As the cold winds start howling and the nights grow longer, I find there’s nothing better than curling up by the fire with a spine-chilling story in hand. (Oh, what I would give ot have a fireplace again.) Winter gives us the perfect backdrop for eerie tales that stir the imagination and send just the right amount of shivers down our spines.
Whether you’re a horror buff or simply looking for something a little unusual to read during the season, diving into these 10 creepy stories can bring warmth to those frosty evenings while satisfying your craving for mystery and suspense. I’m excited to share titles that not only capture the cold, dark atmosphere of winter but also showcase a variety of storytelling styles – from classic horror vibes to modern psychological thrillers.
I will say, I tried to avoid some of the easy inclusions. I could have super easily included Stephen King‘s ‘Misery‘ and ‘The Shining‘ or Dean Koontz’s ‘Winter Moon‘ to name a few.
Read on, and prepare to make your next fireside reading an unforgettable one.
Top Picks
How I Picked These Eerie Winter Reads
To bring you this list, I focused on books and anthologies that capture the essence of winter horror – stories that make you feel the chill both outside and within the pages. I looked for well-rated titles with a mix of formats including novels, anthologies, and novellas. Also, all being books that I’ve read or listened to.
Strong storytelling, atmospheric writing, and a balance between classic spooky themes and unique, fresh takes were important factors. I also took reader reviews into account, emphasizing books that maintained suspense without dragging, offered engaging characters, and delivered clever twists.
Finally, affordability and availability across popular platforms were part of the criteria, so you can easily get started on your next scary read by the fire.
The Winter People
If you’re like me and love getting lost in a story that chills you to the bone while you’re all cozy by the fire, “The Winter People” is a solid pick. It’s this eerie mix of mystery and supernatural suspense that’s perfect for slower winter nights.
The story switches between creepy past happenings and a present-day mystery that keeps you guessing. It’s not just about ghosts; it dives deep into grief and intense family bonds, so it hits you emotionally, too. Whether you’re driving through snowy roads or curling up with a blanket, this audiobook feels like a suspenseful companion that sets just the right haunting vibe for the season.
What People Say
Readers appreciate the haunting atmosphere and the way the story weaves between past and present. The pacing is slow but builds suspense steadily, and the narration is often praised for really drawing you into the eerie world.
🗣️ Lornwal
THE WINTER PEOPLE reminded me of some of my favorite, creepy, atmospheric horror stories like “Pet Sematary.” The slow buildup of horror, interwoven mysteries, and well-developed characters really pulled me in. The author manages to keep the mythology believable without bogging the story down with too many rules, which kept me on edge and genuinely invested in the tragic and chilling story.
🗣️ Irene Sarah Biju
This was a masterpiece with well-described characters and a fantastic blend of past and present storylines. The supernatural elements and the thriller vibe had me hooked from start to finish – I literally finished it in one go. It’s perfect for fans who like a mix of mystery, horror, and suspense with a side of emotional depth.
Perfect For Winter Evenings
The winter setting and wintry isolation in the story make it the perfect companion for dark, cold nights when all you want is a little spooky distraction by the fire.
Deeper Emotional Layers
Besides the creepy chills, it explores grief and the intensity of family bonds in such a way that you can’t help but feel connected – not just scared.
Engaging and Spooky
If you like piecing together puzzles while shivering under your blanket, this novel’s twists and haunting secrets deliver enough tension and surprise to keep you hooked.
Why You’ll Like It
- Atmospheric storytelling that perfectly captures a chilly, isolated winter vibe
- Blends mystery, supernatural elements, and psychological thriller for a layered experience
- Strong, relatable characters with emotional depth, especially around family and loss
- For those looking for a listen, the unabridged audiobook narrated by skilled voices that bring the story to life
Current Price: $0.99
Rating: 4.1 (total: 8202+)
Christmas and Other Horrors
This collection is one of those rare gems that sneaks up on you while you’re wrapped in a blanket and sipping something warm. Edited by the legendary Ellen Datlow, it’s packed with eerie stories from a bunch of great authors, each bringing their own twist to winter solstice and holiday horror myths. What I loved about this collection is how it mixes folklore with fresh scares, so you get everything from creepy Austrian traditions to ghostly visits during Christmas.
