The insanely good gothic reading list for 2026
Looking for the best Gothic Reading List of 2026? These are my favourite gothic books that I would recommend to anyone who likes books on the gothic side.
As the months get colder, gothic reading lists become increasingly more sought after. Me? I read Gothic books all year round, to me they are the ultimate form of comfort on a cosy night in. Because I read from my gothic reading list all year round, I know precisely what to recommend.
So whether you are a seasoned gothic reader, or new to the genre and need some inspiration. I have the perfect gothic reading list for you.
After learning about all the best gothic books to add to your gothic reading list, you are going to be extra prepared for your next spooky night at home.
So light your candles, and curl up with a cosy drink and a nice warm blanket, because this post it all about the insanely good gothic reading list for 2026.
How to Use This Gothic Reading List
This list includes a mix of classic, modern, cosy, and deeply unsettling gothic reads. If you’re new to the genre, start with the more accessible novels before moving into heavier or more experimental works. If you’re a seasoned gothic reader, use this as a long-term TBR to dip in and out of based on mood and season.
I have categorised these gothic texts into four sections for ease of access. No two gothic readers are the same, and their taste in books should not be either. Start by finding the section that appeals to your personal literary taste.
- Cosy & Accessible Gothic
- Classic Gothic Foundations
- Psychological & Literary Gothic
- Dark & Experimental Gothic
29 Gothic books readers are raving about right now- By Category
For those of you who share my gothic spirit guide, the one and only Morticia Addams, I have a list which is perfect for you. One that would make even her proud, I hope. Below I have compiled 29 Gothic reads, some I have read, some are on my TBR, and a few have had gothic readers raving for ages. Pick some out, and comment below what you thought.
Cosy & Accessible Gothic Reads
Best for readers new to gothic fiction, or experimenting with the genre. I love this section as these are major comfort reads, perfect for a cosy Autumn evening.
Coraline– Neil Gaiman
Coraline is, potentially, my favourite gothic story ever, and definitely my most read and watched story ever. Gaiman has create a wonderfully creepy world that satisfies everything you hope a gothic story will have. Potentially the shortest book on this list, this book is PERFECT for child or adult alike- A rare quality to have. This book can easily be read in one day, so don’t skip it.
The Graveyard Book – Neil Gaiman
Following a boy raised by ghosts, this novel balances darkness with warmth and humour. It’s an excellent introduction to gothic themes without heavy horror, making it ideal for cosy, reflective reading.
I Know What You Did Last Wednesday – Anthony Horowitz
A fantastic, witty, spooky parody of classic murder mysteries, this is a lighter gothic read perfect for younger readers or adults wanting something clever rather than frightening.
11/10, A brilliant children’s read, or non scary adult read. It really is brilliant and funny, and so fantastically put together, would 100% recommend.
Practical Magic – Alice Hoffman
A soft gothic novel centred on sisterhood, love, and inherited curses. Atmospheric rather than scary, it’s perfect for cosy, reflective reading.
he Night Circus – Erin Morgenstern
A magical competition between rival illusionists unfolds in a dreamlike traveling circus. Atmospheric and gothic adjacent.
he Halloween Party – Agatha Christie
A murder mystery set during a Halloween party, with Hercule Poirot investigating.
Classic Gothic Foundations
Essential reading for immersing yourself with the roots of the gothic genre.
Dracula – Bram Stoker
A cornerstone of gothic fiction, Dracula combines horror, desire, and fear of the unknown. Its slow-building tension and epistolary format reward patient readers who enjoy immersive atmosphere.
Frankenstein – Mary Shelley
More philosophical than frightening, Frankenstein explores ambition, isolation, and responsibility. It’s a must-read for readers interested in the moral and emotional depths of gothic literature.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow – Washington Irving
A classic American gothic tale blending folklore with psychological unease. Its autumnal atmosphere makes it a perfect seasonal read.
Northanger Abbey – Jane Austen
A playful satire of gothic conventions that still captures the genre’s charm. Best appreciated with some familiarity with gothic tropes.
The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde – Robert Louis Stevenson
A chilling examination of duality and repression. Short but powerful, it remains deeply relevant.
The Picture of Dorian Gray – Oscar Wilde
A young man’s portrait ages and decays while he remains outwardly youthful and corrupt.
