Psychological thriller Archives - Vanessa Jones Author

Home Before Dark by Riley Sager – Book Review

Vanessa — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 07:23:12 +0000

Home Before Dark— Huff Post‘s “10 Of The Most Anticipated Book Releases Of June 2020″— is not so much a psychological thriller as it is a traditional haunted house thriller. This is my first Riley Sager book and I wasn’t disappointed. It was probably the first book in my life where I had to consciously put it down a few times at night because it was a little too scary, deciding that it’d be better as a “daytime book”. Told in parallel timeframes, from grown up Maggie’s point of view as well as her dad’s when she was just five, this ever-unfurling story made use of some brilliant haunted house tropes and some good old fashion ghost stories. There were several shock developments throughout the book that kept the story suitably rolling and the double twist at the end really packed a punch. There were also several toe-curling scenes that had me shuddering beyond belief. If you’re a fan of Haunting at Hill House, you will just love this book. What is Home Before Dark about? Maggie inherits a Victorian triple-storey house after her father’s death. The very same house that she and her parents had to flee, leaving all their possessions behind one night when she was five, claiming ghosts drove them away. So Maggie goes back to confront the ghosts of the house and discovers the truth is much more sinister. RATING ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

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Psychological Thrillers with a Surprise Twist Ending

Vanessa — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 05:26:40 +0000

I absolutely love a twist ending, as I’m sure many of you do. It’s predominantly what keeps us reading until the very end of a book — to find out what happened and be shocked out of our mundane predictions and our limited imagination. In the psychological thriller genre, twist endings are expected. And that’s what makes a psychological thriller so good — you get to see that magnificent plot twist at the end! Here are some books that have twist endings that even surprised me, as an author of psychological thriller fiction. Jar of Hearts by Jennifer Hillier Jar of Hearts begins as a typical psychological thriller about a girl named Georgina who is acquitted of killing her best friend and releases from prison after ten years. In the meantime, she’s been blogging about how hard it’s been to reintegrate into society after being in jail for so long. But soon, things turn around when an eight-year old girl turns up dead… and Georgina becomes prime suspect number one again. I love a book that starts right away with an inciting incident. Too much “ordinary world” at the start of a book can bore me. So the fact that the main character was immediately on trial for murder was interesting and appealing. And she was sent to jail within the first few chapters. What a way to start a story! There was a little too much repetition in this book for me; things were said over and over again that really didn’t need to be said once, let alone two or three times. And the exposition was heavy. I ended up skipping some paragraphs because it had all be told by where the characters ended up. But let me tell you, the ending was absolutely wild. It was a bit all over the shop, but I certainly didn’t predict this ending. The author had a skillful way of making you really believe everything as it seems throughout the book. Like she wrote in the book, ‘you only see what you want to, not as it is.’ I do highly recommend this one for die hard psychological thriller fans. The Burning Girls by CJ Tudor Reverend Jack Brooks is on the lookout for a new beginning in The Burning Girls. Chapel Croft appears to be the ideal location, but the community has a sordid history – and its ghosts won’t stay buried. Two young women vanished decades ago. Only months ago, the last rector killed himself. But the unconventional Reverend, is running away from her past and runs into a town filled with dark secrets and murders. Not to mention little burning effigies left everywhere. This was a terrific read that was peppered with turns— literally, the author left a reveal at the end of each chapter. It was hard to stop reading and there were so many characters and potential suspects that it really did keep me guessing the entire way. One of the biggest reveals at the end, I couldn’t see coming a mile off and it actually made me gasp out loud. I also really loved the unconventional religious aspect. Put this psychological thriller to the top of your reading list. Call Me Evie by JP Pomare For the past two weeks, Kate Bennet, a seventeen-year-old girl from Melbourne, has been held captive against her will in an isolated cabin on a remote beach coast. Bill refers to her as Evie and claims he’s hiding her so she can be safe. That she committed an unforgivable crime one night back home in Melbourne – something so terrible that he had no option but to abduct her. The problem is that Kate doesn’t recall what happened that night. Call Me Evie isn’t your typical psychological thriller as it’s so literary and well written with beautiful language and JP Pomare’s signature descriptive prose of the landscape. Verity by Colleen Hoover When a writer is called in to take over a famous author’s series after she suffered a traumatic incident that left her injured, she thinks it’s the deal of a lifetime. Even when she starts getting a little too close to the husband. Through her research, she discovers a secret autobiography by the famous author that reveals secrets that the writer doesn’t know what to do with. This was an easy and fast-paced read that has you questioning all the characters involved and you’re never really sure who the believe. The final reveal was a great twist and an interesting way of writing out the story. But it fell a little flat for me because it felt quite rushed and akin to ‘and it was all a dream.’ Nonetheless, I think Verity is well worth a read. Particularly, for the stellar opening chapters. Many people in the online reading groups I am in absolutely adore this book. Let me know which of these psychological thrillers with a twist was your favourite (no spoilers for other readers though, okay?) and be sure to clue me in on any other twist ending books you love. Also, be sure to check out my psychological thriller, The Tens, which certainly does have a few twists and turns that you won’t see coming! This blog post does include some affiliate links but the reviews and opinions are genuinely mine.