Honestly, I picked up the audiobook of this one, and it’s the kind of thing you’d play in the background during a slow evening by the fire or even on your daily commute when you want a little thrill without going full-on terror mode. If you enjoy dipping your toes into spooky tales that have heart and culture, this anthology definitely fits the bill.
What People Say
Listeners and readers often mention how the anthology strikes a nice balance between creepy folklore and new twists, making each story feel like a fresh discovery rather than the usual holiday scares.
🗣️ B. Burris
Great reading lead up to Christmas, reading a story every other day. Alma Katsu’s ‘His Castle’ is a standout – it’s a spectacular folk horror story that’s stunning in mood and execution. I’ve read a ton of horror shorts over the years, and this one ranks up there as one of the best in the past decade.
🗣️ trey williams
This collection keeps you hooked with its mix of stories centered on winter solstice nights. Some are excellent while others left me wanting more, but the great endings truly stood out. It felt like getting just the right seasonal horror fix, easy and fun to read.
Seasonally Spooky
These stories are perfect for the long, dark nights of winter, especially when you want to lean into the eerie side of the holidays without going full-on terror.
More Than Just Scares
Besides the unsettling chills, the anthology taps into deeper fears and traditions around family and celebration, making it feel both creepy and oddly comforting.
Intriguing and Enjoyable
If you enjoy tasting a little bit of legend mixed with the unexpected, each story delivers a bite-sized thrill that’s easy to get hooked on.
Why This Works
- Explores unique winter solstice myths and festive horrors from around the world
- A variety of chilling tales from highly respected horror authors
- Perfect length stories for casual reading or to savor in one go
- Rich blend of folklore and original storytelling that feels fresh
Current Price: $0.99
Rating: 4.0 (total: 300+)
Winter Shocks (Holiday Horrors)
This collection is like a cozy blanket wrapped around a spooky campfire. With contributions from over 50 international writers, it offers a mix of eerie tales that fit perfectly into those quiet winter evenings. Whether you’re unwinding after a busy day or looking for stories with a dark twist on holiday traditions, this anthology has something that’ll catch your interest.
The stories are bite-sized yet powerful, allowing you to jump in for a quick scare or dive deeper for a more lingering chill. It’s a great fit for anyone who loves their seasonal reading served with a side of creepiness.
What People Say
Readers often mention the diversity in story styles and how it balances eerie with festive, making it an enjoyable seasonal horror fix.
🗣️ Nell Picariello
I absolutely adore these kinds of anthologies. There are a number of different types of story here. Some of love to read larger stories and some are just eerie and perfect.
🗣️ Amazon Customer
Good Book.
Winter Night Reads
Ideal for curling up during cold winter nights when you want just the right touch of spooky atmosphere.
Chills with Heart
It taps into the tension and traditions around family gatherings, turning familiar holiday moments into something thrillingly unpredictable.
Quick Scares, Big Enjoyment
Each story delivers a quick, satisfying scare with enough variety to keep your curiosity piqued from start to finish.
What Makes It Stand Out
- A wide variety of chilling tales from numerous talented authors
- Perfect short stories for quick reads around the fire
- Combines holiday themes with classic horror for a unique seasonal vibe
- Easy to pick up and put down without losing track
Current Price: $2.99
Rating: 4.7 (total: 9+)
The Darkest Night
This collection is like sitting by the fire with a cup of something warm, except it sneaks up on you with twists and chills instead of marshmallows. Edited by Lindy Ryan, it brings together some of the biggest names in horror, each offering a unique take on winter’s darkest moments.
Whether it’s a haunted Christmas cabin or bizarre creatures lurking in the snow, these stories are short, sharp shocks that fit perfectly into cozy nights in. It’s a great anthology for anyone who loves their seasonal reading with a bit of edge – easy to dip into without committing to a long read and guaranteed to keep you looking over your shoulder.
What People Say
Readers praise the variety in story styles and how the blend of eerie and festive elements makes it a standout winter read.
🗣️ KateRockLitChick
I love anthologies and especially when it includes many of my favorite authors and a few new to me! Perfect for horror fans and a great gift for horror lovers.
