There is no better time for reading horror books, than during the long autumnal month of October. But if you do not have the time to enjoy lengthy books or you want to read more than one book during this month, I have you covered! In my opinion, some of the most interesting plots and characters are found in short fiction. So here is my recommendation for some amazing short horror fiction (less than 300 pages and also including short stories).
If you are into more unsettling books, see my recommendations here.
An almost mythological kind of story, full of suspense and good character development. It definitely falls under the psychological horror genre, however, it also lies on the border of dark fantasy. The story follows a man who lost his wife and tries to escape his depression by going on fishing trips. Eventually, he finds a friend with similar misery. And now that they share a tragedy together, they decide to also fish together. The fishing trips have a therapeutic effect on both men until the new friend of the protagonist decides to try out a new fishing spot. One that is not on the maps for a reason…
I Am Legend by Richard Matheson
An original take on the vampire genre. At some moments in the book, it feels like one of those popular zombie stories that we are used to nowadays. Yet, it has way more depth to it and philosophical implications. The inner dialogue of the character really makes you question what is the most valuable aspect of human life.
This story leans more towards a good thriller than a horror story. However, both genres are often intertwined for a good reason. Definitely a suspenseful read! The main character thinks back about his childhood and tries to remember certain events. However, his memories have a lot of gaps. He feels like something traumatic has happened to him and his former best friend and that some of his memories are stained with something dark. How can he figure out what really happened during his childhood years?
The Hellbound Heart by Clive Barker
The story behind Hellraiser, a successful horror movie franchise. My usual saying definitely applies to this one; the book is always better!
The Dangers of Smoking in Bed by Mariana Enriquez
A collection of macabre short stories from the Argentinian writer Mariana Enriquez, that would transport you to the dark allies of Buenos Aires and their hidden secrets. Stories filled with old traditions and strange superstitions. I especially found the story about the fascination of a character with Jane Eyre very original and strange!
Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson
The list would not be complete without some important classics in speculative fiction and genre literature. The famous case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde showcases perfectly the balance between good and evil, everyone should have both sides. But, what happens if a man is pure evil only? And how would such a character look like? Read this novella to find out.
Short stories by Edgar Allan Poe
- The Fall of the House of Usher
- The Tell-Tale Heart
- The Cask of Amontillado
Beyond short stories, Poe has also written multiple beautifully dark poems which would serve the gloomy atmosphere perfectly. The most famous one is of course The Raven, but I would also recommend The City in the Sea.
If you are also a fan of the new Netflix adaptation of The Fall of the House of Usher and you would like to read the stories that are referenced in the show, see my article here.
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