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Why Do So Many People Join Cults?

Vanessa — Sun, 26 Dec 2021 05:22:19 +0000

People have always been fascinated with cults. What is it about these organisations that have drawn people in for centuries? There are many reasons why people may be interested in cults, but here are some of the most common: 1. Cults offer a sense of community. When people feel isolated or alone, they may be more likely to join a cult. Cults typically offer a sense of community and support, which can appeal to people who feel lost or lonely. ‘The number of cult members [in America] is variously estimated at 300,000 to three million.’ That’s a rather large community to be a part of. 2. Cults promise a better life. Some people may be attracted to cults because they promise a better life. Cults often promote their own unique ideology or worldview, which can appeal to people looking for a new way to view the world. Only 14 per cent of Americans say they are very happy, meaning there’s a lot of people that are less than happy. Belonging to a group that promises happiness can be incredibly enticing for the vast majority of people. People may also be attracted to cults because they offer people the chance to feel like they belong or that their life has meaning and purpose. 3. Cults can give people hope in hopeless situations. Many people find themselves in challenging circumstances at some point in their lives. Some of these people may turn to one of the many famous cults for hope and comfort when they feel there is nowhere else to turn. People may look for help from a cult when other support systems have failed them, such as family members or friends who do not understand what they’re going through or professional mental health providers who aren’t available or don’t provide enough support. When other sources of help are not available, people are more likely to be drawn into a cult. 4. Cults are often shrouded in mystery. People may also become fascinated with cults because they’re often inscrutable or mysterious entities. Cult members usually keep their beliefs and practices private, making it difficult for outsiders to understand what goes on inside the organisation. Cults could have their own language or way of communicating with one another, which can seem strange or confusing to people who aren’t familiar with this communication style. These factors draw people’s curiosity about groups that they don’t fully understand or know much about, which can lead them to want to learn more about why these organisations exist and how they function internally. 5. Cults can seem appealing and attractive. Many cults present themselves in a way that is appealing and attractive to people exploring new belief systems or religious practices. Think of it as the most extensive and most cultivated marketing campaign globally. Cults often use persuasive language and techniques during their recruitment efforts, which may appeal to the types of people attracted by this type of language. When people become exposed to these messages, they may want to learn more about how their beliefs differ from other groups and organisations. This can ultimately lead them down the path toward becoming members of a particular cult. 6. Cults often give the appearance of having it all together. Many cults also seem to have everything figured out, which can be very appealing to people looking for a group with specific types of answers or a set of rules that they believe in and adhere to completely. Cult members typically present their beliefs in a way that is easy for other people to understand and follow, which draws their attention and may make them want to learn more about why these individuals choose these beliefs over others. 7. Cults focus on emotional needs rather than intellectual ones. Cults tend not to care whether or not their teachings coincide with people’s thoughts or ideas but instead focus on meeting (or seeming to meet) the emotional needs of their members. Members often avoid discussing the details of their beliefs with “outsiders,” which can make people wonder what these groups are hiding. Plus, compound the cyclical nature of the belief system and keep members from questioning the rules and doctrine’s validity and healthiness. This mystery surrounding cults often appeals to people who aren’t too keen on revealing information about themselves or their specific belief systems. 8. Cults tend to use mind-control tactics to attract members. Many cult leaders employ strategies designed to make people believe that they are unique, need the group, and wouldn’t be able to function without it. For example, cult leaders may present themselves as being very intelligent, having all the answers, and knowing more about how life works than other people do. They then use these characteristics as reasons why people should join them instead of sticking with less impressive individuals or groups. Additionally, cult leaders often use mind-control tactics to get people to conform to their beliefs and practices. These tactics can include using shame, guilt, and fear as motivators and manipulating people’s emotions to keep them under the leader’s control. 9. Cults often have a negative reputation. Unfortunately, because of the negative things that have happened with some cults in the past, these organisations often have a terrible reputation. This may make people curious about why these groups are considered so bad and what sorts of things they do that lead to this type of reputation. Which can sometimes be appealing if the human subconscious is seeking to rebel somehow. Additionally, many people may want to learn more about cults to protect themselves and their loved ones from being drawn into them. 10. These groups make people feel special How many people just want to feel special at some time? This is a human desire that extends to almost all of us in some way or another. So when a cult, particularly in the recruitment phase, offers ways for you to feel special, whether through lavish attention and praise or verbal confirmation that you are special, wanted, and, sometimes, needed. Things may feel “right” (or the illusion of) for the first time in your life. Especially if you have been seeking this justification of your existence for most of your life. By learning more about these organisations and the practices that they implement, people can learn to recognise red flags that may indicate that someone is being recruited into a cult. This education can ultimately help individuals protect themselves from experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety due to becoming part of one of these groups. Do you love reading about cults? Why not sink your teeth into my psychological thriller novel about some mysterious people who live in the woods called THE TENS?

