Journey into Dark Minds: The Must-Read Horror Novels Every Writer Should Know

Essential Reading List for Horror Writers

For those who seek to write fiction that sends shivers down people's spines and lingers in the darkest recesses of your readers' imaginations, the best way to ensure your ability to do so is to journey into the minds of the masters themselves.

Understanding the genre's roots is not just recommended; it's imperative.

Welcome to our essential reading list for aspiring horror writers.

This compendium is curated to guide writers through the landscape of literary horror. These books are the best of the best, written by horror veterans, and reading them can help you improve your craft better than any number of blog posts (even my own, I must admit).

These works have defined and refined the essence of horror.

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From the ominous castles of Bram Stoker's Dracula to the unholy experiments of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, each of these stories serves as a key that will unlock the secrets of suspense, atmosphere, and the macabre.

To wield a pen as a maestro of horror, you must know what we like to call around here your literary ancestors.

Essential reading list for horror writers:

• Dracula by Bram Stoker

• Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

• The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

• Blindness by José Saramago

• The Exorcist by William Peter Beatty

• Psycho by Robert Bloch

• The Shining by Stephen King

• Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice

• The Turn of the Screw by Henry James

• At the Mountains of Madness by H.P. Lovecraft

• Hell House by Richard Matheson

• American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis

• House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski

• The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones

• The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe

Dracula by Bram Stoker

Bram Stoker's Dracula is the cornerstone of horror literature. This novel has not only defined the vampire genre but has left a permanent and indelible mark on the broader landscape of gothic fiction.

Published in 1897, Dracula is a story that unfolds through a series of letters, diary entries, and newspaper articles, chronicling the ominous journey of Count Dracula from Transylvania to England.

But Dracula isn't just a mere vampire story (let's face it, it is the vampire story that started it all); it is also an exploration of fear and suspense. Aspiring horror writers can find inspiration in Stoker's ability to craft a narrative that captivates and terrifies readers even centuries after its publication.

If only we all could create something so iconic.

Why every horror writer should read Dracula:

• Pioneering a Mythos: Dracula is the quintessential vampire novel, and it introduces us to many of the tropes and conventions that have become synonymous with vampire lore. Stoker's work has set the standard for generations of vampire tales. Study this book and how Stoker is able to grab the reader and how he developed something iconic so that you can strive to do the same thing for your stories.

• Mood and Atmosphere: Stoker excels at creating a palpable sense of dread and atmosphere. The novel's gothic setting, from the eerie castle in Transylvania to the shadowy streets of London, showcases Stoker's ability to immerse readers in a world of haunting beauty and evil. By reading this one, aspiring horror writers can glean many lessons on establishing mood and atmosphere to amplify the impact of their own stories.

• Exploration of Fear: Stoker expertly taps into the primal fears and societal anxieties of his time, addressing themes of xenophobia, sexuality, and the clash between modernity and ancient superstitions. This is one of the reasons that Dracula could take the world by storm as it did. By studying Dracula, writers can understand how to infuse their horror with deeper, thought-provoking themes that resonate with readers and elevate the genre.

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Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

Frankenstein, also known as The Modern Prometheus, is a monumental work in horror and science fiction. It was first published anonymously in 1818, perhaps because Shelly wasn't sure how her novel would be received.

The novel explores creation, ambition, and the consequences of playing god. It revolves around Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who, driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, brings a creature assembled from stolen body parts to life.

Frankenstein is a horror but also an exploration of the philosophical and ethical dimensions of the time. Mary Shelly's groundbreaking work offers new writers profound lessons on crafting stories that transcend the scares and delve into the depths of human nature and society's fears.

Why every horror writer should read Frankenstein:

• The Complexity of Morality: Mary Shelly's exploration of morality lies at the heart of Frankenstein. Through the tragic consequences of Victor Frankenstein's actions and the Creature's existential struggle, the novel dives into the complexities of moral responsibility. Writers should study this book to learn how to craft characters who experience moral dilemmas and how to blur the line between hero and antagonist.

