The best 23 Sci-Fi Horror books

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Sci-Fi Horror Books: Blindsight by Peter Watts

Blindsight

Peter Watts

What's Blindsight about?

Blindsight is a gripping science fiction novel that delves into the mysteries of consciousness and the nature of intelligence. Set in the not-so-distant future, the story follows a crew of experts on a mission to investigate an alien presence in the outer solar system. As they uncover the truth behind the enigmatic entity, they are forced to confront profound questions about what it means to be truly aware.

Who should read Blindsight?

  • Readers with a fascination for hard science fiction and exploration of alien intelligence

  • Those who enjoy thought-provoking narratives that challenge conventional perspectives on consciousness and perception

  • Individuals who appreciate complex characters and intricate world-building in their reading experiences


2
Sci-Fi Horror Books: Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris

Definitely Dead

Charlaine Harris

What's Definitely Dead about?

Definitely Dead is a gripping novel by Charlaine Harris that delves into the supernatural world of vampires and werewolves. Set in the small town of Bon Temps, Louisiana, it follows telepathic waitress Sookie Stackhouse as she uncovers dark secrets and navigates dangerous alliances. With a mix of mystery, romance, and paranormal elements, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Definitely Dead?

  • Readers who enjoy supernatural and paranormal mysteries
  • Fans of urban fantasy and romance
  • Those who appreciate strong and relatable female protagonists

What's I Have No Mouth & I Must Scream about?

I Have No Mouth & I Must Scream is a dystopian science fiction collection by Harlan Ellison. The title story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where a malevolent supercomputer tortures the last few surviving humans. Each story explores themes of power, identity, and the darker aspects of humanity.

Who should read I Have No Mouth & I Must Scream?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and darkly imaginative science fiction

  • Those interested in exploring the darker aspects of human nature and the potential consequences of technology

  • People who appreciate stories that challenge their perspectives and leave a lasting impact


4
Sci-Fi Horror Books: All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris

All Together Dead

Charlaine Harris

What's All Together Dead about?

All Together Dead is a gripping novel by Charlaine Harris that delves into the world of vampires and supernatural beings. Set in a world where these creatures coexist with humans, the book follows telepathic waitress Sookie Stackhouse as she attends a vampire summit in the aftermath of a devastating hurricane. Filled with intrigue, danger, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read All Together Dead?

  • Readers who enjoy urban fantasy and paranormal romance
  • Fans of Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse series
  • People looking for a mix of mystery, humor, and supernatural elements in their reading

5
Sci-Fi Horror Books: Boneshaker by Cherie Priest

Boneshaker

Cherie Priest

What's Boneshaker about?

Boneshaker by Cherie Priest is a gripping steampunk novel set in an alternate 19th-century Seattle. When a mining machine goes awry and releases a toxic gas that turns people into zombies, a determined mother ventures into the walled city to rescue her son. Filled with action, adventure, and a unique blend of history and fiction, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Who should read Boneshaker?

  • Readers who enjoy a blend of steampunk and horror genres

  • Fans of alternative history with a focus on the American Civil War era

  • Those interested in strong, complex female protagonists navigating a dangerous and thrilling world


6
Sci-Fi Horror Books: Dead as a Doornail by Charlaine Harris

Dead as a Doornail

Charlaine Harris

What's Dead as a Doornail about?

Dead as a Doornail is a captivating mystery novel by Charlaine Harris. Set in a world where supernatural beings exist alongside humans, it follows telepathic barmaid Sookie Stackhouse as she gets entangled in a series of strange events in her small town. When shifters and werewolves in the community start turning up dead, Sookie takes it upon herself to uncover the truth and bring the killer to justice. With its compelling storytelling and unique blend of fantasy and mystery, this book keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Who should read Dead as a Doornail?

  • Individuals who enjoy supernatural mystery and thriller novels
  • Fans of urban fantasy with a touch of romance
  • Readers looking for a light and entertaining escape into a fictional world

7
Sci-Fi Horror Books: Infected by Scott Sigler

Infected

Scott Sigler

What's Infected about?

Infected by Scott Sigler is a gripping science fiction thriller that delves into the terrifying consequences of a mysterious alien infection. As the infection spreads, it turns its hosts into violent and deranged killers, threatening the entire human race. With a blend of scientific detail and heart-pounding action, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Infected?

  • Readers who enjoy fast-paced, suspenseful, and intense thrillers

  • Those interested in science fiction and bioengineering

  • People who are fascinated by the concept of mind-altering parasites and their potential impact on humanity


8
Sci-Fi Horror Books: End of Watch by Stephen King

End of Watch

Stephen King

What's End of Watch about?

End of Watch is a gripping thriller by Stephen King that follows retired detective Bill Hodges as he tries to stop a killer who can control people through a handheld gaming device. Filled with suspense and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read End of Watch?

  • People who enjoy thrillers and suspenseful stories
  • Fans of Stephen King's writing style and unique storytelling
  • Readers who appreciate well-developed and complex characters

9
Sci-Fi Horror Books: Dark Matter by Blake Crouch

Dark Matter

Blake Crouch

What's Dark Matter about?

