If you’re a fan of edge-of-your-seat suspense and twisty mysteries, you’ve probably heard of Shari Lapena. This Canadian author has quickly become a household name in the world of psychological thrillers, delivering one gripping novel after another. Whether you’re new to her work or a dedicated fan looking to read (or reread) her books in order, this guide is your one-stop resource. Let’s dive into the world of Shari Lapena—her books, her writing style, and why her novels have become must-reads for thriller enthusiasts.
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Who is Shari Lapena?
Shari Lapena is a bestselling Canadian novelist renowned for her psychological thrillers. Before turning to writing full-time, she worked as a lawyer and an English teacher, experiences that no doubt inform her sharp, observant prose. Her talent for weaving suspenseful, twist-filled plots has earned her a place on both the New York Times and Sunday Times bestseller lists, and her books have been translated into multiple languages, captivating readers around the globe.
Why Read Shari Lapena?
There’s something addictive about a Shari Lapena novel. Her stories are fast-paced, her characters are relatable yet always hiding secrets, and her plots are filled with red herrings and jaw-dropping twists. If you love domestic thrillers that explore the dark side of ordinary life, her books will keep you up all night, turning pages.
Shari Lapena’s Books in Order of Publication
For those who love to read books in the order they were published, here’s a handy table that lays out Shari Lapena’s novels chronologically. This order allows you to experience her growth as a writer and the evolution of her signature suspenseful style.
| Year | Title | Genre/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Things Go Flying | Literary fiction, supernatural |
| 2011 | Happiness Economics | Literary fiction, satire |
| 2016 | The Couple Next Door | Psychological thriller |
| 2017 | A Stranger in the House | Psychological thriller |
| 2018 | An Unwanted Guest | Psychological thriller |
| 2019 | Someone We Know | Psychological thriller |
| 2020 | The End of Her | Psychological thriller |
| 2021 | Not a Happy Family | Psychological thriller |
| 2023 | Everyone Here Is Lying | Psychological thriller |
| 2024 | What Have You Done? | Psychological thriller |
| 2025 | She Didn’t See It Coming | Psychological thriller, upcoming |
Brief Summaries of Each Book
Early Works
Things Go Flying (2007)
Things Go Flying marks Shari Lapena’s debut, introducing readers to her witty, character-driven storytelling. The novel blends literary fiction with a touch of the supernatural, focusing on family, grief, and the chaos that ensues when the dead start meddling in the affairs of the living. It’s a heartfelt exploration of loss, belief, and the ties that bind us.
Happiness Economics (2011)
Shortlisted for the Stephen Leacock Medal for Humor, Happiness Economics is a satirical look at marriage, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. The story follows Will Thorne, a struggling poet, and his successful economist wife, Judy. When Will’s quest for artistic fulfillment leads him into a series of misadventures, the novel delivers both laughs and poignant insights about what truly matters in life.
Psychological Thrillers
The Couple Next Door (2016)
This is the book that put Shari Lapena on the map. The Couple Next Door is a masterclass in domestic suspense. When Anne and Marco’s baby vanishes while they’re at a dinner party next door, a web of secrets and lies unravels. The novel explores the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones—and themselves. It’s a global bestseller and has even been optioned for television.
A Stranger in the House (2017)
In A Stranger in the House, a woman wakes up in the hospital with no memory of how she got there. Her husband and best friend are left to piece together what happened, but as the police investigate, everyone’s secrets threaten to come to light. This novel is a tense, twisty follow-up to Lapena’s breakout hit.
An Unwanted Guest (2018)
Set in a remote inn during a snowstorm, An Unwanted Guest is a classic locked-room mystery with a modern edge. When guests start turning up dead, everyone becomes a suspect. Lapena’s knack for building suspense shines in this atmospheric thriller that pays homage to Agatha Christie while delivering her own unique twists.
Someone We Know (2019)
Someone We Know takes us to a quiet suburb where a teenage boy’s break-ins reveal more than just unlocked doors—they uncover a murder and a tangle of secrets. Lapena explores how well we really know our neighbors and what we’re willing to do to protect our families.
