6 Influencer Thrillers: The Best Books About the Dark Side of Social Media
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The world of influencers might look glossy on the outside—perfect family photos, aesthetic meal preps, and flawless skincare routines—but what happens when the curated content hides chaos, secrets, and even murder?
If you’ve ever scrolled through social media and wondered what’s really going on behind those picture-perfect posts, this list is for you. These six thrillers explore the dark underbelly of influencer culture, from mommy bloggers with something to hide to viral stars who vanish without a trace.
Below, you’ll find gripping stories of fame, family, and the fallout of living life online.
The Influencers by Anne Marie McLemore
“Mother May I” Iverson built her social media empire by showcasing her five daughters’ lives. But when her husband is murdered and their home is destroyed, all eyes turn inward—toward the daughters who made her famous. Told through multiple perspectives, this layered mystery blends family drama with a sharp critique of influencer culture.
Such a Bad Influence by Olivia Muenter
Hazel Davis has always been in the shadow of her influencer sister Evie—until Evie disappears during a livestream. As Hazel digs into her sister’s online empire, she uncovers secrets that make her question everything she thought she knew. This debut thriller is a tense look at fame, family, and the perils of going viral.
You Will Never Be Me by Jesse Q. Sutanto
When rising influencer Aspen Palmer eclipses her mentor Meredith Lee, Mer goes off the deep end—hacking Aspen’s devices and sabotaging her life. But when Mer disappears and threats escalate, both women face off in a digital duel where only one can remain on top. A twisted, fast-paced thriller with bite.
Everyone is Lying to You by Jo Piazza
Lizzie, a struggling journalist, reunites with former BFF Bex—a glamorous #tradwife influencer—at a luxury content creators’ conference. But when Bex vanishes and her husband turns up dead, Lizzie is pulled into a maze of curated facades and buried betrayals. Everyone has something to hide in this sharp, suspenseful page-turner.
Want to Know a Secret? by Freida McFadden
April Masterson seems to have it all: a picture-perfect family and a thriving baking channel on YouTube. But when anonymous messages threaten to reveal her past, her controlled life starts to crumble. Classic Freida McFadden—fast-paced, twisted, and impossible to put down.
The Trad Wife Secret by Liane Childs
Madison March is the definition of the “tradwife” trend—homesteading, baking, and documenting it all on Instagram. But her wholesome image hides a dark reality, and when her lies start to surface, Madison must fight to keep her secrets buried. A juicy domestic thriller with major online drama vibes.
Why Are We So Obsessed with Influencer Thrillers?
There’s something undeniably compelling about stories that peel back the curtain on curated perfection. These thrillers tap into our fascination with fame, the performative nature of online life, and the psychological toll of maintaining a brand at all costs. Plus, who doesn’t love watching a pristine persona slowly unravel?
Craving More Twisty Reads?
You might also enjoy:
- Thrillers Featuring Toxic Female Friendships
- Domestic Thrillers with Twisty Endings
- Best Summer Beach Thrillers
What Will You Read First?
Which of these influencer thrillers are you adding to your TBR? Let me know in the comments or tag me in your next bookish post.
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