🗣️ Amazon Customer
If you’re like us and love finding fresh seasonal tales, The Darkest Night hits all the marks – from creepy holiday scenes to unforgettable monsters. Some stories had me shocked and even teary-eyed. Definitely a chilling yet heartwarming read for winter nights.
Cozy Up With Chills
Ideal for cold nights when you want to feel snug yet get a little thrill from a story that chills you to the bone.
Dark Twists on Warm Memories
The stories capture familiar winter vibes but twist them with dark surprises that keep the emotions tangled between nostalgia and suspense.
Short Scares, Strong Impact
Each story is a quick ride of suspense, creepy ideas, and unexpected endings that make this anthology impossible to put down.
Why This Book Works
- Short, gripping tales that keep you hooked through each page
- Features well-known bestselling authors alongside fresh voices
- Perfect for reading around cold, quiet winter nights
- Mix of holiday themes and classic horror for unique seasonal flavor
Current Price: $13.56
Rating: 4.1 (total: 75+)
Fireside Ghost Stories
This collection takes you back to a time when ghost stories were a key part of Christmas Eve, stirring up just the right amount of spooky to keep you hooked. It’s packed with tales from classic masters alongside lesser-known gems, mixing eerie holiday vibes with chilling supernatural encounters.
Whether you’re curled up alone or sharing scares with friends, these stories bring a dark, atmospheric twist to your winter reading. It’s perfect for anyone craving a little shiver alongside their seasonal traditions – though maybe keep a blanket nearby.
What People Say
Readers love the mix of familiar and new voices, and how the collection captures that old-world chilling charm perfect for winter nights.
🗣️ gypsygirl
The book’s stories vary in length, from quick chills to longer rides, and include some authors I knew plus new ones I enjoyed discovering. Perfect for reading aloud or quietly by the fire, though I wish the print was bigger – it’s tiny and can make your eyes work overtime.
Perfect For Winter Vibes
Brings a cozy yet unsettling feel ideal for those quiet, cold evenings when the fire is crackling and your imagination runs wild.
Warm Memories With an Eerie Edge
The stories tap into nostalgic holiday feelings but twist them just enough to keep you a bit on edge – comforting yet thrilling.
Bite-Sized Chills That Stick With You
Each tale delivers a unique thrill, whether it’s a slow burn or a sudden shock, making it easy to jump between stories without losing the mood.
What Makes This Anthology Stand Out
- A diverse mix of classic and lesser-known authors keeping the winter horror vibe fresh
- Stories with varying lengths to fit quick breaks or longer reading sessions
- Great atmosphere for seasonal reading – spooky, cozy, and nostalgic
- Perfect balance of eerie tales that feel festive without being cliche
Current Price: $9.99
Rating: 4.6 (total: 14+)
Night Terrors: The Frozen Lake
I find this anthology perfect for those long winter nights when the wind is howling outside and you just want to lose yourself in something eerie but beautifully written. Lucien Vale has a knack for blending classic gothic vibes with modern psychological thrills, so these stories aren’t just about scares – they dig into the cold isolation and haunting memories that come with winter. Whether you’re reading alone by the fire or sharing with a friend who loves a good fright, these tales bring a fresh, icy twist to horror that feels both timeless and very now.
What People Say
Readers rave about how the collection balances haunting atmospheres with strong emotional storytelling, making the horror feel intimate and real.
🗣️ Andrea V
After loving The Devil’s Big Top, I couldn’t wait to dive into Night Terrors: The Frozen Lake – and it absolutely delivered. The stories are haunting and atmospheric, each one dripping with tension and icy dread. Lucien Vale has a gift for turning ordinary settings into places of quiet terror and unexpected beauty. This second collection feels colder, more introspective, and even more refined than the first.
🗣️ Jeannette
Where the first book burned with fire and spectacle, this one freezes you to the bone in the best possible way. The stories are beautifully written, eerie, and full of emotional depth. Lucien Vale has a real gift for making horror feel human, with themes of memory, loss, and what we bury beneath the surface. The imagery is haunting, and the cold creeps into every page.
