Here are 92 books that Ship of Destiny fans have personally recommended if you like Ship of Destiny. Book DNA is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Book cover of Never Lie

Nicola Sanders Author Of Don't Believe Her

From my list on gaslighting by the people you love most.

Why am I passionate about this?

I write psychological thrillers, and I find stories where the main character thinks they’re going crazy, particularly gripping, especially when it’s caused by (supposed) loved ones. I suspect it’s because these stories share an element of "this could happen to me." I’ve only written three books, but I’d say all of them have an element of gaslighting, probably because I sit down and think things like, What would it feel like if your best friend came back after many years, and you’re the only one who can tell it’s not her? It’s a deliciously creepy way to pass the time. 

Nicola's book list on gaslighting by the people you love most

Nicola Sanders Why Nicola loves this book

Everybody's probably read this one, but I'll mention it anyway.This book could be titled Everyone is Lying All the Time. It's one of my favourites by McFadden.

Newlyweds Tricia and Ethan find themselves stuck in a house until the snowstorm passes. Everything about the housethe noises, things moving or appearing, secret doorsmakes Tricia nervous, but Ethan has an explanation for everything.

The characters of Dr. Hale and her nemesis, EJ, are particularly compelling, and it’s saying something considering they are mostly "written" through the audiotapes that Tricia listens to, so there’s no description of their actions. Just pure dialog on the page, as if you were listening along to the tape.

It’s only at the end that you realise this novel is a series of magic tricks designed to make you look over here while the action was really happening over there.

By Freida McFadden ,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked Never Lie as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Newlyweds Tricia and Ethan are searching for the house of their dreams. But when they visit the remote manor that once belonged to Dr. Adrienne Hale, a renowned psychiatrist who vanished without a trace four years earlier, a violent winter storm traps them at the estate… with no chance of escape until the blizzard comes to an end.

In search of a book to keep her entertained until the snow abates, Tricia happens upon a secret room. One that contains audio transcripts from every single patient Dr. Hale has ever interviewed. As Tricia listens to the cassette tapes, she learns…


If you love Ship of Destiny...

Book cover of The Shadow of the Eagle

The Shadow of the Eagle by Paula Weston,

The Shadow of the Eagle is a fresh take on epic fantasy that has all the trademarks of a Paula Weston novel: fast-paced action, immersive world-building, nuanced characters, and a slow-burn romance. It’s about the nature of loyalty, love, faith, and friendship.

The Shadow of the Eagle is the first…

Book cover of The Pocket Wife

Katherine Nichols Author Of The Unreliables: When The Only One You Can Trust Doesn't Exist

From my list on books with gaslighting and manipulation.

Why am I passionate about this?

Growing up in the South as the daughter of a single mother, I’ve always appreciated strong women, in reality and in fiction. Before I could read, I made up stories featuring me as the super heroine. Later, I devoured all the Nancy Drews I could get my hands on. I credit Ms. Drew for nurturing my fascination with mystery. I especially enjoy suspense with a psychological turn that frequently takes the form of gaslighting or manipulating someone into doubting their perception of reality. As an author of Southern suspense with heart and humor, my female characters fall victim to this device but are strong enough to persevere.  

Katherine's book list on books with gaslighting and manipulation

Katherine Nichols Why Katherine loves this book

I love the way the author sheds light on bi-polar disorder that affects approximately 2.6 percent of the American population. Her depiction of the intensity of the illness helps readers understand why many people suffering from the disorder die from suicide.

Despite her unreliability, I was drawn to the main character as she struggled to prove her innocence to herself and the reader. I love a book that teaches me something new while drawing me into its spell.

By Susan Crawford ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Pocket Wife as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Dana Catrell wakes from a drunken stupor in time to see an ambulance pull into her neighbour's house a few doors down. Celia Steinhauser has been murdered. But Dana was at her house only a few hours ago. Celia wanted to show her a photo - a photo of Dana's husband with another woman....

