Best Horror Short Stories Books of 2025

She's Always Hungry is an intriguing collection of eleven surreal and unsettling stories by Eliza Clark. Each tale dives into the depths of human hunger, exploring desires that often go unfulfilled. This collection is perfect for those who appreciate dark humour, as it effortlessly blends terror with hilarity. You will find yourself captivated by the unique characters, from a teenager yearning for perfect skin to a scientist nurturing alien flora. The stories are not just entertaining; they provoke thought and reflection on the nature of longing.

A Conventional Boy invites you to explore a unique mix of humour and horror. Set against the backdrop of 1984, it allows you to experience a thrilling narrative where a roll of twenty-sided dice holds the fate of the world. You'll find yourself immersed in a world where supernatural threats and government agencies collide. Additionally, this collection features exclusive stories and insights, enhancing your understanding and enjoyment of the Laundry Files universe.

You Like It Darker is a captivating collection by Stephen King that explores the darker facets of life through twelve gripping stories. Each narrative delves into themes of fate and mortality, drawing you into a world where anything can happen. As you read, you'll experience the exhilaration of escaping the mundane, feeling both terror and solace. The tales include unexpected twists, such as psychic revelations and haunting legacies, ensuring that every story is as rich and riveting as King's renowned novels.

When Did I Go is a captivating horror short story that immerses you in a chilling atmosphere of survival. As two survivors seek refuge from relentless creatures, you will feel the tension and urgency of their plight. The vivid descriptions help you envision the terrifying scene, making it all the more engaging. The story also serves as a heartfelt thank you from C S Jones, reflecting on the success of previous works while offering a thrilling narrative experience for fans and new readers alike.

BLOODY HELL Anthology offers twenty-seven spine-chilling horror stories from a diverse range of British indie authors. Each tale is set in a unique location across the British Isles, allowing you to explore different eerie atmospheres. The anthology is fully illustrated, enhancing your reading experience with captivating visuals. Ideal for those chilly nights, this collection invites you to curl up with a cup of tea and immerse yourself in tales of ghosts, monsters, and killers, ensuring a thrilling read that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The Winter Spirits offers a delightful collection of twelve ghostly tales, perfect for cosy winter nights. Each story, crafted by acclaimed authors, brings a modern twist to traditional Christmas ghost stories. You'll find yourself transported to haunted locations, from a Tuscan villa to a secluded Scottish island, enhancing the eerie atmosphere. This collection not only entertains but also revives the cherished tradition of sharing ghost stories during the festive season, making it an ideal companion for your winter reading.

The Feminist Classics by Collins offers two powerful narratives that explore women's struggles against patriarchal norms. In The Yellow Wallpaper, you will delve into a woman’s mental health journey, revealing the importance of understanding and addressing such issues. Herland invites you to witness a utopian society composed solely of women, encouraging you to reflect on the flaws of a male-dominated world. Both stories empower you to challenge societal expectations and appreciate the complexities of female experiences.

Garth Marenghi's Throttle is a gripping short story that delves into semi-simian supernatural horror. It features Nick Steen, a horror novelist whose imagination has inadvertently opened a portal to another dimension. You will find yourself immersed in a chilling tale where two murderous men-monkeys, named Throttle and Bribes, threaten the lives of innocent young siblings and their editor, Roz Bloom. This eerie narrative not only entertains but also challenges your perceptions of fear and creativity, making it a compelling read for horror enthusiasts.

The Nightmare Library invites you to delve into ten chilling tales that promise to keep you awake. Each story offers a unique glimpse into the macabre, featuring eerie scenarios like garbage collectors arriving at night and a family's terrifying experience as the stars disappear. You will also encounter a teacher whose obsession with a horror game leads to unsettling realisations. These stories serve as a perfect escape for those who enjoy spine-tingling narratives that ignite the imagination and evoke fear, ensuring a thrilling reading experience.

Haunted Tales offers a brilliantly eclectic mix of dark, unsettling stories, perfect for those chilly winter nights. You can enjoy a variety of gripping narratives that are guaranteed to give you goosebumps, making it an ideal companion by the fireside. Each tale is atmospheric and crafted with unique twists, ensuring you remain engaged and entertained. This collection is not only a delightful read but also a thoughtful gift for those who appreciate the art of ghost storytelling.