Horror books has the ability to scare, fascinate, and haunt our minds long after we put the book down. Whether it‘s supernatural terror, psychological horror, or old-fashioned suspense, these five horror books will haunt your dreams. From the classics to the horror of the modern era, here are the horror books that you need to be reading.
1. The Exorcist – William Peter Blatty
One of the scariest books ever written, The Exorcist tells the story of the possession of a young girl, Regan, and the gruesome exorcism that ensues. Based on real events, the novel‘s vilely dark atmosphere, gruesome images, and psychological complexity make this a masterwork of horror. If you want a book to haunt your dreams, this is the book for you.
2. The Shining – Stephen King
Any list of horror is incomplete without The Shining. This frightening novel tells the story of Jack Torrance, a struggling writer who becomes the winter caretaker of the Overlook Hotel. As the dark history of the hotel infects Jack‘s mind, his family is treated to unimaginable horror. With psychological complexity and haunting imagery, this is one of Stephen King‘s scariest books.
3. You Like It Darker – Stephen King
A new shot of horror from the master himself, You Like It Darker is a collection of creepy short stories published in 2024. Among them are Rattlesnakes, a sequel to Cujo, and The Dreamers, a tale King himself found especially creepy. If you like creepy stories that delve into the darkest reaches of human fear, this collection is for you.
4. House of Leaves – Mark Z. Danielewski
A one-of-a-kind horror experience, House of Leaves is less a book than a disturbing puzzle. A family moves into a house that is somehow larger on the inside than it is on the outside, and as they venture deeper into its ever-shifting hallways, they discover something horrific. With strange formatting, secret messages, and gruesome storytelling, this book provides a mind-bending horror experience.
5. The Angel of Indian Lake – Stephen Graham Jones
The third and last novel of the Indian Lake Trilogy, this novel continues Jade Daniels‘ journey as she discovers new horrors in Proofrock. Combining slasher horror with deeply emotional storytelling, Stephen Graham Jones provides a heart-stopping, chilling conclusion to his highly praised series. If you enjoy novels that mix nostalgia, horror, and psychological complexity, this is the novel for you.
Final Thoughts
Whether you enjoy supernatural horror, psychological horror, or good old-fashioned horror, these novels provide spine-tingling experiences that will linger with you long after you‘ve finished the last page. Which one will you be brave enough to read first? Let us know in the comments!
