8 Ghost Books To Read In 2025

When it comes to literature, there’s something uniquely captivating about ghost stories. They take us into the mysterious and unknown realms, allowing us to experience the thrill of the supernatural. Ghost books are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in eerie atmospheres, haunted houses, and the restless spirits that linger in the world of the living. If you're a fan of paranormal tales, you're in the right place. Below is a list of 8 ghost books to read, ensuring your literary journey is both chilling and fascinating.

1. The Family Plot by Cherie Priest

The Family Plot by Cherie Priest is a dark, atmospheric ghost story set in a decaying mansion with a sinister history. The story revolves around a salvage crew hired to dismantle an old mansion and retrieve valuable antiques. As they work, they begin to experience strange and unexplainable occurrences. The spirits of the past seem to have a presence in the house, and as the crew uncovers secrets about the mansion’s previous inhabitants, they realize that the ghosts might not be ready to leave just yet. The novel blends the supernatural with suspenseful horror, creating an immersive experience for those who enjoy haunted house stories.

2. The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House is one of the most celebrated ghost novels of the 20th century. Hill House itself is a character in its own right, a sprawling mansion that seems to have a life of its own. The story centers around four individuals—Dr. John Montague, Eleanor Vance, and two others—as they investigate the paranormal occurrences within Hill House. Jackson’s rich, atmospheric writing and exploration of psychological terror make this novel an absolute classic for fans of the genre.

3. Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier

While Rebecca is often categorized as a gothic romance, it has all the eerie elements that ghost lovers crave. The novel follows the unnamed protagonist, who marries the wealthy widower Maxim de Winter, only to be haunted by the memory of his first wife, Rebecca. The presence of Rebecca looms over the entire story, and readers are constantly left wondering whether the ghostly occurrences are a manifestation of guilt, madness, or something more supernatural. With its eerie atmosphere and psychological depth, Rebecca is a masterpiece that haunts long after the last page is turned.

4. The Woman in Black by Susan Hill

The Woman in Black by Susan Hill is a chilling and atmospheric ghost story that has kept readers on the edge of their seats for decades. The novel follows Arthur Kipps, a young solicitor who is sent to a remote village to settle the affairs of the deceased Mrs. Drablow. While there, Kipps encounters a mysterious woman in black, whose presence seems to bring misfortune and death. The novel’s chilling atmosphere and slow-building tension make it a haunting read from beginning to end.

5. Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

For those looking for a modern take on the ghost story, Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a must-read. Set in 1950s Mexico, the novel follows Noemí Taboada, a young woman who is called to a decaying mansion to check on her cousin, who has recently married a man with strange and sinister ties. The novel expertly combines elements of gothic horror with Mexican folklore, creating a unique and atmospheric experience. The eerie setting, combined with an unsettling atmosphere and ghostly happenings, makes this novel a standout in the genre.

6. The Black Prism by Brent Weeks

Although The Black Prism is primarily a high fantasy novel, it contains supernatural and ghostly elements that will appeal to fans of the genre. The novel follows Gavin Guile, the world’s most powerful “Chromaturge,” who can manipulate light to create material objects, as he grapples with the return of a mysterious force known as the “Black Prism.” While the book revolves around fantasy and politics, the ghostly presence of the past, the spirits of those who have died, and eerie supernatural occurrences make it a compelling read. The haunting elements of The Black Prism intertwine with its epic plot, creating an atmospheric and suspenseful adventure for those looking for more than just a traditional ghost story.

7. Ghost Story by Peter Straub

Peter Straub’s Ghost Story is a classic ghost novel that weaves together mystery, horror, and the supernatural. The story revolves around a group of elderly men who regularly gather to tell each other frightening tales. However, one of their stories proves to be all too real when a series of terrifying and unexplainable events begins to occur. Straub’s masterful storytelling and atmospheric tension make Ghost Story a compelling read for fans of spooky literature.

8. The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters

The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters is a gothic ghost story set in post-World War II England. The novel follows Dr. Faraday, a country doctor who becomes involved with the Ayres family, who live in a crumbling mansion. As strange events begin to occur, Dr. Faraday becomes increasingly drawn into the mysteries of the house and its inhabitants. Waters’ exploration of class, trauma, and the supernatural makes this book both thought-provoking and eerie. The slow-burning tension and sense of dread build to a satisfying and unsettling conclusion.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking a psychological thriller, a classic gothic tale, or a contemporary twist on the genre, these 8 ghost books offer something for every type of reader. Ghost stories have an enduring appeal that continues to captivate audiences, and these books represent some of the best examples in the genre. From chilling atmospheres to spine-tingling suspense, each of these novels promises to haunt your imagination long after you’ve turned the last page.