10 Books About Wildly Unhinged Best Friends

Set against the backdrop of the original 1692 witch trials in Danvers, Massachusetts, "We Ride Upon Sticks" narrates the spirited journey of the 1989 Danvers Falcons, a high school field hockey team, as they attempt to reach the state finals. The novel, penned by Quan Barry, intertwines themes of friendship, feminism, and empowerment through sport, showcasing the camaraderie of the team captained by Abby Putnam and co-captain Jen Fiorenza. The story is narrated with a soundtrack of irresistible 1980s iconography, revealing how the bond of friendship leads these young women to explore darker powers to overcome societal obstacles.

Fannie Flagg’s beloved classic, "Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe," captures the essence of southern life with humor and warmth. It tells the story of two pairs of women: Evelyn, who is struggling with her middle-aged life, and the eccentric Mrs. Threadgoode, who recounts tales from her youth involving the tomboy Idgie and her friend Ruth. This novel isn’t just a tale of friendship; it also explores themes of love, loss, and the strength women draw from one another, all while serving up southern comfort food and the odd murder or two. The narrative sparkles with community and resilience that resonates across generations.

"Bunny," a national bestseller by Mona Awad, offers a darkly comedic exploration of friendship and rivalry within the confines of a prestigious MFA program. The story follows Samantha Mackey, an outsider drawn into the clutches of a clique of wealthy women who call each other Bunny. When Samantha receives an invitation to their secretive Smut Salon, she is thrust into a fantastical and sinister world that tests her loyalty and identity. The narrative blends witchcraft and college satire to reveal the complexities of belonging, desire, and the perils of groupthink.

"When We Lost Our Heads" is a riveting story by Katy Waldman that illuminates the passionate and tumultuous friendship between Marie Antoinette and Sadie Arnett in 19th-century Montreal. Their bond grows dangerously intense, leading to reckless actions that threaten not only their lives but also the fabric of society around them. As they navigate the treacherous waters of youthful exuberance, their fateful choices and identities will collide with revolution, highlighting the depths and dangers of loyalty and ambition in a world that seeks to define them.

Lindsay Hunter's debut novel, "Ugly Girls," tells the tale of two friends, Perry and Baby Girl, whose fiercely loyal yet complicated friendship unfolds amidst the backdrop of their twisted teenage existence. They dare each other to take ever-greater risks and rebel against the world, oblivious to the lurking dangers of a seemingly harmless online admirer. As they confront the consequences of their actions, the novel offers a raw and unflinching look at adolescence, love, and the true meaning of self-protection.

"The Bitch Posse," by Melisa DePino, is a poignant exploration of the enduring impact of adolescent friendships on adult lives. As the confessions of three high school outcasts—Cherry, Rennie, and Amy—unfold, the narrative tackles themes of betrayal, survival, and the psychological scars left by past traumas. As the story oscillates between their tumultuous teenage years and their present-day struggles, it delves deep into how secrets can bind and shatter relationships, ultimately questioning whether true friendship can survive deep wounds and time.

In this suspenseful thriller by Laurie Elizabeth Flynn, "The Girls Are All So Nice Here" follows Ambrosia Wellington as she returns to her college reunion, only to face dark reminders of a shared history turned ominous. As she reconnects with her former best friend Sloane, they confront their past mistakes and the unforeseen consequences of their reckless youth. The chilling tale probes the cost of retribution and the secrets that can surface when friendships are tested by time, culminating in a gripping narrative about female rivalry and vengeance.

The novel "Big Swiss" by Jen Beagin introduces us to Greta, a transcriptionist for a sex therapist, who finds herself enamored with a patient while transcribing their sessions. The plot thickens when they meet in person, igniting a thrilling and complex relationship. As Greta’s infatuation unveils layers of her identity, exploring themes of attraction and the fine lines of infidelity, the story unfolds with humor and poignance, shedding light on mental health and societal expectations surrounding love.

"Birnam Wood" by Eleanor Catton is a thrilling work of fiction that intricately weaves together themes of survival and complex relationships between diverse characters. It imagines a guerrilla gardening collective named Birnam Wood, aspiring to cultivate an abandoned farm amidst a backdrop of socio-political upheavals. This deeply layered narrative challenges notions of community, trust, and the dire consequences of acting on one’s ideals, offering readers a captivating read that combines suspense with rich character studies.

Tana French's "The Secret Place" is a gripping psychological mystery that revolves around a detective's investigation into a cold murder case at a girls' boarding school. As he delves into the tight-knit group of friends connected to the victim, the novel explores themes of loyalty, secrets, and the complexities of female friendships. With its intricate plot and rich character development, "The Secret Place" stands as a testament to the darker sides of teenage bonds and the motivations that drive us to protect those we love.