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.
Love doesn't get any darker than this.
A female horror author who slays–both her writing, and her protagonists.
If only we could talk to Brian now…
By Orrin Grey
A young woman drags a deadly secret along behind her in Victor LaValle's Lone Women.
How do you know what's true—and what isn't?
By Jena Brown
These horror reads will make your heart flutter.
Dare to give it a spin?
Escaping to fantastical worlds is much easier than escaping from them.
By Jena Brown
Let a little bit of horromance into your heart.
This extreme horror book has found the limits of body horror—and exceeded them.
If these walls could talk…
A poisoned apple is the least of these characters' worries.
And some tips to help you fail gloriously.
By Lisa Quigley
Start 2024 off right with these chilling new reads.
Strange and beautiful.
From folklore frights to creepy collections, we've had 12 months of screams.
Smaller presses deliver bigger screams.
“Books don’t create psychos. Books make psychos more creative!”
By Jena Brown
A detailed look at 2023's wide range of horror fiction, from the "library world's horror maven."