Fans pick 77 books like Lethal People

By John Locke,

Here are 77 books that Lethal People fans have personally recommended if you like Lethal People. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of Killing Floor

Niki Block Author Of Polaris

From my list on social commentaries focusing on PTSD.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have not served in the military nor been subject to a manhunt. However, I have been battling PTSD for almost 5 years. There are many, many misconceptions of PTSD in the media, and finding it portrayed accurately is a difficult task. My goal with Polaris was to first depict mental illness as realistically as possible, with all its ugly messiness. Secondly, the social commentary of a dystopian-sci-fi setting fascinated me. Polaris came about when I combined the two. In my own personal experience, most people do not understand the totality of PTSD and how it overtakes one’s life.  

Niki's book list on social commentaries focusing on PTSD

Niki Block Why did Niki love this book?

This book is an intense game of cat-and-mouse with a protagonist initially an unwilling participant. What caught me by surprise was Reacher’s wit and humor in the midst of intense situations. He is essentially a more intelligent McGyver who can outmaneuver even the most formidable adversaries. The novel portrays Reacher as calm to the point of being detached, which is a rarely discussed symptom of PTSD. 

By Lee Child,

Why should I read it?

15 authors picked Killing Floor as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Ex-military policeman Jack Reacher is a drifter. He's just passing through Margrave, Georgia, and in less than an hour, he's arrested for murder. Not much of a welcome. All Reacher knows is that he didn't kill anybody. At least not here. Not lately. But he doesn't stand a chance of convincing anyone. Not in Margrave, Georgia. Not a chance in hell.


Book cover of Angels & Demons

E. Chris Ambrose Author Of The Mongol's Coffin

From my list on weaving adventure and history.

Why am I passionate about this?

As an art school drop-out who'd been majoring in sculpture, I'm fascinated by material culture—artifacts created by early peoples that reveal their cultural values. Often, the relics and sites that engage both archaeologists and readers suggest unexpected depths of knowledge that show human ingenuity through the ages. I strive to incorporate the details of an artifact or monument's creation into the clues and descriptions in my work, hopefully illuminating a little-known historical realm, if only by torchlight as the adventure unfolds. The fact that I get to explore so many exotic locations, in research if not in person, is a definite plus!

E. Chris' book list on weaving adventure and history

E. Chris Ambrose Why did E. Chris love this book?

While most people associate Dan Brown with his more famous work, The DaVinci Code, this first novel in his Robert Langdon series really founded the archaeological thriller genre.

I loved how this book transports readers to the milieu so thoroughly that it was a bit of a spoiler when I recognized one key location from my own time in Rome before the secret was revealed—but that's a testament to how well he conveys the scene! Brown invites us behind the scenes of secret societies, sharing insider information to raise the stakes.

I had the great good fortune to take a workshop with Dan just before DaVinci Code came out, and benefit from his enormous skill as a teacher. The man tells a ripping yarn, full of puzzles that blend fact and fancy. 

By Dan Brown,

Why should I read it?

9 authors picked Angels & Demons as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

CERN Institute, Switzerland: a world-renowned scientist is found brutally murdered with a mysterious symbol seared onto his chest.

The Vatican, Rome: the College of Cardinals assembles to elect a new pope. Somewhere beneath them, an unstoppable bomb of terrifying power relentlessly counts down to oblivion.

In a breathtaking race against time, Harvard professor Robert Langdon must decipher a labyrinthine trail of ancient symbols if he is to defeat those responsible - the Illuminati, a secret brotherhood presumed extinct for nearly four hundred years, reborn to continue their deadly vendetta against their most hated enemy, the Catholic Church.

Origin, the spellbinding…


Book cover of Dirty White Boys

Jay Bonansinga Author Of Return to Woodbury

From my list on thrillers that begin with a bang.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a veteran novelist who believes this over all else: The opening is everything. This has been my modus operandi as a storyteller for over thirty books, as well as a half dozen screenplays. I love a great opening. It is how a reader or viewer will subconsciously decide whether they will devote themselves to a story. It is the first kiss. The first shot over the bow. The ignition, the countdown, and the launch. It is the alpha and omega… because the beginning dictates the ending. Oh my, how I love the beginning! 

Jay's book list on thrillers that begin with a bang

Jay Bonansinga Why did Jay love this book?

Stephen Hunter’s crime fiction masterpiece, Dirty White Boys, begins with a sentence lovingly detailing the villain’s genitals. 

I assure you this opening is in no way gratuitous or prurient; it signals that we’re in for a wild ride, informing us that only “…three men at McAlester State Penitentiary had larger penises than Lamar Pye….” 

Pye is one of the great literary villains of all time – racist, crude, violent, and cruel… and smart as a whip. And the tone here is pitch-dark hillbilly noir. If you’re brave enough to read this book it will live in your imagination for the rest of your life. 