• Humanizing the Monster: Frankenstein's Creature challenges traditional notions of monstrousness. Instead of a mindless, evil entity, the Creature is complex and articulate; he grapples with loneliness and rejection. Horror writers can analyze Shelley's approach to humanizing the monster, creating empathy for characters even while they elicit fear.

• Birth of Science Fiction Horror: Frankenstein has sometimes been regarded as the first science fiction novel, paving the way for a genre exploring scientific advancements' ethical and moral implications. Read this story if only to see your genre's roots and learn from Shelly's fusion of gothic horror and speculative science. Sometimes, genre-blending can be the key to producing something unique that takes the world by storm.

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The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

The Haunting of Hill House is a masterclass in psychological horror. The novel centers around supernatural occurrences within a haunted mansion and the individuals brought together to investigate them.

It has a subtle yet pervasive atmosphere of dread, making the novel a cornerstone of the psychological horror genre.

Shirley Jackson's haunted house horror is a lesson in subtle terror. It is all about atmosphere and exploring the depths of character to create a story that lingers in the reader's mind.

Why every horror writer should read The Haunting of Hill House:

• The Power of Atmosphere: Shirley Jackson has an unparalleled ability to create an atmosphere of unease and tension. Read The Haunting of Hill House for a blueprint for building a palpable sense of dread. Learn how to manipulate the environment to elicit fear and make the setting a character in the narrative.

• Psychological Complexity: This novel digs into the intricate psychological states of its characters and blurs the lines between supernatural horror and the fragility of the human mind. Aspiring horror writers should study Jackson's nuanced portrayal of mental instability and the impact of the supernatural on characters so that they, too, can create layered and believable stories.

• Character-Driven Horror: The Haunting of Hill House's horror is elevated by its focus on character development. The house itself exploits each character's fears and vulnerabilities. Analyze this book to learn how to create well-rounded, relatable characters whose fears will resonate with readers.

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Blindness by José Saramago

Blindness is the literary horror by Nobel Prize winner for literature, José Saramago.

This novel is both beautiful and disturbing. It tells the story of a strange disease that sweeps over the nation and renders everyone suddenly blind. The narrative is told mostly through the eyes of the one woman left who can see as she, her husband, and many others are crammed into quarantine.

Blindness is a difficult read. Saramago writes in a way that makes the reader feel as blind as the characters. There is little punctuation, no dialogue tags, and characters do not have names.

The book is skillfully written and remains one of my favorite novels of all time.

I have used this novel to write 2 case studies—one on creating tension through a crucible, and other on editing for visual impact by manipulating white space on the page. Both of these are two-parters and are linked here if you would like to understand what makes Saramago such an amazing writer.

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Why every horror writer should read Blindness:

• Isolation and Claustrophobia: The characters in Blindness are stuck in the ultimate crucible. They experience extreme isolation and confinement and the reader is forced through the atmosphere and Saramago's no mercy writing style to feel as claustrophobic as they do. These are powerful themes in horror, and if writers are seeking to better their ability to affect readers, they must read this novel.

• Uncertainty: Saramago effectively creates suspense by keeping readers uncertain about what will happen next. this sense of unpredictability is a valuable tool in horror. Study this novel to learn how to keep your readers unsteady and on edge.

• Atmosphere and Tension: Blindness builds perfectly and maintains a sense of atmosphere and tension throughout the whole novel. Analyze Saramago's ability to sustain an unsettling mood and create a deep, horrible pit in the reader's stomach.

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The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty

William Peter Blatty's The Exorcist is the inspiration for the horror film we all know and love (or are still too afraid to watch). After Its publication in 1971, it quickly became a seminal work that catapulted the horror genre into whole new realms of terror.

This groundbreaking novel tells the story of the possession of a young girl by an evil demonic force and the desperate attempts of two priests to perform an exorcism. Blatty's exploration of faith, evil, and the supernatural has left quite a mark on horror literature and horror in general.

Why every horror writer should read The Exorcist:

• Character Development: The characterizations in The Exorcist are rich and multifaceted. Each character, from the tormented Regan to the conflicted Father Karras, undergoes a transformative journey. Read this book to study how to create characters with emotional depth, making the horror more impactful as it unfolds within the context of personal struggle.

