8 of the Best Horror Books for your Reading List in 2025

For those of us who like our evenings punctuated by a creeping sense of dread, a well-crafted horror novel is a true delight. The Coolector has a particular fondness for tales that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned, and 2025 is shaping up to be a banner year for the genre. From established masters to exciting new voices, the literary landscape is brimming with terrifying possibilities. So, batten down the hatches, dim the lights, and prepare to add these 8 spine-chilling books to your must-read list for the year ahead. These are the tomes promising to keep us awake long into the night.

The Angel of Indian Lake by Stephen Graham Jones

Stephen Graham Jones has become a modern master of horror, and his latest offering, “The Angel of Indian Lake,” promises to continue his reign of terror. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of a seemingly idyllic lake, this novel delves into the dark secrets and unsettling folklore that often lurk beneath the surface of small-town America. Expect Jones’ signature blend of visceral scares, complex characters, and a deep understanding of the human psyche confronted by the inexplicable. If you’re looking for a horror novel with both teeth and heart, this is undoubtedly one to watch. BUY

The House of Last Resort by Christopher Golden

Christopher Golden is a name synonymous with expertly crafted horror, and “The House of Last Resort” sounds like a chilling mystery with a supernatural twist. The premise of a seemingly inescapable house with a malevolent history is a classic for a reason, and Golden’s reputation for building suspense and delivering genuine scares suggests this will be a truly unsettling read. Perfect for those who enjoy their horror with a strong dose of atmosphere and a mystery that slowly unravels into something truly terrifying. BUY

The September House by Carissa Orlando

While the hardcover was released in late 2024, the paperback release of “The September House” is sure to bring this chilling haunted house story to a wider audience in 2025. Orlando’s debut novel has garnered significant praise for its fresh take on a classic horror trope, blending genuine scares with a compelling narrative and well-developed characters. If you enjoy a good old-fashioned haunting with a modern sensibility, this is a must-read. BUY.

Vampires of El Norte by Isabel Cañas

Originally released in early 2024, the paperback of “Vampires of El Norte” offers a unique and atmospheric blend of historical fiction and vampire horror. Set in the American West, this novel reimagines the classic vampire mythos within a captivating and often brutal historical context. Expect a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, with a rich sense of place and genuinely terrifying creatures of the night. BUY.

How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix

Grady Hendrix has become known for his witty and genuinely scary horror novels that often blend humor with genuine chills. While “How to Sell a Haunted House” was released in late 2023, its paperback release in 2025 will likely solidify its place as a modern horror favorite. Expect a story that is both laugh-out-loud funny and genuinely unsettling, with a unique premise and Hendrix’s signature blend of pop culture references and sharp social commentary. BUY.

Sister, Maiden, Monster by Lucy A. Snyde

Winner of the Bram Stoker Award, Lucy A. Snyder’s “Sister, Maiden, Monster” is a powerful and visceral blend of body horror, folklore, and dark fantasy. Originally released in late 2023, its paperback release will allow more readers to experience its unsettling and often grotesque beauty. Expect a novel that pushes boundaries and explores the darker aspects of human nature and the monstrous within. BUY.

The Salt Grows Heavy by Cassandra Khaw

Cassandra Khaw is a master of crafting unsettling and atmospheric horror in concise and impactful narratives. “The Salt Grows Heavy,” a novella originally released in late 2023, has been praised for its visceral prose and deeply disturbing imagery. Expect a story that is both beautiful and brutal, leaving a lasting impression long after you’ve finished reading. This is perfect for those who appreciate horror that is both poetic and deeply unsettling. BUY.

The Reformatory by Tananarive Due

While released in late 2023, the paperback release of Tananarive Due’s “The Reformatory” is a must-mention for any serious horror reader in 2025. Set in early 20th-century Florida, this powerful and chilling novel blends historical fiction with supernatural horror, exploring themes of racial injustice and the enduring power of the past. Due is a celebrated author, and this novel is a testament to her skill in crafting stories that are both terrifying and deeply meaningful. BUY.