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Best Thriller Books

Vanessa — Sun, 21 Nov 2021 14:26:00 +0000

When it comes to the thriller genre, some books stand out from the rest. Here are some of the best thriller books that you need to read if you’re a fan of the genre. Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn This book is a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows Nick and Amy Dunne, who has been married for five years. When Nick comes home one day to find that his wife has disappeared, he becomes the prime suspect in her disappearance. Gone Girl is full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins This book was recently made into a movie, and it is easy to see why. The story follows Rachel, who takes the same train every day and observes the lives of a couple who live in a house that she has nicknamed “the perfect home.” When Rachel begins to see things that she shouldn’t be seeing, she starts to wonder if she is losing her mind. This book is full of suspense and will keep you guessing what’s really happening and who is telling the truth. Dark Places by Gillian Flynn This is another book by Gillian Flynn that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows Libby, who was just seven years old when her mother and sisters were murdered. Libby was able to survive, and 25 years later, she was contacted by a group called The Kill Club. They believe that her brother, convicted of the murders, is innocent. This book is full of suspense, mystery and darkness. Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn Another thriller book by Gillian Flynn, and it is just as suspenseful as her other books. The story follows Camille Preaker, a reporter who returns to her hometown to cover the murders of two girls. She realises that the murders may be connected to her own troubled past as she investigates. This book is dark and suspenseful and will keep you turning the pages until the end. The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson This book is a classic thriller first published in 1959. The story follows four people who are hired to investigate a haunted house. They begin to experience strange and terrifying things as they stay in the house. This book is suspenseful and spine chilling and will keep you up at night. Again, made into another brilliant TV series. Dark Matter by Blake Crouch This book is a fast-paced science fiction thriller that will keep you turning the pages until the very end. The story follows Jason Dessen, who chooses to stay in his family instead of pursuing his own career as a scientist after he gets married and has kids. But when Jason is kidnapped, he wakes up to find himself in an alternate reality where he did pursue his career, and everything has changed for him and his family. Dark Matter is full of twists and turns that will keep you unsure until the last page. I’ll Keep You Safe by Peter May This book was just recently released and had been receiving a lot of positive reviews. The story follows a woman named Cat whose life is turned upside down after witnessing a murder. She receives an anonymous call from someone who tells her that her family will be killed if she doesn’t do what he says. This book is full of mystery and suspense and will keep you nail-biting until the very end. If, like me, you are an avid psychological thriller book reader, then sign up to my enewsletter where I share new and intriguing reads as well as free books regularly.

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What is Gothic Fiction?