• Building Suspense: Read The Exorcist if only to learn how to build suspense. Blatty creates an escalating tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats at all times. You can learn from his pacing, foreshadowing, and the gradual escalation of supernatural events to maintain a sense of dread throughout the narrative.

• Cultural Impact: This book goes far beyond its literary merits. It has had a profound impact on popular culture and the horror genre in its many forms. Use this book to explore how cultural context and societal fears contribute to a work's legacy. Use it to gain insights into crafting stories that will resonate with a broad audience on a deep level.

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Psycho by Robert Bloch

Psycho by Robert Bloch is another one that has stood the test of time, primarily thanks to Hitchcock's film by the same name.

Psycho is a psychological thriller/horror that shattered conventions and set new standards for horror fiction. Published in 1959, the novel introduces readers to the now infamous Norman Bates, a seemingly mild-mannered innkeeper with a dark secret.

The story takes many unexpected twists and dives into mental instability and moral consequences. The suspenseful and chilling atmosphere makes this story a psychological rollercoaster.

Why every horror writer should read Psycho:

• Subverting Expectations: Psycho is known for its shocking story twists, notably the unexpected fate of its main character, Marion Crane. Bloch challenges conventional storytelling by defying reader expectations and demonstrating the power of surprise in building suspense and horror. Study this book to learn how to subvert genre norms and keep audiences engaged and unsettled.

• Masterful Use of Suspense: Bloch's manipulation of suspense is a hallmark of his novel. From the tension-filled opening scenes to the infamous shower scene, Psycho keeps readers on the cusp of a cliff. Read this book to study techniques for building and maintaining suspense—to understand how pacing and revelation contribute to your horror's overall sense of dread and impact.

• Roots in Reality: Psycho is actually inspired by the real-life crimes of Ed Gein. Gein was a murderer and a grave robber with serious mommy issues. Bloch drew inspiration from Gein's crimes and infused them into his fiction to add a layer of authenticity. Consider how you can explore elements of reality in your own writing to heighten the impact of the horror by giving it authenticity and realism.

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The Shining by Stephen King

What horror essential reading list would be complete without Stephen King's The Shining.

The Shining explores the themes of isolation, supernatural forces, and the fragility of the human psyche. In case you don't know, the novel follows Jack Torrance, a struggling writer and recovering alcoholic, who accepts a position as the winter caretaker of the ominous and isolated Overlook Hotel.

As winter sets in, the hotel's evil spirits begin to influence Jack and his family, leading to his descent into madness.

The Shining is a pivotal work that offers writers valuable insights into psychological horror, the dynamics of haunted settings, and the interplay of character relationships within a story.

Why every horror writer should read The Shining:

• Setting as Character: The infamous Overlook Hotel is a character in its own right—a malevolent force that influences the events of the narrative. King uses his haunted setting as an active participant in the horror. Read The Shining if you're seeking to create atmospheric and immersive locations that contribute to the overall sense of dread and do it well.

• Symbolism and Subtext: The Shining is rich with symbolism and subtext. It explores themes of addiction, the cyclical nature of violence, and personal ghosts of the past. Writers can use this novel to learn from King's ability to infuse horror with deeper layers of meaning. He uses the genre to explore complex societal and psychological issues.

• Suspense and Foreshadowing: Any fan of Stephen King knows he excels at building suspense through meticulous and careful foreshadowing. This novel is laden with ominous hints of the horrors to come, creating an anticipatory atmosphere that creeps throughout. Writers should study King's use of foreshadowing to heighten the impact of their revelations and maintain a sense of foreboding in their own stories.

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Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice

We discussed the vampire genre's beginning with Bram Stoker's Dracula. Anne Rice's Interview with the Vampire revitalized the vampire genre and introduced readers to a complex and sensual world of immortal beings.

The gothic horror novel is presented as an interview with Louis de Pointe du Lac, a vampire who recounts his experiences and the intricate relationships among his kind.

Why every horror writer should read Interview with the Vampire:

• Reimagining the Old: Rice's novel reshaped traditional vampire mythology. Instead of focusing only on the horror, she presented us with vampires' emotional and existential struggles and humanized these immortal beings. Writers should read this book just to see how Rice breathed new life into classic supernatural creatures and transformed them into complex characters with rich inner lives.

