The most recommended books about stalking

Who picked these books? Meet our 31 experts.

31 authors created a book list connected to stalking, and here are their favorite stalking books.
Shepherd is reader supported. When you buy books, we may earn an affiliate commission.

What type of stalking book?

Loading...
Loading...

Book cover of Playing the Part

Elizabeth Caulfield Felt Author Of Wilde Wagers

From my list on historical novels that are light and silly.

Why am I passionate about this?

I teach writing and children's literature at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point, and for many years worked as a librarian. (Once a librarian, always a librarian!) First and foremost, I'm a reader. The real world can be an unpleasant and depressing place, so I regularly escape inside books. Although serious books are great, it's also nice to escape to a world where you can laugh and not worry about anything too bad happening.

Elizabeth's book list on historical novels that are light and silly

Elizabeth Caulfield Felt Why did Elizabeth love this book?

Let me introduce you to the wonderful world of Turano's historical romances. Playing the Part is my favorite; it is about a 19th-century New York City actress who hides away at a friend's country estate. Every character is quirky and engaging. I laughed out loud, over and over, at the myriad of crazy situations they got themselves into.

By Jen Turano,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

"One of the funniest voices in the inspirational genre."--Booklist

Lucetta Plum is an actress on the rise in New York City, but is forced to abandon her starring role when a fan's interest turns threatening. Lucetta's widowed friend, Abigail Hart, is delighted at the opportunity to meddle in Lucetta's life and promptly whisks her away to her grandson's estate to hide out.

Bram Haverstein may appear to simply be a somewhat eccentric gentleman of means, but a mysterious career and a secret fascination with a certain actress mean there's much more to him than society knows.

Lucetta, who has no…


Book cover of My Best Friend, My Stalker

Emma Bray Author Of Stalking Sophie

From my list on insta-love short reads with possessive alpha males.

Why am I passionate about this?

I've always loved reading romance, and something about those jealous, possessive, alpha males just always got my heart racing. I love a hero who's all in from the get-go and will do anything for the woman he loves. He knows what he wants and goes after it. I also get how crazy busy we can be. I don't know about you, but I don't always have time to sit down and read a super long novel. Insta-love romances are short and spicy and don't take more than an hour or two to read. You can count on my insta-love stories to be filled with heat, passion, and happily ever afters.

Emma's book list on insta-love short reads with possessive alpha males

Emma Bray Why did Emma love this book?

This was the first insta-love book I ever read, and I've been hooked on short read romances ever since. You're thrown into the action right away with Peyton fleeing her stepbrother. Granger is a stranger, but he immediately steps in to protect her. Their chemistry is off the charts from the moment they meet. From the moment Granger sees her, he's all in, capitated, obsessed. He starts stalking her because he just can't help himself. There's nothing I love more than a good stalker romance, and this book checked all my boxes. 

By Jessa Kane,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked My Best Friend, My Stalker as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

I met him one night on a dark, empty road, while on the run from an unexpected enemy. He protected me without hesitation. Without question. From that moment forward, he made himself the center of my universe. I became the center of his, as well—to a degree that scared me as much as it excited me. Now, my best friend and roommate is close at all times. Even when I don't realize it. Even when I don't see him. But when I peer into the shadows and find him there, will I run away out of common sense? Or let…


Book cover of The Club

Karen Osman Author Of The Perfect Lie

From my list on thrillers that keep your heart pumping with action.

Why am I passionate about this?

Like most writers, I read a lot, and throughout my life, reading has gotten me through the highs and lows, providing a much-needed break! As an award-winning novelist, I’ve written three psychological thrillers, two of which were number 1 bestsellers, and my mission is to write gripping thriller novels that entertain my readers, allowing them a little time each day to relax and escape to another world. My love of writing thrillers stems from a love of reading them. As a writer, this genre is exciting but also challenging to write, which I love. I hope you enjoy the books on this list as much as I have!

Karen's book list on thrillers that keep your heart pumping with action

Karen Osman Why did Karen love this book?

I enjoyed this book because it was full of drama, glamour, and a world full of people I wouldn’t usually socialise with. It gave a glimpse into the lives of the super-wealthy as they gathered on a private island at The Club. The novel was told from various viewpoints which kept it interesting and the reader guessing as to who committed the crime. Overall, it was an intriguing, entertaining read – great for a holiday.  

