Humans have an innate talent for crafting spine-tingling tales that send shivers down each other’s spines. However, it’s fascinating to note that what we consider terrifyingly frightening varies greatly from person to person. While some are petrified by the mere mention of ghosts or hulking figures with knives, others may find their deepest fears in more abstract terrors. When asking readers about the scariest books ever written, you’re likely to get a unique response from each individual.
Horror movies often reflect the cultural anxieties of their time and place, but horror novels can be trickier to pin down. Due to the publishing timeline, new releases may have been acquired two years prior to their publication date, with some being completed even further in advance. While this doesn’t preclude horror literature from serving as a gauge for our collective fears, it does make it more challenging to pinpoint specific anxieties.
The popularity of horror novels experienced a surge in the latter half of the 20th century before dipping in readership during the late 1990s and early 2000s. The housing market collapse in 2008 marked a turning point, as zombies emerged as an unexpected driving force behind the genre’s revival. Below, I’ve curated a list of 50 terrifying books that span across the rich spectrum of frightening literature produced over the last 150 years or so.
Whether you’re looking for something to send goosebumps down your spine or merely seeking out a new tale to devour, there’s sure to be something on this list that will leave you sleeping with the lights on.
50 Scariest Books Of All Time
The Great God Pan and Other Horror Stories by Arthur Machen (1890)
In this collection, the title novella unfolds around Clarke, an investigator who delves into cases involving madness, debauchery, and supernatural forces after witnessing a doctor irreparably harm a young woman in a quest for religious fervor. As he chronicles these bizarre encounters for future generations, Clarke is confronted by a seductress with extraordinary power.
Blending sensuality, grotesqueness, and despair, Arthur Machen’s horror tales continue to exert a profound influence on the genre, leaving readers unsettled and unnerved.
The King in Yellow by Robert W. Chambers (1895)
Preceding the works of H.P. Lovecraft, The King in Yellow stands as an influential precursor that shares a thematic similarity. Comprising a loose collection of stories centered around a fictional play with the same name, this work exudes an aura of mystery and foreboding. Its potency is so great that it has been almost universally censored, rendering it all the more tantalizing to those who seek out its forbidden knowledge.
Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell (1949)
George Orwell’s iconic novel, Nineteen Eighty-Four, is a dystopian masterpiece that has stood the test of time since its release over seven decades ago. The story revolves around Winston, a seemingly ordinary individual who secretly rebels against the totalitarian regime in England, now rebranded as Airstrip One. As a propagandist by day and a thought-criminal by night, Winston’s dual identity underscores the pervasive surveillance and control that permeate this dystopian world.
Notably, Nineteen Eighty-Four has transcended its publication date to remain a cultural touchstone in contemporary society, where concerns about government surveillance and militarization are more pressing than ever.
Night by Elie Wiesel (1956)
As I delved into this book, I was struck by the stark contrast between my college courses on the Third Reich and the harrowing reality that unfolded before me. Having studied the subject under esteemed professors who didn’t shy away from the atrocities of Nazism, I thought I was prepared for the worst.
But nothing could have fully prepared me for the devastating accounts that Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel shares in this poignant book, the first installment in a trilogy that delves into the far-reaching impact of the Holocaust.
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson (1959)
Shirley Jackson’s classic tale, The Haunting of Hill House, has long been a benchmark for spine-tingling haunted-house stories. This chilling narrative follows the journey of a paranormal investigator and his two new assistants as they venture into the mysterious Hill House alongside its future owner.
As the group delves deeper into the residence’s labyrinthine architecture, they’re confronted with an array of inexplicable occurrences that leave them questioning whether the house is indeed haunted or if their own perceptions are playing tricks on them.
Burnt Offerings by Robert Marasco (1973)
In stark contrast to the snowy isolation of Stanley Kubrick’s iconic film ‘The Shining’, this captivating novel transports readers to a stunning coastal vacation home during the peak of summer. The Rolfes, a family seeking refuge from city life in search of a tranquil getaway, find themselves instead entangled in a web of intrigue and chaos.
The Auctioneer by Joan Samson (1976)
In the realm of horror fiction, Grady Hendrix has aptly compared The Auctioneer to Cormac McCarthy’s Needful Things. This eerie tale unfolds in a small New Hampshire town called Harlowe, where leaf-peepers flock to marvel at the fall foliage. At its center is John Moore, a humble farmer trying to eke out a living on his family farm on the outskirts of Harlowe. When an enigmatic auctioneer arrives in town, the local police chief springs into action.