• Characterization and Emotional Depth: Interview with the Vampire excels in character development. Rice portrays the psychological and emotional depths of her characters. She also explores the relationships between vampires and provides insights into creating characters with complex motivations, desires, and interpersonal conflicts.

• Narrative Voice: Louis's first-person narrative voice is a compelling aspect of the novel. Read this book to learn from Rice's use of this perspective to intimately connect readers with the protagonist's thoughts and emotions. The narrative voice of this story is a powerful tool in conveying the internal struggles and dilemmas of the characters.

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The Turn of the Screw by Henry James

The Turn of the Screw is another very early horror story published in 1898. It is known as one of the foundational pieces of psychological horror literature.

This novella follows a governess hired to care for two children at a remote estate. She encounters supernatural phenomena that blur the lines between the real and the imagined.

The Turn of the Screw weaves a complex web of ambiguity that leaves readers questioning the sanity of the governess and the eerie events transpiring at Bly Manor.

Why every horror writer should read The Turn of the Screw:

• Psychological Ambiguity: Henry James is a master of psychological manipulation. The Turn of the Screw keeps the boundaries between the supernatural and the psychological elusive. Writers should read this story to learn from his adept use of ambiguity, which leaves readers in a state of uncertainty and unease regarding the true nature of what is happening.

• The Supernatural in Everyday Settings: Something I appreciate about this short novel is how the supernatural elements are incorporated into an otherwise ordinary setting. It emphasizes the intrusion of the uncanny into the everyday, which makes the story that much creepier. Writers can read this book to learn how to infuse the otherworldly into the mundane and to turn familiar surroundings into unsettling landscapes that make readers shiver.

• Unreliable Narration: Because of the psychological manipulation, the governess's reliability as a narrator is questioned. James leaves the reader with the sense that her perceptions might be clouded by her own psyche. Study this story to see how your narrator can control the story, heighten the suspense, and create uncertainty.

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At the Mountains of Madness by H.P. Lovecraft

Finally, Lovecraft.

Choosing which Lovecraft story to include in this list was hard, but At the Mountains of Madness is one of the best and most important works in the cosmic horror subgenre.

Another novella, it plunges readers into an Antarctic expedition that uncovers ancient, otherworldly secrets beneath the ice. Lovecraft's story concerns forbidden knowledge, ancient civilizations, and encounters with incomprehensible cosmic entities.

Fans of H.P. Lovecraft love his ability to evoke terror through the unknown and the incomprehensible or abstract.

If you want to write cosmic mythology, learn top-notch world-building techniques, and integrate scientific or supernatural elements into your horror, then Lovecraft is the man to read.

Why every horror writer should read At the Mountains of Madness:

• Cosmic Horror: Lovecraft pioneered the cosmic horror genre, which emphasizes humanity's insignificance in the face of vast, unknowable cosmic forces. Horror writers should read Lovecraft to learn how to evoke existential dread by exploring the unknown and the incomprehensible—to create a sense of terror that transcends the limits of human understanding (which can be difficult.)

• World-Building and Mythos: Lovecraft's Cthulhu mythos has become a foundational element in the horror genre, and At the Mountains of Madness contributes significantly to this cosmic mythology. Writers should read this book to study Lovecraft's world-building techniques and to understand how to create a mythos that endures across multiple works. You might not think this is important, but good horror transcends a single novel or movie to become transfixed in the minds of the culture. A good horror creates a mythos that takes on a life of its own, regardless of subgenre.

• Fear of the Unknown: At the Mountains of Madness excels in exploiting the fear of the unknown that we all share to some extent. Lovecraft keeps much of the horror shrouded in mystery, which allows readers' imaginations to fill in the gaps. Study this story to learn how to create a sense of unease by withholding information and leaving some aspects to the imagination.

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Hell House by Richard Matheson

The 70s was a great time for horror. And one of the books that came out of this decade is Richard Matheson's Hell House.

The story follows a team of investigators, including a physicist, his wife, and two mediums, as they explore the infamous Belasco house, also known as "hell house."