A Cozy Yet Creepy Winter Read
Provides just the right kind of spine-tingling chill to make those cold, quiet evenings feel a little less lonely and a lot more thrilling.
Chilling Stories With Heart
The stories tap into themes of loss, isolation, and hidden fears that seem to wrap around you like a cold winter night, stirring up feelings beyond just simple scares.
Varied Tales That Keep You Guessing
Each story offers a different flavor of dread – from subtle whispers beneath the ice to ghostly rituals – keeping things fresh and unpredictable throughout.
Why I Recommend This Winter Horror Anthology
- Thirteen sharply crafted tales that combine atmospheric horror with emotional depth
- Perfect for reading in one sitting when you want a chilling, immersive experience
- Blends traditional gothic elements with modern psychological tension
- Great for fans of Stephen King, Shirley Jackson, and other masters of eerie storytelling
Current Price: $0.99
Rating: 5.0 (total: 2+)
The Final Winter
Iain Rob Wright’s The Final Winter is the kind of book I reach for when I want to be gripped by a story that feels as cold and relentless as a proper snowstorm. It’s set in a small British town just as an impossible blizzard hits, trapping a bunch of characters in a pub – a perfect recipe for tension and terror.
I loved how the story mixes supernatural horror with really believable, flawed people grappling with grief, addiction, and fear. Whether you’re looking for a page-turner to keep you company on a winter evening or a new twist on apocalyptic fiction that’s not all run-and-hide, this one feels fresh and tense. Plus, there’s bonus content that adds extra layers and keeps things interesting for fans who want more.
What People Say
Readers love how immersive the atmosphere is and how the story feels like a horror movie unfolding in a snowbound pub. The bonus scenes are also a hit for adding more depth to the world.
🗣️ pitapam
I was impressed from the start. The book pulled me in quickly with well-drawn characters and a chilling atmosphere. The nod to Stephen King was right there, but Iain Rob Wright has his own voice. I especially appreciated the bonus scenes at the end – they added so much depth. The story unfolds like a movie in my head with perfectly timed cutscenes, and the villain reveal was a neat surprise.
🗣️ Fullmoon
Final Winter kept me hooked and even made me tear up a bit. The twists caught me off guard every time I thought I had the plot figured out. The author does a fantastic job making you care deeply about the characters, even when they’re not so likeable. I can’t recommend this enough if you want to get out of a reading slump or just dive into a truly immersive horror story.
A Perfect Winter Read
The snowy setting makes it perfect for those long winter nights when you want a mix of chills and drama that matches the weather outside.
More Than Just Scares
The story digs into themes of grief, addiction, and survival, making the scares feel grounded and emotionally impactful.
Keeps You Turning Pages
Unexpected twists and a cast of distinct characters keep you guessing and fully engaged throughout the book.
What Makes This Book Stand Out
- A suspense-filled apocalyptic story with a claustrophobic setting and strong character work
- Bonus short stories included for fans wanting more after the main tale
- Blends supernatural horror with real human emotion and struggles
- A great choice for fans of British horror and atmospheric thrillers
Current Price: $4.99
Rating: 4.2 (total: 5006+)
The Dead of Winter
Sarah Clegg’s The Dead of Winter is my go-to for when I want to cozy up with something that’s both spooky and thoughtful. This isn’t your usual Christmas book full of sugar and cheer; instead, it unwraps all those creepy creatures and shadowy customs lurking beneath the holiday glow. It’s like taking a winter walk on the spooky side of town, where Krampus and winter witches might just be waiting around the corner. What I really appreciate is how Sarah blends history with her personal experiences attending some of these festivals – it feels less like a textbook and more like you’re swapping stories with a friend who’s been everywhere and knows all the secrets.
Whether for a slow afternoon read or to impress folks at your next holiday gathering with some eerie tales, this book fits in nicely with a cup of tea (or something stronger) by the fire.
What People Say
Readers praise its fascinating blend of history and personal experience, making ancient winter traditions feel alive and relevant. The approachable writing makes darker folklore accessible and enjoyable.
