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.
Previously out of print, these titles are back and ready to make you scream.
Everyone's got inner demons—but these are the real thing.
By Mia Garcia & Aviva Kaplan
Wander through the haunted woods of folk horror this summer.
It's never too early to get creepy.
They're fear, they're queer, get used to it.
But don't wait—these deals won't last long.
Summer is for star-gazing and horror slashers.
By Jena Brown
We know you love a good scare.
These scares will leave you sweating.
Put a chill down your spine with these creepy ebooks—free, this month only.
Horror gems that have set the course for the rest of the year.
Short books, big scares!
You keep dancing with the Devil, one day he's gonna follow you home.
Nothing can go wrong when a worldwide virus breaks out… right?
By Jena Brown
Books to say goodbye to spooky spring and usher in scary summer.
By Jena Brown
Summer is on the horizon—and so are some screams.
The author blended horror with science fiction and fantasy to create terrifying stories.
The British pagan terror author delves into his process as an independent publisher, where he channels the deep strangeness of imagination.
By Kyle Lemmon
Books that can compete with America's favorite serial killer.
By Aviva Kaplan