By Stephen Hunter,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked Dirty White Boys as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Three convicts on the run with an arsenal of weaponry and only one rogue cop can stop them. Lamar Pye has escaped from Oklahoma State Penitentiary, accompanied by his idiot cousin and a vicious, but cowardly artist. To have stayed in prison was certain death, but his chances on the outside are not much greater: his excesses know no bounds - one killing follows another. But one murder brings his nemesis upon him: Bud Pewtie of the Highway of the Highway Patrol loses his partner in a blood-soaked shoot-out with Lamar, and from that moment on, nothing will stop him…


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Book cover of Aggressor

Aggressor By FX Holden,

It is April 1st, 2038. Day 60 of China's blockade of the rebel island of Taiwan. The US government has agreed to provide Taiwan with a weapons system so advanced, it can disrupt the balance of power in the region. But what pilot would be crazy enough to run the…

Book cover of Exit Wounds

James P. Sumner Author Of True Conviction

From my list on thrillers that changed the game.

Why am I passionate about this?

The novels I write aren’t typically like other thrillers out there. I want to stand out from the crowd and not be restricted by the expectations readers have nowadays. I compiled this list of thrillers I’ve read that I feel either redefine the genre or break the mould completely. These aren’t conventional. These don’t conform with mainstream expectations. They’re original and much better for it. These are the novels I want people to place alongside mine one day.

James' book list on thrillers that changed the game

James P. Sumner Why did James love this book?

This author was one of my own discoveries as a young reader. Predominantly known for his horror novels, he had a sideline in gritty crime thrillers, and Exit Wounds is by far his best one. Set in London, it focuses on a small group of ageing criminals planning a robbery, only to get caught in the middle of a turf war between two gangs of Yardies. It’s violent, and you need a strong stomach at times, but this is one of the most gripping thrillers I’ve ever read. The signed copy I have stands proudly on my bookshelf!

By Shaun Hutson,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Exit Wounds as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

It begins with a murderous chase through the streets of Kingston, Jamaica. When a local hard man escapes, the action moves to an unsuspecting Britain where Yardie drug dealers and criminals begin to die horribly. Meanwhile a small-time crook, Frank Newton, has gathered his posse to pull off the robbery that will finally give them financial independence - unaware that half the haul belongs to a London gang boss who knows who they are.In return for their lives they have to eliminate a merciless new Yardie chief, while they themselves are being shadowed by a tenacious police team. With millions…


Book cover of To Write a Wrong

Karen Witemeyer Author Of Head in the Clouds

From my list on sweet historical romance to tickle your funny bone.

Why am I passionate about this?

I love to laugh. Whether my oldest son and I are trading bad puns, my husband is teasing, my daughter and I are chuckling over a rom-com, or my youngest son is rolling his eyes and groaning at all of us, my family loves to laugh. Humor creates joy, relieves stress, and is just plain fun. That's what I look for in a good read. The world offers plenty of negativity and hardship. When I escape into a novel, I want fast-paced adventure and swoony romance, but I also want a reason to smile. That's the experience I love, and the one I endeavor to give my readers.

Karen's book list on sweet historical romance to tickle your funny bone

Karen Witemeyer Why did Karen love this book?

Jen Turano is the queen of quirky characters. This book had me giggling and guffawing with all its crazy shenanigans. Who knew an oversized bustle could double as a floatation device? Daphne Beekman is a successful author who pens thrilling mysteries yet swoons at the first sign of danger in real life. As a consultant for an all-female inquiry agency, she puts her intelligence and creative mind to work solving crimes. But when the reclusive author, and incredibly handsome, Herman Henderson hires the agency, Daphne determines to take a more active role. Outlandish disguises, daring adventure, and bookish banter ensue as Daphne and Herman solve the greatest mystery of all—love.

By Jen Turano,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked To Write a Wrong as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Miss Daphne Beekman is a mystery writer by day, inquiry agent by night. Known for her ability to puzzle out plots, she prefers working behind the scenes for the Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency, staying well away from danger. However, Daphne soon finds herself in the thick of an attempted murder case she's determined to solve.

Mr. Herman Henderson is also a mystery writer, but unlike the dashing heroes he pens, he lives a quiet life, determined to avoid the fate of his adventurous parents, who perished on an expedition when he was a child. But when he experiences numerous attempts…


Book cover of Daydream's Daughter, Nightmare's Friend: One Woman's Journey Through Two Hells

Bruce A. Borders Author Of Over My Dead Body

From my list on entertaining a restless mind.

Why am I passionate about this?