9/10, the novel is full of philosophy and aestheticism, as well as dark academic themes.
Wuthering Heights – Emily Brontë
A haunting exploration of obsession and revenge set against the Yorkshire moors. Its emotional intensity defines classic gothic literature.
Psychological & Literary Gothic
For readers who enjoy ambiguity, introspection, and slow-burning dread
The Thirteenth Tale – Diane Setterfield
A reclusive author recounts her dark, gothic past full of secrets and ghosts.
The Haunting of Hill House – Shirley Jackson
A group of strangers stays at a haunted house with terrifying and results. One of the most unsettling gothic novels ever written, relying on psychological tension rather than shock. Its ambiguity makes it linger long after finishing.
20/10, one of my favourite books ever, and one of the only books that’s ever scared me.
We Have Always Lived in the Castle – Shirley Jackson
A quiet, claustrophobic novel about isolation and fear. Subtle but deeply unsettling.
REBecca – Daphne du Maurier
A masterclass in atmosphere and psychological suspense. This novel’s gothic power lies in what’s implied rather than shown, making it impossible to put down.
10/10, a murder novel where you can’t tell who you are rooting, Du Maurier does a fantastic job of creating the perfect gothic novel.
Shining – Stephen King
Something that must change in my life is this is the only King book I have read. It took me a while to grow to like, but once I did I was hooked. This creepy story, suggested to me by Joey in Friends, is definitely a story that has stayed with me for a long time after it was finished. I can’t wait to watch the film adaptation if its anything as good as the book. You should definitely add this to your gothic reading list for 2026.
The Secret History – Donna Tartt
A dark academic novel blending obsession, morality, and elitism. While not traditional gothic, its mood, themes, and emotional intensity firmly place it within modern gothic literature.
100/10, another one of my favourite books ever, with the most beautiful writing.
The Turn of the Screw – Henry James
A governess suspects her wards are haunted by sinister ghosts in a story of eerie ambiguity.
Dark & Horrific Gothic
For seasoned gothic readers seeking intensity or experimentation.
An Interview with a Vampire – Anne Rice
I love this story, it is so much more than just a story about vampires, but a deeply existential portrayal of guilt, grief, mortality and morality. Through the story we follow the character’s demise into an existential pain so consuming it tears them apart. The novel is stunning, and a brilliant first to the Vampire Chronicles series.
9/10, if you like books with philosophical undertones and vampires, then this one is for you.
Carmilla – J. Sheridan Le Fanu
A pioneering vampire novella that influenced Dracula. Rich in gothic atmosphere and themes of secrecy and desire.
Dark Tales – Shirley Jackson
A collection of unsettling short stories revealing the darkness beneath everyday life. Ideal for bite-sized gothic reading.
9/10, so good, so creepy, the perfect gothic short story collection for haunted nights.
The Woman in Black – Susan Hill
A traditional ghost story built on slow-burning dread and atmosphere. Perfect for readers who prefer subtle horror.
7/10, a haunted house story.
The Complete Tales and Poems – Edgar Allan Poe
A definitive collection of gothic macabre exploring madness, guilt, and death. Best for readers who appreciate poetic intensity.
The Crucible – Arthur Miller
A play about the Salem witch trials and a pretty good display of how women were treated and manipulated into harming each other. A gothic-adjacent play exploring hysteria, fear, and power. While not supernatural, its themes align strongly with gothic tradition.
8.5/10, not only is this a great gothic read, it’s also builds a pretty good picture of how women were condemned.
House of Leaves – Mark Z. Danielewski
A challenging, experimental novel that blurs form and fear. Best suited to readers who enjoy unconventional storytelling.
exican Gothic – Silvia Moreno-Garcia
A modern gothic novel set in a decaying mansion filled with secrets. Combines classic gothic elements with fresh cultural context.
Something Wicked This Way Comes – Ray Bradbury
A poetic gothic novel exploring fear, innocence, and temptation through a sinister carnival setting.
Gothic fiction isn’t just about fear – it’s about atmosphere, emotion, and the uncomfortable parts of human nature. Whether you prefer cosy gothic, literary darkness, or psychological horror, this list offers a range of entry points for every kind of reader in 2026.
This Post was All about my insanely good gothic reading list
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If you have any other gothic recommendations, comment them below, I would love to read them!
