Books on Haunted Houses: Discover the Top 20 List

Are you a fan of spine-chilling tales that will keep you up at night? If so, you’ll love our list of the 20 best books about haunted houses. These thrilling stories are filled with suspense, mystery, and the supernatural, making them perfect for anyone who loves a good scare. Whether you’re looking for a classic ghost story or a modern twist on the haunted house trope, these books are sure to send shivers down your spine. From iconic horror novels to lesser-known gems, there’s something for every book on haunted houses enthusiast on this list. So, grab a cozy blanket and prepare to be spooked by these haunted houses books!

20 Best Haunted Houses Books

The Invited

by Jennifer McMahon

The Invited by Jennifer McMahon is a captivating book about haunted houses that will send shivers down your spine. The story follows Helen and Nate, a couple who decide to leave their city life behind and build their dream home in the countryside. Little do they know, their new property comes with a dark history and a reputation for being haunted. As they begin to build their house, strange and eerie occurrences start to unfold, leading them to uncover the chilling secrets of the land they now call home. McMahon weaves a tale of mystery, suspense, and the supernatural, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they uncover the chilling truth behind the haunted houses in the story. The Invited is a must-read for fans of ghost stories and psychological thrillers, offering a fresh take on the classic theme of book on haunted houses.

The Silent Companions

by Laura Purcell

The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell is a chilling and atmospheric novel that delves into the world of eerie manors and ghostly occurrences. Set in the 19th century, this gothic tale follows newly widowed Elsie as she arrives at her late husband’s ancestral estate, The Bridge, only to be confronted with unsettling secrets and sinister happenings.

As Elsie navigates the decaying halls of the mansion, she encounters mysterious wooden figures known as “silent companions” that seem to have a life of their own. These haunting and lifelike companions hold a dark history that intertwines with the house’s past and present, creating an atmosphere of dread and foreboding.

The novel expertly weaves together elements of psychological suspense, family secrets, and supernatural occurrences, making it a compelling read for anyone drawn to the macabre and the unknown. With its masterful storytelling and spine-tingling atmosphere, The Silent Companions is a must-read for fans of haunted houses and ghostly mysteries.

The Broken Girls

by Simone St. James

The Broken Girls by Simone St. James is a captivating novel that combines mystery, suspense, and a touch of the supernatural. Set in a boarding school for troubled girls in Vermont, the story weaves together two timelines, one in the 1950s and the other in the present day. The boarding school, Idlewild Hall, holds dark secrets, and the mysterious disappearance of one of the girls, Fiona, still haunts the place decades later. When journalist Fiona Sheridan decides to investigate the abandoned school, she uncovers a chilling connection to her own sister’s murder 20 years earlier. As she delves deeper into the history of Idlewild Hall, she discovers that the spirits of the past are still very much alive and seeking justice. The novel is a gripping tale of friendship, love, and the unbreakable bond between women, all set against the eerie backdrop of a haunted boarding school. This haunting and atmospheric book about haunted houses will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The Grip of It

by Jac Jemc

The Grip of It by Jac Jemc is a spine-tingling and atmospheric novel that delves into the unsettling world of a haunted house. The story follows a young couple who move into a seemingly idyllic suburban home, only to discover that it holds dark and sinister secrets. As they begin to experience strange and unexplained occurrences, they are forced to confront the haunting realities of their new residence.

Jemc’s hauntingly beautiful prose and intricate storytelling create a sense of unease and tension that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The novel masterfully explores themes of possession, paranoia, and the fragility of the human psyche, making it a must-read for fans of psychological horror and supernatural suspense. The Grip of It is a chilling and thought-provoking book about haunted houses that will leave readers questioning the boundaries between reality and the unknown.

The Little Stranger

by Sarah Waters

The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters is a chilling and atmospheric book about haunted houses. Set in post-war England, the story follows Dr. Faraday as he becomes entangled with the Ayres family and their decaying estate, Hundreds Hall. Strange occurrences and unexplainable events plague the once-grand house, leading the characters to question their own sanity and the sinister forces at play.

Waters skillfully weaves a tale of psychological suspense and subtle terror, blurring the lines between the supernatural and the human mind. The tension builds steadily as the secrets of Hundreds Hall are slowly revealed, and the reader is left questioning the true nature of the haunting. The book on haunted houses is a haunting exploration of family dynamics, class divisions, and the lingering impact of the past. With its richly drawn characters and evocative setting, The Little Stranger is a captivating and unsettling read that will linger in the reader’s mind long after the final page.

