Spine-Chilling Picks: Horror Authors Share Their Must-Read Books
When it comes to horror literature, who better to recommend the next terrifying tale than the masters of the genre themselves? Two acclaimed horror authors share their top picks for readers brave enough to venture into the darkest corners of fiction.
Stephen King's Recommendations
- 'The Haunting of Hill House' by Shirley Jackson - 'The scariest haunted house novel ever written.'
- 'The Great God Pan' by Arthur Machen - A Victorian horror classic that King calls 'maybe the best horror story in the English language.'
- 'The Turn of the Screw' by Henry James - A psychological horror that leaves readers questioning reality.
Grady Hendrix's Picks
- 'Ring' by Koji Suzuki - The novel that inspired the famous film franchise
- 'Hell House' by Richard Matheson - A scientific approach to haunted house investigations
- 'The Good House' by Tananarive Due - A modern masterpiece of supernatural horror
Both authors emphasize that the best horror stories aren't just about monsters and gore—they're about human nature, psychological tension, and the unknown. These recommendations span different eras and styles, offering readers a diverse range of frightening experiences.
Whether you're a seasoned horror fan or new to the genre, these carefully selected works promise to keep you awake long into the night. Just remember: keep the lights on, and maybe don't read these alone.