Dana has blank spots about what happened to the rest of the afternoon: especially the difference between what actually happened and what she imagines has happened, with dream and reality becoming blurred....


Book cover of Listen for the Lie

Nicola Sanders Author Of Don't Believe Her

From my list on gaslighting by the people you love most.

Why am I passionate about this?

I write psychological thrillers, and I find stories where the main character thinks they’re going crazy, particularly gripping, especially when it’s caused by (supposed) loved ones. I suspect it’s because these stories share an element of "this could happen to me." I’ve only written three books, but I’d say all of them have an element of gaslighting, probably because I sit down and think things like, What would it feel like if your best friend came back after many years, and you’re the only one who can tell it’s not her? It’s a deliciously creepy way to pass the time. 

Nicola's book list on gaslighting by the people you love most

Nicola Sanders Why Nicola loves this book

Lucy's best friend Savannah was murdered, and Lucy is suspected of having killed her. But Lucy can't remember anything about that night. Convenient? Plenty of people think so, including those closest to her. Is Lucy doing the gaslighting?

This plot is masterfully constructed, and I can’t say much more without spoilers. I loved it, and the gaslighting is out of this world.

By Amy Tintera ,

Why should I read it?

6 authors picked Listen for the Lie as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

**RICHARD & JUDY BOOK CLUB PICK**
**INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER**
**THE SUNDAY TIMES 'PICK OF THE MONTH'**
**PRIMA 'BOOK OF THE YEAR'**
**WOMAN & HOME 'BOOK OF THE YEAR'**
**WOMAN & HOME 'BOOK OF THE MONTH'**
**TOP TEN KINDLE BESTSELLER**

'Edgy, thrilling, twisty - I loved it!' - LIANE MORIARTY
'A world-class whodunit' - STEPHEN KING
'Dark comedy and darker thrills' - ALEX MICHAELIDES
'Smart, surprising and very funny - wickedly entertaining' - SHARI LAPENA

Am I a murderer? You tell me . . .

Lucy Chase can't remember anything about the night her best friend was murdered.
Lucky…


If you love Robin Hobb...

Book cover of Child of Vanris

Child of Vanris by Nikki McCormack,

At five years old, Kasiel was found with the pointed ends of his ears cut off. Despite that brutal start, he’s lived twelve peaceful years with the man who took him in. Keeping his hair long over his mutilated ears helps him hide the fact that he is Vanrian, a…

Book cover of If She Did It

Nicola Sanders Author Of Don't Believe Her

From my list on gaslighting by the people you love most.

Why am I passionate about this?

I write psychological thrillers, and I find stories where the main character thinks they’re going crazy, particularly gripping, especially when it’s caused by (supposed) loved ones. I suspect it’s because these stories share an element of "this could happen to me." I’ve only written three books, but I’d say all of them have an element of gaslighting, probably because I sit down and think things like, What would it feel like if your best friend came back after many years, and you’re the only one who can tell it’s not her? It’s a deliciously creepy way to pass the time. 

Nicola's book list on gaslighting by the people you love most

Nicola Sanders Why Nicola loves this book

Also one of my favourite books ever, and I honestly wish Jessica Treadway would write more. 

A mother who has suffered a horrific attack and who is left with a hazy memory of the events is desperate to believe her daughter had nothing to do with it, even when everyone else thinks otherwise. You never know who is telling the truth, who is lying, who remembers the facts correctly.

The characters are so well drawn, the writing is so good, it’s one of those books where you just have to know who is telling the truth. Gripping from the first sentence. A true psychological thriller.

By Jessica Treadway ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked If She Did It as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

What if you began to suspect your child of an unspeakable crime?

One night changed everything. A father murdered in his bed. A mother beaten almost to death. A daughter who claims she knew nothing about her boyfriend's murderous plans. But is she telling the truth?

