20 best books on betrayal in friendship – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you craving some juicy tales of friendship gone wrong? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about betrayal in friendship that will have you on the edge of your seat. From shocking secrets to heartbreaking betrayals, these captivating reads will leave you questioning the very nature of trust. So grab your favorite blanket and get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions with these must-read betrayal in friendship books!


The Silent Patient

by Alex Michaelides

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

Prepare to be captivated by a chilling tale of deception and mystery in The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides. This gripping psychological thriller takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through a world of betrayal in friendship.

At the heart of the story is Alicia Berenson, a renowned painter who seemingly has it all. But one fateful night, her seemingly perfect life takes a dark turn when she shoots her husband Gabriel multiple times and then falls into silence, refusing to utter a single word.

Enter Theo Faber, a psychotherapist determined to uncover the truth behind Alicia’s silence. As he delves deeper into her past and unravels the enigmatic layers of her mind, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that will keep readers guessing until the very end.

With each turn of the page, Michaelides expertly weaves a tale of trust shattered and loyalties tested. The theme of betrayal in friendship pervades the narrative, leaving readers questioning the true nature of the relationships depicted.

With its skillful storytelling, jaw-dropping plot twists, and exploration of the depths of the human psyche, The Silent Patient is a betrayal in friendship book that will leave you breathless and eager to uncover the truth.

The Girl on the Train

by Paula Hawkins

The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a thrilling book on betrayal in friendship that will leave you on the edge of your seat. This gripping novel takes you on a rollercoaster ride of suspense, deception, and unexpected twists.

Rachel Watson, the protagonist, is a troubled woman who commutes on the same train every day. During her daily journey, she becomes obsessed with a seemingly perfect couple she glimpses from the window. She imagines their lives, creating a fantasy world in her mind.

However, Rachel’s fascination takes a dark turn when she witnesses something shocking from the train. As she becomes entangled in the couple’s lives, she discovers that appearances can be deceiving. Betrayal lurks behind closed doors, and Rachel finds herself caught in a web of lies and secrets.

As the story unfolds, the author skillfully weaves together multiple perspectives, allowing us to see the events from different characters’ viewpoints. This adds depth and complexity to the narrative, keeping readers guessing until the very end.

Hawkins masterfully explores the theme of betrayal in friendship throughout the book. She delves into the intricacies of human relationships, exposing the fragile bonds that can be broken by deceit and betrayal. The characters’ actions and motivations are examined, revealing the devastating consequences of their choices.

The Girl on the Train is a gripping psychological thriller that will captivate fans of suspense and mystery. Hawkins’s sharp writing style, coupled with the intense storyline, creates a page-turner that is impossible to put down. Prepare to be enthralled by this book about betrayal in friendship as it takes you on a thrilling journey into the dark side of human nature.

The Goldfinch

by Donna Tartt

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a captivating book on betrayal in friendship that takes readers on an exhilarating rollercoaster ride through the life of its young protagonist, Theo Decker. Set against the backdrop of New York City, this spellbinding novel delves deep into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of betrayal in friendship.

The Husband’s Secret

by Liane Moriarty

The Husband’s Secret by Liane Moriarty is a captivating and suspenseful novel that delves into the complexities of relationships and the consequences of betrayal in friendship. This thrilling book unravels the secrets and hidden truths that lie beneath the surface of three women’s lives, forever altering their friendship and challenging their notions of loyalty.

The Kite Runner

by Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is an astounding book on betrayal in friendship. Set against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s tumultuous history, this unforgettable story delves deep into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of our actions.

The Great Alone

by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone is a riveting book on betrayal in friendship that will leave you breathless. Kristin Hannah’s powerful storytelling transports you to the untamed wilderness of Alaska, where the bonds of friendship are tested to their limits.

The Secret History

by Donna Tartt

The Secret History is a captivating book on betrayal in friendship that delves into the dark depths of loyalty, trust, and secrets. Donna Tartt weaves a mesmerizing tale of a group of college students bound together by their love for knowledge, beauty, and a shared secret.

The Thirteenth Tale

by Diane Setterfield

The Thirteenth Tale: A Captivating Tale of Deception and Trust

Prepare yourself for an extraordinary journey into the depths of a captivating tale, where secrets are unveiled and the power of friendship is tested. Diane Setterfield’s The Thirteenth Tale is a literary masterpiece that explores the intricate web of human relationships, focusing on the theme of betrayal in friendship.

Set in the hauntingly beautiful English countryside, this novel weaves a complex narrative that delves into the lives of Vida Winter, a reclusive and enigmatic author, and Margaret Lea, an amateur biographer. As Margaret embarks on the task of capturing Vida’s life story, she soon discovers that their meeting is no mere coincidence.

With each turn of the page, Setterfield unravels a tale of deceit, secrets, and long-hidden truths. The bond between Vida and Margaret grows stronger as they both confront their own personal demons, ultimately leading them to face the ultimate betrayal in their friendship.

Through vivid and evocative prose, Setterfield takes readers on a rollercoaster of emotions, keeping them on the edge of their seats until the very last page. The Thirteenth Tale is not just a book about betrayal in friendship; it is a masterpiece that explores the complex nature of human connections, the power of storytelling, and the resilience of the human spirit.

So, immerse yourself in the world of intrigue and mystery that Diane Setterfield has masterfully created. Experience the heart-wrenching journey of two women bound by secrets and lies, and discover the true meaning of trust, loyalty, and forgiveness.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

by Stieg Larsson

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is an electrifying and gripping novel that explores the dark and twisted world of betrayal in friendship. Written by the talented author Stieg Larsson, this book delves deep into the complexities of trust, loyalty, and deception.

