15 Books that will keep you up at night: horror novels recommendation

Halloween is the perfect time to indulge in stories that send chills down your spine and keep you on the edge of your seat!

Whether you’re a fan of classic horror or prefer modern psychological thrillers, Halloween is the perfect excuse to dive into stories that will leave you checking over your shoulder and sleeping with the lights on!

From haunted houses and supernatural creatures to terrifying tales that get under your skin, these spine-chilling reads are guaranteed to make your Halloween unforgettable!

So, grab a cozy blanket, light a candle, and prepare to be thoroughly spooked!

Classic horrors

1. Dracula by Bram Stoker

https://www.readandcobooks.co.uk/blog/horror-classics-everyone-should-read/

First published in 1897, Dracula is one of the most iconic and influential horror novels ever written. Bram Stoker’s masterpiece introduced readers to the character of Count Dracula, the archetypal vampire who has inspired countless adaptations in literature, film, and pop culture.

The story is presented through a series of journal entries, letters, and newspaper clippings, giving readers multiple perspectives as they follow the mysterious and terrifying events surrounding Count Dracula’s attempt to move from Transylvania to England. He seeks to spread the curse of vampirism, but his plans are opposed by a small group of people, led by the determined Professor Abraham Van Helsing.

What makes Dracula stand out is its ability to build suspense and dread. Stoker masterfully combines Gothic horror with themes of fear, desire, and the unknown. The imagery of Dracula’s eerie castle, his transformation into a bat, and his ability to control wolves and the weather add layers of horror that resonate even today. Beyond the supernatural, Dracula taps into Victorian anxieties about immigration, sexuality, and disease, making it not only a spooky read but also a thought-provoking one!

2. Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

https://almabooks.com/product/frankenstein

Written by Mary Shelley when she was just 18 years old, Frankenstein tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who becomes obsessed with creating life, only to be horrified by the consequences of his ambition.

The novel follows Victor’s harrowing journey as he brings a creature to life using a collection of body parts and a mysterious scientific process. The creature, often mistakenly referred to as Frankenstein, is not the mindless monster portrayed in many adaptations. Instead, Shelley’s creation is intelligent, emotional, and deeply tragic. Rejected by society and his creator, the creature becomes vengeful, leading to a chain of events that ultimately destroys both him and Victor.

What sets Frankenstein apart is its exploration of profound themes like the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition, the consequences of playing God, and the pain of isolation. Shelley questions what it means to be human and reflects on the responsibilities that come with creation and knowledge. It’s a novel that forces readers to empathize with both Victor and the creature, showing that monsters aren’t always born—they’re often made.

3. The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

https://mizanstore.com/the_haunting_of_hill_house_57647

Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House is the ultimate haunted house story, filled with creeping dread and psychological horror. When a group of paranormal investigators, led by Dr. Montague, arrives at Hill House—a mansion with a dark, mysterious history—they begin to experience inexplicable and terrifying events. For Eleanor Vance, one of the guests, the house seems to awaken something deep within her, making her question her own sanity.

Jackson masterfully blurs the lines between supernatural horror and psychological torment, creating an atmosphere so thick with tension that readers are left wondering: is the house truly haunted, or is it all in their minds? The slow build of terror and the claustrophobic sense of isolation make this novel an unsettling masterpiece.

If you love haunted house stories with a psychological twist, The Haunting of Hill House is a must-read, guaranteed to leave you sleeping with the lights on!

4. The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty

https://www.amazon.com/Exorcist-Anniversary-William-Peter-Blatty/dp/006209436X

Few horror novels have had the cultural impact of The Exorcist. Published in 1971, this unsettling tale of demonic possession continues to be a benchmark in horror literature, and for good reason. At the heart of the novel is Regan MacNeil, a 12-year-old girl who inexplicably begins to experience horrifying changes—both physical and psychological—that leave her mother, Chris, in a state of terror and confusion. When doctors and psychiatrists are unable to offer explanations, Chris turns to the unthinkable: an exorcism.

