While there are tons of horror classics that everyone is familiar with like Stephen King’s “The Shining” or “The Exorcist” by William Peter Blatty, there are plenty of blood diamonds that often go unnoticed. If you’re a book lover and a horror enthusiast, it’s time to dig into the crypts. Here are the top five best underrated horror books to keep you reading ‘til the wee hours of the morning (and maybe even make you wee your pants).
Most Underrated Horror Books #1 – The Beautiful Thing That Awaits Us All by Laird Barron
This eerie book is a collection of short stories, each one as haunting as the last. Laird Barron is an underrated horror writer who deserves more recognition. This book is one of his best. The stories range from black folk tales to horrific mysteries, and each one will keep you on edge. If you’re a fan of horror anthologies, this one is a must-read. Roy Porter narrates the Audiobook too. Listen here for a creepy bedtime delight.
Underrated Horror Novels #2 – Mongrels by Stephen Graham Jones
If you’re looking for a different kind of horror book, then Mongrels by Stephen Graham Jones is for you. This book tells the story of a family of werewolves and their struggles to survive in a world that doesn’t accept them. It’s a coming-of-age story, a horror story, and a family drama all rolled into one. This book is both touching and terrifying, and if you’re tired of the same old werewolf stories, then you need to read it.
Best Underrated Horror Books #3 – The Gulp by Alan Baxter
This new Australian horror collection is not for the faint of heart. This series of 5 novellas are all set in the same isolated harbour town – Gulpepper. The place has a habit of swallowing people. This collection has almost epic 80s horror vibes like Stranger Things meets the Twilight Zone. Even better, there’s a sequel called The Fall if you love it and want to stay in the darkness. Find the first edition here.
Next up, #4 – Little Heaven by Nick Cutter
If you’re a fan of Stephen King, then you need to read Little Heaven by Nick Cutter. Three mercenaries embark on a mission to locate a missing boy in the New Mexico wilderness. This book unravels their gripping story. What they find is a cult of violent religious fanatics who worship an otherworldly deity. This book is atmospheric and creepy, and it will keep you on the edge of your seat. Definitely one of the best underrated horror books getting around. Find Little Heaven here.
Last gasp, #5 – Wraiths of the Broken Land by S. Craig Zahler
This novel is not for everyone, but if you’re a fan of gritty westerns and horror, then you need to read it. Wraiths of the Broken Land portrays a man’s harrowing quest to rescue his daughter from a group of kidnappers in a brutal and violent manner. What he finds is a group of outlaws who are more than just human. Not for those with a faint heart, but if you can handle it, it will reward you with a terrifying tale. Find it here.
If you’re a horror fan who’s tired of reading the same old books, then these best underrated horror books are perfect for you. They may not have as big a following as Stephen King or Clive Barker, but they’re just as terrifying. Whether you’re looking for a coming-of-age werewolf story or a brutal tale of revenge, these books have everything you need to keep you reading until the sun comes up. Go ahead and add these books to your TBR pile – they won’t disappoint you.
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