Missing Persons Books – 2024 Update

Are you a fan of mystery and suspense? Do you love delving into the world of missing persons and the thrilling search for the truth? If so, you’re in for a treat! Whether you’re a bookworm or a true crime enthusiast, these 20 best books about missing persons will keep you on the edge of your seat. From heart-pounding thrillers to gripping psychological dramas, each book on missing persons will captivate you with its intriguing storyline and complex characters. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations as you dive into the world of missing persons books.

20 Best Missing Persons Books

The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a gripping psychological thriller that unravels the mystery of a woman’s sudden and shocking silence. Alicia Berenson, a talented artist, is accused of murdering her husband and then goes mute, refusing to speak a single word. Years later, criminal psychotherapist Theo Faber becomes obsessed with understanding Alicia’s silence and is determined to uncover the truth behind the gruesome crime. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia’s past, he unravels a web of secrets, lies, and deception that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The book explores themes of mental illness, trauma, and the complexities of the human mind. With its skillful storytelling and unexpected twists, The Silent Patient is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling and thought-provoking missing persons book.

The Girl on the Train

by Paula Hawkins

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping psychological thriller that revolves around the lives of three women, Rachel, Anna, and Megan. The story is told from the perspective of these women, each with their own secrets, desires, and struggles. Rachel, an alcoholic who takes the same train every day, becomes fixated on a couple she sees from the train window, creating a fantasy life for them. When the woman she watches goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in the investigation, and her own life becomes increasingly complicated. The novel is a rollercoaster of suspense, twists, and unreliable narrators, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The themes of memory, perception, and reality are skillfully woven into the narrative, making it a compelling read. This book on missing persons will leave you questioning the truth and eagerly turning the pages to uncover the chilling secrets hidden within each character’s past.

The Chalk Man

by C.J. Tudor

The Chalk Man by C.J. Tudor is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This novel follows a group of friends who are drawn into a web of secrets and lies when a series of mysterious chalk drawings appears, leading them to a body. Years later, the past comes back to haunt them when one of the friends receives a letter with a single chalk stick figure. As the group reunites to confront their shared history, they uncover shocking truths about the events that took place in their small town.

This chilling tale is filled with suspense, twists, and turns that will leave readers guessing until the very end. The Chalk Man is a must-read for fans of thrillers, mysteries, and anyone looking for a compelling book about missing persons and the dark secrets that can unravel a community. C.J. Tudor’s masterful storytelling and complex characters make this novel a standout in the genre of psychological suspense.

The Dry

by Jane Harper

The Dry by Jane Harper is a gripping mystery novel set in a small Australian town plagued by drought. The story follows Federal Agent Aaron Falk as he returns to his hometown to attend the funeral of his childhood friend, Luke Hadler, who is believed to have murdered his family before taking his own life. As Falk reluctantly investigates the crime, he is drawn into the town’s dark secrets and unresolved tensions. The novel expertly weaves together past and present, slowly unraveling the truth about Luke’s death and the events that led up to it. With its vivid setting and complex characters, The Dry is a compelling and atmospheric read that will keep you guessing until the very end. This is an enthralling book about missing persons that will captivate fans of thrilling mysteries and psychological suspense.

The Child Finder

by Rene Denfeld

The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld is a captivating and haunting book about a woman who specializes in finding missing children. The protagonist, Naomi, has a unique gift for locating lost children, drawing on her own past as a child who was lost and then found. When a girl named Madison disappears in the snowy woods of Oregon, Naomi is called in to help find her. As she delves into the case, Naomi uncovers dark secrets and confronts her own troubled past. The story is beautifully written, with a lyrical and atmospheric prose that brings the snowy landscape and the characters to life. The author skillfully weaves together the mystery of the missing girl with Naomi’s personal journey, creating a deeply moving and suspenseful narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The Child Finder is a compelling and thought-provoking book about missing persons that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.

