The Best Horror of 2025 (So Far)

The bestselling author of The Only Good Indians and I Was a Teenage Slasher returns with a chilling tale of blood, buffalo and revenge. Based on gruesome true events, Jones blends history and horror in a haunting story of vengeance and survival.

In under 200 pages, Agustina Bazterrica gives us a harrowing look at a dystopian future through an unforgettable heroine. Cults, climate crises and extremism collide in this razor sharp story.

The king of horror has returned — along with a few old friends. Holly Gibney is back to investigate a terrifying threat and serve as a bodyguard to an activist with a target on her back. Taut, immersive and chilling, this is Stephen King at his best.

When a wave of racism spreads over NYC, a young Asian American woman gets pushed into an oncoming train. Brimming with stunning prose that ventures into Chinese lore, this spine-tingling horror will scare you in the most beautiful way.

Daring and dark, Hungerstone is a decadent retelling of a centuries-old classic. Centered on a woman’s unraveling at the hands of a ravenous houseguest, this one is not for the faint of heart.

Has a book ever totally changed your life? A group of teens at a home for pregnant girls face adversity, shame and more until a book of witchcraft changes everything for them. Triumphant and terrifying, you won’t put this one down.

Bestselling author Eric LaRocca returns with a dark, decadent story of loneliness and longing, life and death. With claustrophobic rituals and spine-tingling horror you won’t be able to look away from, this is LaRocca at his best.

When overconsumption of news media takes over the human spirit like demonic possession, families are divided, and a political apocalypse ensues. Part satire, part social commentary, part macabre, this visceral, thought-provoking novel is not just horror but a wake-up call.

A young boy in danger and an empathetic young woman determined to protect him. This chilling and lingering horror thrives in how grounded and realistic it feels, despite a rather hairy foe. Good luck sleeping after reading this.

This is atmospheric Victorian-era horror reads like a beautiful nightmare sinking its teeth into you. With a unique take on vampires and a dive into patriarchal gender stereotypes, this eerie, mind-bending, thrilling read about a profound emotional bond between twin sisters will live up to your expectations.