While the subject matter of the books on my list may vary, the thing that ties them together is the suspenseful tension that builds and keeps the reader on edge. The unexpected twists and turns are the "secret sauce"  that adds flavor and fervor. I like the way each of these books keeps your mind from wandering by combining vivid imagery with a compelling storyline. As an author myself, I am always fascinated by those who make it look so easy and effortless. And as an avid reader, I constantly search for these kind of books; the kind that make you feel as if you just have to keep reading.

Bruce's book list on entertaining a restless mind

Bruce A. Borders Why did Bruce love this book?

I've always heard there are two sides to every story. Generally, this means a good side and a bad, or at least one with some sort of a redeeming perspective. But what does a person do when both sides are equally hellish? For Maiya, it means she truly is Daydream's Daughter and Nightmare's Friend. It seems as though the insufferable miseries will never end. This book is deeply emotional and compelling. The author describes the events in vivid detail creating a sense for the reader of being there in the midst of it all. The book immediately captures your attention, and page after page keeps you wondering what will happen next. An excellent story by an excellent author.

By Nonnie Jules,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Daydream's Daughter, Nightmare's Friend as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

*THIS BOOK IS FOR AUDIENCES 18 YEARS AND OLDER. NOT SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN* "She was one horrible mess. Always looking over her shoulder and avoiding becoming too friendly with the neighbors. That anxiety stemmed from a horrible place. Always fearing that someone would recognize her face, she kept to herself and didn't go out much. When she did, no matter the season, she wore some kind of hat or covering on her head, enough to shield her face. Walter never understood why she was such a loner, avoiding people at all cost and just being very anti-social outside of the…


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Book cover of Deadly Sommer

Deadly Sommer By Nicholas Harvey,

Readers who enjoy police procedurals with an offbeat main character and fascinating locations will love this thriller.

One missing girl. Two lives on the line. Four treacherous challenges.

Nora Sommer's first case for the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service is one she'll never forget... if she survives. When the daughter…

Book cover of A Spring Affair

Kim Nash Author Of Hopeful Hearts at the Cornish Cove

From my list on inspiring you to change your life.

Why am I passionate about this?

Women’s fiction was my go-to genre after discovering Danielle Steele many years ago. I progressed from epic emotional family dramas to chick lit/romcoms, wanting to read books that made me laugh and gave that feel-good feeling. I love a happy ever after, and don’t mind knowing that the main characters will end up together because for me it’s all about the journey. I’ve been so lucky since being an author, to have received lots of emails and social media messages, telling me how much my books have either helped someone, inspired someone, made them laugh, given them hope, and generally left them with a warm feeling in their heart.  

Kim's book list on inspiring you to change your life

Kim Nash Why did Kim love this book?

This book taught me that ultimately it’s up to you to make yourself happy and that we all have a right to be happy. 

I always say that this was the book that changed my life. It’s about a lady who reads a feature in a magazine about clutter clearing and starts doing it in her house, then realises that it’s her life that needs a huge overhaul, not just her house.

I wrote to the author after reading it and we’ve become firm friends with her being a huge inspiration to me in both my publishing and author journey. I would like to think that my books have similar messages, through a romantic comedy setting and plot. 

By Milly Johnson,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Spring Affair as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

From the Sunday Times bestseller comes a stunning novel that will warm your heart

'The feeling you get when you read a Milly Johnson book should be bottled and made available on the NHS' Debbie Johnson

'Clear your house and clear your mind. Don't let life's clutter dictate to you. Throw it away and take back the control!'

When Lou Winter picks up a dog-eared magazine in the dentist's waiting room and spots an article about clearing clutter, she little realises how it will change her life. What begins as an earnest spring clean soon spirals out of control.

Lou's…


Book cover of I Love Capri

Kim Nash Author Of Hopeful Hearts at the Cornish Cove

From my list on inspiring you to change your life.

Why am I passionate about this?

Women’s fiction was my go-to genre after discovering Danielle Steele many years ago. I progressed from epic emotional family dramas to chick lit/romcoms, wanting to read books that made me laugh and gave that feel-good feeling. I love a happy ever after, and don’t mind knowing that the main characters will end up together because for me it’s all about the journey. I’ve been so lucky since being an author, to have received lots of emails and social media messages, telling me how much my books have either helped someone, inspired someone, made them laugh, given them hope, and generally left them with a warm feeling in their heart.  

Kim's book list on inspiring you to change your life

Kim Nash Why did Kim love this book?

Belinda Jones is truly skilled at writing books that pick you up on a grey, damp, miserable day and transports you to the destination of another country where you truly get to experience their culture too. 

This was one of the first books that made me realise how you truly can travel the world through books. I always felt like I’d had a great holiday after reading these books and would recommend them to anyone who can’t physically get away. 

Books really are portable magic. This also made me want to write in a similar way where my readers want to go to my locations. 

