Incredible tales of horror to grace your shelves. 

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.

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13 Must-Read Horror Books by Diverse Authors

Dive into these terrifying stories by fresh new voices.

Stephen Graham Jones: Where to Begin with the Award-Winning Horror Author

The mind behind Mapping the Interior and The Only Good Indians remixes nearly every horror trope by subverting fear itself.

7 LGBTQ+ Horror Authors to Read During Pride Month and Beyond

Dive into these terrifying reads with diverse perspectives.

Evil Reaches Through Centuries in the Pulse-Pounding New Book from Guillermo del Toro

The Hollow Ones combines ancient horror, a detective mystery, and supernatural suspense into one terrifying narrative.

11 Horror, Paranormal, & True Crime Books on Sale This June

Get the chills this summer—at prices that can't be beat!

Colin Wilson: Essential Creepy Reads from a Master of Horror and True Crime

His philosophical works explored the dark side of the human heart.

Kathe Koja, the Stoker Award-Winning Horror Author of The Cipher, Shares Her Favorite Genre-Defying Tales of Terror

"None of these books may be considered conventional horror fiction—but the darkness is absolutely there."

14 Horror Books for Fans of Penny Dreadful

You’ll find plenty of Gothic creatures and supernatural twists within these pages.

5 Free Horror Books You Can Read This May

Catch up with the grandmasters of horror—for free!

9 Chilling Horror and True Crime Books on Sale This May

For your creepy reading pleasure—at prices that can't be beat!