The Haunting of Hill House

by Shirley Jackson

The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson is a classic novel that explores the terrifying and eerie world of supernatural occurrences and psychological horror. This gripping book about a haunted house follows four individuals who set out to investigate the notorious Hill House, a place known for its dark history and paranormal activity. As they delve deeper into the mysteries of the house, they are confronted with unexplainable events that challenge their very sanity. Jackson masterfully weaves together a narrative that blurs the lines between the real and the supernatural, leaving readers on the edge of their seats with a sense of unease and dread. The novel’s atmospheric and chilling descriptions make it a must-read for anyone fascinated by the eerie and mysterious, making it a standout book about haunted houses that continues to captivate readers to this day.

The Woman in Black

by Susan Hill

The Woman in Black by Susan Hill is a chilling and atmospheric book about a young solicitor, Arthur Kipps, who is sent to a remote village to settle the estate of a deceased client. As he delves into his work, he becomes increasingly unnerved by the strange and unsettling events that unfold in the isolated and eerie Eel Marsh House. The house itself is shrouded in mystery and rumor, with locals refusing to speak of it and its tragic history. Kipps soon discovers that the house is haunted by the vengeful spirit of a woman dressed in black, and he becomes determined to uncover the truth behind her malevolent presence. The tension and suspense build throughout the story, leading to a heart-stopping climax that will leave readers breathless. This book about haunted houses is a masterclass in creating a sense of dread and unease, and it will linger in your mind long after you’ve turned the final page.

The Shining

by Stephen King

The Shining by Stephen King is a spine-chilling book about haunted houses that will leave you sleeping with the lights on. Set in the eerie and isolated Overlook Hotel, the story follows the Torrance family as they become the caretakers of the hotel during the off-season. As the winter snow traps them in, the hotel’s dark past begins to reveal itself, and the supernatural forces within its walls start to take hold of the family.

With its masterful storytelling and heart-pounding suspense, The Shining takes readers on a terrifying journey through the haunted corridors of the hotel, where the line between reality and the supernatural blurs. King’s vivid descriptions and complex characters make this book on haunted houses a must-read for anyone who loves a good scare. Get ready to be gripped by fear as you turn each page of this classic haunted houses book.

Hell House

by Richard Matheson

Hell House by Richard Matheson is a spine-chilling book about haunted houses that will send shivers down your spine. Set in a foreboding mansion with a dark history, the story follows a team of researchers and mediums as they venture into the infamous Belasco House to unravel its secrets. As they delve deeper into the house’s terrifying past, they encounter malevolent spirits and unexplainable phenomena that threaten to consume them.

Matheson masterfully builds a sense of dread and suspense, drawing readers into a world of supernatural horror and psychological terror. The characters’ inner demons and the house’s malevolent presence intertwine, creating a gripping tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. With its eerie atmosphere and relentless sense of dread, Hell House is a must-read for fans of books on haunted houses and anyone who enjoys a good scare.

The Amityville Horror

by Jay Anson

The Amityville Horror by Jay Anson is a chilling book about a haunted house that has captivated readers for decades. Based on a true story, this book recounts the terrifying experiences of the Lutz family as they move into their new home in Amityville, New York. From strange noises and unexplained odors to eerie apparitions and violent manifestations, the Lutz family is plagued by a relentless and malevolent force that seems to have taken over their home.

Anson’s gripping storytelling and attention to detail make The Amityville Horror a truly spine-tingling read. The book delves into the psychological toll that living in a haunted house can take on a family, as well as the desperate measures they take to try to rid themselves of the haunting presence. With its blend of horror, suspense, and supernatural elements, The Amityville Horror is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the paranormal or intrigued by the mysteries of the unknown.

The Turn of the Screw

by Henry James

The Turn of the Screw by Henry James is a classic ghost story that has captivated readers for over a century. This chilling tale follows a young governess who is hired to care for two orphaned children at a remote country estate. As she settles into her new role, she begins to experience strange and unexplainable occurrences that lead her to believe the house is haunted. The governess becomes increasingly convinced that the spirits of the former governess and her lover are possessing the children, and she is determined to protect them from the malevolent forces at play.

As the suspense builds, the reader is drawn into a world of psychological terror and uncertainty, where reality blurs with the supernatural. The Turn of the Screw is a gripping and atmospheric book about haunted houses that explores themes of innocence, corruption, and the power of the unknown. Henry James masterfully creates a sense of dread and unease that lingers long after the final page is turned, making this a must-read for fans of haunted houses books.

