[Editorial] 5 Horror Book Recommendations for Newbies

It seems fair to say that there are more horror fans of the film variety than there are of their written counterparts. Films are typically more easily accessible and take less time to complete. Books require more effort but sinking into the written word can reap greater rewards as you have more of a hand in the interpretation of the text into visuals and atmosphere. If you are looking to get into horror literature but are overwhelmed by the options, here are five picks that I think would be great places to start.

Psycho by Robert Bloch (1959)

A classic of the genre that has stood the test of time for good reason. The two things in Norman Bates’ life are running the family motel and the dominating figure of his mother. When a woman arrives to stay at the Bates motel a wedge is driven between mother and son with horrific consequences. Even if you haven’t seen the iconic Hitchcock adaptation you are likely to be somewhat familiar with the story but either way the original novel is well worth a read and still provides surprises and chills as good as anything being published today. At less than 200 pages, this is an excellent slice of horror to sink your teeth into without a huge time commitment. 

Rosemary’s Baby by Ira Levin (1967)

A young couple move into the apartment of their dreams only to find their new neighbours are insistent on inserting themselves into their lives. When Rosemary gets pregnant she becomes paranoid that everyone around her is part of a Satanic cult. Like Psycho, the film adaptation has become well known in pop culture so there’s a good chance you know how the story plays out but that doesn't mean you shouldn't pick up the source material. In my opinion the film is only as good as it is because it follows the book so closely. Levin created such a nuanced character in Rosemary and the reader is right there with her as she tries to save her sanity and her child.

The Woman in Black by Susan Hill (1983)

In The Woman in Black Hill emulates the style of a Victorian ghost story but makes the language more accessible for modern readers. A solicitor travels to a remote coastal village in England to settle the affairs of a recently deceased woman. During his time there he experiences some unexplained phenomena and keeps seeing the figure of a woman in black watching him. The marshland location of this story creates a unique setting and tons of brooding atmosphere. Another short read here at less than 200 pages, this is the perfect choice if you are looking for a gothic tale of the supernatural that will leave you looking over your shoulder.

The Good House by Tananarive Due (2003)

Angela moves into her late grandmother’s home with the hopes of rebuilding her life following a family tragedy. While reacquainting herself with the Good House she uncovers some dark family secrets that she must confront. Part haunted house story, part family saga, plus some voodoo magic thrown in for good measure this is a richly detailed novel told over multiple timelines with a compelling cast of characters. At almost 600 pages it is the longest book on this list but if you are looking for something epic to immerse yourself in then look no further. Due’s writing is captivating and you won’t be able to help yourself from flying through it.

My Best Friend's Exorcism by Grady Hendrix (2016)

Abby and Gretchen have been best friends since they were ten years old but they start to grow apart during their teenage years. Abby starts to suspect that Gretchen’s different behaviour is because she has been possessed by a demon and she will do anything to get her best friend back. This is a super readable horror comedy about the power of friendship and while there are some darker scenes with a bit of gore they are balanced out with humour and emotion. This novel has a lot of heart along with a serious dose of 80s nostalgia and is pretty much guaranteed to make you laugh and cry in equal measure.

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