Horror anthologies have long been a cornerstone of the genre, offering readers a diverse range of unsettling tales. In recent years, a number of collections have captured the imaginations of horror lovers, with some even earning nominations for prestigious awards like the Bram Stoker Awards.
Let’s dive into a selection of these chilling books, including those recognized in 2023 for Superior Achievement in an Anthology.
Recent Horror Anthologies
- Damnable Tales: A Folk Horror Anthology (2021)
Edited by Richard Wells, Damnable Tales delivers a beautifully illustrated collection of folk horror stories. Featuring both classic and contemporary tales, this anthology immerses readers in eerie landscapes and age-old fears. Wells’ attention to atmospheric detail ensures this book is a must-read for fans of the subgenre.
- The Best of Dark Terrors: 20 Years of Dark Terrors (2023)
This anthology showcases a curated selection of stories from the Dark Terrors series, a defining name in horror anthologies. Featuring works from celebrated authors, this collection highlights the best in psychological and supernatural horror, honoring the series’ rich history.
- The Gathering Dark: An Anthology of Folk Horror (2022)
Erica Waters assembles an evocative collection of folk horror aimed at a younger audience. These stories explore haunted landscapes and the terrifying weight of generational trauma, all while maintaining a compelling sense of dread.
- Queer Little Nightmares: An Anthology of Monstrous Futures (2022)
Edited by David Ly and Daniel Zomparelli, this anthology challenges traditional horror tropes by centering queer perspectives. The collection reimagines monsters and creatures as metaphors for identity, struggle, and resilience, resulting in a thought-provoking and deeply original work.
- When Things Get Dark: Stories Inspired by Shirley Jackson (2021)
Edited by Ellen Datlow, this anthology pays homage to Shirley Jackson’s influence on horror. Featuring stories from authors like Paul Tremblay and Joyce Carol Oates, the collection offers unsettling narratives that echo Jackson’s talent for quiet, creeping terror.
2023 Bram Stoker Anthology Award Nominees and Winner
The Bram Stoker Awards, presented by the Horror Writers Association, recognize excellence in the genre.
Here are the standout anthologies that vied for the honor in 2023:
Nominees
- Never Whistle at Night: An Indigenous Dark Fiction Anthology (2023)
Edited by Shane Hawk and Theodore C. Van Alst Jr., this groundbreaking anthology showcases Indigenous voices. Each story intertwines cultural specificity with universal horror themes, making it a standout collection.
- When Things Get Dark: Stories Inspired by Shirley Jackson (2021)
This anthology’s inclusion among 2023 nominees underscores its lasting impact. Its blend of psychological horror and literary homage remains a benchmark for the genre.
- American Cannibal (2023)
This visceral collection explores themes of consumption, both literal and metaphorical. Its stark and unsettling narratives leave a lasting impression on readers who dare to dive in.
- Drive-In Multiplex (2023)
Christopher Golden curates a nostalgic yet terrifying exploration of horror rooted in cinema culture. The collection merges campy thrills with genuine scares, making it a unique addition to the list.
- Shakespeare Unleashed (2023)
What happens when Shakespearean drama meets horror? This inventive anthology reimagines classic works like Hamlet and Macbeth through a terrifying lens, blending literary homage with gothic chills.
Winner
Out There Screaming: An Anthology of New Black Horror (2023)
Edited by Jordan Peele and featuring contributions from authors like N.K. Jemisin and Tananarive Due, Out There Screaming is a landmark anthology. The stories reflect Black experiences while delving into universal fears, creating a resonant, haunting collection. Its win cements its status as a modern horror classic.
Whether you’re drawn to the creeping unease of folk horror, the introspective terror of Shirley Jackson-inspired tales, or the groundbreaking perspectives of contemporary anthologies, these collections offer something for every horror fan.
The Bram Stoker nominees and winner further highlight the genre’s ability to evolve while staying rooted in timeless fears. Explore these titles and discover the chilling stories that are redefining horror for a new generation.