Best American Horror Books of 2025

The Sleep Experiment is a spine-chilling psychological thriller, written by Jeremy Bates. The book tells the story of a psychology professor, Dr. Roy Wallis, who attempts to recreate a Soviet experiment from the Cold War era, which required participants to stay awake for fourteen days while under the influence of a powerful stimulant gas. However, the experiment takes a terrifying turn, and the participants begin to exhibit signs of madness, murder, and self-mutilation. Bates' writing style, reminiscent of Stephen King, keeps readers on the edge of their seat. Overall, this book is a must-read for fans of horror and psychological thrillers.

Ask for Andrea is a psychological thriller that tells the story of James Carson, a serial killer who preys on women he meets online. His past is about to catch up with him as his three victims, Brecia, Meghan, and Skye, have found each other and are seeking revenge. The book is a gripping and suspenseful read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The author does a great job of building tension and creating a sense of dread throughout the story. Overall, Ask for Andrea is a unique and thrilling addition to the psychological thriller genre.

Jeremy Bates' Suicide Forest is a spine-tingling horror story set in Japan's infamous Aokigahara forest, known for being the world's most popular suicide spot. The author weaves a tale of mystery and terror, as a group of friends camping in the forest discover the horrifying truth behind the legends of the spirits of suicide victims still haunting the woods. The book has been praised for its old-school horror reminiscent of Stephen King and its ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats. For fans of modern horror and anyone looking for a chilling read, Suicide Forest is a must-read.

Intercepts is a bone-chilling horror novel by the author of In My Father's Basement. The story follows Joe, who works at a facility conducting human experimentation. When the government attempts to unlock hidden abilities in the human mind, the subjects go violently insane. Despite this, the research continues and is now almost perfected. This novel is a must-read for horror fans, with reviewers calling it "gruesome, gripping, and terrifyingly real!" and "refreshingly original." This independently published book stands out for its sick, fresh twist on the typical thriller/horror genre.

The Little Woods is a spine-tingling occult thriller that takes readers on a terrifying journey through the woods where unimaginable evil lurks. The story follows Ian Cockerton, who is drawn back to the woods of his childhood when the terrors of his past begin to haunt his present. With the help of a charismatic spiritualist, Ian must face the greatest fight of his life to protect his loved ones from an evil of inconceivable proportion. The book is a perfect treat for fans of demonic possession, supernatural horror, and coming-of-age stories like Stranger Things. Overall, The Little Woods is a must-read for anyone who loves a good scare.

The Thicket is a psychological thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Norah, haunted by survivor's guilt, returns to the scene of a deadly haunted attraction. But the killer hasn't chosen his hunting ground at random and is planning another visit. The book is filled with suspense, heart-racing moments, and unforgettable characters. Noelle's writing is clean, crisp, and descriptive, making it easy for readers to feel as though they are part of the story. Overall, The Thicket is a gripping page-turner that will leave readers wanting more.

The Root Witch is a spine-chilling dark fantasy novel by Tara Moss. Set in a quaking aspen forest, the story follows two strangers, Knox and Sandy, as they investigate the terrifying legend of the Root Witch. As the sightings of the shadowy figure increase, Knox and Sandy's lives converge on Halloween, and they face their biggest decision yet. Based on the short story "The Root Witch: An Urban Legend Caught on Tape," this novel is not for the faint-hearted. Moss has skillfully crafted a haunting tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The Catacombs by Jeremy Bates is a bone-chilling descent into the tunnels beneath Paris where an unknown evil awaits. When a group of friends ventures into the tunnels to investigate, they stumble upon the evil lurking there. Bates' storytelling is reminiscent of Stephen King and Dean Koontz, making it perfect for fans of old-school horror. The book is a page-turner with a twist, and it will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. Overall, The Catacombs is a must-read for anyone looking for a fresh and new horror story.

The Exorcist's House is a spine-chilling psychological thriller that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The story follows a family who moves to a rustic farmhouse in West Virginia, only to encounter unimaginable horror. As they discover a hidden room in the basement with a well adorned with crucifixes, local legends about the previous owner being an exorcist come to light, unleashing all sorts of terror. Nick's writing is captivating, keeping readers engaged from the first page to the last. For fans of demonic possession, exorcism fiction, and thrillers, this book is a must-read.

Brian Asman's "Man, Fuck This House" is a thrilling and imaginative ghost fiction book that tells the story of a family who moves into their dream home only to discover that they're not alone. Sabrina Haskins and her family have to deal with odd noises, strange visions, and bizarre circumstances that test their relationships and their sanity. Asman brilliantly subverts the standard haunted house cliches, unleashing suspense-building tricks worthy of Stephen King or Clive Barker. This book is a whirlwind of a ride that'll leave you clutching your family close and makes it one of the best ghost fiction books out there.