Hanna can't remember the details of what happened that traumatic night, she barely survived the brutal assault that left her a widow. However, if she is to keep her husband's killer in jail, she knows she has to try. But Hanna hadn't realised that those memories may cause her to question everything she thought…


Book cover of A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy

Christine Faour Author Of Behind the Dress: One woman's life in a religious cult and the healing that came later

From my list on religious cults God, gaslighting, and groupthink.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am an adult cult survivor living in Nova Scotia Canada. My book recommendations come from personal experience and knowing of the principles that hold people in cults. My cult was the IBLP, or ATI, run by Bill Gothard, and featured in the docu-series, Shiny Happy People on Amazon Prime. Since I raised my three children in a cult, I am fascinated by other people’s cult experiences. Reading them helped me to realize that I wasn’t alone. Whenever I see a new podcast or a book about someone else’s cult, I have to read it. 

Christine's book list on religious cults God, gaslighting, and groupthink

Christine Faour Why Christine loves this book

The author, Tia Levings, was in the same cult that I’d been in. Her story touched me on many levels, but the danger she was in right from her wedding night captivated me. As she related the progression of danger she and her children were in, although I knew she survived, I couldn’t put the book down.

I wanted to know HOW she survived and how she became a functioning member of society afterward. Tia’s story was a lesson to me in overcoming such a controlling and dangerous situation. I loved her tenacity and how she jumped into action when she knew ‘this is it’ to save her family.

By Tia Levings ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Well-Trained Wife as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The instant New York Times bestseller:

“Today it hit me when he hit me, blood shaking in my brain. Maybe there wasn't a savior coming. Maybe it was up to me to save me.”

Recruited into the fundamentalist Quiverfull movement as a young wife, Tia Levings learned that being a good Christian meant following a list of additional life principles––a series of secret, special rules to obey. Being a godly and submissive wife in Christian Patriarchy included strict discipline, isolation, and an alternative lifestyle that appeared wholesome to outsiders. Women were to be silent, “keepers of the home.”

Tia knew…


Book cover of The House of My Mother: A Daughter's Quest for Freedom

Christine Faour Author Of Behind the Dress: One woman's life in a religious cult and the healing that came later

From my list on religious cults God, gaslighting, and groupthink.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am an adult cult survivor living in Nova Scotia Canada. My book recommendations come from personal experience and knowing of the principles that hold people in cults. My cult was the IBLP, or ATI, run by Bill Gothard, and featured in the docu-series, Shiny Happy People on Amazon Prime. Since I raised my three children in a cult, I am fascinated by other people’s cult experiences. Reading them helped me to realize that I wasn’t alone. Whenever I see a new podcast or a book about someone else’s cult, I have to read it. 

Christine's book list on religious cults God, gaslighting, and groupthink

Christine Faour Why Christine loves this book

A good book tells the truth—and that’s what Shari Franke did here. I often wondered what went on behind the scenes of ‘perfect’ families. I read this book in two sittings; I couldn’t put it down because Shari told everything about the 8 Passengers family.

It was interesting to get inside the head of the oldest daughter of this infamous family and see where she’s at now. I love that Shari is now petitioning the courts to give rights to the children of family vlogs whose lives are exposed for the world to see. 

By Shari Franke ,

Why should I read it?

3 authors picked The House of My Mother as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

INSTANT #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

“Heart-wrenchingly personal...dizzying.” —Rolling Stone

From eldest daughter Shari Franke, the shocking true story behind the viral 8 Passengers family vlog—now the subject of a new Hulu docuseries—and the hidden abuse she suffered at the hands of her mother, and how, in the face of unimaginable pain, she found freedom and healing.

Shari Franke's childhood was a constant battle for survival. Her mother, Ruby Franke, enforced a severe moral code while maintaining a façade of a picture-perfect family for their wildly popular YouTube channel 8 Passengers, which documented the day-to-day life of raising…


If you love Ship of Destiny...