What begins as a charitable endeavor – a series of auctions to benefit the policemen’s cause – soon spirals out of control as Harlowe’s residents become overwhelmed by the sheer scale and desperation of the requests for donations. As the stakes rise, it becomes clear that something sinister lurks beneath the surface of this quaint town.
The Amityville Horror by Jay Anson (1977)
Blending elements of a true-crime story and horror novel, The Amityville Horror defies categorization. Authored by Jay Anson and others, including the renowned Ed and Lorraine Warren from The Conjuring, this book has captivated readers with its purported account of a terrifying American haunting. Regardless of one’s beliefs about the paranormal, the chilling tale of a couple’s 30-day ordeal in the notorious site of a gruesome sextuple homicide is an unmissable horror classic.
Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews (1979)
As the grieving mother of four, Corrine Dollanganger faced an uncertain future after her husband’s untimely passing. The financial strain was overwhelming, leaving her no choice but to turn to her estranged parents for support. Malcolm Foxworth, a wealthy millionaire, and his wife, were the only ones who could provide the necessary assistance.
However, their reunion came with a set of unusual conditions, including one peculiar requirement: Malcolm was not to be aware that Corrine’s children were living in his home.
The Stranger Beside Me by Ann Rule (1980)
Imagine being privy to the inner workings of a serial killer’s life without realizing their sinister intentions. This was precisely Ann Rule’s experience when she worked at a crisis hotline alongside Ted Bundy in the 1970s. Her firsthand account of this period would later form the foundation of her most chilling and bestselling true-crime book, one that meticulously details how seemingly ordinary Bundy manipulated those around him.
The eerie notion that evil can masquerade as normalcy is what makes Rule’s story so unsettling.
Pet Sematary by Stephen King (1983)
Stephen King’s oeuvre is so vast and diverse that narrowing it down to a single scariest book proved a daunting task. The lack of consensus among fans only added to the challenge. However, one title stands out for its ability to tap into our deep-seated fears: Pet Sematary. This novel’s relatability factor is through the roof – who hasn’t experienced the pain of losing a cherished pet or loved one and secretly wished they could turn back time?
Louis Creed’s well-intentioned yet misguided attempts to reunite his family are a masterclass in building tension, culminating in an ending that’s as unsettling as it is visceral.
The Wasp Factory by Iain Banks (1984)
At just 16 years old, Frank Cauldhame had already committed a shocking crime, taking the lives of three children when he was still very young. However, it’s worth noting that this phase of violence was ultimately short-lived. As Frank grew older, his preoccupations shifted towards more ritualistic practices aimed at safeguarding the island where he resides with his father. These rituals frequently involve a morbid fascination with killing and maiming animals – including the titular wasps.
But when Eric, Frank’s troubled older brother, manages to escape from a psychiatric hospital and begins making his way back home, Frank realizes that the mystical energies he wields over the land won’t be enough to keep Eric at bay.
Tomie by Junji Ito (1987)
Tomie Kawakami’s captivating physical appearance is undeniable, leaving an indelible mark on those who cross her path. Her striking beauty has the power to elicit both awe and desperation in those around her. Some men are willing to risk everything – even their freedom – just to be near her. Yet, despite her allure, Tomie’s presence also brings about chaos and destruction.
Those who succumb to her charm often find themselves trapped in a cycle of devastation, with some ultimately meeting a tragic end. And yet, Tomie seems to defy mortality, returning again and again, like a force of nature that refuses to be extinguished.
The Cipher by Kathe Koja (1991)
The concept of ‘l’appel du vide’ – the call of the void – is a fascinating phenomenon that can have profound effects on individuals. It’s as if there’s an innate attraction to the unknown, the void, or the abyss. This allure is so powerful that it can prompt people to take risks and make decisions that might seem irrational or even reckless. The French term captures the essence of this mystifying force that drives us to explore, investigate, and sometimes sacrifice everything for its sake.
In the context of the story, Nakota’s curiosity about the Funhole was irresistible, drawing her back time and again. Similarly, when Nicholas put his hand down the void, everything in their lives changed irreversibly.
