We’ve all been there—that dreaded reading slump where nothing sticks. I’d start a book, get a few chapters in, and just… stop. Not because it was bad, but because I couldn’t focus or get invested. Life was loud, my brain was louder, and reading felt like work. But then I picked up one book that completely sucked me in, and just like that—I was back. Here are five fast-paced reads that brought me out of my slump and reminded me why I love getting lost in stories again.
Verity by Colleen Hoover
This was the book that jumpstarted my reading energy again. It’s dark, disturbing, and absolutely addicting. Lowen, a struggling writer, is hired to finish the books of bestselling author Verity Crawford—who’s now non-verbal after a tragic accident. While staying at Verity’s home, Lowen discovers an unpublished manuscript that reveals horrifying secrets. I could not stop turning the pages.
This is not your usual Colleen Hoover romance. It’s twisted, psychological, and full of WHAT did I just read?? moments. I devoured it in one sitting and finished with my jaw on the floor. If you're into morally gray characters, unreliable narrators, and stories that make you question everything, this one will jolt you awake. Trust me—don’t start this late at night unless you’re okay with zero sleep.
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave
This one’s more of a slow burn disguised as a thriller—but once it picks up, you’re locked in. Hannah's husband disappears after a corporate scandal, leaving behind one note: "Protect her." “Her” being his 16-year-old daughter, Bailey, who barely tolerates Hannah. The two set out to unravel who he really was—and why he vanished.
What I loved most is that it’s not just a mystery—it’s a quiet, emotional story about trust, found family, and the way people reinvent themselves. It kept me curious the whole time, with short chapters that made it easy to binge. It's one of those books you keep thinking about even after you finish, especially that ending.
The Guest List by Lucy Foley
A wedding on a remote island. Glamorous guests with secrets. And yes—someone ends up dead. Told from multiple POVs, The Guest List is one of those classic whodunnits that pulls you in with atmosphere, tension, and just enough chaos to keep you guessing. It starts off with a storm brewing—literally and emotionally—and then the layers start peeling back.
Everyone has a motive. Everyone is a little bit terrible. And the setting? Creepy in the best way. I loved the slow build, the shifting perspectives, and the final twist. It felt like watching an Agatha Christie adaptation on Netflix. If you’re looking for a juicy, locked-room-style mystery, this is the one.
The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell
This one creeped me out in the best way. Libby inherits a beautiful old house in London on her 25th birthday—only to find out it’s tied to a series of mysterious deaths and a cult-like past involving her real family. Told from three alternating perspectives, the story pieces together dark family secrets, missing people, and twisted loyalties.
Lisa Jewell knows how to write suspense that builds slowly but never lets go. I read this in just four hours—I was completely hooked. The pacing, the tension, the dark reveals... I couldn’t look away. If you love thrillers with deep, messed-up family drama, this one grabs you and doesn’t let go.
Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris
This book was a rollercoaster from page one. Jack and Grace seem like the perfect couple—he’s a successful lawyer, she’s charming and beautiful. But behind their perfect image is something much darker. I won’t spoil too much, but this is one of those books that makes you feel trapped right alongside the main character.
It’s not for the faint of heart—some parts made my stomach turn—but I couldn’t put it down. The tension is nonstop, and even though I thought I knew where it was going, it still managed to surprise me. If you’re into domestic thrillers where everything looks perfect until it’s not, this one is unforgettable.
Got any unputdownable book recs?
If you’ve read something that pulled you out of a reading slump—or if you have ideas for what I should feature next—send your suggestions my way: 📩 ihorton@whatsupmag.com
