Whenever you’re in the mood for a good scare you’ll be able to find a good book to do the job. Horror books are written with the intention of inflicting feelings of disgust and fear, and many authors have perfected it. From the classic works of authors like Bram Stoker, Mary Shelley, Shirley Jackson, and Stephen King to modern talent like Paul Tremblay, Stephen Graham Jones, Cynthia Pelayo, Eric LaRocca, Hailey Piper, and Josh Malerman, the horror genre is overflowing with plenty of options to choose from. From spooky occult horror to blood and gore—and everything in between—there’s something for every style of reader, no matter your taste.
Whether you’re interested in close-to-home horror that tackles social issues or campy slasher-style horror books that rack up the kills, the horror genre has something for every style of reader. From aquatic horror and ghostly hauntings to body horror and coming-of-age tales—you’re sure to find just the thing to sink your teeth into.
Whether you’re a seasoned horror aficionado looking to expand your horizons or a newer reader looking to dip your toes into (shark infested) horror waters, here are some great places to start:
And when you’ve finished with those, peruse the stories below for endless recommendations of chilling books to read.

Scares are more fun when you can share them with friends.
Shirley Jackson Award-winning author Catriona Ward on grief and her new novel Nowhere Burning.
By Kyle Lemmon
These gripping reads bring to life the fear of death.
By Jena Brown
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Dive into tales filled with horror, suspense, spooks and thrills!
You'll fall head over heels for these screams.
Put a chill down your spine with these creepy ebooks—free, this month only.
Folklore, faith, and the grotesque.
Discover monsters, madness and magic in these mesmerizing reads.
Nine of the year’s most terrifying must-reads.
By Jena Brown
This sharp excerpt of the recently released satirical thriller will leave you needing more.
Contemporaries of Bram Stoker-winning author Laird Barron comment on the grim and poignant stories scattered across the snowy wilderness of Alaska and beyond.
By Kyle Lemmon
Get your fill of of horror, Gothic fiction, steampunk, and more…
These horror bookstore locations are essential stops for every dark fiction lover.
Your perfect pairing awaits.
Embrace the dark side of 2026 with these essential new horror reads.
Ring in the new year with some screams.
His horror and dark fantasy tales are just what you’ve been looking for.
Reflecting on another phenomenal year in horror fiction.