Jennifer Hillier

Jennifer Hillier is a Canadian-American thriller and crime fiction author known for her psychological suspense novels. Her work frequently explores dark themes, complex characters, and twisted relationships. Hillier's breakthrough came with "Jar of Hearts" (2018), which won the International Thriller Writers Award for Best Hardcover Novel and established her as a prominent voice in the psychological thriller genre. Her novel "Little Secrets" (2020) further cemented her reputation, receiving widespread critical acclaim and becoming a finalist for the Los Angeles Times Book Prize. Before achieving mainstream success, Hillier published her debut novel "Creep" in 2011, followed by "Freak" (2012) and "The Butcher" (2014). Her most recent work, "Things We Do in the Dark" (2022), continues her exploration of complex female protagonists and dark personal histories. Writing from her home in Seattle, Hillier draws from her experience growing up in Toronto to create settings that span both American and Canadian locations. Her novels have been translated into multiple languages and are published in numerous countries worldwide.

Readers consistently highlight Hillier's ability to create tense, fast-paced plots with unexpected twists. Many note her skill at writing complex female characters and exploring psychological trauma without sensationalism. What readers liked: - Unpredictable plot developments that feel earned rather than forced - Deep character development, particularly in "Jar of Hearts" and "Things We Do in the Dark" - Clean, direct writing style that maintains momentum - Balance of thriller elements with emotional depth What readers disliked: - Some find the violence level excessive, especially in "The Butcher" - Earlier works like "Creep" and "Freak" received criticism for less polished writing - A few readers note similarities in character types across books Ratings across platforms: Goodreads averages: - Jar of Hearts: 4.1/5 (52,000+ ratings) - Little Secrets: 4.0/5 (31,000+ ratings) - Things We Do in the Dark: 4.1/5 (28,000+ ratings) - Creep: 3.8/5 (8,000+ ratings) Amazon averages range from 4.2-4.5 stars, with "Jar of Hearts" and "Little Secrets" receiving the highest ratings.

Little Secrets (2020) When her young son is kidnapped from a Seattle farmers market, a successful business owner's investigation reveals dark connections to her husband's affair and a plot far more sinister than a simple kidnapping.

Jar of Hearts (2018) A woman who helped cover up the murder of her best friend in high school faces the consequences 14 years later when new bodies are discovered and secrets from her past resurface.

Wonderland (2015) A former circus performer turned deputy sheriff investigates a series of murders at an abandoned amusement park where victims are found dressed as clowns.

The Butcher (2014) A young woman discovers her retired police chief grandfather may be connected to a series of decades-old murders known as the "Butcher" killings in Seattle.

Creep (2011) A psychology professor's affair with a former student turns dangerous when he begins stalking her and threatening to expose their relationship.

Freak (2012) A sequel to Creep, following a police sergeant tracking down a serial killer who is recreating murder scenes from a notorious case while targeting people connected to the original investigation.

Things We Do in the Dark (2022) A woman with a hidden past faces exposure when a celebrity is murdered and the ensuing media attention threatens to reveal dark secrets she's kept buried for decades.

Lisa Jewell writes psychological thrillers focused on missing persons and family secrets. Her plots often involve multiple timelines and unreliable narrators, similar to Hillier's narrative style.

Karin Slaughter creates crime thrillers with detailed forensics and complex female protagonists. Her work features the same level of darkness and psychological depth found in Hillier's novels.

Chevy Stevens specializes in stories about trauma survivors and women facing deadly situations. Her books maintain tension through domestic suspense and exploration of past events affecting present circumstances.

Mary Kubica constructs mysteries involving ordinary people caught in dangerous situations that spiral out of control. She uses multiple perspectives and psychological elements to build suspense throughout her narratives.

Riley Sager writes thrillers with strong female leads and plots involving past trauma resurfacing. His stories incorporate elements of psychological suspense and crime, often featuring characters with questionable motives.