Books Like...
Carrion Comfort by Dan Simmons is a lengthy horror novel that delves into the chilling tale of a small group of individuals with the ability to control the minds of others. The story follows multiple plot lines that weave in and out of each other, keeping the reader engrossed with clever concepts and plenty of creepy moments. Simmons' writing style is described as detailed, epic, disturbing, and intense, with the ability to create a deep and intense read that takes more than one sitting to fully appreciate.
If you liked Carrion Comfort, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Set in the 1800s, 'The Terror' by Dan Simmons follows the ill-fated expedition of the HMS Erebus and HMS Terror as they search for the Northwest Passage through the Arctic. The story is a blend of historical fiction and supernatural elements, incorporating themes of survival, exploration, and the mysterious creature that stalks the crew, creating a chilling and suspenseful atmosphere. Simmons intricately weaves in elements of Inuit mythology, adding depth and a fresh perspective to the well-known historical event.
Simmons' writing style in 'The Terror' is described as detailed, immersive, and atmospheric, capturing the harsh conditions of the Arctic and the psychological struggles of the characters with precision. The novel keeps readers engaged with its mix of historical accuracy, nautical elements, and fantastical elements, making it a unique and captivating read that blurs the lines between reality and myth.
Captain Crozier comes up on deck to find his ship under attack by celestial ghosts. Above him — above Terror — shimmering folds of light lunge but then quickly withdraw like the colourful arms of aggr... - #2
'Summer of Night' by Dan Simmons is a horror story set in the fictional town of Elm Haven, IL in 1960. It follows a group of young boys as they embark on summer adventures, unaware of an ancient force trying to resurrect itself in their town. As mysterious deaths occur, the boys must band together to fight off this malevolent entity and prevent it from wreaking havoc on their community. intricately weaves elements of horror, coming of age, and supernatural genres, providing a nostalgic yet chilling tale of friendship, courage, and the battle against evil.
Girls played with dolls in the shadows of her classrooms and corridors and later died in childbirth. Boys ran shouting through her hallways, sat in punishment through the growing darkness of winter af... - #3
'Song of Kali' by Dan Simmons is a dark and chilling tale set in Calcutta, India, where journalist Robert Luzcak is sent to investigate new poetry by an Indian poet who was presumed dead. As he delves deeper, he uncovers a secret religious society devoted to the goddess Kali, the destroyer of life. The story is filled with suspense, horror, and a sense of impending doom from the very beginning, painting a vivid picture of the city as a monstrous entity in itself. The narrative explores themes of culture shock, supernatural elements, and the thin line between reality and manipulation, leaving readers on edge throughout the book.
It was June of 1977, and I had come down to New York from New Hampshire in order to finalize the details of the Calcutta trip with my editor at Harper's. Afterward I decided to drop in to see my frien... - #4
'Necroscope' by Brian Lumley follows the story of Harry Keogh, a powerful esper who can communicate with the dead and even raise them. The plot revolves around Harry's quest to uncover the truth behind his mother's death, defeat a powerful vampire, and stop an old vampire threat. The narrative is set in a Cold War era backdrop, involving espionage, supernatural elements, and a clash between good and evil. The writing style is described as a mix of horror, science fiction, and thriller, with intricate world-building and a focus on characters with paranormal abilities.
Central in a densely wooded tract of land not far out of the city—where the Serpukhov road passed through a saddle between low hills and gazed for a moment across the tops of close-grown pines towards... - #5
'The Only Good Indians' by Stephen Graham Jones is a horror novel that delves into the consequences of a past mistake made by four young Blackfeet men during an illegal elk hunt. The plot revolves around a vengeful entity, the spirit of a slaughtered elk, seeking revenge on the men ten years later in a chilling and suspenseful manner. The writing style is described as intense, lyrical, and poetic, with a strong focus on Native American culture and folklore. The story explores themes of justice, revenge, cultural identity, tradition, and the respect for nature, all while providing a unique and eerie setting on an Indian reservation.
So far it only comes on with its thready glow at completely random times. Maybe in relation to some arcane and unlikely combination of light switches in the house, or maybe from the iron being plugged... - #6
'The Lesser Dead' by Christopher Buehlman is a vampire tale set in 1978 New York City, following the story of Joey Peacock, who appears as a teenager but is actually in his 50s. Joey and his vampire pack live in the tunnels under the city, surviving by feeding on victims and using their ability to glamour. The arrival of young children vampires disrupts their harmony, leading to a battle for dominance. is praised for its period portrayal, including 1970s culture, and the compelling backstories of the vampire characters.
I’m going to take you someplace dark and damp where good people don’t go. I’m going to introduce you to monsters. Real ones. I’m going to tell you stories about hurting people, and if you like those s... 'NOS4A2' by Joe Hill follows the story of Victoria McQueen, a woman with a special ability to find lost things. Her ability leads her to Maggie, who can predict the future with scrabble tiles, and together they uncover a sinister man named Charles Manx who abducts children in his Rolls Royce Wraith to take them to a place called Christmasland. As Vic's fate becomes entwined with Manx's, the story unfolds into a dark and suspenseful narrative where Vic must protect her own son from the evil that threatens them.
delves into themes of horror, suspense, and the battle between good and evil, with well-developed characters like Vic and Charlie Manx. The writing style is described as eerie, suspenseful, and disturbing, with a unique blend of fantasy, horror, and psychological thriller elements that keep the reader engaged and on edge throughout the story.
She was coasting on autopilot, her thoughts not on her work. She had finally made up her mind to buy her son, Josiah, the Nintendo DS he wanted, and was calculating whether she could get to Toys “R” U...- #8
The Fisherman by John Langan is a cosmic horror novel that offers a fresh take on the genre, focusing on the underlying horror of loss rather than existential dread. The story follows Abe and Dan, two men bonded by heartbreak and fishing, as they are drawn to Dutchman's Creek by a local legend. The narrative weaves together elements of cosmic horror, quiet horror, and psychological terror, creating a dark and brooding tale that explores themes of grief, obsession, and the consequences of seeking the unknown.
I had most of it [Howard said] from Reverend Mapple. He was minister at the Lutheran Church in Woodstock, and what you’d call a local history buff. After I heard the story I’m going to tell you, I did... - #9
Fevre Dream by George R.R. Martin is a unique vampire novel set in the 19th-century Mississippi, focusing on the life of steamboat captain Abner Marsh and his partnership with an eccentric, vampire-like rich man. The book blends historical fiction with a fresh take on vampire mythology, showcasing detailed descriptions of riverboat life and a complex relationship between characters Joshua York and Damon Julian. Martin's writing style vividly captures the setting and atmosphere of the Mississippi river, while introducing twists to the traditional vampire lore.
Abner Marsh rapped the head of his hickory walking stick smartly on the hotel desk to get the clerk’s attention. “I’m here to see a man named York,” he said. “Josh York, I believe he calls hisself. Yo... - #10
"Heart-Shaped Box" by Joe Hill follows the story of aging rockstar Judas Coyne who purchases a haunted suit online, unknowingly acquiring a vengeful ghost along with it. The book delves into themes of ghosts, malevolent spirits, and the consequences of one's past actions. The plot is filled with suspense and eerie moments, keeping readers engaged as the story unfolds. Hill's writing style is described as well-crafted, suspenseful, and full of vivid descriptions that create a chilling atmosphere throughout the book.
He had framed sketches of the Seven Dwarfs on the wall of his studio, in between his platinum records. John Wayne Gacy had drawn them while he was in jail and sent them to him. Gacy liked golden-age D...