The Most Terrifying Reads: Best Horror Books of 2017

2017 was a banner year for horror aficionados, delivering a chilling array of novels that burrowed deep into our psyches and refused to let go. From supernatural terrors to psychological nightmares, the best horror books of 2017 offered a diverse feast of fear that satisfied even the most discerning palate. This wasn’t just about jump scares; it was about exploring the darkest corners of the human condition, confronting our deepest anxieties, and crafting narratives that lingered long after the final page was turned.

The horror genre has undergone significant evolution throughout literary history. In its nascent stages, horror often took the form of gothic tales and supernatural encounters, focusing on the unknown and the monstrous. Authors like Edgar Allan Poe and Mary Shelley laid the foundation, with stories that explored themes of death, madness, and the limits of scientific ambition. The 20th century saw a shift, with writers like H.P. Lovecraft introducing cosmic horror, highlighting the insignificance of humanity in the face of vast, unknowable entities. Stephen King then popularized horror with his character-driven novels that often reflected contemporary social anxieties. By 2017, horror had become a diverse genre incorporating elements of suspense, thriller, and psychological drama. This evolution reflects both the changing fears of society and the creative innovations of writers keen to tap into those anxieties, which is evident in the best horror books of 2017.

Unearthing the Scariest Reads from 2017

The landscape of horror in 2017 was rich and varied, offering something to frighten everyone. Whether you’re into ghost stories, psychological thrillers, or monsters that go bump in the night, there was a book that could keep you awake at night. So what were the standouts?

• The Changeling by Victor LaValle: This novel takes you on a wild ride through modern-day New York City, where a man’s idyllic family life is shattered by a series of strange events that may or may not be connected to folklore. LaValle masterfully blends realism with the surreal, creating an unsettling and unforgettable reading experience. The suspense is palpable, and the story delves into the terrors of parenthood and loss with a raw, haunting edge. For those who appreciate modern literary horror, this one’s a must.

• Sleeping Beauties by Stephen King and Owen King: When women around the world begin to fall into a deep, cocoon-like sleep, men are left to their own devices, and chaos ensues. This collaborative work from Stephen and Owen King is a perfect blend of their distinct styles. The novel is a thought-provoking commentary on gender dynamics and societal structures, all wrapped up in a chilling tale of suspense. To delve into the world of Sleeping Beauties and other King classics, exploring a list of stephen king books by year can provide a valuable context.

• My Heart is a Chainsaw by Stephen Graham Jones: This novel is a love letter to slasher films but is also a complex and heartbreaking story of a young woman who finds solace in horror movies. With its meta-narrative, it explores the nature of violence, trauma, and storytelling. The narrative is layered with meaning, inviting readers to analyze not only the on-page action but also its place in a broader context of horror and life itself. This book really makes you think as much as it makes you shudder.

• Ararat by Christopher Golden: Golden combines a supernatural tale with a gripping archaeological thriller. When a team of explorers discovers a hidden cavern on Mount Ararat, they unearth something ancient and terrifying. It’s a captivating blend of history, adventure, and creeping dread. Ararat is a great choice for readers who like their horror with a touch of intrigue and historical depth.

• The Grip of It by Jac Jemc: A couple trying to escape their past buys a house with a mind of its own. Jemc’s writing style is atmospheric and unsettling, creating a deep sense of unease that permeates every page. This novel examines how history and our past can literally haunt us. This book will make you think twice before buying a fixer-upper.

Diving Deeper into Subgenres and Themes

The diversity of 2017’s best horror books extended beyond plotlines. Different subgenres were well represented, offering a rich tapestry of terror:

• Psychological Horror: Books like The Grip of It and The Changeling excelled in this area, focusing on the breakdown of sanity and the blurring lines between reality and delusion. The fear in these stories comes not from the supernatural but from the instability of the human mind. They make us question our perceptions and challenge us to look inside ourselves.

• Supernatural Horror: Novels such as Ararat and even portions of Sleeping Beauties, brought back classic horror tropes with a contemporary twist. The monsters may be mythical or the threats supernatural, but the underlying themes are often very human. Such tales often explore our deepest anxieties about the unknown.

• Social Horror: Novels like My Heart is a Chainsaw weave in social commentary, using horror as a mirror to reflect societal issues, inequalities, and injustices. This genre forces us to confront uncomfortable truths about ourselves and the world around us.

The themes explored in 2017’s best horror books were as diverse as the subgenres, often tapping into our most primal fears:

• Fear of the Unknown: Many books explored our anxiety about what lies beyond our comprehension, whether it be supernatural forces or the dark depths of the human psyche. This fear is often the most potent, as it plays on our basic instinct for survival.

