10 Easy Page-Turning Novels for People Who Don't Read Often

Inheriting your uncle's supervillain business is more complicated than you might think, especially when Charlie, a divorced substitute teacher, discovers the hostile environment that comes with it. Living alone with his cat, Charlie's dreams to open a downtown pub take a backseat when he unexpectedly inherits a supervillain empire—complete with an intimidating volcano lair. As he grapples with his new identity, he faces off against ruthless adversaries and allies with a peculiar crew that includes unionized dolphins and hyper-intelligent spy cats. This uproarious tale teaches us that in a dog-eat-dog world, sometimes it pays to be a cat.

Winner of multiple prestigious awards including the Hugo and Nebula, "All Systems Red" is a science fiction novella following a unique protagonist: a self-aware security android dubbed 'Murderbot'. In a corporate-dominated future, it grapples with existential questions while being tasked with a mission alongside a group of human scientists. As it faces danger and its own identity crisis, the story delves into the relationship between artificial intelligence and humanity, making it a thought-provoking read that meshes thrilling adventure with philosophical depth.

Imagine beginning anew as a housemaid in a luxurious home. This is the reality for our protagonist, who finds herself entangled in the rich Winchester family's web of secrets. As she navigates her daily cleaning and motherly duties, she becomes increasingly aware of the eerie atmosphere, particularly concerning Nina, the tempestuous homeowner, and her troubled husband, Andrew. With gripping twists and a chilling ending, this psychological thriller keeps the reader guessing until the last page.

Perfect for fans of complex mysteries, this novel weaves an imaginative tale where the protagonist must relive the same day repeatedly, each time inhabiting the body of a different guest. With Evelyn Hardcastle destined to die each day at 11:00 p.m., the challenge lies in determining her killer among a myriad of suspects. This unique structure creates a riveting experience full of suspense, making it an unputdownable read.

A philosophical journey that intertwines the adventures of humans with those of a gorilla, "Ishmael" challenges readers to contemplate humanity's role in the world. The novel features a conversation between the protagonist and Ishmael, exploring themes of sustainability and survival. Winner of the Turner Tomorrow Fellowship, this thought-provoking narrative forces readers to re-evaluate their consequences on the planet and serves as a call to action for global change.

Setting the stage for a gripping tale that blends science fiction with thriller elements, "The One" introduces a world where love is determined by a straightforward DNA test. As individuals receive their matches, the implications quickly spiral out of control, revealing dark secrets among soulmates. This enhances the suspense and intrigue as the characters navigate the complexities of love grounded in science. A perfect blend of romance and thriller.

Mark Watney, an astronaut stranded on Mars, showcases extraordinary ingenuity and determination in this thrilling survival story. As he against overwhelming odds, Watney utilizes his engineering skills and scientific knowledge to overcome each obstacle thrown his way. Readers are taken on a rollicking adventure filled with humor and suspense, proving that hope and resilience can triumph even in the face of adversity.

"City of Thieves" presents the harrowing yet heartwarming tale of two men caught in the brutal siege of Leningrad during World War II. Lev and Kolya must navigate a lawless city to secure a dozen eggs under the most dire circumstances. With layered characters and poignantly depicted themes of friendship and survival, this novel resonates deeply with readers, painting a vivid picture of resilience amid the backdrop of conflict.

In this hallmark of hard sci-fi, an alien spacecraft is on a collision course with the sun, prompting a team of astronauts to explore its mysteries. Inside the massive cylinder, they encounter surreal landscapes and advanced technology without the hint of the civilization that built it. Arthur C. Clarke's brilliant narrative invites readers to ponder philosophical questions about existence and our understanding of life beyond Earth.

In a suspenseful psychological thriller, "The Chain" thrusts readers into a harrowing scenario where a mother must kidnap another child to ensure her own daughter's safety. The unique premise challenges our moral compass and illustrates the lengths a parent will go to save their child. Tension builds as Rachel embarks on a desperate journey, unveiling deeper themes of desperation and resilience, making it a gripping read that keeps you at the edge of your seat.