Dark Matter by Blake Crouch is a gripping science fiction thriller that explores the concept of parallel universes and the choices we make. Jason Dessen is living an ordinary life until he is abducted and wakes up in a reality that is not his own. As he embarks on a mind-bending journey to find his way back, he uncovers the terrifying consequences of his own decisions. This thought-provoking and suspenseful novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Dark Matter?

  • Individuals who enjoy mind-bending and thought-provoking science fiction
  • Readers who are fascinated by the concepts of alternate realities and the nature of existence
  • Those who appreciate fast-paced storytelling and unexpected plot twists

10
Sci-Fi Horror Books: The Outsider by Stephen King

The Outsider

Stephen King

What's The Outsider about?

The Outsider by Stephen King is a gripping thriller that blurs the lines between the supernatural and the real world. When a beloved little league coach is accused of a heinous crime, detective Ralph Anderson is determined to uncover the truth. But as the evidence mounts, it becomes clear that something truly sinister may be at play. With King's trademark blend of suspense and horror, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read The Outsider?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and suspenseful stories
  • Fans of Stephen King's writing style and unique storytelling
  • Those who are intrigued by the concept of innocence and guilt, and the complexities of human nature

11
Sci-Fi Horror Books: The Shining by Stephen King

The Shining

Stephen King

What's The Shining about?

The Shining is a gripping novel by Stephen King that tells the story of the Torrance family, who move into the isolated Overlook Hotel for the winter. As the hotel becomes snowbound, terrifying supernatural forces start to take hold, driving the father, Jack, to madness and putting his wife and son in grave danger. This chilling tale explores themes of isolation, addiction, and the power of the supernatural.

Who should read The Shining?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological horror and supernatural phenomena
  • Fans of Stephen King's writing style and storytelling ability
  • Those interested in exploring themes of family dysfunction and the human psyche

12
Sci-Fi Horror Books: The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris

What's The Silence of the Lambs about?

The Silence of the Lambs is a psychological thriller that follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling as she seeks the help of incarcerated serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter to catch another killer on the loose. The book delves into the complex relationship between Starling and Lecter, and explores themes of power, manipulation, and the darkest corners of the human mind.

Who should read The Silence of the Lambs?

  • Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and crime fiction
  • Those with an interest in complex and captivating characters, such as the infamous Dr. Hannibal Lecter
  • People who appreciate skillfully crafted and intense storytelling

13
Sci-Fi Horror Books: The Stand by Stephen King

The Stand

Stephen King

What's The Stand about?

The Stand is a post-apocalyptic horror novel by Stephen King. Set in a world ravaged by a deadly virus, it tells the story of a group of survivors who are drawn into a final stand between the forces of good and evil. With its complex characters and gripping narrative, the book explores themes of societal collapse, redemption, and the battle for the soul of humanity.

Who should read The Stand?

  • Readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic stories
  • Fans of Stephen King’s writing and storytelling
  • Those interested in exploring themes of good vs. evil and the human condition

14
Sci-Fi Horror Books: Living Dead in Dallas by Charlaine Harris

Living Dead in Dallas

Charlaine Harris

What's Living Dead in Dallas about?

Living Dead in Dallas is a gripping novel by Charlaine Harris that delves into the supernatural world of vampires and shape-shifters. When telepathic waitress Sookie Stackhouse is asked to help find a missing vampire in Dallas, she uncovers a web of deceit and danger that puts her own life at risk. With its blend of mystery, romance, and the supernatural, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Living Dead in Dallas?

  • Readers who enjoy supernatural fiction, particularly involving vampires
  • Fans of the Sookie Stackhouse series or the "True Blood" TV show
  • Those looking for a mix of mystery, romance, and paranormal elements in their reading

15

What's The Day of the Triffids about?

The Day of the Triffids is a gripping science fiction novel by John Wyndham. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, it tells the story of a man named Bill Masen who wakes up to find that the majority of the population has been blinded by a meteor shower. As society crumbles, he must navigate the dangers posed by aggressive, mobile plants known as triffids. The book explores themes of survival, human nature, and the consequences of scientific experimentation.

Who should read The Day of the Triffids?

  • Science fiction enthusiasts who enjoy post-apocalyptic narratives
  • Readers interested in exploring themes of societal collapse and survival
  • Those curious about the potential consequences of genetic engineering and bioengineering

16
Sci-Fi Horror Books: Odd Hours by Dean Koontz

Odd Hours

Dean Koontz

What's Odd Hours about?

Odd Hours is a gripping novel by Dean Koontz that follows the adventures of Odd Thomas, a young man with the ability to communicate with the dead. In this fourth installment of the series, Odd finds himself in a small coastal town where he must unravel a sinister plot and confront a dangerous enemy. Filled with suspense, supernatural elements, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Odd Hours?

  • Readers who enjoy supernatural mysteries and suspenseful storytelling

  • Fans of Dean Koontz's unique blend of horror, humor, and heart

  • Individuals who appreciate well-developed characters and unexpected plot twists


17
Sci-Fi Horror Books: Brother Odd by Dean Koontz

Brother Odd

Dean Koontz

What's Brother Odd about?

