Best British & Irish Horror Books of 2026

This Penguin Classics edition of Frankenstein commemorates the bicentennial of Mary Shelley's seminal novel by publishing the original 1818 text, complete with Charlotte Gordon's introduction and suggestions for further reading, literary excerpts and reviews, and a chronology and essay by Shelley scholar Charles E. Robinson. Gordon's framing of the novel is a standout feature of the anniversary edition, and the preservation of Shelley's unflinching wit and strong female voice is noteworthy. This edition is highly recommended for fans of classic literature and feminist ideals.

Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus is a classic novel that tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a monstrous being through unconventional means. Written by Mary Shelley, the novel explores themes of ambition, responsibility, and the consequences of playing God. Shelley's use of Gothic and Romantic ideals make Frankenstein a seminal work of science fiction that continues to captivate readers to this day. Overall, Frankenstein is a must-read for fans of classic literature and those interested in the intersection of science and morality.

The Book Eaters is an imaginative and unique story about a secret group of people who consume books as food, retaining all their content after eating them. The protagonist, Devon, is part of The Family, a reclusive clan of book eaters, and she grows up on a carefully curated diet of fairy tales and cautionary stories. However, when her son is born with a rare and darker kind of hunger, Devon must confront the harsh realities of life. The book explores themes of motherhood, queerness, and escaping patriarchal norms in a beautifully crafted gothic anti-fairytale. This debut novel is a stunning masterpiece that will leave readers pondering its messages long after the last page.

Dracula: The Original 1897 Edition by Bram Stoker is a Gothic horror novel that introduces the iconic character of Count Dracula. The story follows Dracula's attempt to spread his undead curse by moving from Transylvania to England, and the ensuing battle between him and a group of men and women led by Professor Abraham Van Helsing. The novel touches on various themes such as the role of women in Victorian culture, sexual conventions, immigration, colonialism, and post-colonialism. Stoker defined the modern form of the vampire, and his work has influenced numerous theatrical, film and television adaptations. This classic novel is a must-read for fans of horror fiction and gothic literature.

Don't Look Back by Ben Cheetham is a haunting mystery that will keep readers on edge during long, dark nights. The story follows Adam and Ella, a couple struggling to keep their family together after the tragic death of their son. When they win a competition to live in a supposedly haunted mansion, they see it as an opportunity to start anew. However, as the secrets of Fenton House begin to unravel, they realize they may not be alone. Cheetham's characters are believable and the plot is dark and twisted, making for a gripping read. This gothic fiction book is a must-read for fans of the genre.

The Hellbound Heart by Clive Barker is a nerve-shattering novella that explores the human heart and all the great terrors and ecstasies within it. The story revolves around Frank Cotton's insatiable appetite for the dark pleasures of pain, which leads him to a death only a sick-minded soul could invent. However, his brother's love-crazed wife, Julia, discovers a way to bring Frank back from the dead, but at a bloody and terrible price. Barker's writing is compelling and relentless, making this one of the most frightening stories you are likely to ever read. The Hellbound Heart is a must-read for horror fans and a testament to Barker's vivid imagination and unique terrors.

Six Scary Stories is a horror anthology book edited by the number 1 bestselling writer Stephen King. The book features six chilling and gripping stories that were discovered when King judged a competition run by Hodder & Stoughton and the Guardian. The stories in this anthology will make readers think twice before cuddling up to their old soft toy or counting the spots on a leopard. Overall, this book is a must-read for horror fans who are looking for a collection of spine-tingling stories that are sure to keep them up at night.

The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is a gothic and philosophical novel that was first published in 1890. The book tells the story of a man who remains youthful while his portrait ages, and explores themes of morality, beauty, and corruption. Despite being censored and criticized for its immorality, the book has become a classic and is widely regarded as one of Wilde's greatest works. This LGBT classic fiction book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of human nature.

The Wasp Factory by Ian Banks is a disturbing and darkly comic novel that explores the mind of a child psychopath. The protagonist, Frank Cauldhame, is a weird teenager who lives on a small island and maintains grisly Sacrifice Poles as his early warning system. Despite the controversy surrounding its violence and sadism, the book stands out for its authentically felt and deftly written first-person style, delicious dark humor, and surrealism. The Wasp Factory is a classic of contemporary horror that most readers will find themselves sympathizing with and even liking Frank, despite his three murders.