The Lost Man

by Jane Harper

The Lost Man by Jane Harper is a gripping mystery novel that delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the harsh Australian outback. The story follows the Bright brothers as they come to terms with the mysterious death of their middle brother, Cameron, in the desolate Queensland landscape. As they struggle to uncover the truth behind Cameron’s demise, long-buried secrets and resentments begin to surface, testing the bonds that hold the family together.

Harper’s masterful storytelling brings the unforgiving landscape to life, creating a palpable sense of isolation and unease. The novel’s exploration of the impact of loss and betrayal on the human psyche is both poignant and thought-provoking. The Lost Man is a compelling book on missing persons that will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they unravel the truth behind Cameron’s death and the hidden truths of his family.

The Good Girl

by Mary Kubica

The Good Girl by Mary Kubica is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the mysterious disappearance of a young woman. This book on missing persons follows the story of Mia Dennett, a daughter of a prominent judge, who is kidnapped by a man hired to abduct her. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that things are not as straightforward as they seem. Told from multiple perspectives and timelines, the novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate the complex web of deceit, manipulation, and secrets surrounding Mia’s disappearance.

With its taut pacing and skillful storytelling, The Good Girl is a compelling page-turner that will keep readers guessing until the very end. This book about missing persons is a haunting exploration of the human psyche and the lengths people will go to in order to protect their own interests. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers and mysteries, then this missing persons book is a must-read.

The Woods

by Harlan Coben

The Woods by Harlan Coben is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that delves into the mystery of a missing persons case. The story follows Paul Copeland, a prosecutor whose sister disappeared in the woods 20 years ago, along with three of her friends. When the body of one of the friends is discovered, Paul is drawn back into the case, uncovering long-buried secrets and shocking revelations.

This gripping novel combines elements of a psychological thriller and a gripping mystery, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Paul’s relentless pursuit of the truth. The Woods is a riveting page-turner that explores the impact of a missing persons case on the lives of those left behind, and the lengths people will go to in order to uncover the truth.

Harlan Coben’s masterful storytelling and expertly crafted plot make The Woods a must-read for fans of suspenseful thrillers and anyone looking for a captivating missing persons book that will keep them guessing until the very end.

The Missing

by C.L. Taylor

The Missing by C.L. Taylor is a gripping book about missing persons that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When 15-year-old Billy Wilkinson disappears, his family is thrown into turmoil as they search for answers. His mother, Claire, is determined to find out what happened to her son, but as she delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers dark secrets and twists that she never could have imagined.

This missing persons book is a rollercoaster of emotions, with suspense and tension building on every page. As the story unfolds, the reader is taken on a thrilling journey of mystery and deception, where nothing is as it seems. The characters are complex and relatable, and the plot is full of unexpected twists and turns that will leave you guessing until the very end.

If you love a good mystery and enjoy being kept in suspense, then The Missing is a must-read. C.L. Taylor has crafted a compelling and intense story that will leave you eager to unravel the truth behind Billy’s disappearance.

The Widow

by Fiona Barton

The Widow by Fiona Barton is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of marriage, trust, and the power of manipulation. The story follows Jean Taylor, the wife of a man accused of abducting a young girl. As the media swarms around her, Jean must navigate the public’s scrutiny while keeping her own secrets hidden. The novel provides a deep exploration of the impact of the disappearance of a child on those left behind, and the toll it takes on their relationships and mental well-being. As the narrative unfolds, the reader is taken on a suspenseful journey, uncovering the truth about what really happened to the missing girl. Barton’s expert storytelling and compelling characters make The Widow a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and those interested in a book about missing persons. With its twists and turns, this missing persons book will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The Suspect

by Fiona Barton

The Suspect by Fiona Barton is a gripping novel that delves into the mystery surrounding the disappearance of two young girls while on a trip to Thailand. The story follows journalist Kate Waters as she becomes entangled in the case, uncovering secrets and lies along the way. The novel explores the devastating impact of a missing persons’ case on the families left behind, as well as the complexities of international investigations. With its intricately woven plot and compelling characters, The Suspect is a riveting and suspenseful read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Barton’s skillful storytelling and attention to detail make this book about missing persons a must-read for fans of crime fiction and psychological thrillers. If you’re in the mood for a page-turner that will keep you guessing, then The Suspect is the perfect choice for your next read.

