Science fiction and horror combine into a sub-genre called Sci-fi Horror in which scares are placed in a science setting. There is a massive following for this subgenre through media like books and movies. So, here are 10 of the best Sci-fi Horror novels out there right now!
“Alien” by Alan Dean Foster
This novelization of the iconic 1979 film “Alien” takes readers on a terrifying journey aboard the spaceship Nostromo. As the crew responds to a distress signal on an alien planet, they unwittingly bring aboard a deadly extraterrestrial organism. The suspenseful narrative explores themes of isolation, the unknown, and the struggle for survival against a relentless and highly adaptive alien creature.
“The War of the Worlds” by H.G. Wells:
Published in 1898, “The War of the Worlds” is a groundbreaking work in both science fiction and horror. Martians invade Earth, bringing advanced technology and deadly heat-ray weapons. The novel vividly describes the panic and chaos that ensue as humanity faces an overwhelmingly powerful and alien threat. It explores themes of imperialism, survival, and the fragility of human civilization.
“Bird Box” by Josh Malerman:
In a world where mysterious entities cause madness and violence when seen, the story follows Malorie and her two children as they navigate a treacherous river blindfolded to reach safety. The novel expertly builds suspense and psychological tension, exploring the characters’ fears and survival challenges in a world where sight can be deadly.
“The Andromeda Strain” by Michael Crichton:
Michael Crichton’s techno-thriller introduces a team of scientists investigating a deadly extraterrestrial microorganism. The narrative is filled with scientific detail and explores the challenges of dealing with a potentially world-ending threat. As the scientists race against time to understand and contain the microorganism, the novel combines elements of science, suspense, and horror.
“Annihilation” by Jeff VanderMeer:
The first book in the Southern Reach Trilogy, “Annihilation,” follows a biologist as part of an expedition into the mysterious and otherworldly Area X. The novel combines elements of environmental horror and psychological unease as the characters confront strange phenomena and the eerie transformation of the landscape. VanderMeer’s writing creates an atmospheric and unsettling experience.
“The Passage” by Justin Cronin:
This epic novel spans different periods, beginning with a government experiment gone wrong that unleashes a virus, turning subjects into vampire-like creatures. The story explores the consequences of the experiment and follows characters as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world. “The Passage” combines horror, action, and character-driven drama elements.
“I Am Legend” by Richard Matheson:
In this classic novel, Robert Neville appears to be the last human survivor in a world plagued by a pandemic that turns people into vampire-like creatures. Neville must not only contend with the horrors of the night but also grapple with loneliness and the psychological toll of being the apparent last human. “I Am Legend” is a gripping exploration of survival, isolation, and the blurred lines between humanity and monstrosity.
“Blindsight” by Peter Watts:
“Blindsight” takes readers on a journey to the edge of the solar system where a crew of explorers encounters a mysterious extraterrestrial intelligence. The novel explores the nature of consciousness, the limits of human understanding, and the implications of encountering an alien entity that challenges conventional notions of communication and self-awareness. It weaves hard science fiction with elements of cosmic horror, creating a mind-bending and thought-provoking narrative.
“The Cabin at the End of the World” by Paul Tremblay:
This psychological thriller with horror elements centres around a family vacationing in a remote cabin when they are confronted by a group of strangers. The strangers claim that the world is on the brink of an apocalyptic event, and they demand a terrible sacrifice to prevent it. The novel explores themes of paranoia, morality, and the impact of fear on human behaviour, creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere.
“Hyperion” by Dan Simmons:
The first book in the Hyperion Cantos, “Hyperion,” is a space opera that weaves horror elements into its complex narrative. Set in a distant future, it follows seven pilgrims who share their stories as they journey to the mysterious and deadly world of Hyperion. Each pilgrim’s tale is a unique blend of science fiction and horror, ranging from the enigmatic Shrike, a fearsome creature with a labyrinthine past, to the unsettling mysteries of the planet itself. “Hyperion” explores themes of time, destiny, and the unknown.
Have you read any of the books listed? What is your favourite Sci-fi horror novel? We’d love to hear from you.
Other things you might want to know:
What is a sci fi horror?
Science fiction and horror are all mixed into one subgenre.
What was the first sci fi horror novel?
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (1818) and The Last Man (1826)
Can science fiction be horror?
Of course! And it’s a thriving genre with many fans.
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