Novels featuring female psychopaths as main characters or central figures can be intriguing reads, as they delve into complex psychological profiles and present unique perspectives. Here are some excellent novels that fit your criteria:
"Gone Girl" by Gillian Flynn: This psychological thriller follows the story of Amy Dunne, who goes missing on her fifth wedding anniversary. The novel delves into themes of manipulation, deceit, and psychopathy as the truth about Amy's disappearance unravels.
"Sharp Objects" by Gillian Flynn: Another gripping novel by Gillian Flynn, "Sharp Objects" features Camille Preaker, a journalist who returns to her hometown to cover the murders of two young girls. As the story unfolds, Camille's own troubled past and psychological issues come to light.
"The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" by Stieg Larsson: While the main character, Lisbeth Salander, isn't explicitly labeled as a psychopath, she exhibits traits associated with psychopathy, such as a lack of empathy and a capacity for violence. The story is a gripping mystery that revolves around Salander's hacking skills and her involvement in solving a series of crimes.
"In the Miso Soup" by Ryu Murakami: This novel features a young woman named Kenji, who accompanies a tourist named Frank through the nightlife of Tokyo. As the story progresses, Kenji's unsettling personality and dark secrets come to light.
"You" by Caroline Kepnes: While the protagonist Joe Goldberg is male, the novel also features a female character named Love Quinn, who is a key figure in the story. Love displays psychopathic tendencies and becomes entangled in a twisted love story with Joe.
"The Talented Mr. Ripley" by Patricia Highsmith: This classic thriller introduces Tom Ripley, a con artist and a psychopath. While Ripley is the central character, there are female characters like Marge Sherwood, who play significant roles in the story.
"American Psycho" by Bret Easton Ellis: Though not the main character, Evelyn Williams, Patrick Bateman's girlfriend, plays an important role in this dark and satirical novel. The story follows Patrick Bateman, a wealthy and violent investment banker who exhibits psychopathic behavior.
Please note that some of these novels may contain graphic or disturbing content, as they explore the minds of psychologically complex characters. Be sure to read reviews and synopses to determine if the content aligns with your preferences. Additionally, keep in mind that fictional portrayals of psychopathy might not accurately reflect the experiences of real individuals with psychopathic traits.