The Girl Before

by JP Delaney

The Girl Before by JP Delaney is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that follows the lives of two women who have lived in the same house at different times. The house, designed by an enigmatic architect, comes with a set of strict rules that the tenants must adhere to. As the two women delve into the mysteries of the house, they uncover dark secrets that threaten to consume them. This gripping psychological thriller will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the truth behind the house and the fates of the two women who lived there. With its intricate plot and complex characters, The Girl Before is a must-read for fans of psychological suspense and mysteries. If you’re looking for a compelling book about missing persons and the secrets that surround them, then this is the perfect read for you.

The Couple Next Door

by Shari Lapena

The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of relationships and the consequences of secrets. The story follows Anne and Marco, a seemingly happy couple whose world is turned upside down when their baby daughter goes missing while they are at a dinner party next door. As the investigation unfolds, dark secrets and hidden motives begin to surface, casting doubt on everyone involved. Lapena masterfully weaves a web of suspense and suspicion, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the truth slowly unravels.

This thrilling page-turner explores the devastating impact of a missing child on a family and the lengths they will go to in order to uncover the truth. Lapena expertly crafts a story that will keep readers guessing until the very end, making it a must-read for fans of mysteries and thrillers. With its fast-paced plot and compelling characters, The Couple Next Door is a captivating book about missing persons that will leave readers eagerly turning the pages to unravel the mystery.

The Missing Ones

by Patricia Gibney

The Missing Ones by Patricia Gibney is a gripping novel about a series of missing persons cases in a small Irish town. When the remains of a young woman are discovered, Detective Lottie Parker is assigned to lead the investigation. As she delves into the case, she uncovers a web of dark secrets and long-buried lies that lead her to question everything she thought she knew about the town and its residents.

This book about missing persons is a heart-pounding thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they follow Lottie’s relentless pursuit of the truth. Gibney’s expert storytelling and complex characters make this a compelling read that will leave readers guessing until the very end. With its tense and atmospheric setting, The Missing Ones is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted mystery.

The Night Olivia Fell

by Christina McDonald

The Night Olivia Fell by Christina McDonald is a gripping and heart-wrenching book about a mother’s search for the truth behind her daughter’s tragic fall. This compelling novel delves into the complexities of family relationships, secrets, and the devastating aftermath of a young girl’s mysterious death. When Abi receives the devastating news that her daughter Olivia is brain dead after falling from a bridge, she is determined to uncover the truth behind the incident. As she delves deeper into Olivia’s life, she uncovers shocking revelations and dark secrets that lead her to question everything she thought she knew about her daughter. With the help of a determined detective, Abi races against time to unravel the truth and find justice for Olivia. This book on missing persons is a poignant and suspenseful tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The Lost Girls of Paris

by Pam Jenoff

The Lost Girls of Paris by Pam Jenoff is a captivating historical fiction novel that follows the story of three women during World War II. This enthralling book explores the lives of these women who become involved in a top-secret mission to aid the resistance in occupied Europe. Inspired by true events, the novel takes readers on a gripping journey as the women work as couriers and radio operators, facing danger and deception while fighting for their cause.

With its richly drawn characters and evocative setting, The Lost Girls of Paris is a compelling read that delves into themes of courage, friendship, and sacrifice. The novel weaves together mystery, espionage, and the strength of the human spirit, making it a must-read for fans of historical fiction and books about missing persons. Pam Jenoff’s expert storytelling and meticulous research bring this lesser-known aspect of the war to life, making The Lost Girls of Paris a powerful and unforgettable read.

The Other Woman

by Sandie Jones

The Other Woman by Sandie Jones is a thrilling novel that delves into the complexities of relationships and the lengths people will go to in order to protect their loved ones. Emily is head over heels in love with Adam, but she soon realizes that his mother, Pammie, is a force to be reckoned with. Pammie will stop at nothing to sabotage Emily and Adam’s relationship, leaving Emily to wonder if she can ever truly be the other woman in Adam’s life.