Enter Father Damien Karras, a priest on the verge of losing his faith. His internal struggles are as important to the story as the supernatural events that follow, giving the novel layers of psychological complexity. Karras soon realizes that what Regan is experiencing goes far beyond mental illness—there is something deeply evil at play. With the help of the seasoned exorcist Father Merrin, the two priests face off against a powerful demonic entity in a battle for Regan’s soul.

One of the things that makes The Exorcist so chilling is its grounding in reality. Blatty based the story on a real exorcism case from the 1940s, lending an eerie plausibility to the events. The novel isn’t just about the horror of possession—it’s also about faith, guilt, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. It forces readers to confront unsettling questions: What if true evil exists? And how would we face it?

5. Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin

https://www.amazon.com/Rosemarys-Baby-Ira-Levin/dp/1849015880

Rosemary’s Baby is a slow-burn horror that crawls under your skin and stays there long after you’ve turned the last page. Published in 1967, this psychological horror novel has become iconic for its subtle yet terrifying portrayal of paranoia, control, and the fear of the unknown.

The story follows Rosemary Woodhouse, a young woman who moves into a New York City apartment with her husband, Guy. The couple is excited to start a family, but things begin to take a sinister turn when they meet their peculiar neighbors, the Castevets. Soon after, Rosemary becomes pregnant, but her pregnancy is far from normal. As she begins to experience severe pain and strange symptoms, Rosemary grows increasingly suspicious of those around her—including her own husband—and fears that something is very wrong with her unborn child.

What makes Rosemary’s Baby so gripping is its eerie sense of realism. Levin places you in Rosemary’s shoes, where the growing sense of dread comes not from outright horror, but from the fear that everyone around you is keeping a dark secret. The brilliance of the novel lies in its psychological tension: Is Rosemary truly in danger, or is it all in her head? Levin masterfully blurs the line between paranoia and reality, leaving readers questioning the truth until the very end.

The horror in Rosemary’s Baby isn’t about ghosts or monsters—at least, not in the traditional sense. It’s about the loss of control, particularly over one’s body, and the betrayal of those closest to you. The gradual revelation of a satanic conspiracy surrounding Rosemary’s pregnancy is chilling, made all the more horrifying because it unfolds so slowly and believably.

Levin’s prose is deceptively simple, which only heightens the horror. Without overt scares or gore, the novel creates a pervasive sense of unease, and its shocking ending cements its status as a classic of the genre. It’s the kind of book that leaves you unsettled long after you’ve finished!

Contemporary horror novels

1. The Reddening by Adam Nevill

https://www.amazon.com/Reddening-Adam-Nevill/dp/1916094112

The Reddening, released in 2019, is a chilling dive into folk horror that blends ancient terror with the creeping dread of isolation. Set in South Devon, England, the novel follows two outsiders—a journalist and a grieving woman—who stumble upon the horrifying existence of an ancient, bloodthirsty cult that has survived in secret for thousands of years.

What makes The Reddening so unsettling is Nevill’s masterful use of atmosphere. The desolate coastal landscapes and the primal, violent rituals of the cult create an oppressive sense of dread that builds slowly but relentlessly. This is not a fast-paced horror but a slow burn that gets under your skin. Nevill’s vivid, often visceral descriptions of the cult’s practices evoke a primal fear, reminding readers that ancient horrors might still lurk in the shadows of modern life.

For fans of folk horror and stories rooted in ancient, forgotten traditions, The Reddening delivers a deeply unsettling experience that will leave you questioning the boundaries between past and present—and the darkness that lies within both.

2. The Book of Accidents by Chuck Wendig

https://www.amazon.com/Book-Accidents-Novel-Chuck-Wendig/dp/0399182136

Chuck Wendig’s The Book of Accidents is a gripping blend of supernatural horror and dark family drama. The story follows the Graves family—Nate, Maddie, and their son Oliver—who return to Nate’s childhood home in rural Pennsylvania. What starts as a chance for a fresh start soon becomes a nightmare, as the house—and the land around it—begins to reveal dark, unsettling secrets. Time seems to shift, reality warps, and an ancient evil lurks just out of sight.