By Belinda Jones,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked I Love Capri as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Let much loved author Belinda Jones sweep you away to the magical island of Capri in this unmissable rom-com. Fans of Jo Thomas, Lindsey Kelk, Sophie Kinsella and Paige Toon will not be disappointed!

'I LOVE CAPRI is as essential as your SPF 15' - New Woman
'Fast-paced, enthusiastic, good-hearted...a wise and witty read about the secret desires deep within us' - Marie Claire
'A deliciously entertaining beach read' - HEAT
'A lovely escape' -- ***** Reader review
'I've read this multiple times and feel no guilt for going back to it. It's an easy read and an enjoyable one.'…


Book cover of The Giants

Buddy Heywood Author Of The Tree Makers

From my list on characters that become a part of your life.

Why am I passionate about this?

My name was not a misnomer like a large guy being called Tiny. I’ve been gregarious and insightful with others since I was a child. Moreover, there are few that can sit at the table with me when it comes to connecting with people as well as understanding why they do what they do. It is because of this that I’m drawn to amazing people, deterred by ugly people, and constantly walking the lines that connect in our minds and between people. This M.O. crosses over with my tastes in entertainment medium. If I’m consuming media, it has to really grab me. If I’m creating media, I want to ensure it really grabs you!

Buddy's book list on characters that become a part of your life

Buddy Heywood Why did Buddy love this book?

This book, bundled as the first three in the series, is one that I’ve reread often over the last twenty years. It may be in the science fiction genre, but it’s really Dr. Vic Hunt connecting the dots that others can’t quite see. The author pours brilliance and humility into Dr. Hunt which creates an almost immediate bond. The characters are written so well that you feel that you’re uncovering the mysteries at the same time Dr. Hunt is. This is rare in third person writing as authors tend to tell you the story instead of taking you on the journey of the character. Throw in the right mix of light and deep plot lines and it will soon become a regular read for you, too.

By James P. Hogan,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Giants as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Discover the first three books in the ground-breaking 21st century hard-science fiction saga by James P. Hogan:
INHERIT THE STARS
The skeletal remains of a human body are found on the moon. His corpse is 50,000 years old, and nobody knows who he was, how he got there, or what killed him.
THE GENTLE GIANTS OF GANYMEDE
A long-ago wrecked ship of alien giants is discovered by Earth's scientists on a frozen satellite of Jupiter. Then, spinning out of the vastness of space, a ship of the same strange, humanoid giants has returned....
GIANTS' STAR
Humans finally thought they comprehended…


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Book cover of Returning to Eden

Returning to Eden By Rebecca Hartt,

Looking for clean romantic suspense with spiritual undertones?

Look no further than the Acts of Valor series by Rebecca Hartt. With thousands of reviews and 4.7-5.0 stars per book, this 6-book series is a must-read for readers searching for memorable, well-told stories by an award-winning author.

A dead man stands…

Book cover of To the Moon and Back

KaliVictoria Author Of The Shadows of Heaven

From my list on centering Black women and Black girls in fiction.

Why am I passionate about this?

As an own voice author, it is incredibly important for me to write characters that look like me, but it is exceptionally healing to find novels where I feel represented. My inner child yearns for more books that remind me of my adolescent wish to be a main character, to have a fleshed-out story, to be the hero or overpowered creature of the night. Being a main character means being seen and being heard, and I think now is the time to branch into every genre I can to know that any story, no matter how big or small the pages, can be done and can be Black. Happy reading! 

KaliVictoria's book list on centering Black women and Black girls in fiction

KaliVictoria Why did KaliVictoria love this book?

Very rarely are we given the voice of a Black woman unraveling the depths of the genre that is horror. Jean Nicole Rivers gives us exactly that with Black Water Tales: To the Moon and Back, a riveting thriller that follows Simone Parker, a protagonist that wants to break generational curses while protecting her family from a haunting town legend. This novel left me wanting more as soon as I put it down, and I was incredibly happy to know that this Jean Nicole Rivers is anything but finished in terms of making sure that Black women can be seen and written into horror stories. The Black Water Tales has become a favorite series of mine, and I look forward to what’s to come… 

By Jean Nicole Rivers,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked To the Moon and Back as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

As Simone Parker’s belly swells with baby number three, she is anxious to move her husband and two daughters to her childhood home in the picturesque town of Black Water, even if it was the site of her family’s massacre twenty-three years ago. Resettling there won’t be easy, but she is determined to break generational curses and reclaim her good memories. While dismissing the adolescent, town legend that her family was murdered by the Sandman, Simone cannot deny that some unsettling haunt remains. As the evil builds to a peak marked by the brutal birth of her son, Simone is…


Book cover of Killing Floor
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