• Loss and Grief: Several stories used horror to depict the devastating impact of loss, trauma and the ways in which we cope with the inevitable. This approach made the stories relatable, even when they were at their most terrifying.

• The Monster Within: Some tales flipped the traditional monster narrative, focusing on the darkness inherent within us as humans. These stories show that sometimes, the most terrifying monsters are human. For more on complex character analysis within the horror genre, you might consider exploring books written by joe hill.

“Good horror doesn’t just scare; it makes you think and feel,” says Dr. Eleanor Vance, a specialist in Gothic literature and psychological horror from New York University. “The best horror books of 2017 did exactly that. They offered a diverse range of terrors that touched on deep-seated human anxieties.”

Why Did 2017 Deliver Such Great Horror?

The quality of the best horror books of 2017 wasn’t just random. Several factors contributed to this exceptional year:

• A Resurgence of Genre Interest: A broader cultural shift saw a renewed interest in horror, both in literature and film. This, in turn, fueled creativity and provided a space for authors to push boundaries.

• Blending of Genres: Many of the best horror novels were not purely horror but included elements of fantasy, thriller, and even literary fiction. This genre-bending approach appealed to a wider audience and brought fresh perspectives to the genre.

• Social Commentary: The socio-political climate in 2017 likely contributed to the darkness and themes explored in the literature, reflecting a time of anxiety and unease. This was a time of significant change and challenge, which often breeds compelling horror narratives.

• Authorial Innovation: Authors were taking risks with their narratives and pushing against expectations. They weren’t afraid to experiment with form and style, which resulted in a series of captivating, disturbing, and genuinely original works.

How to Find Your Next Great Horror Read

Looking for more books in the same vein as the best horror of 2017? Here are some tips:

1. Check Out Lists: Websites and blogs dedicated to horror often compile “best of” lists. These lists can be a great starting point for discovering new titles.
2. Explore Award Winners: Check out the winners and nominees of horror-specific literary awards. These are often great indicators of quality.
3. Read Reviews: See what other readers are saying about books. Reviews can help you determine whether a book will resonate with your tastes.
4. Follow Authors: If you liked a particular book from 2017, keep an eye on the author’s future publications and explore their back catalog. There is a good chance that if you enjoy their work, you will enjoy it again.
5. Look at Related Authors: If you enjoyed, say Stephen King’s foray into horror you might consider searching list of stephen king novels in order, or authors such as Adam Nevill by exploring some of the best adam nevill books.

“It’s all about finding what truly frightens you,” recommends Elias Thorne, a book reviewer and self-professed horror enthusiast based out of Boston. “Whether it’s a supernatural tale, a psychological thriller, or a monster-filled romp, there is a book out there to satisfy your taste for the macabre.”

Conclusion

The best horror books of 2017 offered a compelling and varied selection of terrifying narratives that both thrilled and challenged readers. From exploring the dark side of parenthood to blending horror with social commentary, these novels prove that the genre can be both terrifying and deeply thought-provoking. If you are looking for your next great scare, you’ll find plenty to love in the books that made 2017 a banner year for the macabre.

Related Materials: The release of the film adaptation of Stephen King’s IT in 2017 also fueled renewed interest in the horror genre and in his works specifically.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes a horror book “good?”
   A good horror book is one that effectively evokes a sense of dread, fear, or unease. It also often tackles deeper themes and has a compelling narrative with relatable characters.

2. What were some of the most popular subgenres in 2017 horror?
   Psychological horror, supernatural horror, and social horror were all very popular in 2017, showing a diverse and varied landscape in the genre.

3. Where can I find more recommendations for horror books?
   Look for “best of” lists on websites dedicated to the horror genre, read reviews, or explore award winners. Also consider searching authors similar to rl stine hall of horrors if you are looking for something on the more juvenile side.

4. Is 2017 considered a particularly strong year for horror books?
   Yes, many critics and readers agree that 2017 was a particularly strong year, offering a range of diverse and quality horror novels.

5. Why did social issues play a large role in many 2017 horror novels?
   The socio-political climate of 2017 likely contributed to the darker themes and social commentary seen in many horror novels of the time.

6. Are any of the best horror books of 2017 being adapted into movies or TV shows?
   Several books from 2017 have either been adapted or are in development. The Changeling was adapted into an acclaimed series.

7. What kind of reader would most appreciate the best horror books of 2017?
   Readers who enjoy suspense, psychological thrills, and complex narratives with thought-provoking themes will appreciate the best horror books from 2017.

8. Can horror novels be considered “literary”?
   Absolutely, many contemporary horror novels have literary merit, showcasing sophisticated prose and addressing complex themes. The Changeling is a great example of this trend in 2017.