Matheson combines horror elements with interesting character dynamics and a haunting setting. This book provides valuable insights into crafting stories that not only terrify but also explore the complex depths of human nature when faced with the unknown or unexplainable.

Why every horror writer should read Hell House:

• Character Dynamics and Conflict: The dynamics among the team members create a complex web of interpersonal conflict that adds layers of tension to the horror. Read Hell House to discover how to leverage character relationships and conflict to heighten the emotional impact of your story. This way, you can create something gripping and emotionally charged.

• Sexuality and the Taboo: Something else the 70s was known for is exploring themes of sexuality and taboos. Hell House does just this by confronting the characters and the readers with uncomfortable and disturbing elements. Study this book to see how broaching taboo subjects can evoke visceral reactions in your readers and push the boundaries of comfort while adding depth to the horror.

• Pacing and Unrelenting Horror: Matheson maintains a relentless pace, steadily escalating the horror as the characters dive deeper into the mysteries of Belasco house. Use this novel to learn how to maintain tension and suspense throughout your story. Employ a gradual buildup of horror elements to create an unrelenting experience that grips readers and refuses to let go.

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American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis

I think this is maybe the second essential reading list that American Psycho has found itself on, but that is because I like it. So there.

American Psycho is controversial yet iconic. It explores the excesses of the 1980s Wall Street culture and the disturbed mind of its protagonist, Patrick Bateman.

The novel revolves around themes of consumerism, identity, and the dark underbelly of societal expectations. As the story unfolds, it blurs the lines between reality and Patrick Bateman's delusions—it challenges readers with its graphic depictions of violence and moral depravity.

Which I have to shamefully admit is why I love it.

Why every horror writer should read American Psycho:

• Exploration of Human Darkness: American Psycho digs into the darkest and deepest recesses of the human psyche, exploring themes of violence, narcissism, and the erosion of empathy. Horror writers can use this novel to study how Ellis confronts readers with uncomfortable and unsettling aspects of human nature. Learn how to challenge societal norms and expectations within the horror genre.

• Satirical Use of Graphic Detail: Okay, so hear me out here. This novel is infamous for its graphic and explicit depictions of violence. But Ellis doesn't just use these details for shock value but rather as a satirical commentary on desensitization and the commodification of violence in popular culture. The graphic elements of the story have a purpose. They add to the depth of the narrative and promote critical reflection. Analyze this novel to discover how to give your horror purpose beyond shallow shocks and scares.

• Existential Dread and Relatability: The existential dread and sense of alienation of our protagonist, Patrick Bateman, is the central plot of the story. His detachment from reality and inability to connect with others contributes to the overall sense of horror. Partly because it's relatable. This is someone who you could meet in a day in real life. Study American Psycho to see how existential themes can tap into deeply ingrained fears within your reader and how to create characters whose struggle adds layers of psychological complexity to your novel.

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House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski

House of Leaves is an unconventional novel, to say the least. It defies traditional storytelling conventions as it presents us with a narrative comprising complex layers of texts, footnotes, and appendices.

The story is about a family whose home undergoes bizarre and supernatural transformations. Readers encounter an unsettling and weird disorientation and existential dread as they progress through the novel.

This book is more of an experience than a novel.

Why every horror writer should read House of Leaves:

• Experimental Narrative Structure: Danielewski uses wild fonts and seemingly insane formatting to convey the disorientation experienced by the characters. Study this book to experience how experimenting with narrative structure can evoke a sense of psychological unease and disquiet in your reader.

• Layered Storytelling: House of Leaves weaves multiple narratives within narratives, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. This multi-layered approach adds complexity to the horror and keeps readers engaged as they navigate different perspectives and storylines. Analyze the book to learn how to incorporate layers of storytelling and create a rich and immersive reading experience rather than a passive one.

• Exploration of Fear and Perception: The title centers around the themes of fear and perception, examining how the characters' understanding of reality is shaped by their experiences. Writers can study this book to learn how to use narrative techniques to manipulate the reader's perception. Learn how to create an atmosphere of uncertainty and existential dread.

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The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones

The most contemporary horror novel on this list is The Only Good Indians by Steven Graham Jones.

