20 best books on being kidnapped – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you a fan of thrilling suspense and heart-pounding stories? If so, then you’re in for a treat! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about being kidnapped that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Whether you’re looking for a psychological thriller, a gripping memoir, or a fictional tale that will make your heart race, these books have it all. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of kidnapping and experience the fear, determination, and resilience of the characters in these captivating reads. Dive into the pages of these gripping narratives and discover the power of a book on being kidnapped.


The Chain

by Adrian McKinty

The Chain by Adrian McKinty is an electrifying page-turner that plunges readers into the heart-stopping world of kidnapping. This thrilling suspense novel unravels a sinister web of events that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

In this gripping book on abduction, we meet Rachel, a devoted mother who receives a terrifying phone call informing her that her daughter has been kidnapped. But this is not your typical kidnapping – it’s part of a diabolical scheme known as The Chain.

The Chain is an underground organization that preys on unsuspecting parents, forcing them to kidnap another child in order to secure the release of their own. Once you’re in The Chain, there’s no way out. Failure to comply with their demands means dire consequences for both the kidnapped child and your own.

As Rachel is drawn deeper into this nightmarish world, she must make unimaginable choices in order to save her daughter. With each twist and turn, the tension mounts, leaving readers breathless and eager to uncover the truth behind The Chain.

McKinty’s writing is as sharp as a knife, and his ability to create heart-pounding suspense is unparalleled. The Chain is not just a book about being kidnapped; it’s a pulse-pounding rollercoaster ride that explores the lengths a parent will go to protect their child.

If you’re looking for a being kidnapped book that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end, then The Chain is a must-read. Prepare to be hooked from the very first page and taken on a wild journey of twists, turns, and heart-stopping suspense.

The Girl Before

by JP Delaney

The Girl Before by JP Delaney is a heart-pounding thriller that plunges readers into a world of mystery and danger. This gripping novel takes us on a journey through the lives of two women who have one thing in common: they both lived in the same house. But this is no ordinary house. It’s a minimalist masterpiece designed by an enigmatic architect, and it comes with a set of strict rules that its occupants must follow.

Emma and Jane, the two main characters, are drawn to the house for different reasons. Emma is looking for a fresh start after a traumatic event, while Jane is trying to escape a troubled past. But as they settle into their new home, they begin to uncover dark secrets that connect them in ways they never could have imagined.

As the story unfolds, we learn that both women have been victims of abduction in their pasts. This revelation adds an extra layer of intensity to the narrative, as we are forced to confront the psychological and emotional toll that being kidnapped has on its survivors. The author skillfully explores the themes of trauma, survival, and the lengths we will go to protect ourselves.

The Girl Before is a thrilling rollercoaster ride that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its twisty plot and complex characters, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good psychological thriller. Delaney’s writing is sharp and engaging, and he masterfully builds suspense with every page-turn. Prepare to be captivated by this chilling tale of survival and redemption.

The Good Girl

by Mary Kubica

The Good Girl is a captivating thriller that delves into the dark and chilling world of abduction and the harrowing aftermath that follows. This gripping tale follows the life of Mia Dennett, a young woman who becomes the victim of a sinister kidnapping plot.

But this is not your typical book on being kidnapped. Mary Kubica masterfully weaves a narrative that explores the complex web of relationships and secrets that surround Mia’s disappearance. As readers plunge deeper into the story, they are confronted with shocking revelations and unexpected twists.

The Good Girl is far more than just a book about being kidnapped. It delves into the psychological aspects of captivity, examining the mind of both the victim and the captor. Kubica skillfully delves into the intricacies of human nature, exploring themes of survival, desperation, and the lengths one will go to protect their loved ones.

This being kidnapped book will keep you on the edge of your seat, unable to put it down until the final page. Kubica’s writing is spellbinding, her characters richly drawn, and her storytelling impeccable. Prepare to be immersed in a world of suspense and danger as you unravel the mysteries that lie within The Good Girl.