Vanessa — Thu, 01 Jul 2021 06:15:00 +0000

Gothic fiction is a genre of literature that typically features dark or horror-themed stories. The term “gothic” has been used to describe a variety of genres, including horror, mystery, and suspense. However, gothic fiction is typically associated with tales that feature haunted castles, ghosts, vampires, and other supernatural elements. Gothic fiction was first popularised in the late 18th century by writers such as Mary Shelley and Bram Stoker. Today, the genre remains popular and continues to attract new readers. Some of the most well-known modern authors of gothic fiction include Stephen King and Anne Rice. The first mention of Gothic literature appeared in English writer Horace Walpole’s The Castle of Otranto, published in 1764. – Invaluable Gothic fiction can be divided into two main categories: classic and contemporary. Classic gothic fiction, such as Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Robert Louis Stevenson’s The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, is typically set in old castles or decrepit villages where gothic elements such as ghosts, monsters, and other supernatural beings can haunt the surroundings. Contemporary gothic fiction also includes these spooky features but takes place in modern times and often involves more realistic crimes that may involve a serial killer or secret society. In the most general terms, Gothic literature can be defined as writing that employs dark and picturesque scenery, startling and melodramatic narrative devices, and an overall atmosphere of exoticism, mystery, fear, and dread. – ThoughtCo Gothic fiction has been adapted for numerous films over the years. Classic movies include the original Dracula film from 1931 and What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? from 1962. Contemporary examples of gothic films include Crimson Peak (2015) and A Cure for Wellness (2017). So what makes a work of literature gothic fiction? There is no single answer to this question, as there is no set formula for creating a gothic story. Gothic fiction is a term used in literary criticism and journalism to characterize certain novels, stories and movies. Gothic literature encompasses many different types of writing, including romance, fantasy, science fiction and horror. What these genres have in common with each other is that they all attempt to induce a feeling of terror in the reader. Although every writer aims to create an emotional experience for their audience, writers often deal with specific emotions such as disgust or empathy differently than others. What separates gothic writers from other authors is that they focus on creating unease and anxiety through bizarre plots, eerie settings and mysterious characters rather than through disgust or empathy between characters. Whether you’re a fan of dark and suspenseful tales or simply enjoy a good scare, gothic fiction is a genre that is sure to please. So if you’re looking for a new read, be sure to check out some of the latest gothic fiction novels. You won’t be disappointed! Are you new to the gothic fiction genre? Why not start with some short stories from my book, Uneasy?

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Psychic Fiction Books to Read

Vanessa — Fri, 21 May 2021 07:38:00 +0000

Psychic fiction books are a great way to escape reality and explore the supernatural world. Psychic fiction books are perfect for anyone who loves a good scare with stories that can take you to other dimensions. Here are some of my favourite psychic fiction books: The Shining by Stephen King Stephen King is known for his bone-chilling horror stories, and The Shining is no exception. When the Torrance family moves into an old hotel to take care of it during the winter, they quickly realise something is wrong. With ghosts appearing everywhere and evil forces trying to kill them, the Torrance family must use their psychic abilities to survive. The Girl with All the Gifts by M.R. Carey The Girl with All the Gifts is a different kind of psychic fiction book. In a world where zombies have taken over, Melanie is one of the few people who can think and feel like a human. Melanie must use psychic powers to escape when she is captured by the army and kept prisoner in a cell. The psychic fiction book will keep you on the edge of your seat and wanting more! Doctor Sleep by Stephen King Doctor Sleep is a sequel to The Shining and picks up the story of Danny Torrance years after the events at the hotel. Now an adult, Danny lives in California and works as a psychic healer. However, when he meets a young girl who shares his psychic abilities, Danny must use his powers to protect her from evil forces that are after her. With psychic battles and suspenseful chases, Doctor Sleep is a thrilling read. Ghostland by Colin Dickey In Ghostland, non-fiction writer Colin Dickey takes a trip to the most haunted places in America. In each of these psychic fiction books, he explores different stories from psychic mediums and ghost hunters. With spine-tingling tales of psychic visions and haunted houses, this book will take you on a journey into the paranormal that is hard to forget. The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold The Lovely Bones is a different kind of psychic fiction book. In it, 14-year-old Susie Salmon has been murdered and is watching the events unfold from heaven. As her family falls apart and her killer goes free, Susie must use her psychic abilities to bring justice to her death. The Lovely Bones is a heart-wrenching read with beautiful writing and an emotional story. Psychic Dreams by Elizabeth Hunter Psychic Dreams is a psychic fiction book that will take you on a journey into the psychic world. It follows psychic medium Sage, who has psychic dreams about people’s past lives. When she enters one of these dreams and finds herself back in ancient Egypt, Sage must use her psychic abilities to save the woman she loves. With dark mysteries and psychic battles, this psychic fiction book is sure to keep you on your toes. Moonchild by Aleister Crowley Moonchild is an occult fiction book written by famed occultist Aleister Crowley. It follows two witches as they struggle with their psychic powers against their wills, deciding if they are good or evil. The psychic fiction books are full of dark magic and seductive plots and will keep you on the edge of your seat. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle Madeleine L’Engle’s psychic fiction book A Wrinkle in Time is a science fiction story about a psychic girl and her psychic brother as they try to find their father, who was lost into a different dimension. The psychic fiction book will take you to other worlds through psychic visions and time travel and teach children about psychic powers while keeping young adults on the edge of their seats. The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty The Exorcist is a horror novel about a young girl possessed by a demon. When her mother takes her to see a psychic, they must use their psychic abilities to exorcise the demon from her body. With shocking scenes and spine chilling suspense, The Exorcist will have you on the edge of your seat. The Grift by Debra Ginsberg Debra Ginsberg’s psychic fiction book The Grift is a story about psychic medium Maddie. When she gets an urgent call from her psychic friend, Charlie, Maddie rushes to meet him in Hawaii, where he was wrongfully imprisoned for fraud. Using psychic powers, this psychic fiction book follows Maddie as she investigates his case and uncovers dark secrets. Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott Living Dead Girl is the first novel of Elizabeth Scott’s psychic fiction series called Psychic Visions. Living Dead Girl follows Alice, who has never known kindness or love, as she struggles with living in captivity under her kidnapper’s control for ten years. A gripping read that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this psychic fiction book will make you tingle from head to toe. The Business Psychic by Vanessa Jones When Ruby unjustly gets fired from her job, her best friend suggests she try her hand at being a psychic. Despite having no abilities, Ruby agrees out of financial desperation. It’s not long before the fancy tech company, Crichton Enterprises, mistakes her for a real psychic and hires her to help improve their business. At her new job, she is so good at faking it that she starts to hear a voice which tells her what to do and starts having visions that have people thinking she’s lost her mind. But then her favourite co-worker disappears and her paranormal skills are called upon to find out exactly where he is. As she goes looking for him, she uncovers more than she bargains for about Crichton Enterprises and in the process puts herself in a world of danger. Love discovering new reads like these? Sign up to my enewsletter and I’ll let you know all my personal faves as well as free books.

