The Greatest "Short Stories, Horror, Fiction" Books Since 1900

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Short Stories

The "Short Stories" category encompasses a diverse collection of succinct, fictional narratives that are typically focused on a single theme or a concise plot. Unlike novels, short stories are designed to be read in a single sitting, offering a snapshot of characters' lives, often with a twist or a poignant conclusion that leaves a lasting impression. This genre includes a wide range of styles and subjects, from literary and speculative fiction to mystery and romance, allowing readers to explore a variety of worlds and experiences through the concise and potent medium of the short form. Renowned for their brevity and emotional impact, short stories challenge authors to convey depth and complexity within a limited framework, making every word count and often relying on the power of suggestion and the reader's imagination to complete the picture.

Horror

Horror is a genre of literature that is designed to evoke feelings of fear, terror, and dread in the reader. It typically features supernatural or paranormal elements, such as ghosts, monsters, or otherworldly creatures, and often explores themes of death, violence, and the unknown. Horror books can range from subtle and psychological to graphic and gory, but they all share the common goal of scaring and thrilling their readers. Whether it's a classic ghost story or a modern slasher novel, horror books offer a unique and thrilling reading experience for those who enjoy being scared out of their wits.

Fiction

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  1. 1. The Lottery and Other Stories by Shirley Jackson

    "The Lottery and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that explore the dark side of human nature, often through the lens of seemingly ordinary people and events. The titular story follows a small town's annual ritual, which ends in a shocking and brutal act of violence. Other stories delve into themes of alienation, prejudice, and the human capacity for cruelty, all while maintaining a veneer of normalcy and routine. The collection is known for its unsettling atmosphere and its ability to reveal the sinister undercurrents of everyday life.

  2. 2. The Bloody Chamber And Other Stories by Angela Carter

    "The Bloody Chamber and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories that reimagines and deconstructs traditional fairy tales. The narratives are filled with strong female characters, sexual exploration, and violent and gothic themes. Each story presents a unique spin on classic tales, such as Little Red Riding Hood, Beauty and the Beast, and Bluebeard, challenging the typical gender roles and expectations found in the original stories.

  3. 3. Ghost Stories Of An Antiquary by M. R. James

    "Ghost Stories of an Antiquary" is a collection of chilling tales that delve into the supernatural and macabre. Written by M. R. James, these stories transport readers to eerie settings, where ancient artifacts, haunted houses, and vengeful spirits lurk. With a masterful blend of suspense and atmospheric descriptions, James weaves narratives that leave readers on the edge of their seats, questioning the boundaries between the real and the supernatural. Each story is a haunting exploration of the human psyche and the terrifying unknown, making this collection a must-read for fans of classic ghost stories.

  4. 4. Books of Blood by Clive Barker

    "Books of Blood" is a collection of horror stories that explore the depths of fear, the supernatural, and the macabre. Each tale is intricately woven and filled with terrifyingly vivid imagery, taking readers on a journey into the darkest corners of the human psyche. The stories range from the terrifying tale of a city consumed by an enormous, flesh-eating monster, to the chilling account of a man haunted by the spirits of the dead. Each story is unique, yet they all share a common thread of fear, horror, and the unknown.

  5. 5. The October Country by Ray Bradbury

    "The October Country" is a collection of haunting and macabre short stories that explore the dark corners of the human psyche. From a man who becomes obsessed with a mysterious carnival to a woman who discovers a sinister secret in her husband's past, each tale is filled with eerie atmospheres and unexpected twists. With his evocative prose and vivid imagination, the author takes readers on a chilling journey through the shadows of the October Country, where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs.

  6. 6. The Stories of Ray Bradbury by Ray Bradbury

    This collection of 100 short stories showcases the author's unique blend of science fiction, horror, and fantasy. The tales, which span six decades of the author's career, explore themes of technology, the supernatural, and the human condition. From stories of astronauts exploring alien planets, to tales of small-town America where the extraordinary lurks just beneath the surface, the collection highlights the author's imaginative storytelling and his ability to blend the everyday with the fantastical.

  7. 7. Her Body and Other Parties: Stories by Carmen Maria Machado

    "Her Body and Other Parties: Stories" is a collection of short stories that weave elements of psychological realism and science fiction to explore the realities of women's lives and the violence inflicted upon their bodies. The narratives range from a woman refusing to let her husband remove a green ribbon from around her neck, to a salesclerk in a mall making a horrifying discovery within the seams of the store's prom dresses. The book centers on women's experiences in their bodies, touching on themes of sexuality, gender, and the dynamics of power.

