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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Dress Up Your Horror Shelves: Limited Series Collecting

A limited series of books released over time is an exciting way to grow your horror library and have an eye-catching set of spines on your shelves!

8 Visionary Horror Books to Read if You're an Aquarius

Psychological, humanitarian horrors for readers who split open to reveal a vulnerable, sensitive core.

These Sci-Fi Horror Books Cause Screams Across Universes

Combining these vibrant genres results in works that will rip out your eyes, heart, and mind to claim as their own.

2021's Most Terrifying Horror Bestsellers

The Lineup's community has chilling taste—these were our most beloved titles in 2021.

New Terrifying Audiobooks For Your Spooky Listening Pleasure

There's nothing quite like experiencing a horror book via audio!

Jumpstart Your Reading Resolutions with These Creepy Novellas

Get ahead of your reading goals with these short books that pack a punch.

Wylding Hall is an Eerie and Unsettling Read

This novella by Elizabeth Hand is a stunning blend of folk magic, occult lore, and British folk rock culture.

From the Haunted Stacks: 2021 Horror Book Highlights

A detailed look at the emerging horror trends of 2021, from the "library world's horror maven."

8 Relentless Horror Books to Read if You're a Capricorn

Relentless, all-consuming reads for those who don't flinch away from the most chilling corners of the dark.

Dress Up Your Horror Shelves: Special Edition Book Collecting

Exclusive, special editions of popular books make thrilling additions to any horror fiend's library.

27 Bone-Chilling Books Recommended by Stephen King

These terrifying tales all managed to get the horror master’s seal of approval.

8 Fierce Horror Books to Read if You're a Sagittarius

Claustrophobic, psychological reads for those who are wild at heart.

7 Crowd Horror Books

Horror books about awkward social interactions for when you want to, well, hide from the crowd.

Home for the Holidays: Eat Together, Stay Together

These tales of family horror will make you hold your loved ones a little closer.

7 Novels that Read like True Crime

These novels blur the lines between fact and fiction.

8 Emerging Horror Authors Who Are Changing the Face of Horror 

These incredible authors are writing terrifying stories for a new era of horror.