13 Best Stephen King Books Reviewed for 2025
Stephen King books bring thrills. Our top picks include 'The Shining' for horror and 'Misery' for suspenseful storytelling.
We love a good chill down the spine, so we look for thrilling plots when picking the best Stephen King books. We focus on stories that keep our hearts racing, characters that stay with us long after the last page, and worlds so vivid we almost expect to find them outside our windows. Whether you’re a seasoned King fan or a curious newcomer, our list of the 13 best Stephen King books promises to deliver the ultimate reading experience. Get ready for a journey that will make you laugh, cry, and check under your bed!
On this list:
13 Carrie by Stephen King
The debut novel about a shy girl with telekinetic powers. We loved the shock and horror in this book.
12 Salem’s Lot by Stephen King
Vampires in a small town made for a thrilling read. It’s chilling and keeps you up at night.
11 The Shining by Stephen King
A haunted hotel and a family’s descent into madness. The suspense and horror are unmatched.
10 Pet Sematary by Stephen King
A pet cemetery with sinister secrets. It’s horrifying and deep; you’ll think twice about burying pets!
9 It by Stephen King
A group of kids face a terrifying clown. Perfect blend of terror and coming-of-age story.
8 Misery by Stephen King
An obsessed fan kidnaps her favorite author. We cringed and gasped in this thrilling story.
7 The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger by Stephen King
An epic start to the Dark Tower series. Fantasy and adventure rolled into an unforgettable quest.
6 The Green Mile by Stephen King
A unique tale of prison, redemption, and the supernatural. Emotional and captivating.
5 11/22/63 by Stephen King
A gripping story about time travel to prevent JFK’s assassination. Suspenseful and intriguing.
4 Doctor Sleep by Stephen King
A sequel to The Shining, exploring Danny Torrance’s journey with a creepy cult. Suspenseful!
3 The Outsider by Stephen King
A horrific murder shakes a town. King expertly blends crime and horror in this one.
2 Under the Dome by Stephen King
A small town trapped under a dome. It’s a thriller with unforgettable characters and constant tension.