By Ellery Lloyd,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

*** A Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick and an instant New York Times bestseller ***

'One of the most riveting books I've read in a long time' - Louise Candlish, author of Our House

'Smart, topical and immensely entertaining' - T.M. Logan, author of The Holiday

'Marple meets Succession' - Sunday Times Style

'Glitzy and twisty and tons of fun' - Observer

*********************************

There's no place like Home . . .

The Home Group is a collection of ultra-exclusive private members' clubs and a global phenomenon, and the opening of its most ambitious project yet - Island Home, a forgotten…


Book cover of Fear No Evil

Michael R. Lane Author Of The Gem Connection

From my list on African American mysteries.

Why am I passionate about this?

As an avid reader, I read a wide variety of books. Of the fiction genre mystery and suspense remain my favorite. From the classics to the gritty, a well-told mystery is a literary gem. As my mystery palette has aged—like my taste in wine—so are my demands of what makes a good mystery novel. The best mysteries for me contain more than a serpentine journey toward the hidden truth. They have intriguing characters, crisp dialogue, interesting settings, formidable foes, and of course indispensable heroes or anti-heroes. My writing goal is aimed at achieving the same level of literary penmanship of the mysteries I enjoy reading so much.

Michael's book list on African American mysteries

Michael R. Lane Why did Michael love this book?

Dr. Alex Cross and Detective John Sampson are preparing to leave on their “manly trip” into the Montana wilderness when they receive a call from Metro PD. A dead CIA officer puts a pause on their plans. During his investigation, Alex receives an unnerving text from the criminal genius known as “M” who has terrorized Cross and his family for years. Alex and John eventually make it to Montana. Their vacation takes a treacherous 360-degree turn as they venture deep into the rugged Montana wilderness. Two rival teams of trained assassins are hunting them. One controlled by “M”. The other by the cartel. Cross and Sampson are isolated and cut off in a life-or-death struggle. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. A thriller right up until the end.

By James Patterson,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Fear No Evil as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Alex Cross enters the final battle with the all-knowing genius who has stalked him and his family for years.

Dr. Alex Cross and Detective John Sampson venture into the rugged Montana wilderness—where they will be the prey.
 
They’re not on the job, but on a personal mission. 
 
Until they’re attacked by two rival teams of assassins, controlled by the same mastermind who has stalked Alex and his family for years. 
 
Darkness falls. The river churns into rapids. Shots ring out through the forest. 
 
No backup. No way out. Fear no evil.

Book cover of Salt + Stilettos

Gia De Cadenet Author Of Not the Plan

From my list on helping romance lovers remember who they are.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a long-time expat in France, a creative and a Black woman, I get othered and rejected a lot. I’ve had to learn how to own my story – of starting over, of building something from nothing, of remembering where I’ve been, and reminding myself of where I’m going. I had to learn to reject the labels that others want to put on me and draft my own personal hype mantra then embellish it with a little bombshell sparkle. The books I’ve chosen are meant to entertain while giving you the chance to remind yourself of who you are and who you can choose to be.  

Gia's book list on helping romance lovers remember who they are

Gia De Cadenet Why did Gia love this book?

Not just anyone can grow up dirt poor, build a successful consulting business in Miami, survive being stalked, and keep the world in the dark about their crippling anxiety.

Brett Fontaine does it without letting a lock of hair get out of place – true bombshell style. A relationship with her new client, the media-clueless cinnamon roll chef Will Te’o, is completely ill-advised. So of course, that’s exactly what happens.

I adored this book because it so easy to identify with Brett. We all want to be together on the outside and respected in our fields. But there’s still the fear that we’re whatever weaknesses we may have had in the past.

Will helps Brett see the badass inside of her. Walden-West does the same for her readers.

By Janet Walden-West,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Salt + Stilettos as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Trading her red-dirt roots for the title of Miami’s go-to image consultant, Brett Fontaine refuses to let anything jeopardize her new life.

…Not an influential client-turned-stalker who’s up for parole…

…Not post-kidnapping panic attacks…

…And certainly not the stubborn, attention-phobic chef with the tempting tataus she’s been challenged to transform into a celeb in ninety days.

Will Te’o can almost taste the dream he sacrificed American Samoa, culture, and cherished family ties for—opening a four-star restaurant in the most cut-throat culinary location in North America.

Unfortunately, that requires navigating its equally ruthless social scene.

