Who are some popular authors of contemporary horror stories?

Stephen King is a very well - known author in contemporary horror fiction. His works like 'It' and 'The Shining' have terrified readers for decades. Another is Clive Barker, known for his unique and often grotesque horror stories.

Carmen Maria Machado is a contemporary author known for her unique horror short stories. She often uses non - traditional narrative structures and explores themes like gender and identity through horror. Also, there's Kelly Link. Her stories are full of strange and unexpected twists that keep readers on their toes. She has a way of making the ordinary seem extraordinary and terrifying in her short horror works.

Lee Child is a well - known author in this genre. His Jack Reacher series features a tough and resourceful ex - military detective who travels around solving crimes. And then there's Karin Slaughter, whose novels often deal with gritty and disturbing crimes while also exploring the personal lives of the investigators.

There are quite a few. Craig Thompson is well - loved for his work like 'Blankets', which is a deeply personal and beautifully illustrated story. Also, Brian K. Vaughan has made a name for himself with series like 'Saga'. His work often combines science fiction elements with engaging characters and complex relationships. And let's not forget Raina Telgemeier. Her graphic novels, such as 'Smile', are very popular, especially among younger readers as they deal with relatable coming - of - age experiences.

Suzanne Collins is quite popular. She wrote 'The Hunger Games' series, which is set in a post - apocalyptic world where children are forced to fight to the death for entertainment. Another is Margaret Atwood. Her book 'The Handmaid's Tale' has been extremely influential. It shows a future where women are subjugated and used for reproductive purposes. And then there's George Orwell. His '1984' is a classic of dystopian literature and is still very relevant today.

John Green is a very popular author in contemporary YA fiction. His books like 'Paper Towns' and 'Looking for Alaska' are well - loved. Another one is J.K. Rowling with her 'Harry Potter' series, which has a young adult appeal. Also, Suzanne Collins with 'The Hunger Games' trilogy.

J.K. Rowling is quite popular. Her 'Harry Potter' series has captured the hearts of millions around the world. Another is Ian McEwan, known for his complex and thought - provoking novels like 'Atonement'. Kazuo Ishiguro is also a well - known contemporary English fiction author, with works such as 'Never Let Me Go' that explore themes of memory, identity, and mortality.

Nicholas Sparks is well - known for his romantic novels. His stories are usually set in a contemporary context and are full of love, heartbreak and hope. He has a way of creating characters that readers can really connect with on an emotional level.

One popular author is Christina Lauren. They write contemporary romance novels that are full of humor and steamy scenes. Also, Sally Thorne has made a name for herself with her engaging and relatable romances. Their books usually feature strong - willed female characters and charming male leads, and the chemistry between the characters is palpable.

Popular authors in contemporary crime fiction include Patricia Cornwell. She's known for her Scarpetta series. James Patterson is another. He has written numerous best - selling crime novels. And Lisa Gardner is well - regarded for her fast - paced and suspenseful stories. These authors have a wide readership because they are able to keep readers on the edge of their seats with their thrilling plots and interesting characters.