The Butterfly Garden

by Dot Hutchison

Welcome to the mesmerizing world of The Butterfly Garden by Dot Hutchison. This chilling and gripping novel immerses readers into a dark and twisted tale of abduction and survival.

In this haunting book, readers are introduced to a captivating story of individuals who find themselves trapped in a secret garden. But this is no ordinary garden – it is a prison for young women who have been snatched away from their lives, torn from their families, and forced to endure unimaginable horrors.

Hutchison’s masterful storytelling takes us on a journey through the eyes of Maya, one of the survivors, as she recounts the nightmarish experiences she and her fellow captives endure. She describes the sinister man known as “The Gardener,” who orchestrates the garden’s twisted existence.

The beauty and fragility of butterflies serve as a haunting metaphor throughout the novel, symbolizing the girls’ stolen innocence and the delicate balance between life and death that they constantly face. As Maya and her fellow captives navigate the treacherous world of the garden, readers are drawn into a suspenseful and heart-wrenching tale that explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the power of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Prepare to be captivated by The Butterfly Garden, a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you questioning the depths of human depravity and the strength of the human will to survive.

The Kind Worth Killing

by Peter Swanson

The Kind Worth Killing is a heart-pounding roller coaster ride of a book that delves deep into the dark and twisted world of deceit, revenge, and murder. Set against the backdrop of a chilling winter in Boston, this gripping psychological thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

At its core, The Kind Worth Killing is a book about abduction and manipulation. It follows the lives of four complex and morally ambiguous characters whose paths cross in the most unexpected and sinister ways. With each turn of the page, the suspense builds, as secrets are revealed and loyalties are tested.

Prepare to be captivated by Swanson’s masterful storytelling as he weaves a web of intrigue and suspense. The narrative is filled with unexpected twists and turns that will leave you gasping for breath. From the moment you start reading, you’ll find yourself completely absorbed in this chilling tale of survival and revenge.

So if you’re looking for a book that will keep you hooked from the very first page, The Kind Worth Killing is the perfect choice. Get ready to be taken on a thrilling journey into the dark side of human nature, where nothing is as it seems and danger lurks around every corner. Prepare to be kidnapped by the gripping narrative, and trust me when I say, this is one abduction you won’t want to escape from.

The Cellar

by Natasha Preston

Welcome to the chilling world of The Cellar, a heart-pounding thriller that explores the terrifying reality of abduction. Natasha Preston’s masterful storytelling takes you on a gripping journey through the eyes of a young woman who finds herself trapped in a dark and sinister cellar.

The Never List

by Koethi Zan

The Never List by Koethi Zan is an electrifying and heart-pounding book that delves into the terrifying world of abduction and captivity. This gripping thriller follows the story of Sarah and Jennifer, two brave women who have survived the unimaginable ordeal of being snatched from their lives and held captive for years.

As they struggle to rebuild their lives and come to terms with their traumatic past, Sarah and Jennifer create a list of rules, aptly named “The Never List,” to ensure their safety and prevent anyone else from falling victim to the same fate. However, their carefully constructed world is shattered when a sadistic killer emerges, threatening to expose their darkest secrets and force them to confront the horrors they thought they had left behind.

The Never List takes readers on a heart-stopping journey, exploring the depths of human resilience, the power of friendship, and the lengths one will go to protect the ones they love. With its skillful storytelling and nail-biting suspense, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning the pages to uncover the truth behind Sarah and Jennifer’s haunting past. Prepare to be captivated by this chilling tale of survival and redemption.

The Collector

by John Fowles

The Collector by John Fowles is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the dark and twisted mind of a man obsessed with possession and control. This extraordinary book explores the chilling dynamics of a kidnapping, offering a unique and disturbing perspective on the depths of human depravity.

Room

by Emma Donoghue

Room by Emma Donoghue is a heart-stopping thriller that takes readers on a gripping journey into the dark and twisted world of abduction. This gripping novel tells the story of a young woman, Joy, who has been imprisoned in a small, soundproofed shed for seven years by a man known only as Old Nick. The room in which she is held captive becomes her entire world, and her only companion is her five-year-old son, Jack.