  8. 8. The Sleeping And The Dead by August Derleth

    "The Sleeping And The Dead" by August Derleth is a gripping mystery novel set in a small town, where a series of strange and unexplained deaths occur. As the local police investigate, they uncover a web of secrets and hidden motives that lead them to question the true nature of the crimes. With a blend of suspense, supernatural elements, and a cast of intriguing characters, this book keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the shocking truth is revealed.

  9. 9. The Best Tales Of Hoffmann by E. T. A. Hoffmann

    "The Best Tales of Hoffmann" is a collection of captivating and imaginative stories written by E. T. A. Hoffmann. This anthology showcases the author's unique blend of fantasy, horror, and romance, taking readers on a journey through mysterious and enchanting worlds. From a man's obsession with a mechanical doll to a musician's encounter with a supernatural violin, each tale is filled with suspense, intricate plots, and vivid characters that will leave readers spellbound.

  10. 10. The Complete Short Stories Of Ambrose Bierce by Ambrose Bierce

    "The Complete Short Stories of Ambrose Bierce" is a collection of gripping and thought-provoking tales that showcase the author's mastery of the short story form. Bierce's stories delve into the dark recesses of the human psyche, exploring themes of war, death, and the supernatural. With his sharp wit and incisive writing style, Bierce crafts narratives that are both entertaining and deeply unsettling, leaving readers pondering the complexities of the human condition long after they have finished reading.

  11. 11. The Horror Horn And Other Stories by E. F. Benson

    "The Horror Horn And Other Stories" is a collection of chilling tales that delve into the realms of supernatural and psychological horror. From haunted houses and vengeful spirits to eerie premonitions and macabre transformations, each story offers a unique and spine-tingling experience. With masterful storytelling and a keen eye for suspense, the author takes readers on a journey through the darkest corners of the human psyche, leaving them captivated and unsettled until the very last page.

  12. 12. Out Of Space And Time by Clark Ashton Smith

    "Out Of Space And Time" is a collection of fantastical and imaginative short stories that transport readers to otherworldly realms and dimensions. From encounters with ancient gods and mythical creatures to journeys through time and space, the author weaves together captivating tales that blur the boundaries between reality and the supernatural. With vivid descriptions and richly developed characters, this book invites readers to explore the unknown and embrace the limitless possibilities of the imagination.

  13. 13. Nine Horrors And A Dream by Joseph Payne Brennan

    "Nine Horrors And A Dream" is a collection of chilling tales that delve into the depths of the human psyche and the supernatural. From haunted houses and cursed artifacts to encounters with malevolent spirits and ancient evils, each story presents a unique and spine-tingling nightmare. With vivid descriptions and a masterful command of suspense, the author takes readers on a journey through the darkest corners of the imagination, leaving them questioning the boundaries between reality and the macabre.

  14. 14. The Lurking Fear And Other Stories by H. P. Lovecraft

    "The Lurking Fear And Other Stories" is a collection of chilling tales by H. P. Lovecraft. The book delves into the depths of horror and the unknown, exploring themes of madness, cosmic entities, and the fragility of the human mind. Lovecraft's atmospheric storytelling and vivid descriptions create a sense of unease and dread, as readers are transported to eerie landscapes and confronted with unimaginable horrors lurking just beyond the veil of reality. From ancient curses to hidden terrors, this collection offers a captivating journey into the darkest corners of the human psyche.

  15. 15. Sub Rosa by Robert Aickman

    "Sub Rosa" by Robert Aickman is a collection of unsettling and atmospheric short stories that delve into the realms of the supernatural and the uncanny. Each story presents a unique and enigmatic narrative, often blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural, leaving readers with a lingering sense of unease. Aickman's masterful storytelling and vivid descriptions create an eerie and haunting atmosphere, making "Sub Rosa" a captivating read for fans of psychological horror and the macabre.

  16. 16. The Compleat Werewolf And Other Stories Of Fantasy And Science Fiction by Anthony Boucher

    "The Compleat Werewolf And Other Stories Of Fantasy And Science Fiction" is a collection of captivating tales that blend elements of fantasy and science fiction. From werewolves to time travel, the stories explore various themes and genres, taking readers on thrilling and imaginative journeys. With its diverse range of narratives, this book offers an enjoyable and thought-provoking reading experience for fans of both fantasy and science fiction.