Book cover of Mother of Trees

Mother of Trees by Steven J. Morris,

Mother of Trees is the first book in an epic fantasy series about a dying goddess, a broken world, and a young elf born without magic in a society ruled by it.

When the ancient being that anchors the world’s power begins to fail, the consequences ripple outward—through prophecy, politics,…

Book cover of Counting the Cost

Christine Faour Author Of Behind the Dress: One woman's life in a religious cult and the healing that came later

From my list on religious cults God, gaslighting, and groupthink.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am an adult cult survivor living in Nova Scotia Canada. My book recommendations come from personal experience and knowing of the principles that hold people in cults. My cult was the IBLP, or ATI, run by Bill Gothard, and featured in the docu-series, Shiny Happy People on Amazon Prime. Since I raised my three children in a cult, I am fascinated by other people’s cult experiences. Reading them helped me to realize that I wasn’t alone. Whenever I see a new podcast or a book about someone else’s cult, I have to read it. 

Christine's book list on religious cults God, gaslighting, and groupthink

Christine Faour Why Christine loves this book

The Duggar family was one I looked up to when I was in the same cult as them. They seemed to have it all together as a family and looked very happy. Reading Jill’s book, however, showed me that most of that was on the surface. There were many deep secrets in their family, just as there had been in mine.

I cheered this lady on as I read and saw her overcoming her controlled past to live a life that shows her as being quite human. Her story made me realize that what you see on the surface in a person or a family is really only the tip of the iceberg: the big ugly is all underwater and concealed.

By Jill Duggar , Derick Dillard , Craig Borlase

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Counting the Cost as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

For the first time, discover the unedited truth about the Duggars, the traditional Christian family that captivated the nation on TLC's hit show 19 Kids and Counting. Jill Duggar and her husband Derick are finally ready to share their story, revealing the secrets, manipulation, and intimidation behind the show in this "no-holds barred" (People) instant New York Times bestseller.

Jill and Derick knew a normal life wasn't possible for them. As a star on the popular TLC reality show 19 Kids and Counting, Jill grew up in front of viewers who were fascinated by her family's way of life. She…


Book cover of Is It Me? Making Sense of Your Confusing Marriage: A Christian Woman's Guide to Hidden Emotional and Spiritual Abuse

Christine Faour Author Of Behind the Dress: One woman's life in a religious cult and the healing that came later

From my list on religious cults God, gaslighting, and groupthink.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am an adult cult survivor living in Nova Scotia Canada. My book recommendations come from personal experience and knowing of the principles that hold people in cults. My cult was the IBLP, or ATI, run by Bill Gothard, and featured in the docu-series, Shiny Happy People on Amazon Prime. Since I raised my three children in a cult, I am fascinated by other people’s cult experiences. Reading them helped me to realize that I wasn’t alone. Whenever I see a new podcast or a book about someone else’s cult, I have to read it. 

Christine's book list on religious cults God, gaslighting, and groupthink

Christine Faour Why Christine loves this book

In Christian marriages, women are often the glue that holds the family together, but what do you do when you think you might be being abused? Natalie’s story brought to light a lot of the things that Christian women put up with, all in the name of biblical submission.

I have lived a similar life as Natalie, and I also belonged to one of her recovery groups, which helped me immensely. As women, we often think we are the problem, but often, we are being criticized, overburdened, and overworked in homeschooling our children and giving ourselves joyfully to our husbands.

Many of Natalie’s questions are ones I’ve asked myself. Her book helped me a lot.

By Natalie Hoffman ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Is It Me? Making Sense of Your Confusing Marriage as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

One out of three married women sitting in an average conservative Christian church is in a confusing and painful marriage relationship. These women believe they are alone. I want them to know they aren't. They believe they can't find peace. I want them to know they can. They believe they don't have choices. I want them to know they do.