Donoghue’s masterful storytelling transports readers into the mind of a young boy who has never known anything beyond the four walls of his prison. Through Jack’s innocent and curious perspective, we witness the daily struggles and routines within Room, as well as his mother’s unwavering determination to protect him from the horrors of their reality.

Room is not just a book about being kidnapped; it delves deep into the psychological and emotional impact of such a traumatic experience. Donoghue’s powerful narrative explores themes of resilience, love, and the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child. As the story unfolds, we are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, from heart-pounding suspense to heart-wrenching moments of tenderness and hope.

With its hauntingly beautiful prose and unforgettable characters, Room is a captivating read that will leave you breathless. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a chilling reminder of the darkness that can lurk just beyond our doors. Prepare yourself for a gripping journey through the depths of captivity and a powerful exploration of what it truly means to be free.

The Darkest Corners

by Kara Thomas

The Darkest Corners by Kara Thomas is a heart-pounding thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat. This gripping novel takes you on a dark and twisted journey into the world of secrets, lies, and the haunting reality of being abducted.

The Bunker Diary

by Kevin Brooks

The Bunker Diary by Kevin Brooks is an intense and gripping novel that delves into the dark and harrowing world of abduction. This compelling book takes readers on a heart-pounding journey, exploring the terrifying reality of being held captive against one’s will.

Within the pages of The Bunker Diary, readers are introduced to Linus, a young boy who finds himself trapped in an underground bunker with five strangers. As the days turn into weeks, and the weeks into months, the group’s hope for escape begins to dwindle, and the line between sanity and despair becomes increasingly blurred.

Brooks masterfully crafts a chilling narrative that immerses readers in the claustrophobic and sinister atmosphere of the bunker. With each page, the tension builds, keeping readers on the edge of their seats, desperate to uncover the truth behind their captivity.

This book, often referred to as a ‘book on being kidnapped’, ‘book about being kidnapped’, or simply a ‘being kidnapped book’, explores the psychological and emotional impact of such a traumatic experience. Through his vivid and evocative writing, Brooks forces readers to question the limits of human endurance and the lengths one will go to survive.

The Bunker Diary is a thought-provoking and haunting read that will leave readers breathless. It is a book that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope in the face of unimaginable darkness.

The Missing

by C.L. Taylor

The Missing by C.L. Taylor: A Heart-Stopping Thriller of Vanishing Acts

Embark on a chilling journey into the unknown with “The Missing” by C.L. Taylor, a gripping tale that delves into the terrifying world of abduction and disappearance. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of emotions as you immerse yourself in this heart-stopping thriller.

Follow the footsteps of two women who find themselves caught in a web of deceit and danger. When Claire, a mother desperate to escape her troubled past, takes a job in a picturesque seaside town, she believes she has found the fresh start she desperately needs. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when her teenage daughter, Kira, vanishes without a trace.

As Claire desperately searches for answers, she becomes entangled with a group of strangers, each with their own secrets to hide. With time slipping away, she must navigate a treacherous maze of deception, betrayal, and unexpected alliances. Will she uncover the truth about her daughter’s disappearance before it’s too late?

Intricately woven and fast-paced, “The Missing” will keep you on the edge of your seat as you try to unravel the mysteries surrounding Claire and Kira’s lives. With its pulse-pounding suspense and unexpected twists, this book about being kidnapped will leave you breathless and craving for more.

Prepare yourself for a gripping read that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew. “The Missing” is not just a book on being kidnapped; it is a haunting exploration of the lengths a mother will go to protect her child and the darkness that lurks beneath the surface of idyllic coastal towns.

The Breakdown

by B.A. Paris

The Breakdown: A Gripping Tale of Mystery and Intrigue

Welcome to the heart-pounding world of The Breakdown, a spellbinding thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This electrifying novel, penned by the talented B.A. Paris, weaves a web of suspense and psychological terror that will leave you breathless.

