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.
The British pagan terror author delves into his process as an independent publisher, where he channels the deep strangeness of imagination.
By Kyle Lemmon
Books that can compete with America's favorite serial killer.
By Aviva Kaplan
The dystopia you dreaded is already here.
Exploring why horror and music work so well together
By Anna Dupre
The transformation of the werewolf novel and how it reflects the world around us.
Read a chilling excerpt of Break the Bodies, Haunt the Bones by Micah Dean Hicks.
By Kasey Noss
But don't wait—these deals won't last long.
Don't be a fool—feed your fears.
Put a chill down your spine with these creepy ebooks—free, this month only.
A nightmarish and mind-bending mix of police procedural and science fiction
By Aviva Kaplan
Horror gems that have set the course for the rest of the year.
These pine-tingling books by women prove the best horror stories come from the darkest minds.
60 years of stories peel back everyday life to reveal the cosmically strange just underneath.
By Kyle Lemmon
Sometimes giving in to fear is the only way to cope.
These new horror reads are golden.
A genre that crosses every line.
By Orrin Grey
These books are spinechilling but heartwarming.
By Anna Dupre
A dip into Lynch's “unified field.”
By Jena Brown
These chilling reads will get your heart racing.