If You Liked Baby Reindeer, You Will Love These 10 Books

The new Netflix series Baby Reindeer is taking over the world. Richard Gadd's gripping account of his experience with a stalker has captivated viewers with its raw honesty and emotional depth. Touching on a range of sensitive yet important topics, the show is part suspense and part an exploration of masculinity, sexual orientation and identity.

If you found yourself immersed in Gadd's powerful narrative and are interested to read books that deliver similar intensity, vulnerability, and compelling storytelling, here are ten books for you.

1. "The Fact of a Body: A Murder and a Memoir" by Alexandria Marzano-Lesnevich

"The Fact of a Body" is a riveting blend of true crime and memoir that explores the intersection of a murder case and the author's own life. Alexandria Marzano-Lesnevich, a law student, becomes deeply affected by the case of Ricky Langley, a convicted child molester and murderer. As she delves into Langley's past, she confronts her own traumatic experiences. This book, like "Baby Reindeer," combines personal reflection with a gripping narrative, making it a must-read for those who appreciate deeply personal and thought-provoking stories.

2. “The Trauma Cleaner: One Woman's Extraordinary Life in Death, Decay, and Disaster” by Sarah Krasnostein

The book follows Sandra Pankhurst, who has lived through several transformations and challenges throughout her life. Born as a boy named Peter, Sandra's early life was marked by neglect and abuse. She later married and fathered children before coming out as transgender. Sandra then transitioned and embarked on various careers, including working as a drag queen, sex worker, and funeral director, before finally finding her calling as a trauma cleaner.

3. "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls

Jeannette Walls' memoir, "The Glass Castle," recounts her unconventional and often dysfunctional childhood. Raised by eccentric and neglectful parents, Walls and her siblings fend for themselves and navigate a world of instability and poverty. The book's exploration of family dynamics, survival, and resilience mirrors the themes in "Baby Reindeer." Walls' ability to find beauty and strength in her chaotic upbringing will appeal to those who were moved by Gadd's story.

4. "Know My Name" by Chanel Miller

In "Know My Name," Chanel Miller, known previously as Emily Doe in the Brock Turner sexual assault case, reclaims her identity and tells her story with powerful grace and candor. Miller's account of her assault, the subsequent legal battle, and her journey towards healing is deeply affecting. This memoir delves into the complexities of trauma, identity, and the search for justice. Miller's voice is both poignant and empowering, making this a compelling read for those drawn to narratives of personal struggle and resilience.

5. "The Lying Game" by Ruth Ware

If you were captivated by the tension and psychological intrigue in "Baby Reindeer," Ruth Ware's "The Lying Game" is a perfect follow-up. This psychological thriller follows four friends who are bound by a dark secret from their past. When the secret threatens to resurface, they must confront the lies they've built their lives upon. Ware's ability to create suspense and delve into the complexities of human relationships makes this a gripping read that fans of "Baby Reindeer" will appreciate.

6. "My Dark Vanessa" by Kate Elizabeth Russell

"My Dark Vanessa" is a haunting novel that explores the complexities of an abusive relationship between a fifteen-year-old girl and her forty-two-year-old teacher. Vanessa, now in her thirties, grapples with the implications of their relationship as new allegations of abuse surface against her former teacher. Russell's nuanced portrayal of Vanessa's inner conflict and the blurred lines of consent and agency will resonate with readers who appreciated Gadd's raw and honest storytelling.

7. "The Night of the Gun: A Reporter Investigates the Darkest Story of His Life—His Own" by David Carr

David Carr's "The Night of the Gun" is a memoir that combines investigative journalism with personal narrative. Carr, a journalist, delves into his own tumultuous past, marked by addiction and self-destruction. By interviewing those who knew him during his darkest times, Carr attempts to piece together a truthful account of his life. The book's exploration of memory, accountability, and redemption echoes the themes in "Baby Reindeer." Carr's unflinching examination of his own life will appeal to readers who appreciated Gadd's introspective and candid approach.

8. "You" by Caroline Kepnes

Caroline Kepnes' "You" is a psychological thriller that delves into the mind of Joe Goldberg, a charming but obsessive bookstore manager who becomes infatuated with a customer named Beck. The novel's chilling portrayal of Joe's escalating obsession and the lengths he will go to insert himself into Beck's life mirrors the stalking and psychological manipulation depicted in "Baby Reindeer." Kepnes' ability to create a disturbing yet compelling narrative will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

9. "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" by Stieg Larsson

This now cult-classic thriller follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander as they investigate a decades-old disappearance. The book delves into themes of sexual violence and features a strong, complex queer character in Salander. If you were kept on the edge of your seat by Martha’s relentless stalking and unhinged behavior, this book will likely keep you on your toes to the very end.

10. "Room" by Emma Donoghue

"Room" by Emma Donoghue is a novel that tells the story of a young boy named Jack and his mother, who are held captive in a small room for years. The story is narrated from Jack's perspective, providing a unique and poignant view of their confinement and eventual escape. The book's exploration of trauma, resilience, and the bond between mother and child is deeply affecting. Readers who appreciated the emotional depth and intensity of "Baby Reindeer" will find "Room" to be a compelling and unforgettable read.

Now, go read!

These ten books offer a range of genres and themes, but they all share a common thread of emotional intensity, personal struggle, and compelling storytelling. Whether you're drawn to memoirs, psychological thrillers, or novels that delve into the complexities of human relationships, these books will provide you with a captivating and thought-provoking reading experience. So, if you loved "Baby Reindeer," be sure to add these titles to your reading list and prepare to be moved, challenged, and inspired.