What is the most chilling book you've ever read?

[Beatgrrl]

At this time of year, I really love to snuggle up under a blanket, get all comfy and absolutely terrify myself with a great book and I could really use some recommendations. Which books have been absolutely bone-chillingly terrifying for you? Which have been the books that have left you too afraid to turn the lights out; too afraid to move? Which books have made you feel too scared to turn the page?

[bettybattenburg]

On the beach by Nevil Shute. That's strikingly sad at the moment given what is happening in Australia, though the cause is different.

[EnthusiasmIsDisturbed]

Dark Matter - it’s the setting the isolation the narrator feels it’s very atmospheric and the audio is great too. Had to sleep with the lamp on

Non fiction - Killing for Company it’s about Dennis Nilsen at times you feel desperately sad for him it’s an excellent book and The Stranger Beside Me about Ted Bundy his crimes and that he appeared like such a nice, smart likeable man is absolutely chilling.

[madcatladyforever]

American psycho. I was so disgusted after reading it I threw it in the bin.

[DaddyPigHasASexyVoice]

Another vote for Mo Hayder. I recently read one of hers called Tokyo. It had had poor reviews but I really enjoyed it and found it dark and unsettling. It’s definitely stayed with me.

We to talk about Kevin is superb.

Tried to read American Psycho while I was pregnant but couldn’t finish it as it was majorly freaking me out. Hormones probably didn’t help but I found it truly upsetting and disturbing.

[Hellokittymania]

I can’t read very chilling stuff or I get very bad nightmares… I remember reading something by Wilbur Smith when I was about 20, and a guy was murdered in the sauna or something… And I had nightmares about it for a long time after. Sorry, I can’t remember the name.

[Bouledeneige]

American Psycho. It's cruelty and delraviry gave my nightmares. I had to physically remove it from my bedroom and then threw it out.

[bobstersmum]

I read A child called it when I was about 20 long before I had my own children and it really got to me. I've never forgotten that book.

[Helocariad]

The Little Stranger really unnerved me, particularly the ending, and made me go straight back to the beginning of the book.
I love Slade House too, though didn't find it too unsettling, just very gripping and well written.

[Katharinblum]

Just read naomi's room. Started off really well but just nasty at the end.

[Srictlybakeoff]

Katharinblum I agree . Was initially enjoying Naomi’s room, but by the end I thought it was horrible.

[SunshineCake]

I haven't read he thread yet so thus may have been mentioned by what comes to mind is The Mother's Tale by Camilla Noli. I sometimes reread books but will never read this one again.

[mynameiswah]

The Shining. So scary I still haven't been able to finish it.

[WindFlower92]

Place marking to go through these properly later!

[WindFlower92]

My contribution - think it might be called 'No Way Down' by Graham Bowley. About the climb and descent of K2. Quite haunting as it's realistic!

[WindFlower92]

Forgot to add - 'The Fall of the House of Usher' by Poe. Vivid descriptions!