Wendig expertly weaves a tale of multigenerational trauma, sinister forces, and terrifying encounters that blend both psychological and supernatural horror. With its rich characters and relentless tension, this novel keeps readers hooked from start to finish.

For those who crave complex, atmospheric horror that pulls you into a maze of suspense and fear, The Book of Accidents delivers in spades!

3. The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas

https://www.simonandschuster.co.uk/books/The-Hacienda/Isabel-Canas/9781837860807

In the wake of the Mexican War of Independence, Beatriz believes her marriage to Don Rodolfo is her chance at a new life. But as soon as she arrives at his estate, she senses something is terribly off. The hacienda’s walls seem alive with whispers, and the air is thick with secrets. The servants are fearful, and her nights are plagued by chilling visions. What dark history lurks in this house, and can Beatriz escape it before it consumes her?

Isabel Cañas expertly weaves gothic horror with historical drama, creating an atmosphere of creeping dread that grows with every page. The novel doesn’t rely on quick scares—instead, it masterfully builds suspense through its eerie setting and unsettling characters. As Beatriz turns to a local priest for help, she learns that the hacienda’s malevolent forces may be far older—and far more dangerous—than she ever imagined.

With its rich historical backdrop and spine-chilling twists, The Hacienda is perfect for readers who love slow-burning gothic horror with a supernatural edge.

4. Bird Box by Josh Malerman

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bird_Box_%28novel%29

In Bird Box, something is out there—something so terrifying that just seeing it drives people to madness and suicide. Society crumbles as the mysterious force spreads, and survivors like Malorie are forced to live blindfolded, relying on their other senses to navigate a world gone mad. As she embarks on a desperate journey with her two children, Malorie must lead them to safety without ever opening their eyes.

Josh Malerman masterfully creates an atmosphere of relentless tension and paranoia. The novel thrives on what you can’t see, making the terror all the more palpable. Bird Box explores themes of survival, motherhood, and the unknown, while keeping readers on edge with its eerie, claustrophobic setting.

If you’re looking for a thriller that will leave your heart pounding and your mind racing, Bird Box is a gripping and unforgettable read that will have you questioning how you’d survive in a world where sight itself is deadly.

5. The Last Days of Jack Sparks by Jason Arnopp

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28765598-the-last-days-of-jack-sparks

The Last Days of Jack Sparks is a darkly comic, spine-chilling novel that follows the downfall of controversial journalist Jack Sparks. Known for his cynicism and skepticism, Jack sets out to debunk the supernatural while writing a book on the occult. But when he witnesses an exorcism that goes horribly wrong—and insists on mocking it—Jack’s life begins to spiral out of control. Disturbing, inexplicable events unfold, and soon Jack becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth, even as his own grip on reality starts to unravel.

Arnopp masterfully combines horror and humor, taking readers on a wild ride through paranormal phenomena and Jack’s descent into madness. The book blends found footage-style narrative with a fast-paced, unreliable first-person perspective that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

If you’re a fan of horror with a touch of dark humor and a fast-paced plot, The Last Days of Jack Sparks is an addictive, mind-bending read that will have you questioning what’s real—and what’s lurking in the shadows.

Psychological horror novels

1. Come Closer by Sara Gran

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220772.Come_Closer

In Come Closer, Sara Gran takes readers on a disturbing journey into the mind of Amanda, whose seemingly normal life begins to unravel in the most unsettling way. At first, it’s just odd noises and strange dreams. But soon, Amanda finds herself losing control—lashing out at loved ones, acting in ways she can’t explain. The terrifying question looms: is she being possessed by something evil, or is she losing her mind?

Gran expertly builds tension through Amanda’s increasingly unreliable perspective, drawing readers into a claustrophobic, psychological nightmare. The horror here is subtle but deeply unnerving, focusing on the slow erosion of identity and control.

Perfect for fans of psychological horror with a supernatural edge, Come Closer is a chilling, fast-paced read that will leave you feeling haunted long after it’s over.

