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.
Stephen Graham Jones's newest is a love letter to slasher films and a chiller in its own right.
These scares are going viral...
These stories are not for the faint of heart.
Read on at your own risk.
These reads are killer...
These turn of the century mysteries are as historical as they are haunted.
Your screams will be from fear, not laughter.
By Erin Hagan
A time slip created by the U.S. government leads to chaos and terror.
Everybody loves books inspired by shapeshifting clowns.
These back to school scaries are on another level.
By Erin Hagan
From transcendent trope-tastic terrors to suspenseful psychological screams.
Chills so big they're better than AC.
These horror reads have haunted us for decades...
Unleash the beast within...
Stay out of the forest, kids.
Great horror artists whose works are steeped in queerness.
Terrors passed on through centuries.