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Why People Love Reading Psychological Thriller Books: How It Affects Our Brain

Vanessa — Tue, 18 May 2021 02:06:32 +0000

More and more the world are reading psychological thriller books and their popularity is ever expanding. Here’s why we, as humans, love reading this genre and what it does to our brains. Research shows that it’s not the content of a book but how we feel afterward that is important. Books, like all art forms, have an emotional impact and this may be why people can’t put them down. Suspenseful books tap into our innermost desires to solve mysteries and experience danger vicariously. These types of stories contain darker elements that naturally appeal to our subconscious minds. That we may not want as part of our ordinary lives. ‘Thriller readers are adrenaline junkies who need the twists and surprises that are endemic to the genre,’ said Liz Berry, ITW Executive Director. ‘There’s nothing passive or quiet about our genre. And for people who find thrillers satisfying, nothing else delivers what we crave.’ Why do people love reading psychological thriller books so much? Out of all mystery and suspense genre novels, psychological thrillers are the most popular. People love psychological thriller novels because they find pleasure in reading about experiences they cannot have. The genre, in some ways, gives readers what they crave— the feeling of not being safe. This also includes the more disturbing aspects of human nature, such as violence and emotional abuse. People who enjoy this genre often (but not always) crave these sensations due to their own traumatic pasts or because they are adrenaline junkies who need the twists and surprises that are endemic to the genre. They may not want these feelings to form part of their day to day lives but it is thrilling when they read them on paper (or screen). Thrillers activate the “fight or flight” response which is typically associated with real life dangers. And is the body’s natural response to many situations. It’s a way of regulating itself. This response can be a physiological addiction. Why are people drawn to the genre of psychological thrillers? Psychological thriller books can also be a way of processing and understanding trauma. Detachment from reality is another reason why thriller readers enjoy this genre. They get lost in these books even when they know it’s not real life-it’s just fiction! Thriller novels place their protagonist, us, into dangerous situations where we feel like anything could happen but with enough tension that we don’t want to put the book down for fear of missing out on what does happen next. There is often an element of hope for escape or resolution at every turn which makes them addictive reading experiences. The adrenaline rush, as well as being able to identify a villain motivates many readers who may otherwise find traditional suspense a little mundane. It’s as though a reader is standing on the edge and looking down to see if it would be worth taking that next step. They always know that no matter how much they enjoy hanging out at this ledge there will eventually come a time when they need to take one more small step off of it all together or else risk falling head first among other things. That reader’s high People crave the “dopamine release” that these types of books offer. Dopamine is a hormone in our brain responsible for reward and pleasure, among other things. It also helps regulate movement and emotional responses to certain stimuli. When people read through thriller novels they are giving their body what it wants. It’s an addictive sensation, and seeking this feeling out too often or without breaks can be detrimental to your mental wellbeing. Similarly, if you eat high fat foods all the time, your body will eventually tire out and no longer respond positively like it used to before because there have been so many highs with little lows (or breaks). The psychology of psychological thriller books In psychology, our brains react differently than we might expect while reading stories in different genres. Some studies have shown that readers’ brains react differently to psychological thrillers than they do for other kinds of books. One study in question was published by researchers at University of California, San Diego and Yale School of Medicine who scanned the brains of participants while they were reading from a list that included both genres. They found something intriguing about our neurological responses to these two types of books: When readers finished a book, their brain’s blood flow and oxygen levels changed depending on what type of story it had been. It is not surprising then that people would rather take an emotional roller coaster ride (in fiction) instead of experiencing those feelings in real life events or people around them. It’s especially alluring when we know we can tap out of the emotion and mental patterns whenever we want: as opposed to having to live it constantly. It’s also a double reward when the story works out well and the killer or perpetrator gets caught or there’s a strong resolve. Our brains absolutely love a contained and clear cut outcome, which is why there is such popularity amongst shows like SVU and Law & Order that all but promise a rewarding ending within 30 to 60 minutes. As with most genres, psychological thrillers are also an escape from reality for people who may otherwise find their lives difficult and stressful because their day-to-day life does not offer enough stimulation and unpredictability. So, the next time you feel like breaking out of your paradigm and experiencing some emotional release or dopamine in an entirely safe environment, pick up a thriller book. You’ll be so glad that you did!

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10 Best Psychological Thriller Movies