Set against a backdrop of uncertainty and fear, The Breakdown follows the gripping journey of Cass Anderson, a woman who finds herself trapped in a nightmare of her own making. After a fateful night of driving through a storm, Cass comes across a stranded motorist but decides not to stop, haunted by a feeling of guilt. However, when she later learns that the woman she passed away has been brutally murdered, Cass is consumed by guilt and paranoia.

As the days go by, Cass becomes increasingly convinced that someone is watching her, that her every move is being monitored. Haunted by the relentless fear that she may be next, she descends into a spiral of anxiety and isolation. With her memory starting to fail her, Cass questions her own sanity, unable to trust even her closest friends and family.

As the suspense builds, The Breakdown takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, with unexpected twists and turns at every corner. Paris masterfully crafts a narrative that keeps readers guessing until the very last page, skillfully ratcheting up the tension and leaving readers desperate for answers.

With its gripping plot, well-drawn characters, and heart-stopping suspense, The Breakdown is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. Prepare to be captivated by this chilling tale of deception, guilt, and the terrifying consequences of a single decision. Brace yourself for a book that will keep you up all night, on the edge of your seat, and questioning everything you think you know.

The Child Finder

by Rene Denfeld

The Child Finder by Rene Denfeld is a gripping and haunting novel that delves into the dark and sinister world of abductions. This captivating book explores the heart-wrenching story of a woman who has made it her life’s mission to find missing children.

Set against a backdrop of icy forests and snow-covered mountains, The Child Finder takes readers on a thrilling journey as Naomi, a talented investigator known as the “Child Finder,” ventures into the wilderness to rescue a young girl who has been missing for years.

Denfeld’s writing is both poetic and chilling, painting a vivid picture of the haunting landscapes and the desperate search for answers. As Naomi delves deeper into the case, she uncovers shocking secrets and uncovers the truth about her own painful past.

This thought-provoking book explores themes of resilience, hope, and the indomitable spirit of those who refuse to give up in the face of unimaginable circumstances. Denfeld skillfully captures the emotional turmoil of the characters, making readers empathize with their fears, grief, and determination.

If you’re looking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat, The Child Finder is a must-read. With its compelling storyline, richly-drawn characters, and a powerful exploration of the human spirit, this book is a true page-turner. Prepare to be captivated by this thrilling tale of loss, redemption, and the unbreakable bond between a searcher and the lost.

The Roanoke Girls

by Amy Engel

The Roanoke Girls by Amy Engel is a gripping and haunting novel that delves into the dark and disturbing secrets of a deeply troubled family. This book is not just about being kidnapped, it’s a chilling exploration of the psychological aftermath of abduction.

The Last Time I Lied

by Riley Sager

The Last Time I Lied by Riley Sager is an electrifying thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This nail-biting page-turner takes us on a suspenseful journey into the dark and twisted world of secrets, lies, and the haunting aftermath of a chilling abduction.

The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides is a mesmerizing psychological thriller that will take you on a heart-pounding journey into the depths of a disturbed mind.

This gripping novel revolves around Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who seemingly has it all – talent, beauty, and a seemingly perfect life. However, her world is shattered when she is found guilty of a brutal crime – the murder of her husband, Gabriel.

From that moment on, Alicia chooses to remain silent, refusing to utter a single word about what happened on that fateful night. She is confined to a psychiatric facility called The Grove, where she becomes a mysterious enigma, capturing the fascination of the public and the media.

Theo Faber, a psychotherapist, becomes obsessed with unlocking Alicia’s silence and delving into her troubled psyche. As he delves deeper into her case, Theo uncovers shocking secrets and hidden traumas that lead him down a dark and twisted path.

With its masterful storytelling, unpredictable twists, and chilling atmosphere, The Silent Patient will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. This book about being kidnapped will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about the human mind and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets.

