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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First Frights: The Best Debut Horror Novels of 2024

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A Year of Terror: Take a Look Back at the Best Indie Horror Books of 2024

From blood-sucking immortals to freaky folklore, look back through a year of fear.

Scary Manga to Read if You Like Junji Ito 

There's much more to the genre than its most famous author. 

2024's Most Terrifying Horror, True Crime, and Paranormal Bestsellers

The Lineup community has spoken: These are the books that scared you best in 2024. 

From the Haunted Stacks: 2024 Horror Book Highlights

A detailed look at Horror from 2024, from the “library world's horror maven.”

Christa Carmen Showcases the Modern Allure of the Gothic

Author Christa Carmen reflects on her gothic novels and short stories from her ever-growing bibliography.

Gritty Supernatural Horror to Bring Your Worst Fears to Life

The events in these books are entirely fictional—or are they…

Scary Christmas Short Stories to Spook You All Season Long

These scary story anthologies prove Christmas isn't always merry…

How a Love of Stephen King and MacGyver Turned Craig Davidson Into a Horror Star

Reflections from Davidson (aka Nick Cutter) on his bone-chilling catalog.

9 Gripping Bubblegum Horror Books for You to Chew On

A new subgenre for readers that like their “boos” bright and bubbly.

Robert McCammon's Leviathan Promises to Be His Most Terrifying Adventure Yet

The shocking conclusion to McCammon's Matthew Corbett series is available to pre-order now.

5 Recent and Forthcoming Horror Novels that Will Make You Sleep with the Lights On

October may be ending, but it's always the right season for a good scare.