This gripping story of love, betrayal, and manipulation will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the web of deceit that Pammie has spun. The Other Woman is a captivating tale that explores the dark side of family dynamics and the lengths some people will go to in order to protect their own interests. With its unpredictable twists and turns, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a suspenseful and compelling story.

The Missing Wife

by Sheila O’Flanagan

The Missing Wife by Sheila O’Flanagan is a gripping novel that delves into the world of disappearance and the impact it has on those left behind. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Italian countryside, this book follows the story of a woman who goes missing, leaving her husband and children to grapple with the mystery of her disappearance. As they search for answers, they uncover a web of secrets and deception that forces them to confront the truth about their loved one’s life.

This compelling tale explores the emotional turmoil of those left behind when a loved one vanishes, as well as the complexities of relationships and the power of forgiveness. O’Flanagan expertly weaves together a story of love, loss, and resilience, making this a must-read for anyone drawn to books about missing persons and the impact of their absence.

Gone Girl

by Gillian Flynn

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn is a thrilling, psychological suspense novel that delves into the complexities of marriage and the dark secrets that can lurk beneath its surface. The story follows the mysterious disappearance of Amy Dunne, and her husband Nick’s subsequent journey to uncover the truth behind her vanishing. As the investigation unfolds, the reader is taken on a rollercoaster ride of twists and turns, as the narrative alternates between Nick and Amy’s perspectives, leaving us questioning the reliability of both characters.

This gripping book about missing persons is filled with deceit, manipulation, and shocking revelations that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. Flynn’s masterful storytelling and intricate character development make Gone Girl a must-read for anyone who enjoys a compelling mystery and a deep dive into the complexities of human relationships. This missing persons book is a thrilling exploration of love, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to in order to protect their secrets.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

by Stieg Larsson

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a gripping mystery novel by Stieg Larsson. The story follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist as he investigates the disappearance of a young woman from a wealthy family. He enlists the help of the enigmatic hacker, Lisbeth Salander, who has a troubled past and a talent for uncovering secrets. Together, they delve into the dark and twisted world of a powerful and corrupt family, unraveling a web of deceit and violence.

This book on missing persons is a thrilling and thought-provoking tale of intrigue, conspiracy, and redemption. Larsson’s masterful storytelling and complex characters will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a compelling mystery and a strong, unconventional protagonist. It’s a missing persons book that will leave a lasting impression.

Final Thoughts on Best Missing Persons Books

Missing Persons cases have long captivated readers, and with the plethora of compelling books on the subject, there’s no shortage of gripping stories to delve into. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or simply enjoy a good mystery, the 20 best books about missing persons offer a diverse range of narratives that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From real-life accounts to fictional thrillers, these books are sure to satisfy any reader’s appetite for suspense and intrigue.

Which book about Missing Persons is best?

The best book on Missing Persons can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
  2. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  3. The Chalk Man by C.J. Tudor.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Missing Persons?

For those looking to learn about Missing Persons, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
  2. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  3. The Chalk Man by C.J. Tudor,
  4. The Dry by Jane Harper,
  5. The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld,
  6. The Lost Man by Jane Harper,
  7. The Good Girl by Mary Kubica,
  8. The Woods by Harlan Coben,
  9. The Missing by C.L. Taylor,
  10. The Widow by Fiona Barton

These books offer a range of perspectives on Missing Persons, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Missing Persons?

The best books about Missing Persons are:

  • The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
  • The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  • The Suspect by Fiona Barton,
  • The Girl Before by JP Delaney,
  • The Woods by Harlan Coben,
  • The Lost Man by Jane Harper.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Missing Persons are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Missing Persons books of all time?

Choosing the best Missing Persons books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides,
  • The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins,
  • The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld,
  • The Woods by Harlan Coben,
  • and The Suspect by Fiona Barton.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Missing Persons and continues to be influential today.