Who Are the Best Horror Novelist?

The question of who the best horror novelist is highly subjective and can vary based on individual preferences. This discussion delves into the works of notable authors and evaluates their contributions to the genre, focusing on specific novels that exemplify their talents.

The Best Horror Novels: A Comparative Analysis

Declan Finn

Declan Finn stands out as a unique voice in contemporary horror literature. His innovative approach to combating vampires and other monsters with a distinctive Catholic perspective makes his works stand out. Notably, his Love at First Bite series features a good female vampire supporting a psychopath, adding a complex layer of humanity to the supernatural genre. This makes Declan Finn a compelling choice for contemporary horror enthusiasts.

Runner-Up: Larry Correia

While perhaps not as avant-garde in his approach, Larry Correia's Monster Hunters International series showcases a group that seeks out and recruits individuals who have survived encounters with monsters. This dynamic presents a real-world, no-bullshit approach to the genre, appealing to those seeking gritty narratives fueled by action and survival instincts.

Defining the Novel in Horror

The debate over the length and form of a novel, particularly within the horror genre, adds another layer to this discussion. Kurt Vonnegut Jr.'s Slaughterhouse-Five and Fahrenheit 451 offer shorter yet profound narratives, while The Scarlet Letter and Lord of the Flies fall within a range of around 60,000 to 25,000 words. Personally, the idea of a book needing to be as long as necessary aligns with the quality of the content rather than the mere amount of text.

Given these considerations, the debate between authors like Arthur Machen and Howard Lovecraft becomes intriguing. Both are primarily known for their shorter works, but they have novels that can be considered novellas. For instance, Lovecraft's At the Mountains of Madness, weighing in at just over 40,000 words, and The Case of Charles Dexter Ward, which is over 50,000 words, offer substantial horror narratives.

Arthur Machen: An Underrated Giant

While Lovecraft is often hailed as a horror legend, Arthur Machen's works also deserve recognition. My favorite story by Lovecraft, At the Mountains of Madness, is rich in detail and imaginative horror, while The Case of Charles Dexter Ward is equally compelling. However, my personal preference leans more towards Machen's shorter works, such as The Three Imposters (56,000 words) and The Great God Pan (20,000-50,000 words). If these works meet the traditional criteria for novels, then Machen might take the title.

Conclusion: A Close Call

The horror genre is marked by a preference for short stories, attributing to a sense that long novels might not fully capture the essence of the genre. Authors Algernon Blackwood, Edgar Allen Poe, and Richard Matheson often capture the spirit of horror in their shorter works. I Am Legend by Richard Matheson and Hell House by Stephen King are notable examples, but they often fall short of Machen or Lovecraft's achievements in the long-form narrative.

Given the choices, Arthur Machen and Howard Lovecraft emerge as top contenders. One of these authors will undoubtedly stand out as the best horror novelist, depending on whether shorter stories or full-length novels are considered paramount.