Vanessa — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 04:02:00 +0000

Psychological thriller movies are all about psychological tension and suspense. They’re psychological because the “thriller” part of it may or may not happen; it can be psychological and all in the mind. Psychological thrillers try to get under the viewer’s skin and into their psyche by showing something that wouldn’t usually be there: a tense atmosphere created by the sounds and visuals. This type of film is characterised by unusual plots featuring disturbing subject matter, twist endings, and psychological themes such as paranoia, anxiety disorders, and clinical mental illness. Psychological thrillers aren’t for everyone – they’re best watched on your own, so you don’t have to feel embarrassed when you scream during an intense scene! These movies also often contain strong language and high levels of violence. So, if you like being scared out of your mind and enjoying a good twist ending, then these are the best psychological thriller movies for you! Here are some of the best psychological thriller movies around: Black Swan This psychological thriller stars Natalie Portman as a ballerina whose life whirls out of control after being cast in Swan Lake’s lead role. The psychological thriller culminates in a shocking twist, with her sanity spiralling out of control. I must admit, this is one of my favourite films ever and not just because I used to do ballet. The Machinist This psychological thriller stars Christian Bale as Trevor, a machinist whose psychological anxiety manifests itself in the psychological disorder of insomnia. When he looks at people, he sees their worst possible selves and can’t stop thinking about how to destroy them. This psychological thriller is a mind trip that will take hold until you see the very end. Even then, your head might be spinning from all that’s going on! Shutter Island Another classic psychological thriller starring Leonardo Dicaprio, this movie takes place during the 1950s at an asylum for mentally unwell patients located on an island off Cape Cod. In charge of investigating what appears to be a missing patient, Dicaprio’s character soon realises that all is not as it seems on the island. Shutter Island will keep you guessing until the very end with its twist ending. Memento This psychological thriller stars Guy Pearce as Leonard Shelby, a man suffering from anterograde amnesia, which causes him to remember everything prior to the day his wife was killed. Unable to make new memories, Leonard relies on Polaroids and tattoos to remind himself of who he is and what he needs to do to find her killer. This psychological thriller is told in two parts: one told in reverse chronological order and the other told conventionally. It’s one of the cleverest films around in how it was told. The Prestige Starring Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale, The Prestige tells the story of two rival magicians in turn-of-the-century London. With its twist ending, psychological tension, and themes of obsession and rivalry, The Prestige is one psychological thriller film that you won’t want to miss. Again, a film I love because I love magic tricks! Oldboy This psychological thriller from South Korea is about Oh Dae-su, a man who is inexplicably kidnapped and imprisoned in a hotel room for 15 years. When he is finally released, he sets out on a quest for revenge that will take him all over the world. With its shocking plot twist, Oldboy is one psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. The Shining One of the most well-known psychological thrillers of all time, The Shining is about the Torrance family who move into the Overlook Hotel to take care of it during the winter. When the father (Jack Nicholson) starts to have psychological problems, things quickly spiral out of control. With its creepy setting and psychological tension, The Shining will send shivers down your spine. Jacob’s Ladder This psychological thriller stars Tim Robbins as Jacob, a Vietnam veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. When strange events start happening to him, Jacob questions his sanity and whether he is actually still alive. With its disturbing plot and trippy visuals, Jacob’s Ladder will leave you feeling uneasy long after you’ve finished watching it. American Psycho Another cult classic psychological thriller movie starring Christian Bale, this is about Patrick Bateman, a wealthy investment banker in the late 1980s during the height of Wall Street boom. Likened to a modern-day version of Jekyll and Hyde, Bateman has two personas, with one being an intelligent yet narcissistic investment banker and the other being a psychopathic killer. With its psychological tension, disturbing violence, and role reversal between good vs evil, American Psycho will shock you until the very end. Saw The psychological thriller movie Saw tells the story of two men who are chained up in an industrial bathroom where they are informed that one needs to kill for both to survive or else they will both die. With its gory violence, psychological tension, and mind-bending plot twists, Saw will turn your stomach inside out. Psychological thriller movies that use psychological tension and suspense often thrill and entertain viewers. These types of films can be extremely suspenseful, making the audience feel anxious and tense as they try to figure out what is going to happen next. Which still makes us wonder why people love thrillers so much. Nonetheless, if you’re a fan, make sure you tick all these movies off your list. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, why not read my book THE TENS, which is about a woman trying to find her missing husband when the whole world seems to be conspiring against her.