The End of Her (2020)
In The End of Her, a couple’s seemingly perfect life is shattered when a woman from the husband’s past arrives with a shocking accusation. As trust erodes and suspicions mount, Lapena expertly ratchets up the tension, keeping readers guessing until the final page.
Not a Happy Family (2021)
A wealthy couple is murdered, and their adult children are the prime suspects in Not a Happy Family. This novel delves into the dark side of family dynamics, inheritance, and the secrets that can destroy even the closest bonds.
Everyone Here Is Lying (2023)
When a young girl goes missing in a seemingly idyllic neighborhood, everyone becomes a suspect in Everyone Here Is Lying. Lapena explores the lies we tell ourselves and each other, and how quickly trust can unravel when the stakes are high.
What Have You Done? (2024)
Details about What Have You Done? are still under wraps, but early buzz suggests another suspenseful, character-driven thriller that will keep readers on their toes.
She Didn’t See It Coming (2025)
Set for release in 2025, She Didn’t See It Coming promises to deliver Lapena’s trademark suspense and psychological insight. Fans are eagerly awaiting more details about this upcoming novel.
Themes and Writing Style
Recurring Motifs in Lapena’s Novels
Shari Lapena’s thrillers often center on:
- Family secrets: Her characters are frequently members of families hiding devastating truths.
- Suburban life: Many stories are set in quiet neighborhoods where everyone seems normal—until they’re not.
- Trust and betrayal: Lapena loves to explore how quickly trust can be shattered and how far people will go to protect themselves.
Lapena’s Narrative Techniques
Her writing is:
- Fast-paced: Short chapters and quick scene changes keep the tension high.
- Twist-filled: Expect the unexpected—Lapena is a master of red herrings and surprise endings.
- Multi-perspective: Many books are told from multiple viewpoints, allowing readers to piece together the mystery alongside the characters.
Awards and Achievements
Shari Lapena has achieved remarkable success in a short period:
- The Couple Next Door sold millions of copies worldwide and was named WHSmith’s “Book of the Year” in 2016.
- Several novels have been selected for the Richard & Judy Book Club.
- Her books have consistently hit the New York Times and Sunday Times bestseller lists.
Reading Guide and Recommendations
Should You Read in Order?
All of Shari Lapena’s thrillers are standalone novels, meaning you can pick up any book and dive right in without missing out on backstory. However, reading them in publication order lets you see how her style and thematic interests have evolved over time.
Where to Start for New Readers
- The Couple Next Door is the perfect starting point if you want to experience the book that launched her thriller career.
- If you prefer a locked-room mystery, try An Unwanted Guest.
- For those who love family drama, Not a Happy Family is a top pick.
Upcoming Releases and What to Expect
She Didn’t See It Coming (2025)
She Didn’t See It Coming is set to release in 2025, and while details are still scarce, fans can expect another tightly plotted, suspenseful thriller that explores the secrets hidden behind closed doors. Keep an eye out for updates as the publication date approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Shari Lapena’s books connected?
No, each novel is a standalone story with its own cast of characters and plot. You can start with any book.
Will there be more books after 2025?
Given Lapena’s popularity and steady output, it’s likely she’ll continue writing, but no official announcements have been made yet.
Which book is best for first-time readers?
The Couple Next Door is widely recommended as the best entry point, but any of her thrillers will give you a taste of her suspenseful style.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Shari Lapena
Shari Lapena has carved out a niche as one of today’s most reliable authors of psychological thrillers. Her books are perfect for anyone who loves stories about ordinary people caught in extraordinary situations, where every character has something to hide and every chapter brings a new twist. Whether you read her books in order or pick them up at random, you’re in for a gripping, unforgettable ride.
If you’re looking to get lost in suspense, intrigue, and the darker side of suburban life, make sure to add Shari Lapena’s books to your reading list. Happy reading!