🗣️ paige walker
This book is right up my alley. We have a podcast and YouTube channel focusing on the darker side of life, so I had to read it. It’s easy to read and engaging. I already knew some of the monsters but loved hearing Sarah’s take and firsthand experiences at various festivals. Definitely a fresh perspective.
🗣️ Sharon R. Yang
Pull up a chair, have something warm by your side, and dive into Sarah’s tour of Christmas’s darker legends. She shares her actual festival experiences alongside historical roots which makes the stories come alive. Not too academic, but rich in atmosphere and thoughtful insights. A perfect companion for those long winter nights.
Winter-Perfect Reading
The wintry focus and tales of icy monsters fit perfectly with the cold season, making it an atmospheric companion for those chilly evenings indoors.
A Thoughtful, Spooky Ride
The book invites you to see beyond the festive lights and reflect on the deep-rooted fears and customs that shaped modern holidays, making it both a spooky and thought-provoking journey.
Full of Creepy Cool Stories
You get to meet all sorts of scary, strange, and outright quirky creatures from holiday lore – it’s like a ghost tour for Christmas, and honestly, hard to put down.
Why I Recommend This Book
- Explores fascinating and lesser-known Christmas folklore across Europe
- Mixes personal travel stories with scholarly research, making it personable yet informative
- Perfect for fans of horror, folklore, and holiday traditions with a dark twist
- Compact size makes it a great stocking stuffer or fireside read
Current Price: $20.50
Rating: 4.2 (total: 383+)
Dark X-Mas Holiday Drabbles
I love how this collection serves up bite-sized horror stories that fit perfectly into busy days and cozy nights by the fire. Each tale is exactly 100 words, so it’s easy to sneak a few creepy moments into your holiday routine without committing to a full-length novel. It’s a wild mix of dark humor, gruesome twists, and seasonal spooks that kept me guessing from start to finish. Whether you’re a fan of holiday cheer with a sinister edge or just need a quick unsettling read before bed, this book feels like the perfect companion for the season.
What People Say
Readers appreciate the clever use of the 100-word format and the way the stories cover all sorts of horror, from gruesome to morbidly funny. The holiday theme adds a fresh touch to the usual spookiness.
🗣️ James Glover
What’s a Drabble you might ask. Well it’s a 100 word story. No more no less. I have read three other Drabble collections and loved them, so when I saw a Christmas themed collection,I had to jump on it! Needless to say I was not disappointed at all. The stories delve into every horror you can think of. And the writers of these Drabbles are phenomenal. If you have never read a collection of Drabble, do it you will not be disappointed. And the Christmas theme makes this one that much more fun to read.
🗣️ me
Full disclosure, I have two drabbles in this. That would make me seem biased, I imagine. But when you realize that only makes up two hundred some odd words, it is a drop in a bucket. My love comes from the other amazing tales told within. Eleanor, Cassandra and so many others absolutely blew me away. So many writers that will one day be your favorites.
Ideal For Winter Nights
Perfect for curling up near the fire during winter evenings when you want some seasonal chills that aren’t your usual sugar-coated tales.
A Festive Twist on Fear
The mix of eerie stories somehow makes the holiday season feel less predictable and more thrilling, offering a new reason to look forward to your reading time.
Quick Spooks, Big Thrills
There’s a wicked fun in seeing what twisted takes each author offers on Christmas horrors. It’s like unwrapping a scary gift one tiny story at a time.
Why This Collection Works
- Short stories perfect for quick, chilling reads between holiday activities
- Offers a unique twist by combining Christmas themes with horror and dark humor
- Showcases a wide range of voices and writing styles from many talented authors
- Great for readers who like variety without the time commitment
Current Price: $1.79
Rating: 4 (total: 62+)
Snow
I found Snow to be a gripping mix of classic horror elements delivered with a fresh twist. The story kicks off with a snowstorm trapping strangers together, and before long, things get unsettling fast.
It’s the kind of book you’ll want to dive into when the wind howls outside and you’re curled up with a warm drink. The characters feel real enough to root for, which makes their fight for survival even more intense.
Plus, the way Malfi uses the snowy setting turns the cold into an actual villain, which adds all the more tension. If you like your horror with a side of chilling atmosphere, this one’s worth a go.
