle

Harlem Shuffle
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Average Rating: 3.6

In this multifaceted tale, Ray Carney navigates a life straddled between legitimacy and crime under the pulse of 1960s Harlem. Balancing family and his shady connections, he grapples with his identity, aspirations, and the dangerous allure of his cousin's heist plan. This novel shines a light on race, power, and the essence of Harlem, making it a vital critique wrapped in exhilarating storytelling.

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Luckiest Girl Alive

Luckiest Girl Alive
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Average Rating: 3.6

Exploring the façade of perfection, Ani FaNelli's seemingly ideal life unravels due to a traumatic incident from her past. As she confronts long-buried secrets, the reader is drawn into a web of suspense that examines society's expectations of women and the internal battles faced amidst relentless pursuit of an ideal persona. This novel strikes a resonant chord while delivering shocking twists that enthrall.

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The Wife Between Us

The Wife Between Us
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Average Rating: 4.0

A tale of love, passion, and betrayal, this suspenseful novel challenges the reader to question their assumptions about relationships. As the intricate layers of a marriage peel away, the story unfolds with sharp twists and reveals the darker sides of love—creating a gripping narrative of obsession and secrets that define the bonds we share.

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Each of these thrilling reads encapsulates the vivacity and complexity of life in New York City while engaging readers with suspenseful plots and multifaceted characters. Whether you're a lifelong city resident or an eager traveler, these stories capture the gritty realities and tantalizing mysteries woven into the fabric of this iconic metropolis. So pick your favorite and get lost in a world where every turn of the page pulls you deeper into the intrigue of urban life!

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