Best Horror Books

What are the best horror books of all time? Fans of horror novels will likely argue amongst themselves about the most terrifying, scariest books they've ever read, but this list is an attempt to catalog the greatest. From modern horror to classic, creepy tales of terror, most of the best horror books in history are included. This list, however, is by no means complete: If your favorite horror book isn't listed, by all means, add it! And be sure to vote for the novels you think are the scariest.

What makes for a truly brilliant horror book? It's a scary novel that keeps you up late at night, turning page after page even though you're almost afraid to read what comes next. The best horror novels stay with you long after that final page is turned, too. Some of the best, scariest books are straight-up horror, and others combine elements of the fantastical. All are worthy of inclusion, however, if they made you afraid to turn out the bedside light!

No list of excellent, scary horror books would be complete with out at least one, or more, Stephen King novels. Several novels listed here are among the greatest all-time works of Stephen King, including 'The Shining,' 'It,' 'Salem's Lot' and 'Pet Sematary.' And yes, this list also includes many of the all-time greatest horror writers, like H.P. Lovecraft (if you haven't read Lovecraft, you must), Bram Stoker, Richard Matheson, Clive Barker and Edgar Allen Poe.

Again, your votes will determine the order of this list, so choose your favorites and add any that are missing.