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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5 Horror Cookbooks that Are Perfect for the Morbid Foodie in Your Life

The kitchen doesn't have to be a scary place—unless you want it to be.

Richard Matheson: Where to Begin with the Legendary Sci-Fi Horror Author

I Am Legend just scrapes the surface of the sci-fi horror master's legacy.

The Best Horror Books of 2025 

Once again, this year has been an incredible one for horror. 

Mother Horror’s Guide to Dark & Disturbing Fiction in 2025 

Horror gems that have set the course for the rest of the year.

Interpreting the Whispers of Trauma in Laurel Hightower's Atmospheric Fiction 

Bram Stoker-nominated writer Laurel Hightower explains her thought process for writing about grief and Southern supernatural horrors. 

Oy Vey, the Horror: Jewish Authors in the Horror Space

A spotlight for Jewish authors telling dark stories.

The Transgressive Legacy of Horror Master Clive Barker

Horror author Grady Hendrix revisits Clive Barker’s oeuvre and the lasting legacy of Books of Blood.

These Jeffrey Konvitz Novels Will Chill You to the Bone

Proof that sometimes the book is scarier than the movie.

4 Terrifying New Releases from Indie and Small Presses in October 2025

Discover the new terrors coming during the spookiest season of the year.

For the Love of POE-try: Classic Dark Poetry Recs for October

From exploring mental anguish to stirring atmospheres, wander into the shadows. 

Inside the Psyche of a Serial Killer

Become lost in this thrilling excerpt from Stephen Graham Jones, an influential voice in modern horror.

7 Historical Horror Books like The Buffalo Hunter Hunter

The past will come back to haunt you—and worse.

Chilling Books for Spooky Season 2025

These books pair perfectly with Pumpkin Spice.