House of Leaves

by Mark Z. Danielewski

House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski is a mind-bending exploration of a family’s experience with a haunted house. The novel is presented as a found manuscript, with multiple layers of narration and footnotes that draw the reader into a complex web of storytelling. The story revolves around a young family who moves into a house that defies the laws of physics, with ever-expanding and shifting dimensions that confound their understanding of reality. As they delve deeper into the mysteries of the house, they become ensnared in its malevolent influence.

This book about haunted houses is a masterful blend of horror, psychological thriller, and experimental fiction. Danielewski’s use of unconventional formatting and typography adds to the disorienting and chilling atmosphere, making the reader feel as though they are descending into madness alongside the characters. House of Leaves is a haunting and immersive experience that will leave you questioning the nature of reality and the limits of human perception.

The Elementals

by Michael McDowell

The Elementals by Michael McDowell is a chilling and atmospheric book about haunted houses that will send shivers down your spine. Set in the Deep South, the story follows the wealthy and eccentric Savauge family as they spend their summers in their grand old mansion in the Alabama Gulf. The house is surrounded by two mysterious, desolate, and seemingly uninhabited houses known as the “elemental” houses. As the family gathers for their annual summer retreat, they become entangled in a web of secrets, supernatural forces, and ancient curses that have haunted the area for generations.

McDowell’s masterful storytelling weaves together a gripping tale of family secrets, dark magic, and the eerie presence of the elemental houses. The unsettling atmosphere and the slow build-up of tension will keep readers on the edge of their seats, making this a must-read for fans of books on haunted houses. With its richly drawn characters and spine-tingling suspense, The Elementals is a haunting and unforgettable journey into the heart of Southern Gothic horror.

The Ghost Writer

by John Harwood

The Ghost Writer by John Harwood is a captivating gothic mystery that delves into the eerie world of ancestral secrets and haunted estates. The story revolves around an aspiring writer, Gerard Freeman, who receives a mysterious package containing an old manuscript and a series of letters that unravel a haunting family history. As Gerard delves deeper into the dark past of his ancestors, he becomes entangled in a web of deceit, madness, and ghostly apparitions.

This book is a spellbinding exploration of the gothic genre, with its atmospheric settings, spine-tingling mysteries, and chilling revelations. Harwood’s masterful storytelling weaves together a tale of family curses, hidden identities, and the lingering specters of the past. The Ghost Writer is a haunting and atmospheric book about haunted houses that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

The House Next Door

by Anne Rivers Siddons

The House Next Door by Anne Rivers Siddons is a gripping tale of a seemingly idyllic suburban neighborhood that is turned upside down by the arrival of a mysterious new house. As the story unfolds, the house begins to exert a malevolent influence on those who live nearby, causing turmoil, tragedy, and terror.

This haunting and atmospheric novel explores the dark and sinister forces that can lurk behind the faรงade of a seemingly perfect home. Siddons weaves a chilling tale of supernatural horror, psychological suspense, and human frailty, drawing readers into a world where ordinary lives are disrupted by inexplicable events and unexplainable phenomena.

With its masterful storytelling and spine-tingling suspense, The House Next Door is a must-read for fans of horror, psychological thrillers, and books about haunted houses. Siddons’ evocative prose and skillful character development make this a truly unforgettable and unsettling journey into the heart of darkness.

The Haunting of Maddy Clare

by Simone St. James

The Haunting of Maddy Clare by Simone St. James is a gripping and atmospheric novel that takes readers on a journey into the world of the supernatural. Set in 1920s England, the story follows Sarah Piper, a young woman who takes on a job as a temporary assistant for a ghost-hunting team. The team is investigating the haunting of Maddy Clare, a young woman who died under mysterious circumstances. As Sarah delves into the case, she uncovers dark secrets and must confront her own fears as she becomes entangled in the ghostly events surrounding Maddy Clare. The novel is a compelling blend of mystery, romance, and the supernatural, with a richly detailed historical setting that adds to the eerie atmosphere. St. James skillfully weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the haunting of Maddy Clare unfolds. This book is a must-read for fans of ghost stories and those who enjoy a spine-tingling tale set in a haunted house.

The Ghosts of Sleath

by James Herbert

The Ghosts of Sleath by James Herbert is a gripping and chilling book about haunted houses. This supernatural thriller takes readers on a spine-tingling journey to the quaint English village of Sleath, where a series of inexplicable and terrifying events unfold. As the village becomes engulfed in an otherworldly darkness, the residents are forced to confront the malevolent spirits that haunt their homes.

