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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11 Nightmare-Inducing Authors to Check Out After You've Read Everything by Stephen King

The scares may begin with the King of Horror, but they don’t have to end there.

11 Twisted Ray Garton Books That Will Give You Nightmares

These stories will haunt you long after you've turned the last page.

Stephen Chbosky Returns With the Imaginary Friend of Your Nightmares

Get your hands on the new horror novel from the author of The Perks of Being a Wallflower before it's published!

10 Creepy Books to Read Right Now

Do you love books that make your skin crawl? These ten creepy books to read are sure to send chills down your spine.

17 Award-Winning Horror Books You Need to Read Now

Must-read tales of terror, chosen by the experts of the genre.

A Serial Killer's Legacy Haunts His Son

Changing a name and moving across the country isn't enough to leave behind 13 murders.

51 SCARIEST Books of the Last 200 Years

Because a truly scary story is timeless.

The Collector Longs for Your Bones to Keep

Fiona Cummins's serial killer horror novel will invade your nightmares.

A Family Dinner Gets Terrifying in A Head Full of Ghosts

The blockbuster horror novel will leave you cowering.

17 Horror Books That Need Adaptations

Once they’re brought to life, they will scare you to death.

Master of Horror: 13 Terrifying Graham Masterton Books

Creepy tales of demonic possession, haunted houses, and more.

10 Women in Horror Who Scare Us to the Bone

The contributions made by these women to horror have shaped the genre.

Peer Into The Mammoth Book of Nightmare Stories...If You Dare

You'll be sleeping with the light on after reading this nightmarish collection. 

7 Books That Tap Into Our Worst Fears 

From Ted Bundy to al Qaeda, these books will leave you sleeping with the lights on.