Parasite Eve by Hideaki Sena (1994)
In the video game franchise inspired by Hideaki Sena’s novel Parasite Eve, a fusion of medical thriller and sci-fi horror unfolds. The narrative posits that human mitochondria have evolved into a collective consciousness known as Eve, capable of exerting mind control over individuals to further its singular objective: facilitating humanity’s next evolutionary leap.
The Hot Zone: The Terrifying True Story of the Origins of the Ebola Virus by Richard Preston (1994)
Richard Preston’s 1994 book, The Hot Zone, stands out among nonfiction works on this list. This microhistory delves into viral hemorrhagic fevers that spread rapidly, are nearly always fatal, and often prove difficult to cure. Its notoriety has been revived twice in recent years – once during the West African Ebola outbreak in 2014 and again as COVID-19 cases surged in 2020.
Deadrush by Yvonne Navarro (1995)
In a bold move that earned it a Stoker Award nomination, Deadrush is a thought-provoking tale that revolves around Jason, a teenage boy whose life takes an unexpected turn after he’s bitten by venomous snakes during a charismatic church service. As the life slips away from his mortal form, Jason finds himself revived with a remarkable gift – the ability to raise others from the dead.
Suddenly, he’s hailed as a miracle-worker, commanding attention and reverence from all corners of Chicago’s back alleys. However, this newfound power comes with a haunting reality: the string of newly resurrected individuals that follow in his wake are plagued by an insatiable hunger, leaving them to grapple with the dark consequences of their own reanimation.
Exquisite Corpse by Billy Martin, writing as Poppy Z. Brite (1996)
In the depths of New Orleans’ underbelly, an unlikely duo emerged – Andrew and Jay, two cannibalistic serial killers who initially sought each other’s demise. However, their fates intertwined in a twisted game of murder and mayhem, mirroring the infamous Bonnie-And-Clyde dynamic. As they continued to prey on victims, their sights were set on Tran, a teenager Jay desired to love and Andrew craved to kill.
Unbeknownst to these two killers, another figure lurked in the shadows, driven by desperation and a hunger for vengeance – a man with nothing left to lose.
Voices from Chernobyl: The Oral History of a Nuclear Disaster by Svetlana Alexievich (1997)
For nearly four decades, the catastrophic events at Chernobyl have sparked intense curiosity, leaving many questions unanswered. How did a seemingly routine operation spiral out of control so quickly? What accounted for the incredible resilience of survivors? And when can people safely return to the contaminated area surrounding the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant?
While the full extent of the disaster may forever remain shrouded in mystery, Nobel laureate Svetlana Alexievich offers a unique opportunity to gain insight into the tragedy through the firsthand accounts of those who lived it, as presented in her poignant work, Voices from Chernobyl.
The Rape of Nanking: The Forgotten Holocaust of World War II by Iris Chang (1997)
In 1937, Japan’s Imperial Army launched a brutal invasion of Nanjing, then the capital of China. Estimates suggest that hundreds of thousands of Chinese soldiers and civilians – including women, children, and the elderly – lost their lives over a six-week period, with tens of thousands subjected to sexual violence. Sixty years later, ‘The Rape of Nanking’ became a definitive historical account of this devastating episode in World War II.
The book’s research, led by Iris Chang, has been credited with contributing to her tragic death in 2004. While I rarely caution readers about potentially disturbing content, I urge you to exercise sensitivity when reading this book, especially if you’re already vulnerable.
Audition by Ryū Murakami (1997)
Based on Ryū Murakami’s novel, Takashi Miike’s 1999 film Audition revolves around Aoyama, a filmmaker still reeling from the loss of his wife. To find his next partner, he conducts a series of fake auditions, which leads him to Yamasaki, a young ballerina who captivates him with her elegance and charm. As their relationship blossoms, Aoyama becomes smitten, convinced that Yamasaki is the perfect woman to fill the void left by his wife’s passing.
However, as he delves deeper into her mysterious past, he discovers a dark side to Yamasaki that threatens to destroy the fragile harmony they’ve built.
House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski (2000)
While some readers may find ‘House of Leaves’ to be one of the most polarizing horror novels out there, for those who do connect with it, the experience is often unsettlingly immersive.
The unconventional structure, which deliberately keeps the reader at a remove from the central narrative – a bizarre documentary about a family’s eerie encounter with an otherworldly architecture – can leave you feeling perpetually uneasy, as if the book’s dark presence lingers just beyond the edge of your peripheral vision.