The Wife Between Us

by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen

The Wife Between Us is a spine-chilling thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This psychological masterpiece, written by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen, takes you on a rollercoaster ride of twists and turns, leaving you guessing until the very last page.

Unraveling the complexities of love, obsession, and betrayal, this gripping tale explores the lives of three characters whose paths intertwine in the most unexpected ways. Vanessa, a recently divorced woman, seems to be the focus of the story, but as you delve deeper into the narrative, you realize that nothing is as it seems.

Prepare to be captivated by the mind games and manipulation that take place as the authors expertly peel back the layers of deceit. The narrative is so intricately woven that you’ll find yourself questioning everything and everyone. Just when you think you’ve figured it all out, another shocking revelation sends you spiraling into a web of uncertainty once again.

With its fast-paced and suspenseful plot, The Wife Between Us is the perfect book for anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers that keep them guessing. This is not just a book about being kidnapped; it is a book that explores the dark depths of the human psyche and the lengths some people will go to protect their secrets.

So, if you’re ready for a heart-pounding read that will keep you up all night, grab a copy of The Wife Between Us. But be warned, once you start reading, you won’t be able to put it down. Get ready to be kidnapped into a world of secrets, lies, and shocking revelations.

The Liar’s Room

by Simon Lelic

The Liar’s Room: A Gripping Tale of Deception and Captivity

Step into a world of suspense and manipulation in The Liar’s Room by Simon Lelic, a thrilling psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Brace yourself for a heart-pounding journey that delves deep into the complexities of human nature and the power of deceit.

In this gripping tale, we meet Susanna, a woman trapped in a claustrophobic room. But this is no ordinary captivity. Instead of physical restraints, Susanna finds herself ensnared in a web of lies and secrets, where every word spoken could have devastating consequences. As the tension builds, the truth becomes elusive, and Susanna must navigate the treacherous territory of her own mind to unravel the mysteries surrounding her.

With masterful storytelling, Lelic takes us on an exhilarating rollercoaster ride, exploring the depths of psychological manipulation and the lengths one will go to protect their darkest secrets. As Susanna fights to uncover the truth, she must confront her own past and face the harsh realities that lurk just beyond the confines of the room.

Prepare to be captivated by Lelic’s brilliant narrative, as he skillfully weaves together a tale of suspense and psychological intrigue. The Liar’s Room is not just a book about being kidnapped; it is a mesmerizing exploration of the human psyche, exposing the many layers of deception that can exist within our own minds.

If you are ready to embark on an unforgettable journey into the depths of psychological captivity, then The Liar’s Room is the perfect choice for you. Get ready to be captivated, deceived, and ultimately, left breathless.

The Escape Room

by Megan Goldin

The Escape Room by Megan Goldin is a heart-stopping thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This gripping novel takes you deep into the dark world of corporate greed and revenge, where four ambitious Wall Street colleagues find themselves trapped in an elevator, fighting for their lives.

In this intense book about being kidnapped, Vincent, Jules, Sylvie, and Sam are forced to confront their darkest secrets and deepest fears as they navigate a series of deadly puzzles and challenges. As the tension rises and the oxygen runs out, the true nature of their captivity becomes clear: they are pawns in a twisted game orchestrated by someone who knows all of their darkest secrets.

The Escape Room is a rollercoaster ride of suspense and psychological thrills, exploring themes of power, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to in order to survive. With its clever plot twists and complex characters, this being kidnapped book will keep you guessing until the very last page.

If you’re a fan of heart-pounding thrillers that will leave you breathless, The Escape Room is a must-read. Get ready for a nail-biting adventure that will make you question everything you thought you knew about trust, loyalty, and the price of success.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about being kidnapped offer thrilling and suspenseful stories that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. From psychological thrillers to gripping true accounts, these books explore the complex emotions and harrowing experiences of those who have been taken against their will. Whether you’re looking for a heart-pounding escape or a deeper understanding of the human spirit, these books will not disappoint. Dive into these captivating tales and discover the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.