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.
One boy's obsession takes a sinister turn in Joyce Carol Oates’s award-winning short story collection.
From Gothic horror to cabin-in-the-woods terror, 2018's best horror books were a chilling bunch.
Blood, guts, terror, multiple dimensions, and more populate Barker's horrifying oeuvre.
By Orrin Grey
The basement stank of death, and it contained a terrifying secret ...
By Paola Crespo
They may be short—but they're definitely not sweet.
By Olivia Mason
Witching Hour: Vices and Virtues collects twisted and terrifying stories that will haunt your dreams.
Warning: Read only if you can afford some sleepless nights.
Get to know the grand dame of gothic horror.
It's the most wonderful time of the year...
Channel the terror into your earbuds.
One of the most anticipated horror books of the year imagines what inspired Bram Stoker to write the classic vampire tale.
By Olivia Mason
The season's biggest horror novel sees a millennial couple wrangle with the evil entity lurking beneath their feet.
By Olivia Mason
How well do you know the master of the macabre? Here are 10 little-known facts about the original horror maestro, Edgar Allan Poe.
By Aliza Polkes
Se7en meets Silence of the Lambs in this acclaimed serial killer thriller.
The author blended horror with science fiction and fantasy to create terrifying stories.
Are there really evil kids? These books might alter your family plans.