Brother Odd is a gripping novel by Dean Koontz that follows the story of Odd Thomas, a young man with supernatural abilities. Seeking solace and redemption, Odd retreats to a monastery, only to find himself in the midst of a sinister conspiracy. With his keen intuition and unwavering determination, Odd uncovers dark secrets and confronts otherworldly forces in a thrilling battle between good and evil.

Who should read Brother Odd?

  • Readers who enjoy supernatural mysteries and thrillers

  • Fans of Dean Koontz's Odd Thomas series

  • Those looking for a compelling and thought-provoking story with memorable characters


18
Sci-Fi Horror Books: End of Watch by Stephen King

End of Watch

Stephen King

What's End of Watch about?

End of Watch is a gripping thriller by Stephen King that follows retired detective Bill Hodges as he tries to stop a killer who can control his victims through a handheld gaming device. With a blend of suspense, mystery, and supernatural elements, the novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Who should read End of Watch?

  • Readers who enjoy suspenseful and gripping thrillers

  • Fans of Stephen King's writing style and storytelling

  • Those interested in exploring the darker side of human nature and the psychology of a criminal mind


19
Sci-Fi Horror Books: From Dead to Worse by Charlaine Harris

From Dead to Worse

Charlaine Harris

What's From Dead to Worse about?

From Dead to Worse is the eighth book in Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse series. Set in a world where vampires and other supernatural beings exist, the book follows telepathic waitress Sookie as she navigates through a series of mysterious events and dangerous encounters. Filled with suspense, romance, and unexpected twists, this novel delves deeper into the supernatural politics and the complexities of Sookie's relationships.

Who should read From Dead to Worse?

  • Readers who enjoy supernatural mysteries and urban fantasy

  • Fans of Charlaine Harris' Sookie Stackhouse series

  • Those looking for a blend of romance, suspense, and supernatural elements in their reading


20
Sci-Fi Horror Books: Hyperion by Dan Simmons

Hyperion

Dan Simmons

What's Hyperion about?

Hyperion is a science fiction novel by Dan Simmons that takes place in a distant future where humanity has spread across the galaxy. It follows a group of seven pilgrims who embark on a journey to the mysterious planet Hyperion, each with their own unique story and reason for being there. As they share their tales, a larger narrative unfolds, revealing secrets and ancient powers that could change the fate of the universe.

Who should read Hyperion?

  • Science fiction enthusiasts looking for a complex and thought-provoking story

  • Readers who enjoy exploring philosophical and existential themes

  • Those interested in a narrative structure that weaves together multiple perspectives and interconnected stories


What's I Have No Mouth & I Must Scream about?

I Have No Mouth & I Must Scream is a chilling science fiction short story collection by Harlan Ellison. The title story takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where a supercomputer named AM has enslaved the last few humans. It explores themes of power, control, and the depths of human suffering.

Who should read I Have No Mouth & I Must Scream?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and dark science fiction

  • Those interested in exploring the ethical implications of advanced technology and artificial intelligence

  • People who appreciate stories that challenge traditional notions of humanity and morality


22
Sci-Fi Horror Books: Infected by Scott Sigler

Infected

Scott Sigler

What's Infected about?

Infected by Scott Sigler is a gripping science fiction thriller that follows the terrifying outbreak of a mysterious alien infection. As people across America become violent and deranged, a group of individuals must race against time to uncover the truth behind the epidemic and find a way to stop it. Filled with suspense and unexpected twists, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Who should read Infected?

  • Readers who enjoy fast-paced and gripping science fiction thrillers

  • Those interested in exploring the concept of a deadly and mysterious infection spreading across society

  • People who appreciate a blend of horror, suspense, and scientific elements in their reading material


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Sci-Fi Horror Books: Odd Hours by Dean Koontz

Odd Hours

Dean Koontz

What's Odd Hours about?

Odd Hours is a gripping novel by Dean Koontz that follows the adventures of Odd Thomas, a young man with supernatural abilities. As Odd arrives in a small coastal town, he becomes entangled in a web of mystery and danger. With a blend of suspense, humor, and the supernatural, Koontz takes readers on a thrilling journey through Odd's unconventional life.

Who should read Odd Hours?

  • Readers who enjoy supernatural mysteries and suspense

  • Fans of Dean Koontz's unique storytelling and quirky characters

  • Those looking for a fast-paced and engaging read that keeps them on the edge of their seat


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Sci-Fi Horror Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Sci-Fi Horror book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Blindsight as the ultimate read on Sci-Fi Horror.

What are the Top 10 Sci-Fi Horror books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Blindsight by Peter Watts
  • Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris
  • I Have No Mouth & I Must Scream by Harlan Ellison
  • All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris
  • Boneshaker by Cherie Priest
  • Dead as a Doornail by Charlaine Harris
  • Infected by Scott Sigler
  • End of Watch by Stephen King
  • Dark Matter by Blake Crouch
  • The Outsider by Stephen King

Who are the top Sci-Fi Horror book authors?

When it comes to Sci-Fi Horror, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Peter Watts
  • Charlaine Harris
  • Harlan Ellison
  • Charlaine Harris
  • Cherie Priest