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Madame Maudelynne and The New Way – preview

Vanessa — Sat, 30 Jan 2021 04:28:00 +0000

Zippy’s Circus was of, but before, its time. It ran under the guise of bringing joy to the families wherever they travelled. But, at its core, it was a business. No more than the selling of fur or farming or stone masonry. Only this business could be trussed up with bells and whistles and flags, literally. What was novel to the circus goer was ritual to the circus worker. The same performances and the same rotational resurrection and destruction. It was not long before the shine wore off and left the workers hollow. But once they were inside the cave of the travelling spectacle, it’s hard to find a way out. Very few left, fearing the lack of economic safety and often leaving a life behind that they no longer wished to return to. The Circus was to live or die with. Zippy’s was a thing of wonder with a lithe ballet corp, equestrian assemblage, knife-wielding trio, some of the world’s most dedicated clowns plus outcast performers that did not walk the line of what was deemed acceptable in society but were the very heart of the show. Not to mention the menagerie of pious animals that compromised of runaway snakes, a peacock kept for his sweetness of voice and which was drenched in colour, Boris the two-headed bear and a gaggle of monkeys. Ringmaster Zippy Jet, real name Jethro Zipporah, led the show around the sawdust filled ring and to where ever he could sense the money coming. He was tall and skinny and his pants never reached his feet and he wore his ringmaster attire everywhere, so people would know exactly who and what he was. Even those who opposed him and his slack morals. Everyone he treated like employees, not family, except Madame Maudelynne who he adored from the moment he set eyes upon. And more so, when she refused to read his tarot citing that he was nothing but a charlatan and a demon, to which he replied, ‘that makes two of us, my dear. Join my troupe or rot in obscurity.’ He rose from his chair in her small reading room and pointed towards the doorway with his hat. Madame Maudelynne put on an air of fluster and faux indignation but simultaneously leant down to retrieve her packed bag from under her table. Whipping off the velvet tablecloth and swinging it around her shoulders like a shawl, she followed Zippy Jet that very second for she had foretold that a clown and businessman of epic proportions would beckon her to follow him into the glamour of showbiz, for which she would be well compensated and well-liked. She made a year’s wages in the following week and it more than made up for the constant vitriol that Zippy Jet’s wife lashed on her. Mrs Zipporah posed no threat to Madame Maudelynne for she did not want the slime of the ringmaster to touch her, preferring to be left alone to her thoughts and her prophecies. Indeed, she found love in strange and peculiar ways that the non-mystical folk would not be able to comprehend. A heinous outbreak of cholera tore through the circus and claimed the lives of nearly a quarter of their crew. The village people rejected them for bringing death to the town and the Bible spreaders convinced the townsfolk that it was punishment for the grievous sins that the circus lived in and flashed about to the ticket holders. Undeterred, but a little broken, Zippy Jet forged on, advertising for new circus members to join the troupe. But it was futile and the circus was quickly becoming more destitute than anyone could have imagined. One particularly restless night, when the sounds of vomiting could be heard across the tents, the animal handlers succumbed to their death long before their duties were done. The animals, discovering their first taste of freedom, rolled into a newfound bliss amongst the camp. They spread far and wide as they escaped their captivity. Snakes were found for days afterwards crawling through the bedclothes of the townsfolk and it did nothing to soothe the story that the circus was not just cursed but the pure work of the devil. Although the peacock was never discovered, one of the most dutiful of monkeys was found sitting atop a glinting rock, from which he would not move even when beckoned. The rock protruded from the earth, a gentle rise and mound, which, as Zippy Jet claims himself, was where he discovered a fortuitous vein of copper running deep across the earth. There was some contestation as to who really discovered the copper or found the waiting monkey, but Zippy Jet was adamant that it was him and that’s where the wealth went. The circus disbanded and Zippy died alone in that small, traditional town. Not long after the discovery of copper, he strangled his wife in a fit of rage. Greed had made him violent and cold, the performance disappearing from his eyes and no one stayed by his side. Some of the performers stayed in the town too, forever trying to fit in to normalcy. Madame Maudelynne even created a home there, keeping to herself except for sharing her potions with those who sought her occult wisdom. Want to read more? Simply download the full book FOR FREE here.

