10+ Best Thriller Books for 15-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat? Look no further! Our curated selection of thriller books for 15-year-olds is packed with suspense, mystery, and action that will captivate any young reader. Whether you're in the mood for a mind-bending puzzle or a heart-pounding adventure, we've got you covered. Keep reading to dive into our thrilling lists and find your next favorite read!

Fun Thriller Books for 15-Year-Olds

• The Maze Runner by James Dashner
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Mystery, Thriller
  • Synopsis: Thomas wakes up in a lift with no memory of his past, only to find himself in a glade surrounded by a giant maze with other boys who also have no memories. Together, they must try to escape while uncovering the dark secrets of their world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fast-paced, suspenseful novel that hooks readers with its intriguing premise and constant action, making it a great choice to captivate reluctant readers.
  • Perfect for: Teens who love puzzles and adrenaline-pumping scenarios.

• One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Thriller, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: Five students walk into detention, but only four walk out alive. Everyone is a suspect, and everyone has something to hide. Through twists and turns, the true story behind the student's death unfolds, revealing deep secrets.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines the suspense of a mystery with the drama of high school life, which can be particularly engaging for teenagers.
  • Perfect for: Young adults who enjoy a good whodunit mixed with the complexities of teenage relationships.

• Legend by Marie Lu
  • Genre(s): Dystopian, Thriller, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Set in a dark, futuristic United States, the story follows a young criminal prodigy and a brilliant investigator who are on opposite sides of a brutal class war but their paths cross when they uncover a sinister conspiracy.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its fast-paced narrative and compelling characters offer a thrilling ride, plus it touches on themes of loyalty, trust, and the fight against injustice.
  • Perfect for: Teens who are fans of dystopian settings and stories that feature cat-and-mouse chases.

• I Am Not A Serial Killer by Dan Wells
  • Genre(s): Horror, Thriller, Supernatural
  • Synopsis: John Wayne Cleaver is a diagnosed sociopath obsessed with serial killers. But when a real murderer comes to his town, he must unleash his dark side to stop it—fighting his own demons in the process.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a unique protagonist and a gripping plot that explores the nature of good vs. evil, making it a fascinating read for those intrigued by psychological depth.
  • Perfect for: Readers who like dark, psychological thrillers and exploring complex characters.

• The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Thriller, Paranormal
  • Synopsis: Rory, an American teenager in London, witnesses a murder committed by a suspect that mimics the infamous Jack the Ripper. Soon, she becomes involved in the case and discovers her own ability to see the supernatural.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling blend of historical intrigue and paranormal suspense which keeps readers guessing and eager to turn the page.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in historical mysteries with a paranormal twist.

Educational Thriller Books for 15-Year-Olds

• The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Puzzle Thriller
  • Synopsis: Sixteen heirs are brought together to solve the mystery of Samuel W. Westing's death, guided by clues he left behind in his will, each pair of heirs must solve a unique puzzle.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Logical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and comprehension of complex narratives.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a brain-teasing mystery that engages readers with its clever puzzles and sharp twists, making it both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and any teen who loves cracking codes and solving mysteries.

• Heist Society by Ally Carter
  • Genre(s): Crime, Adventure, Thriller
  • Synopsis: Teenage con artist Katarina Bishop must orchestrate the greatest heist in her family's history to steal back a mobster’s art collection and save her father’s life.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Strategic thinking, understanding of art history, and insights into moral dilemmas.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fast-paced, glamorous tale of high-stakes crime, providing both excitement and a glimpse into the art world.
  • Perfect for: Teens who enjoy stories about capers and complex heists with a strong female lead.

• Girl, Stolen by April Henry
  • Genre(s): Crime, Thriller, Suspense
  • Synopsis: Sixteen-year-old Cheyenne, who is blind, gets kidnapped by mistake and must outwit her captors to escape.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Awareness of disabilities, resilience, strategic thinking, and empathy.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping, edge-of-your-seat thriller that also provides a deep, personal look at the challenges faced by those with disabilities.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate intense survival stories and learning about overcoming physical challenges.