This horror novel weaves together elements of indigenous folklore, social commentary, and psychological horror. It follows four Native American men who find themselves haunted by a vengeful entity after a disturbing event during a hunting expedition years earlier.

The Only Good Indians is complex and layered, challenging conventions and offering a fresh perspective on the genre.

Why every horror writer should read The Only Good Indians:

• Folkloric Exploration: Jones incorporates elements of indigenous culture and folklore into his novel and, by doing so, offers readers a unique and different horror story. Read this novel to see how you, too, can create stories that draw on unique mythologies and traditions to give us something different from the same old old that a lot of horror tends to be.

• Character Complexity: The characters in this story are multifaceted, each grappling with personal demons and the consequences of their actions. The story gets into the psychological depths of these characters and adds layers of complexity to the horror through them. Writers can study this book to explore techniques for developing well-rounded characters whose internal struggles enhance the overall tension.

• Blurring Genre Boundaries: This book defies easy categorization. It blends elements of horror, thriller, and literary fiction. It's an interesting study for exploring different approaches to the genre and experimenting with narrative structures and stylistic elements to create something that transcends the traditional horror genre boundaries.

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The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe

You knew at some point you were going to see Poe on this list.

The Tell-Tale Heart was written in 1843 and is a classic and timeless short story that exemplifies the psychological horror genre.

The narrator, who insists on their sanity, describes the meticulous and calculated murder of an old man with a vulture-like eye. As the story unfolds, the narrator becomes increasingly unhinged, haunted by guilt, and driven to confess their crime.

Edgar Allan Poe is a master in crafting chilling tales with powerful atmospheres. Every word and period works to aid the story when he writes. Rhythm, pacing, line breaks—all of it—are there to immerse the reader.

He is not just telling a story but instead creating an all-encompassing experience. He uses artful manipulation of narrative voice to create stories that resonate with the darkest aspects of the human psyche.

Why every horror writer should read The Tell-Tale Heart:

• Symbolism and Atmosphere: The old man's vulture-like eye serves as a powerful symbol and source of horror in the story. Using symbolism adds layers of meaning to the narrative and enhances the overall impact. Study Poe, any Poe, to explore how to incorporate symbolism to deepen the thematic elements of your horror stories and create a rich atmosphere.

• Pacing and Tension: This story is short, so it has to be tightly paced, with each sentence contributing to tension building. Poe is a master of pacing, and that is evident as the narrator's anxiety and paranoia intensify. Writers should study The Tell-Tale Heart to learn to maintain a sense of suspense through precise pacing and to create a piece that grips readers from start to finish without any lax moments.

• Narrative Voice: Poe's choice of a first-person perspective in this one allows readers to really get into the narrator's mind. The intimate connection with the character enhances the horror as the narrator's madness becomes almost palpable. Study this story to explore how narrative voice can affect reader immersion into the psychological turmoil of your characters and deepen fear. You don't need to use first-person perspectives, but your choice of narrative voice is crucial in creating a powerful horror experience for your reader.

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Related Post >>> 3 Ways to Ace Deep POV by Writing Better Narrators Instead

Final Words

There is much to learn to become a horror writing master. But it will always be true that the best way to learn is by dissecting those who did it well—those who came before you.

Each of the stories we discuss today offers unique insights into the human experience and the creation of fear. These masterpieces of the genre serve not only as tales of terror but as valuable lessons for aspiring writers.

Even if you have read these stories, look through them again, this time with a critical eye—as a student rather than a fan. By doing so, you equip yourself with the tools to craft horror that readers will never forget. Within these stories, you will find the secrets of horror storytelling.

So, while you should always keep writing—keep practicing—don't forget to keep reading, too.

What are the horror subgenres?

Some people like simple thrills, and others like psychological explorations into madness. Some prefer to be presented with existential cosmic questions, while others want to experience graphic violence that brings you to the cusp of vomiting.

Luckily for you, these vastly different readerships have been sorted for your convenience so you can easily find them. These categories? Horror subgenres.

Discover where your readers are by exploring the various horror subgenres and find your niche and community of horror fans!

Next: Horror Subgenres