Yalo by Elias Khoury (2002)
In Elias Khoury’s gripping novel, Yalo, the protagonist finds himself entangled in a complex web of violence and trauma set against the backdrop of war-torn Beirut in late-20th-century Lebanon. As the protagonist’s violent escapades catch up with him, he is left struggling to make sense of his tumultuous past, grappling with the blurred lines between truth and fiction.
With the police relentless in their pursuit of a confession from Yalo, the question remains: can he ever hope to uncover the truth behind his alleged crimes, or will his traumatic experiences forever remain shrouded in mystery?
Come Closer by Sara Gran (2003)
As the days blend together, Amanda’s grip on reality begins to slip. Her personal and professional connections fray at the edges, like a tapestry slowly unraveling. The same sharp-featured woman haunts her dreams, leaving Amanda with an unsettling sense of disorientation. The most disconcerting aspect, however, is the inexplicable time loss – hours ticking away without her even noticing. A wise folk-medicine practitioner offers a dire warning: demonic possession.
But as Amanda struggles to comprehend this eerie possibility, she can’t shake the nagging doubt – do people truly become possessed, or is it just an ancient myth?
Confessions by Kanae Minato (2008)
With a heavy heart, Yuko’s teaching career came to an abrupt end after the tragic loss of her 4-year-old daughter, Manami. The thought of continuing to teach after such a devastating event was unimaginable for Yuko. On her final day at school, she gathered her middle-school students around her for one last, poignant and powerful lecture.
It’s clear that Yuko is consumed by a burning desire for justice – she knows exactly who is responsible for Manami’s death and is determined to make them pay, no matter the cost or consequences.
The Resurrectionist by Wrath James White (2009)
Amatka by Karin Tidbeck (2012)
In the bustling metropolis of Essre, Vanja has always known how to navigate its dangers. Like everyone else in her community, she’s developed a unique coping mechanism – giving names and definitions to the things around her. This habit, born from fear of losing control, has become second nature. However, when Vanja is dispatched to a secluded commune on the periphery of civilization, she’s forced to confront the harsh realities that lurk in the wilderness.
Her modern upbringing in Essre, which prides itself on its progressive values and urban sophistication, has left her woefully unprepared for the terrors that await her in this unforgiving environment.
You by Caroline Kepnes (2014)
As Beck’s serendipitous encounter with the charming bookstore employee, Joe, blossoms into a seemingly idyllic romance, she attributes it to mere chance. Yet, unbeknownst to her, every aspect of their meeting has been meticulously orchestrated by Joe. His calculated moves have positioned them exactly where he desires, and his grip on their relationship is unyielding.
Perfect Days by Raphael Montes (2014)
Teo’s unwavering devotion to Clarice is evident in every detail of their relationship. He has always envisioned her as the perfect life partner, and his ultimate goal is to make her deepest desires a reality. However, when Clarice rejects him, Teo finds himself with no other option but to prove to her just how much she’s settling for by taking drastic measures – abducting her and embarking on an impromptu cross-country adventure.
Wonderland by Jennifer Hillier (2015)
In this gripping 2015 novel, readers are introduced to Seaside’s newly appointed deputy police chief as she delves into two seemingly unrelated crimes that rock the town’s beloved amusement park, Wonderland. As Vanessa investigates the suspicious death of a local resident and the sudden disappearance of a young boy, she must navigate the complex web of secrets and allegiances that threaten to destroy Wonderland’s reputation – and Seaside’s economic stability – forever.
With the fate of her community hanging in the balance, Vanessa must tread carefully to uncover the truth without alienating the very people who depend on Wonderland’s success.
Tender Is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica (2017)
The Vegetarian by Han Kang (2007)
In South Korea, where vegetarianism is not a cultural norm, Yeong-hye’s decision to abandon meat-eating in an attempt to exorcise the disturbing visions that plague her is met with skepticism by her family. Initially, they are resistant to the change, but as Yeong-hye’s struggles persist, she takes increasingly drastic measures to alleviate her suffering. Unfortunately, her loved ones’ pushback against these measures has a profound impact on all parties involved.
Fever Dream by Samanta Schweblin (2014)
In a hospital bed, Amanda’s life hangs precariously in balance as she receives an unusual visit from David, a mysterious young boy with no apparent connection to her. Yet, he remains steadfast by her side, peppering her with questions about the onset of her illness. Meanwhile, Amanda harbors a dark secret about David’s troubled past, one that has left an indelible mark on him and forever changed his perspective on life.