2. The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Silence_of_the_Lambs_%28novel%29

Thomas Harris gives us one of the most chilling and complex villains in modern horror—Dr. Hannibal Lecter. He’s not just any serial killer; he’s a licensed psychiatrist who manipulates his victims into becoming his literal dinner. And if that wasn’t horrifying enough, FBI trainee Clarice Starling has to outwit him to catch another monstrous killer: Buffalo Bill.

This novel isn’t just fiction. Harris based it on the true events surrounding the infamous Ed Gein, and he consulted with Robert Ressler, one of the pioneers of FBI criminal profiling. The result? A nail-biting, skin-crawling game of psychological chess, where the stakes are life and death. Lecter’s icy intellect and twisted charisma are matched by Clarice’s determination, making for one of the most unforgettable duels in psychological horror.

If you’re looking for a book that will crawl under your skin and make you question what really goes on in the darkest corners of the human mind, The Silence of the Lambs should be at the top of your list.

3. A Head Full of Ghosts by Paul Tremblay

https://mizanstore.com/a_head_full_of_ghosts_57818

When 14-year-old Marjorie begins showing disturbing symptoms, her family is torn between believing she’s mentally ill or possessed by something far darker. Desperate for answers—and money—the Barretts agree to have their lives filmed for a reality TV show, exposing their most terrifying moments to the world.

Tremblay doesn’t spoon-feed his readers. Instead, he pulls you into a world of psychological unease, where doubt and fear creep in with every page. Told through the perspective of Marjorie’s younger sister, Merry, years later, the story unfolds in fragments—leaving you constantly questioning what’s real. Is it possession? Mental illness? Or is the truth something even more twisted?

A Head Full of Ghosts is as much about family trauma and exploitation as it is about the supernatural. It’s the kind of horror that lingers, making you reconsider what’s scarier: the demons in the dark or the ones in our minds.

4. The Girl Next Door by Jack Ketchum

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Girl_Next_Door_%28Ketchum_novel%29

The Girl Next Door by Jack Ketchum isn’t your typical psychological horror—it’s far more disturbing because it’s rooted in the darkest aspects of human nature. Based on true events, the novel tells the horrific story of two sisters, Meg and Susan, who are sent to live with their aunt Ruth after a family tragedy. What unfolds in Ruth’s suburban home is a nightmare of abuse, cruelty, and violence, inflicted on Meg by Ruth and her young sons, with the neighborhood kids watching—and sometimes joining in.

This story will make you angry, as well it should. These words will turn your stomach, not because of any supernatural terror, but because they reveal just how horrifying real human behavior can be. Through the eyes of young David, a neighbor caught between horror and helplessness, Ketchum forces us to question complicity, morality, and the terrifying ease with which evil can thrive in everyday settings.

This is not an easy read, but it’s one that forces you to confront how far human cruelty can go when it’s unchecked. The Girl Next Door is a psychological horror that leaves an emotional scar, showing that the worst monsters are sometimes the ones living next door.

5. The Shining by Stephen King

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11588.The_Shining

If you’re into psychological horror with a supernatural twist, The Shining by Stephen King is a classic you shouldn’t miss. The story follows Jack Torrance, a writer struggling with his past mistakes and alcoholism, as he takes a job as the winter caretaker of the remote and eerie Overlook Hotel.

Jack, along with his wife Wendy and son Danny, are isolated by a snowstorm, and what should have been a peaceful, quiet retreat soon turns into something much darker. As Jack’s mental state starts to unravel under the hotel’s influence, his son Danny, who has a mysterious psychic ability known as “the shining,” begins to sense the hotel’s sinister secrets. The tension builds slowly, making you feel the same creeping dread as the characters, until you’re completely hooked.

What makes The Shining stand out is how it blends the horrors of the human mind with the supernatural. King does an incredible job of showing how Jack’s personal demons mix with the hotel’s dark forces, making you wonder which is more terrifying—the paranormal or Jack’s growing instability. At its core, the novel is about isolation, family, and the destructive impact of addiction, all set against the backdrop of a haunted hotel. It’s a slow burn that keeps you on edge, and the tension doesn’t let up until the very end. If you love books that get under your skin and make you think, The Shining is absolutely worth picking up.

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