The Help

by Kathryn Stockett

The Help by Kathryn Stockett is an extraordinary book on the complexities of friendship and the heartbreaking moments of betrayal that can occur within those relationships. Set in the racially charged 1960s Mississippi, this novel delves into the lives of three women who come together to challenge the status quo and bring about change.

The Maze Runner

by James Dashner

The Maze Runner is an electrifying journey through a labyrinth of deceit. James Dashner takes us on a rollercoaster ride with his thrilling tale of survival, packed with heart-stopping suspense and unexpected twists.

This gripping book on betrayal in friendship introduces us to Thomas, a young boy who wakes up in a mysterious place known as the Glade. He has no recollection of his past, his memories erased, and is surrounded by a group of boys who share the same fate.

As Thomas navigates the ever-shifting maze that surrounds the Glade, he discovers betrayal lurking around every corner. The bonds of friendship are tested, and he quickly realizes that trust can be a dangerous game to play.

This book about betrayal in friendship will leave you on the edge of your seat as Thomas and his fellow Gladers uncover the truth behind their confinement. With each twist and turn, Dashner skillfully weaves a web of secrets and lies that will keep you guessing until the very end.

The Maze Runner is a heart-pounding adventure that explores the depths of human resilience, the power of friendship, and the lengths one will go to survive. Prepare to be captivated by this betrayal in friendship book that will leave you breathless and craving for more.

The Fault in Our Stars

by John Green

The Fault in Our Stars is a captivating book on betrayal in friendship that will take you on an emotional roller coaster. This heart-wrenching story follows the lives of Hazel and Gus, two teenagers who meet at a cancer support group. As they navigate their way through the challenges of their illnesses, they form a deep bond that is tested by the ultimate betrayal.

The Girl Before

by JP Delaney

The Girl Before by JP Delaney is an electrifying psychological thriller that delves deep into the complex dynamics of friendship and the dark undercurrents of betrayal. This gripping novel explores the treacherous territory of trust and loyalty, unraveling a twisted tale of deception and manipulation.

The Light Between Oceans

by M.L. Stedman

The Light Between Oceans, written by M.L. Stedman, is an enthralling tale of deceit, loyalty, and the devastating consequences of a betrayal within the bonds of friendship.

The Nightingale

by Kristin Hannah

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is an exhilarating tale of deceit and treachery disguised as friendship. Set in the backdrop of World War II, this mesmerizing novel takes you on a journey through the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, who find themselves torn apart by the ravages of war and the ultimate betrayal in their once unbreakable bond.

The Girl in the Ice

by Robert Bryndza

The Girl in the Ice is a captivating novel that explores the dark depths of betrayal in friendship. This thrilling book delves into the intricate web of deceit, treachery, and duplicity that can exist between even the closest of friends.

The Girl Before

by Rena Olsen

The Girl Before by Rena Olsen is a gripping and suspenseful book on betrayal in friendship. This thrilling novel explores the intricate complexities of human relationships, particularly focusing on the dark underbelly of betrayal in friendship. Olsen delves into the depths of deceit, lies, and manipulation, weaving a tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

The Girl Who Lied

by Sue Fortin

The Girl Who Lied by Sue Fortin is a thrilling book on betrayal in friendship that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Set in a small coastal town, this gripping tale unravels the deep secrets and hidden agendas of a group of childhood friends.

When Ella Sinclair returns to her hometown after years away, she is eager to reconnect with her childhood best friend, Suzie. However, not everything is as it seems. As the layers of deceit and manipulation begin to unfold, Ella finds herself caught in a web of lies and betrayal.

This book about betrayal in friendship explores the complex dynamics between friends and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. With each chapter, the suspense builds, keeping you guessing until the very end.

Sue Fortin masterfully crafts a tale of betrayal in friendship that will have you questioning who you can trust. The characters are deeply flawed, adding to the tension and making it impossible to put the book down.

If you enjoy psychological thrillers and stories of deceit and betrayal, then this betrayal in friendship book is a must-read. Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride of twists and turns that will leave you breathless.

The Girl Before

by JP Delaney

The Girl Before by JP Delaney is a thrilling book that delves into the intricacies of a toxic friendship. It is a captivating tale of deceit, duplicity, and treachery, exploring the darkest depths of betrayal in friendship. This gripping novel uncovers the hidden layers of trust, loyalty, and manipulation that exist between two individuals who were once inseparable.

The Girl Before

by Lisa Jewell

The Girl Before by Lisa Jewell is a gripping and suspenseful novel that delves into the dark complexities of trust, loyalty, and deception within a friendship.

This riveting book explores the theme of treachery in companionship, unearthing the intricate layers of deceit and betrayal that can exist within the closest of friendships. Jewell masterfully crafts a tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly devouring each page to uncover the shocking truths that lie beneath the surface.

With its captivating storyline and compelling characters, The Girl Before is a must-read for anyone seeking a thrilling exploration of the intricate dynamics of friendship and the devastating consequences of betrayal. Prepare to be enthralled by Jewell’s expert storytelling and to question the very nature of trust in this mesmerizing portrayal of friendship gone awry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about betrayal in friendship will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving you questioning the very essence of trust and loyalty. From shocking plot twists to deep character development, these books explore the complexities of human relationships and the devastating consequences of betrayal. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling mystery or a thought-provoking literary masterpiece, these books have it all. So, grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and immerse yourself in these captivating tales of friendship gone wrong. Prepare to be captivated, shocked, and ultimately enlightened by these incredible books about betrayal in friendship.