Incredible tales of horror to grace your shelves. 

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.

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Delectable Doses of Dread: The Best of Stephen King's Chilling Short Fiction 

No matter the length of the story, Stephen King can still terrify us…

5 Darkly Absurd Horror Books to Read When You Need a Laugh

Horror and comedy make strangely comforting bedfellows.

These Banned and Challenged Horror Books Subvert Cultural Norms

Books that tackle divisive topics are the most at risk for banning campaigns.

8 Chilling Ghostly Books to Beat the August Heat

Spine-chilling, teeth-clattering novels that’ll give you goosebumps this summer.   

11 Erotic Horror Books to Arouse Your Fear

These terrifying and titillating tales will have your blood pumping in different directions.

GIVEAWAY: Enter to Win Sadie Hartmann's 101 Horror Books to Read Before You're Murdered 

Three lucky winners will receive a copy of this entertaining survey of horror fiction—from Mother Horror herself!

These Quiet Maine Woods Hold Deadly Secrets

Art, ambition, and murder collide in Dark Things I Adore.

12 Terrifying Self-Published Horror Novels You Don’t Want to Miss

The indie horror scene has never been more alive—or undead in some cases—and Cutthroat Queens want to help it thrive!

Frightening Horror Books That Revamp Classic Monsters

The literary impact of these beloved monsters isn’t dead—even though most are undead…

Traverse Unforgiving Land in These 11 Desert Horror Books 

You’re going to wish the threats in these novels were only a mirage…