The tension builds as Samanta Schweblin weaves together a debut novel that is equal parts taut thriller and psychologically charged exploration of the human psyche.
The Fisherman by John Langan (2016)
John Langan’s Stoker Award-winning novel explores the complex bond between two men, Abe and Dan, as they navigate their grief after losing their wives. The story takes a haunting turn when they embark on a fishing trip to Upstate New York, seeking solace in the mysterious Dutchman’s Creek, where legend has it that mourners can reconnect with loved ones who have passed away.
However, they soon discover that the true nature of this place is far more sinister, and their willingness to confront the darkness lurking beneath the surface remains uncertain.
The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell (2017)
Elsie’s marriage to Rupert was meant to be her ticket out of a lifetime of pain, providing closure from the traumatic events of her childhood. But fate had other plans. Before even setting foot in her new husband’s ancestral home, Elsie found herself widowed, left to navigate the challenges that came with being pregnant and alone. Little did she know, this marked the beginning of a journey into the mysteries of The Bridge, a foreboding manor house shrouded in local legend.
Its eerie ‘silent companions’ – wooden figures strikingly similar to people from her own past – seemed to hold secrets of their own, waiting patiently for Elsie’s arrival.
The Hunger by Alma Katsu (2018)
The Donner Party’s ill-fated journey from Independence to California is etched into history books. The group, which set out with high hopes and grand ambitions, found themselves trapped in a merciless mountain range for an arduous winter. As the harsh environment took its toll, desperation crept in, leading some members of the party to turn to an unthinkable measure: cannibalism.
This gruesome chapter in American history has captivated the imagination of many, including author Alma Katsu, who explores the eerie circumstances surrounding the Donner Party’s demise in her novel The Hunger. Katsu’s take on this tragic event offers a chilling spin on the events that unfolded, attributing the party’s downfall to forces beyond the natural world.
The Rust Maidens by Gwendolyn Kiste (2018)
The Chestnut Man by Søren Sveistrup (2018)
In a shocking turn of events, Copenhagen police have linked a recent string of murders to a high-profile kidnapping case. What’s more astonishing is the eerie similarity between each crime scene – a doll crafted from chestnuts and matches awaits investigators at every gruesome discovery. A peculiar twist: one of these dolls bears the fingerprints of a victim who has been deceased for over a year.
As the stakes rise and the killer’s MO becomes increasingly sinister, two determined detectives embark on a perilous game of cat and mouse to outwit the culprit in ‘The Chestnut Man’.
Little Eve by Catriona Ward (2018)
Catriona Ward’s critically acclaimed sophomore novel, ‘Little Eve’, is set for its American debut in 2022. The story revolves around Little Eve herself, as she readies for a pivotal ritual that will ultimately bring about the apocalypse. In this world, only those deemed worthy by The Adder – a powerful deity – will be spared. Eve’s goal is to secure the divine blessing, which holds immense power.
Meanwhile, an investigator embarks on a journey to a remote Scottish island, only to find it eerily drenched in blood upon arrival.
In the Dream House by Carmen Maria Machado (2019)
The stark reality is that queer individuals who have experienced domestic violence are frequently overlooked in conversations about this pressing issue, despite its alarming prevalence across the nation. A poignant example of this can be found in Carmen Maria Machado’s innovative memoir, ‘In the Dream House’, which masterfully employs horror elements to recount the harrowing abuse she endured at the hands of her former partner.
When No One Is Watching by Alyssa Cole (2020)
As gentrification transformed her beloved Brooklyn neighborhood, a long-time resident teamed up with one of the area’s newest arrivals to develop a walking tour that would preserve the community’s vibrant history. Sydney and Theo’s project took shape, but as they delved deeper, they discovered that the exodus of many of Sydney’s old neighbors wasn’t solely driven by rising housing costs.
Lakewood by Megan Giddings (2020)
Forced to abandon her college plans due to unforeseen circumstances, Lena found herself grappling with the weight of her family’s substantial debt. Seeking a solution, she took on a job at a pharmaceutical company in Lakewood, Michigan, where the benefits package included housing and health insurance. With her salary comfortably covering her family’s expenses, Lena was able to breathe a sigh of relief.