When his first public performance ends…


Book cover of How to Eat A Cupcake

Delise Torres Author Of One Tough Cookie

From my list on foodie businesses that will leave you hungry.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a food scientist, I’ve always been interested in the processing of food and developing new recipes. Foodie fiction can take us into that process, showing us the behind-the-scenes of what it takes to run a foodie business and how to create dishes that people will love, even if you can only taste them through your imagination. And food and books just go together! Or am I the only one reading while eating?

Delise's book list on foodie businesses that will leave you hungry

Delise Torres Why did Delise love this book?

This is a cute story about friendship, family, and food.

Annie and Julie are childhood best friends who reconnect in adulthood and decide to start a cupcakery called Treat. I loved reading about the start of their business and the descriptions of the cupcakes. I also loved how the title was applied to the story in that each character ate cupcakes differently, which revealed an aspect of their personalities.

Both main characters were well-developed, and I enjoyed seeing how they dealt with their problems and how their perspectives changed over time. 

By Meg Donohue,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked How to Eat A Cupcake as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

"A sparkling, witty story about an unlikely, yet redemptive, friendship....Grab one of these for your best friend and read it together--preferably with a plate of Meyer Lemon cupcakes nearby."
--Katie Crouch, bestselling author of Girls in Trucks and Men and Dogs
"Beautifully written and quietly wise, Meg Donohue's How to Eat a Cupcake is an achingly honest portrayal of the many layers of friendship--a story so vividly told, you can (almost) taste the buttercream." (Sarah Jio, bestselling author of The Violets of March and The Bungalow )

Author Meg Donohue has cooked up an absolutely scrumptious debut novel, How to…


Book cover of The Obsession

Dev Jannerson Author Of The Women of Dauphine

From my list on dark, gritty YA for the omnivorous reader.

Why am I passionate about this?

Two facts about me as a reader: I like books that deal with difficult issues, and I like reading a lot of them. There’s something about watching teens, for whom everything feels new, deal with the toughest stuff imaginable and come out the other side. I love a protagonist who has been through the wringer. Some people call these stories dark or morbid. I prefer to think of them as hopeful. My own writing history is as diverse as my reading habits. I’ve published in poetry, romance, and criticism, but these days I’m all about YA, like the politically-charged thriller I’m querying or my queer New Orleans ghost story, The Women of Dauphine

Dev's book list on dark, gritty YA for the omnivorous reader

Dev Jannerson Why did Dev love this book?

Thrillers! At a time when the world feels so perilous, what could be more satisfying than a high-stakes story that’s fully resolved by the last page? Only one that’s also a triumphant revenge fantasy.

Delilah is sick of feeling scared. When she retaliates against her tyrannical stepfather and he winds up dead, it would be the perfect crime–if not for a hidden camera planted by her creepy classmate. Logan believes he and Delilah are meant to be together, and he’s not above using blackmail to keep her around. Told in dual POV between Delilah and the eerily calm Logan, The Obsession is fast-paced, riveting, and, if you’re new to the thriller world, an A+ introduction to the genre.

By Jesse Q. Sutanto,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Obsession as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 14, 15, 16, and 17.

What is this book about?

A fast-paced teen revenge-thriller from the author of Dial A for Aunties, The Obsession will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Boy Meets Girl. Boy Stalks Girl. Girl Gets Revenge.
Logan thinks he and Delilah are meant to be.
Delilah doesn't know who Logan is.
Logan believes no one knows Delilah like him. He makes sure of it by learning everything he can by watching her through a hidden camera. Some might call him a stalker. Logan prefers to be called "romantic".
Delilah is keeping secrets though, deadly ones. There's so much more to…


Book cover of Killing Women: The True Story of Serial Killer Don Miller's Reign of Terror

Alan R. Warren Author Of Murder Times Six: The True Story of the Wells Gray Murders

From my list on covering the criminal justice system in America.

Why am I passionate about this?

When writing about true crime it is important for me to write about the victim’s lives before, during, and even after the crime happened. Unlike the rest of us, after the trial ends, their life continues dealing with the after-effects including parole hearings for the murderer. I've written 12 true crime books and I am the host and producer of the popular true crime history radio show House of Mystery on NBC news talk radio network throughout the U.S. & Canada. I am autistic and I have a master’s degree in Music from the University of Washington in Seattle, and a bachelor of Arts in Criminology from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, B.C. Canada. 

Alan's book list on covering the criminal justice system in America

Alan R. Warren Why did Alan love this book?