Herbert masterfully weaves a tale of horror and suspense, drawing readers into a world where the line between the living and the dead blurs. The Ghosts of Sleath is a heart-pounding exploration of the supernatural, filled with ghostly apparitions, demonic possession, and unexplained phenomena. The author’s skillful storytelling and vivid descriptions create a sense of unease and dread that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

For fans of books on haunted houses and supernatural mysteries, The Ghosts of Sleath is a must-read that will leave you questioning the boundaries of reality and the afterlife.

Burnt Offerings

by Robert Marasco

Burnt Offerings by Robert Marasco is a classic horror novel that delves into the spooky world of eerie residences. This book on haunted houses takes readers on a chilling journey as it unfolds the haunting tale of the Allardyce family’s summer retreat. As the couple and their son settle into the sprawling estate, they soon realize that the house itself seems to be alive, and not in a good way. Strange occurrences, unexplainable events, and a pervasive sense of dread add to the spine-tingling atmosphere of the story. As the family becomes increasingly ensnared by the house’s sinister influence, they must confront the terrifying truth about the property’s dark history and the malevolent forces that reside within. Marasco’s masterful storytelling and skillful pacing make this haunted houses book a must-read for fans of supernatural thrillers and psychological horror. Burnt Offerings is a gripping and unsettling exploration of the horrors that can lurk within the walls of a seemingly idyllic home.

The House on Cold Hill

by Peter James

The House on Cold Hill is a spine-tingling book about a family who moves into a beautiful old house in the countryside, only to discover that it comes with a terrifying history. As they settle in, strange and unexplainable events begin to occur, and the family soon realizes that they are not alone in the house. The eerie atmosphere and unexplained occurrences create a sense of dread and suspense that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Peter James expertly weaves together a gripping tale of supernatural occurrences and psychological terror, drawing readers into a world where the line between the living and the dead is blurred. With its masterful storytelling and well-crafted characters, The House on Cold Hill is a must-read for anyone who loves a good haunted houses book. This haunting and atmospheric tale will leave readers questioning what lurks within the shadows of old, mysterious houses.

The Ghosts of Eden Park

by Karen Abbott

The Ghosts of Eden Park by Karen Abbott is a captivating non-fiction book that delves into the scandalous and mysterious world of bootlegging, gambling, and corruption in 1920s America. The book follows the larger-than-life figure of George Remus, a wealthy and extravagant bootlegger who ruled over the illegal alcohol trade in Cincinnati. As his empire grows, so does his notoriety, and soon Remus becomes entangled in a web of deceit, murder, and betrayal.

Abbott’s meticulous research and vivid storytelling bring to life the opulence and danger of the Prohibition era, immersing readers in a world of speakeasies, flappers, and illicit dealings. The Ghosts of Eden Park reads like a thrilling novel, with twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end. This book about haunted houses is a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, American history, or the allure of the Jazz Age.

Final Thoughts on Best Haunted Houses Books

Exploring the eerie and spine-tingling world of Haunted Houses is a thrilling experience for book enthusiasts. The 20 best books about haunted houses offer a captivating journey into the unknown, filled with ghostly encounters and unexplained phenomena. Whether you’re a fan of classic ghost stories or modern supernatural thrillers, these books are sure to send shivers down your spine and keep you on the edge of your seat. Dive into these haunting tales and immerse yourself in the chilling atmosphere of haunted houses.

Which book about Haunted Houses is best?

The best book on Haunted Houses can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Invited by Jennifer McMahon,
  2. The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell,
  3. The Broken Girls by Simone St. James.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Haunted Houses?

For those looking to learn about Haunted Houses, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Invited by Jennifer McMahon,
  2. The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell,
  3. The Broken Girls by Simone St. James,
  4. The Grip of It by Jac Jemc,
  5. The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters,
  6. The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson,
  7. The Woman in Black by Susan Hill,
  8. The Shining by Stephen King,
  9. Hell House by Richard Matheson,
  10. The Amityville Horror by Jay Anson

These books offer a range of perspectives on Haunted Houses, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Haunted Houses?

The best books about Haunted Houses are:

  • The Invited by Jennifer McMahon,
  • The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell,
  • The Turn of the Screw by Henry James,
  • House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski,
  • The Shining by Stephen King,
  • The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Haunted Houses are highly regarded, itโ€™s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Haunted Houses books of all time?

Choosing the best Haunted Houses books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Invited by Jennifer McMahon,
  • The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell,
  • The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters,
  • The Shining by Stephen King,
  • and The Turn of the Screw by Henry James.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Haunted Houses and continues to be influential today.