• Paper Towns by John Green
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Coming-of-Age, Thriller
  • Synopsis: After an adventurous night with Margo, his mysterious neighbor, Quentin wakes up to find her missing. What follows is a journey filled with clues that Quentin must decipher to find Margo.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, understanding of human behavior, and map-reading skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines mystery with deep philosophical questions, making it a thought-provoking read that also entertains.
  • Perfect for: Teens who enjoy stories that are both adventurous and introspective.

Challenging Thriller Books for 15-Year-Olds

• The Secret History by Donna Tartt
  • Genre(s): Psychological Thriller, Mystery
  • Synopsis: A group of elite college students at a small Vermont college come under the influence of a charismatic classics professor, leading to a spiral of tragic events.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into complex themes of morality, elitism, and the consequences of intellectual arrogance, presented through sophisticated prose and a dense, layered narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: This novel offers a gripping and intellectually stimulating experience, challenging readers to question the ideals of beauty and morality in society.
  • Perfect for: Advanced teen readers who appreciate deep psychological insights and moral complexities.

• And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Crime Thriller
  • Synopsis: Ten strangers are invited to an isolated island by a mysterious host and start to die one by one, according to a sinister nursery rhyme.
  • Why this book is challenging: The intricate plot and the complex interplay of characters require sharp attention to detail and ability to follow subtle clues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a masterclass in suspense and mystery, providing a thrilling puzzle that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
  • Perfect for: Mystery enthusiasts who love piecing together clues and solving a high-stakes puzzle.

• The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
  • Genre(s): Crime Thriller, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander are drawn into a world of corruption and family secrets as they investigate a 40-year-old missing person case.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex plots with multiple characters and themes, including financial intrigue, social justice, and personal redemption.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a compelling, multi-layered mystery combined with deep social commentary, making it both thrilling and thought-provoking.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in intense, character-driven narratives and those who appreciate stories that confront real-world issues.

• Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
  • Genre(s): Psychological Thriller, Mystery
  • Synopsis: The disappearance of Amy Dunne unveils the dark secrets of a seemingly perfect marriage, leading to a twisted narrative of deception and revenge.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel's use of unreliable narrators, shifting perspectives, and complex psychological depth provides a challenging read for sophisticated readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping exploration of psychological manipulation and the complexities of relationships, offering a dark but engaging experience.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are fascinated by the darker aspects of human nature and complex narrative structures.

• Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane
  • Genre(s): Psychological Thriller, Mystery
  • Synopsis: U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels arrives at Ashecliffe Hospital for the criminally insane on Shutter Island to investigate the disappearance of a patient but discovers much more about the island and himself than he expected.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book's complex plot, involving delusions and disorienting twists, challenges readers to distinguish between reality and illusion.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an intense, atmospheric experience that immerses readers in a deeply unsettling narrative, perfect for those who enjoy psychological puzzles.
  • Perfect for: Teens who like stories that challenge their perception and keep them guessing until the last page.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of thriller books, you're in for quite the adventure. To make the most out of your reading experience, especially at 15, it's great to develop some solid reading habits early on. Here are a few exercises that will not only enhance your understanding but also make your reading journey more engaging and fun.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you want to read.
  • How it helps: Keeps you focused and helps in building a consistent reading habit.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes from the thriller books you read.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress and reflections.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day after your reading session.

• Discuss with Friends
  • What it is: Share and discuss the plot, characters, and theories with friends who are also reading the same book.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and provides different perspectives on the same material.
  • Tips: Try forming a small book club or join one online.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and enhances concentration.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Keep a dictionary handy to look up new words you encounter while reading.
  • How it helps: Improves vocabulary and understanding of the book.
  • Tips: There are plenty of dictionary apps that you can download on your smartphone for ease.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write brief summaries of each chapter once you finish them.
  • How it helps: Reinforces memory and comprehension of what you read.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries concise and revisit them before starting the next reading session.

These exercises are designed to make your thriller reading experience more enriching and enjoyable. By incorporating these habits, you'll not only get through your books effectively but also retain more of what you read. Happy reading!