There could be a variety of works in that category. For example, there might be novels that explore haunted houses, like Shirley Jackson's 'The Haunting of Hill House' - though this isn't from 2018. In 2018, perhaps there were new takes on serial killers in suspense novels, where the author builds tension by gradually revealing the killer's motives and identity through a complex web of clues and character interactions.
Some well - known works in horror and suspense often include works by Stephen King. But without specific research on the '2018 best horror and suspense fiction' list, it's hard to name exact titles. However, many horror and suspense novels deal with themes like the supernatural, psychological terrors, and mystery.
One of the best horror fictions is 'The Shining' by Stephen King. It's set in an isolated hotel and follows the Torrance family. The slow build - up of supernatural events and the psychological horror of Jack Torrance's descent into madness are truly terrifying. Another great one is 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker. It introduced the iconic vampire character, Count Dracula, and the dark, gothic atmosphere it creates still gives readers chills today. Also, 'Frankenstein' by Mary Shelley is a classic. It not only explores the horror of creating life but also delves into themes of isolation and the consequences of playing God.
One of the best horror fictions is 'The Shining' by Stephen King. It's set in an isolated hotel with a haunted past. The slow build - up of horror as the main character, Jack, descends into madness is truly terrifying. Another great one is 'Dracula' by Bram Stoker. It introduced the iconic vampire character that has been adapted countless times. And 'Frankenstein' by Mary Shelley is also a classic. It explores the themes of creation and the consequences of playing God, making it a thought - provoking horror story.
Another is 'The Monkey's Paw'. It's a story set on a Sunday perhaps (it doesn't specify but could be). A family comes into possession of a magical monkey's paw that grants wishes, but with horrible consequences. The suspense lies in the unknown nature of the wishes and the creeping horror of what will happen when they are made.
A really good horror suspense novel is 'Rosemary's Baby' by Ira Levin. It has a sense of creeping dread as Rosemary begins to suspect that something is very wrong with her pregnancy. The atmosphere in the apartment building where she lives adds to the overall sense of horror. Also, 'The Silence of the Lambs' by Thomas Harris is excellent. The cat - and - mouse game between Clarice Starling and Hannibal Lecter is full of suspense and the details of the serial killer investigations are spine - chilling.
Well, 'The King in Yellow' by Robert W. Chambers has to be mentioned. It has a very eerie and otherworldly feel, especially with the play within the book that seems to have a corrupting influence. 'The Sinking City' (both the game and the original inspiration for it in terms of the cosmic horror elements) is also notable. It dives deep into a city filled with dark secrets and eldritch abominations. 'The Ballad of Black Tom' by Victor LaValle is another great work. It reimagines a Lovecraftian story from the perspective of a person of color, adding new layers to the traditional cosmic horror tropes.
One of the best new horror fictions is 'The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires'. It combines the charm of a southern setting with terrifying vampire elements. Another great one could be 'Mexican Gothic', which offers a unique and spooky atmosphere with its old - fashioned mansion and strange family secrets.
I'm not sure specifically about the popular authors in 2018 for horror and suspense. But established names like Dean Koontz are often associated with the genre and might have had works or influenced those in the '2018 best horror and suspense fiction'.
One of the best is 'Gone Girl' by Gillian Flynn. It keeps you on the edge of your seat with its complex characters and plot twists. The story of a missing wife and the secrets that unfold is truly gripping.
Well, 'Rebecca' by Daphne du Maurier is a top - notch suspense novel. The unnamed protagonist's unease in the shadow of the mysterious Rebecca creates a great sense of suspense. Then there's 'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote. It's a non - fictional account but is written with such a suspenseful style. And 'The Talented Mr. Ripley' by Patricia Highsmith is also excellent. Ripley's devious actions and the web of lies he spins are full of suspense.
Well, 'Black' by Ted Dekker is a top - notch Christian suspense novel. It has a complex plot filled with twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. 'The River' by Michael Neale is another great choice. It's about a man's journey through loss and redemption, with elements of suspense woven in. 'The Dead Don't Dance' by Charles Martin is also worth mentioning. It's got a suspenseful storyline and a deep exploration of faith.