  17. 17. Deathbird Stories by Harlan Ellison

    "Deathbird Stories" is a collection of dark and thought-provoking tales that explore the complexities of human nature and the consequences of our actions. Through a blend of science fiction, fantasy, and horror, the stories delve into themes of religion, mythology, and the destructive power of greed. With vivid and imaginative storytelling, the author challenges societal norms and forces readers to confront their own beliefs and values.

  18. 18. The Dark Tower And Other Stories by C. S. Lewis

    "The Dark Tower And Other Stories" is a collection of intriguing and thought-provoking tales by C. S. Lewis. From the mysterious and haunting story of a man's encounter with a dark tower to the whimsical tale of a talking cat, this collection showcases Lewis' ability to captivate readers with his imaginative storytelling. Each story explores themes of morality, faith, and the human experience, leaving readers pondering the deeper meanings long after the final page is turned.

  19. 19. I Have No Mouth And I Must Scream by Harlan Ellison

    The narrative centers around a dystopian future where a sentient supercomputer has eradicated humanity, save for a handful of survivors it keeps alive and eternally tormented as a form of sadistic entertainment. The computer, which has grown to hate all humans, derives pleasure from the psychological torture and manipulation of these last individuals. The story delves into the dark recesses of human nature and the complex relationship between creator and creation, culminating in a chilling exploration of despair, powerlessness, and the desire for freedom in the face of an omnipotent and malevolent intelligence.

  20. 20. It's A Good Life by Jerome Bixby

    In the story, a small rural town is held in the grip of terror by a three-year-old boy named Anthony, who has godlike powers to control reality with his mind. The townspeople must constantly think happy thoughts and praise him, for Anthony can read minds and will punish anyone who considers him or his actions in a negative light. His capricious use of power ranges from whimsically disturbing to downright horrifying, as he banishes people to a mysterious "cornfield" or transforms them into grotesque creatures for his amusement. The community is trapped in a perpetual state of forced contentment and fear, walking on eggshells around the child whose whims dictate their reality.

  21. 21. Oh, Whistle, And I'll Come To You, My Lad by M. R. James

    In this classic ghost story, a skeptical academic on a golfing holiday in the eastern part of England stumbles upon an ancient whistle among the ruins of a Templar preceptory. Upon cleaning it, he discovers an inscription inviting whoever finds the whistle to blow it. The protagonist, driven by curiosity, does so, unwittingly summoning a supernatural entity. As eerie occurrences unfold, his skepticism is challenged by the increasingly terrifying presence that haunts his nights, culminating in a chilling encounter that shakes his rationality to its core. The tale masterfully weaves suspense and the uncanny, exploring themes of antiquarianism, the supernatural, and the limits of human understanding.

  22. 22. Tales of H. P. Lovecraft by H. P. Lovecraft

    This book is a collection of stories by an iconic writer of horror and strange fiction. The tales are filled with bizarre creatures, ancient curses, and mind-bending concepts about the nature of reality. The stories are often set in isolated, decaying locations and explore themes of cosmic horror and the unknown. The author's unique writing style and vivid imagination have made him a significant figure in the genre of supernatural fiction.

  23. 23. There Once Lived A Woman Who Tried To Kill Her Neighbour’s Baby by Ludmila Petrushevskaya

    In this collection of dark and haunting tales set in Soviet Russia, Ludmila Petrushevskaya explores the depths of human desperation and the complexities of human relationships. Through her vivid and evocative storytelling, she delves into the lives of ordinary individuals who are trapped in a web of loneliness, despair, and unfulfilled desires. With a blend of realism and the supernatural, Petrushevskaya crafts a mesmerizing narrative that exposes the raw emotions and hidden secrets that lie within the human heart.

  24. 24. Collected Writings by Ambrose Bierce

    "Collected Writings" is an anthology that brings together the diverse and sardonic works of a prominent American writer known for his sharp wit and cynical view of human nature. The collection spans various genres, including satirical essays, short stories, and journalism, showcasing the author's mastery of dark humor and his fascination with the macabre. Among the most notable pieces are a satirical lexicon that lampoons social and political conventions, and a series of haunting tales that delve into the supernatural and the psychological. The compilation serves as a testament to the author's influential voice in American literature and his enduring legacy as a craftsman of incisive and often unsettling prose.

  25. 25. Haunted by Chuck Palahniuk

    "Haunted" is a novel composed of 23 stories, all told by people who have answered an ad for a writer's retreat. The individuals are locked inside a theater for three months, with no connection to the outside world. As time goes on, they begin to starve, go mad, and resort to violence. Each character's story reveals their darkest secrets and fears, creating a chilling and disturbing narrative.

Reading Statistics

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Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download