12 Best Horror Writers of 2024: Must-Read List
Looking for a good scare? We compiled a list of the 12 best horror writers based books just for you. We sift through countless nightmares and spooky tales, focusing on storytelling, character depth, and sheer ability to give us goosebumps. From haunted hotels to apocalyptic pandemics, these books show the best horror writers at their creepiest. So grab a blanket, turn down the lights, and prepare to shiver with the best!
On this list:
12 The Shining by Stephen King
King is one of the best horror writers, and this book proves why. It’s chilling, thrilling and full of suspense. We tried sleeping with the lights on, but the Overlook Hotel still haunt us!
11 Bird Box by Josh Malerman
Malerman keeps you on edge with a story about sensory deprivation and fear of the unknown. We found ourselves listening for rustles in the dark after reading.
10 House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski
This book is a puzzle. It challenges your perception and makes you question the layout of your own house. Our minds turned into mazes while exploring this labyrinthine story.
9 The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
Jackson is among the best horror writers. Her atmospheric storytelling haunted us long after closing the pages. The Hill House isn’t just haunted, it’s alive.
8 The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
Blatty’s classic tale of possession stays with you. It’s scary, gripping and gives sleepless nights. We still can’t hear peasoup without thinking of Regan.
7 World War Z by Max Brooks
Brooks redefines zombie horror with a global scope and oral history style. It’s like reading about the apocalypse from the comfort of our couch. Brain munching fun!
6 Dracula by Bram Stoker
Stoker’s Dracula is the iconic tale that started vampire lore as we know it. A classic that’s still sunk its fangs into us.
5 Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Shelley wrote this timeless tale of science gone wrong and the monster inside us all. Written during a rainy night, it’s perfectly crafted horror.
4 Pet Sematary by Stephen King
King scares again with this story where death isn’t the end. Buried secrets haunt and things that should stay dead don’t. It’s a spine-chiller!
3 American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis
Ellis takes us into the deranged mind of Patrick Bateman. It’s gruesome, shocking and disturbingly funny. You’ll be checking over your shoulder, trust us.
2 Coraline by Neil Gaiman
Gaiman’s tale is creepy in the best way possible. A young girl discovers a parallel world that’s not as it seems. It’s eerie with a pinch of whimsy.
1 It by Stephen King
King’s ‘It’ is a phenomenal masterpiece in horror. The book terrifies with its malevolent entity looming over Derry. The character depth and creeping terror make it a top-notch scare.