This is a relatively new book, but not only does it take you through the case of serial killer Don Miller it explains how difficult it can be for the survivors to move on with their lives. In general, most people think that once the trial is over  that everyone can move on with their lives, but that’s not always the case. Killers like don Miller come up for parole, and that’s when the second part of the journey continues for these survivors. It becomes really hard to move forward with their lives when they have to relive the murders at every parole hearing until either the killer is released or dies.

By Rod Sadler,

Why should I read it?

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

What is this book about?

"Rod Sadler takes us through the twisted world of a serial killer, in a labor of love that pays respect to those lives the monster destroyed and reminding us why they should never be forgotten and he should never be free." - Dave Schrader, host of Darkness Radio and True Crime Tuesday, and host of The Travel Channel's 'The Holzer Files'

Will A Serial Killer Soon Walk The Streets Again?

Don Miller was quiet and reserved. As a former youth pastor, he seemed a devout Christian. No one would have ever suspected that the recent graduate of the Michigan State…


Book cover of Stalking Her Sweetly

Emma Bray Author Of Stalking Sophie

From my list on insta-love short reads with possessive alpha males.

Why am I passionate about this?

I've always loved reading romance, and something about those jealous, possessive, alpha males just always got my heart racing. I love a hero who's all in from the get-go and will do anything for the woman he loves. He knows what he wants and goes after it. I also get how crazy busy we can be. I don't know about you, but I don't always have time to sit down and read a super long novel. Insta-love romances are short and spicy and don't take more than an hour or two to read. You can count on my insta-love stories to be filled with heat, passion, and happily ever afters.

Emma's book list on insta-love short reads with possessive alpha males

Emma Bray Why did Emma love this book?

Once again, I'm a sucker for a good stalker romance, and boy is Silas a hot stalker. He's not a creepy-type stalker but one who's just totally obsessed with the woman he loves. Everything he does is to keep Jamie safe, even if it is totally over the top. And Jamie is such a cute, goofy heroine. It's hard not to love her. This book had a bit of mystery element to it too, which was really cool. And, of course, it had MINK's signature: a kitty cat co-starring as a character. The way she includes a fluffy feline in all her books really gives them all a sweet touch.

By MINK,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Stalking Her Sweetly as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Silas

Am I stalking my neighbor Jamie? Yes. Is that necessarily a bad thing? Surely not. Look, I realize it sounds bad, okay? But I take care of Jamie’s problems whenever they arise. Just look at her ex-boyfriend, for example. He was trouble. Now he’s not around anymore. See? I solve problems. Whenever Jamie needs help, I’ll be there for her. It’s just who I am. Besides, if you aren’t obsessed with the one you love, are you even in love?

Jamie

Someone is stalking me. I can’t figure out who it is, but I know they’re out there. And…


Book cover of Is Mother Dead

Patricia Duncker Author Of Sophie and the Sibyl: A Victorian Romance

From Patricia's 3 favorite reads in 2023.

Why am I passionate about this?

Author Novelist Academic Crazy cat lady Opera fanatic Deep reader

Patricia's 3 favorite reads in 2023

Patricia Duncker Why did Patricia love this book?

Why isn’t there a question mark in the title? The bright cover caught my eye. Vigdis Hjorth is a leading novelist in Norway. She creates three vivid characters: Mother, Sister, Daughter, and this is a stalker story of familial retribution.

The abused and abandoned daughter is our compelling narrator: she seeks recognition and revenge. Hjorth uses the metaphors from Scandi-Noir crime fiction: the cabin buried in the forest, bitter cold turning to snow, a lone elk moving through the darkness.

The tension in this sinister emotional tale is almost unbearable, as the daughter stalks her prey: spying on her mother’s movements, visiting the father’s grave, hiding behind dustbins, plotting access to the flat. I felt completely involved in this terrifying drama and wolfed down every page. 

By Vigdis Hjorth, Charlotte Barslund (translator),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Is Mother Dead as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'To mother is to murder, or close enough', thinks Johanna, as she looks at the spelling of the two words in Norwegian. She's recently widowed and back in Oslo after a long absence as she prepares for a retrospective of her art. The subject of her work is motherhood and some of her more controversial paintings have brought about a dramatic rift between parent and child. This new proximity, after decades of acrimonious absence, set both women on edge, and before too long Johanna finds her mother stalking her thoughts, and Johanna starts stalking her mother's house.