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.
Once they’re brought to life, they will scare you to death.
By Allison Wild
Creepy tales of demonic possession, haunted houses, and more.
The contributions made by these women to horror have shaped the genre.
New adaptation, new zombie child.
You'll be sleeping with the light on after reading this nightmarish collection.
From Ted Bundy to al Qaeda, these books will leave you sleeping with the lights on.
Could the killer really be the subject of childhood rhymes?
They will hold you in suspense until the very end.
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.