Yet, as she delved deeper into the company’s work, she couldn’t shake off the feeling that something wasn’t quite right about the medical experiments being conducted in town. As she spent more time getting to know Lakewood, Lena’s initial optimism began to wane, replaced by growing unease and a sense of disquiet.
The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones (2020)
In the heart of Blackfeet country, a centuries-old vendetta unfolds as Ricky, Lewis, Gabe, and Cass face retribution for a grave mistake. The four men’s hunting excursion went awry when they ventured onto their elders’ sacred game reserve, triggering a transgression that has haunted them ever since. As the quartet’s families begin to fall prey to an unseen force, it becomes clear that the hunters have become the hunted.
A malevolent presence stalks its quarry, driven by an insatiable hunger for revenge against those who so callously disregarded the ancient traditions and customs of their people.
The Hollow Places by T. Kingfisher (2020)
As a nod to Algernon Blackwood’s eerie tale The Willows, T. Kingfisher’s The Hollow Places weaves a mystical narrative around one woman’s journeys through a parallel reality. Kara’s life takes an unexpected turn when her uncle, the proprietor of the quirky roadside attraction Glory to God Museum of Natural Wonders, Curiosities and Taxidermy, is hospitalized.
Left in charge, Kara stumbles upon the museum’s most bizarre secret: a portal leading to another world where trees converse – and harbor secrets that threaten to upend everything she thought she knew.
The Queen of the Cicadas by V. Castro (2021)
Six decades after the enigmatic death of Milagros, whispers persist that her spirit still roams the south Texas town where tragedy struck. A peculiar phenomenon has emerged: calling out for La Reina de Las Chicharras, the Queen of the Cicadas, is said to conjure her presence.
Hector, a former curandero struggling with his faith, acquires the plantation where Milagros met her demise, and as he delves into uncovering the truth behind her murder, he unwittingly unleashes a force that will soon make everyone familiar with the haunting tale of Milagros.
Butcherbird by Cassie Hart (2021)
As the anniversary of the devastating fire that claimed the lives of Jena’s parents and siblings approaches, secrets begin to unravel. Twenty years ago, Grandma Rose sent her away, but now, as the elderly woman clings to life, Jena sees a chance to uncover the truth about the tragedy that defined her childhood. With the guidance of Rose’s devoted caregiver, she delves into the dark past of her family’s estate, only to confront a malevolent force that will stop at nothing to destroy them all.
This Thing Between Us by Gus Moreno (2021)
Thiago’s life was turned upside down when his wife passed away suddenly. He never anticipated that her death would be exploited by the media, making it even harder for him to cope. Seeking solace in solitude, Thiago fled their former home in Chicago and found himself in a secluded cabin in Colorado.
However, his efforts to escape the turmoil were thwarted as the same dark energies that had haunted their apartment seemed to follow him to his new sanctuary, leaving him feeling trapped and without an escape route.
The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas (2022)
In this spine-tingling tale, reminiscent of classic horror novels like Rebecca and Mexican Gothic, The Hacienda delves into the psyche of a young bride, Beatriz, as she arrives at her husband’s grand estate, Hacienda San Isidro, for the first time. Orphaned recently, marrying Don Rodolfo Solórzano offers Beatriz a sense of security that is hard to come by in this world.
While there are whispers about the mysterious death of her new husband’s previous wife and the reluctance of his sister-in-law to stay overnight at Hacienda San Isidro, Beatriz finds solace in her new home. Or so she thinks.
Number One Fan by Meg Elison (2022)
Eli’s world was turned upside down when she discovered someone had spiked her drink without her knowledge. The realization hit her like a ton of bricks as she found herself trapped in a dingy basement with no escape route in sight. Her captor seemed to be fixated on something connected to Eli’s bestselling novels, but what did they really want from her? And more importantly, was there a connection between her kidnapper and her life outside the basement walls?
The Devil Takes You Home by Gabino Iglesias (2022)
Mario’s desperation drove him to commit unspeakable crimes, sacrificing his morals to pay for his daughter’s life-saving medical treatments. His marriage imploded, leaving him with nothing but bitter memories and a future shrouded in uncertainty. With no other options left, he turned to the underworld of organized crime, lured by the promise of easy money from one of the world’s most notorious cartels.
But as Mario delved deeper into their treacherous game, he found himself entangled in a web of deceit and violence, forced to navigate a complex, high-stakes chess match with no clear endgame or escape route.