If this sounds like you, join me on a journey of discovery that will change your life. We'll look at exactly what is going on in your marriage (no more confusion!) and what a normal marriage looks like. You'll learn…


Book cover of Fake

Nicola Sanders Author Of Don't Believe Her

From my list on gaslighting by the people you love most.

Why am I passionate about this?

I write psychological thrillers, and I find stories where the main character thinks they’re going crazy, particularly gripping, especially when it’s caused by (supposed) loved ones. I suspect it’s because these stories share an element of "this could happen to me." I’ve only written three books, but I’d say all of them have an element of gaslighting, probably because I sit down and think things like, What would it feel like if your best friend came back after many years, and you’re the only one who can tell it’s not her? It’s a deliciously creepy way to pass the time. 

Nicola's book list on gaslighting by the people you love most

Nicola Sanders Why Nicola loves this book

I'm including a memoir here, because this great book fits the theme perfectly.

Described as A startling true story of love in a world of liars, cheats, narcissists, fantasists, and phonies, it's the kind of book that makes you feel like you can't look away.

Stephanie Wood embarks on a relationship with a man who seems wonderful, then spends the next year slowly going crazy as she tries to keep up with his lies and deception. We are dumbstruck along with her every step of the way.

By Stephanie Wood ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Fake as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

When Stephanie Wood meets a former architect turned farmer she embarks on an exhilarating romance with him. He seems compassionate, loving, truthful. They talk about the future. She falls in love. She also becomes increasingly beset by anxiety at his frequent cancellations, no-shows and bizarre excuses. She starts to wonder, who is this man? When she ends the relationship Stephanie reboots her journalism skills and embarks on a romantic investigation. She discovers a story of mind-boggling duplicity and manipulation. She learns that the man she thought she was in love with doesn't exist. She also finds she is not alone;…


If you love Robin Hobb...

Book cover of Dead Lake

Dead Lake by Miranda Kate,

An eviction. A stolen gemstone. a hidden network. Will retrieving her precious obsidian get Tricky killed?

After her cottage is ransacked, new-age witch Tricky knows she’s been targeted by the district. Now she must use her magical ability to discover who stole her prized gemstone—and what they’re plotting.

Book cover of Into the Darkest Corner

Louise Stone Author Of S is for Stranger

From my list on to send shivers down your spine.

Why am I passionate about this?

I love psychological thrillers because I have firsthand dealt with OCD and gaslighting. Therefore, I find the human mind fascinating, and how the line between sanity and insanity is changeable. I think as humans we want to feel safe and hence, we box things into categories but all these thrillers I have recommended force you to look outside of the boxes and they can be chillingly thought-provoking. I am obsessed with writing that gives the reader such graphic insight into a character’s thoughts and actions. If you want unputdownable books, these are the ones for you!

Louise's book list on to send shivers down your spine

Louise Stone Why Louise loves this book

This book personally resonates with me as I suffer with OCD.

The character must overcome countless mental challenges now that she thinks she has met the man of her dreams. It is a brilliant portrayal of gaslighting, so accurate and chillingly on point. If you like books that are emotionally immersive and you can almost touch and breathe the characters, this is superb.

By Elizabeth Haynes ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Into the Darkest Corner as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Catherine Bailey has been enjoying the single life long enough to know a catch when she sees one. Gorgeous, charismatic and spontaneous, Lee seems almost too perfect to be true. And her friends clearly agree, as each in turn falls under his spell. But what begins as flattering attentiveness and passionate sex turns into raging jealousy, and Catherine soon learns there is a darker side to Lee. His increasingly erratic, controlling behaviour becomes frightening, but no one believes her when she shares her fears. Increasingly isolated and driven into the darkest corner of her world, a desperate Catherine plans a…


Book cover of Never Lie
Book cover of The Pocket Wife
Book cover of Listen for the Lie

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,366

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in Malta, piracy, and French travel?

Malta 18 books
Piracy 146 books
French Travel 42 books