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What is a Psychological Thriller?

Vanessa — Sun, 27 Dec 2020 01:14:00 +0000

A psychological thriller is a movie or book that relies heavily on physical and mental suspense to create fear, tension and excitement. These movies and books often focus on the mind’s inner workings and use plot twists and unexpected events to keep viewers engaged. Psychological thrillers are different from horror stories, relying on gore and jump scares to alarm audiences. Psychological thrillers are more interested in playing with the viewer’s mind, creating an eerie atmosphere and leaving questions unanswered. This makes them perfect for those who like to be kept guessing. Psychological thrillers rely on the viewer coming back for more to uncover clues and solve the mystery, mainly when applied to a television series. Psychological thrillers are often suspenseful stories that keep audiences guessing until the very end. Like horror movies, they rely on negative emotions like fear and anxiety but tend to be more subtle than horror. Psychological thrillers play with the idea of paranoia and insanity, leaving viewers or readers wondering what is real and what isn’t. They tend to focus on human flaws like jealousy or personal struggles like drug addiction instead of things like ghosts or vampires. Psychological thrillers change their formula throughout, so it’s difficult to predict how they will end; some may have big twists while others rely more on shocking moments. The best psychological thrillers contain subtext that isn’t necessarily found in other genres and work to make viewers ask questions about right and wrong. Psychological thrillers may end up being more violent or depressing than viewers anticipated, but that’s what makes them exciting. These days, many psychological thriller movies are often based on books because the story can develop much better over time. They are one of the fastest-growing genres in Hollywood. For good reason— they are exciting, unpredictable, and make you think about the world around you differently. And they do well too! ‘Films based on books take 44% more at the box office in the UK and 53% more worldwide than original screenplays…’ Psychological suspense movies are exciting because they are the kind of movies you will think about long after watching them; if well written, psychological thrillers can create fascinating discussions among friends or family members even days after seeing or reading them. Some famous psychological thrillers include The Silence of the Lambs, Psycho and Gone Girl. These movies/books use plot twists and clever camerawork to keep viewers hooked until the very end. If you like movies that challenge your mind and keep you guessing, psychological thrillers are the perfect genre for you. So if you’re looking for something that will keep you on the edge of your seat, psychological thrillers are definitely worth investing in. Get FREE psychological thriller reads sent straight to your inbox when you sign up for my informative mail list.

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