The Girl on the Train' by Paula Hawkins is also great. The story is told from the perspective of an unreliable narrator, which adds to the mystery. It involves a missing woman and the web of secrets and lies that surround her disappearance, making it a really engaging thriller.
Some of the best standalone novels include 'Lord of the Flies' by William Golding. This novel shows how a group of boys stranded on an island descend into chaos and savagery. 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Bronte is another wonderful standalone. It tells the story of a young woman's journey through love, self - discovery, and independence. Additionally, 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde is a great standalone. It explores the idea of beauty, sin, and the consequences of a hedonistic lifestyle.
Another good one for beginners is 'Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris. It has a very iconic villain in Hannibal Lecter. The story follows an FBI trainee as she tries to catch a serial killer with the help of Lecter. It's a classic that has been adapted into a very successful movie and is quite accessible.
I would also recommend 'And Then There Were None' by Agatha Christie. This classic mystery novel is set on an isolated island. As the guests start to die one by one, the mystery deepens. Christie is a master of the genre, and this book is a prime example of her ability to create a suspenseful and engaging mystery.
Another excellent one is 'American Gods' by Neil Gaiman. It weaves together a story of old gods and new in a modern - day America. It's full of unique characters, from the wily Mr. Wednesday to the various deities from different mythologies. It makes you think about the role of belief and the power of stories.
One of the best is 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss. It has a richly detailed world, a complex and engaging protagonist in Kvothe, and a beautifully crafted story that draws you in from the start. The magic system is well - thought - out and adds depth to the narrative.
Some top standalone graphic novels are 'A Contract with God' by Will Eisner. It was one of the first graphic novels and is a great exploration of urban life and human nature. 'Bone' by Jeff Smith is also highly regarded. It's an epic fantasy adventure with engaging characters and a richly detailed world. 'Fun Home' by Alison Bechdel is another notable one. It's a memoir that delves into Bechdel's relationship with her father and her own sexual identity.
One of the best is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex mystery with a unique protagonist, Lisbeth Salander. Another great one is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. The plot twists and turns keep you on the edge of your seat. And 'In the Woods' by Tana French is also excellent. It combines elements of a detective's past and a present - day mystery.
One of the best thriller novels is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex mystery involving a decades - old disappearance and a journalist and a hacker teaming up to solve it.
One of the best thriller novels is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex mystery and a unique protagonist. Another great one is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn, which has unexpected twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. 'Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris is also a classic thriller with the terrifying character of Hannibal Lecter.
One of the 2019 best thriller novels is 'The Silent Patient' by Alex Michaelides. It has a gripping plot with unexpected twists. Another great one could be 'The Institute' by Stephen King, which is full of his signature horror - thriller elements. And 'The Whisper Man' by Alex North also stands out for its creepy atmosphere and engaging storyline.