What People Say
Readers love how Snow brings old-school horror vibes with fresh storytelling and creepy, unexpected chills. The mix of isolation, mystery, and real danger in a blizzard-stricken setting hits just right for winter reads.
🗣️ Eclectic Reader
Ronald Malfi keeps the pace relentless, and the tension is non-stop. The characters quickly become relatable, so when the nightmare unfolds, you really feel invested. The blend of nature’s fury and supernatural threat was pure horror gold for me.
🗣️ Asheley
This was a ton of fun for me! It’s a chilling story where snow is the villain, and the small-town isolation amps up the creep factor perfectly. Sure, it needs some editing, but the suspense and mystery kept me hooked while I was home sick.
Winter Reading at Its Creepiest
Ideal for cold nights when you want to feel the chill without stepping outside. Snow’s icy menace and tense atmosphere make it a perfect companion for the season.
Gripping and Haunting
The book pulls you in with its characters’ struggles, making you care about their fate while delivering genuine dread that lingers after the last page.
Snow With a Dark Bite
There’s a satisfying mix of mystery and terror here that keeps you guessing and jumping at shadows, transforming the usual snowy setting into something downright sinister.
What Makes Snow Stand Out
- Intense and fast-paced horror narrative that keeps you turning pages
- Strong sense of atmosphere, where the cold and snow amplify the suspense
- Well-developed characters that make the story emotionally engaging
- Perfect for fans of classic horror with a modern edge
Current Price: $0.00
Rating: 4 (total: 1473+)
FAQ
Is Winter is Coming: 10 Eerie Tales to Read by the Fire suitable for those who want genuine fright, or is it more cozy spooky vibes?
Ah, the age-old question: do you want goosebumps or just a gentle shiver? I’ve read through these tales by the fire, and they strike a perfect balance between creepy and cozy.
There’s enough eerie atmosphere to make you glance nervously at the shadows, but it’s not quite the full-on scream-fest that leaves you sleeping with the lights on. Think of it as a campfire ghost story session with that one slightly unsettling uncle – enough to thrill without making you call the exterminators for the boogeyman.
So curl up with a blanket, a warm drink, and expect some deliciously sinister chills that won’t have you running for the hills.
I’m on a budget but want to enjoy this collection. What’s the best way to get it without breaking the bank or cluttering my shelves?
Same here! If you’re like me and want to save your dollars (or pesos or euros) for more snacks while reading, I recommend going digital. Most of these anthologies, including this one, are available as eBooks or audiobooks – often on sale for just under a buck, like $0.99 or so, which is practically the price of a fancy coffee. Audiobooks are perfect if you want to listen while shoveling snow or avoiding holiday relatives.
Plus, no shelf space taken up, and no scary paper cuts. Check platforms like Audible or Kindle deals, and keep an eye out for bundle promotions. Your wallet and your firewood supply will thank you.
How do I make the most of reading these eerie winter tales? Any tips for creating the perfect spooky atmosphere at home?
Great question, because ambiance is half the terror! I like to dim the lights just enough to see my book but still keep the shadows dancing. Bonus points if you have a crackling fireplace or a good fake one on YouTube.
A warm mug of something deliciously unhealthy (hot cocoa with a suspicious amount of whipped cream works perfectly) is mandatory. Now, unplug that phone or on silent – nothing ruins an eerie moment like a sudden ‘ding’ from a group chat about Aunt Edna’s fruitcake. If you’re feeling brave, read one or two stories alone in the dark and definitely avoid looking outside – because honestly, who knows what is lurking behind those frosty windows? Just remember, it’s all fun and games until the shadows start moving on their own.
Wrapping Up
Winter’s long, dark nights are made for stories that thrill and chill. These 10 eerie tales bring unique flavors of horror – from atmospheric novels like The Winter People to diverse anthologies filled with unsettling yuletide horrors. By choosing any of these, I promise you’ll find yourself wrapped up in stories that keep you turning pages or listening deep into the night. Not only do they deliver on scares, but they also reflect on themes of loss, mystery, and the uncanny, making your winter reading both spooky and thought-provoking.
So, grab a blanket, settle by the fire, and let these tales remind you why winter is the perfect season for a little dread.
