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.
Often labeled merely as "Stephen King's wife", this Mistress of Horror defies oversimplification.
By Orrin Grey
Chaotic, unnatural terrors for the grounded caretakers of the zodiac.
Explore a world of dark enchantment...
By Jena Brown
The writer's lonesome road is full of ghosts.
Bone-chilling tear-jerkers that linger long after you've finished the last page.
Cape Disappointment is calling you home...
When your summer escape becomes a hellish trap...
By Jena Brown
Author Eli Gray must face one of women’s greatest fears.
Intense, psychological horrors for the showmen of the zodiac.
These creepy novellas might look like a snack—but they satisfy like a whole meal.
Four lucky winners will receive an Advanced Reader Copy!
Debut author Nat Cassidy reveals the books that haunt his writing.
Make horror gay AF.
These tales are so spine-chilling you'll wish you could say they were complete fiction.
These unique voices bring something fresh to the darkness.
Want to review horror books professionally or as a hobby? Listen to mother.
Horrors that hit close to home for the sensitive cynics of the zodiac.
These phenomenal books are just the tip of the horror iceberg.