Why Horror Is Comforting

Some people turn to romance for comfort. Others reach for cosy mysteries or gentle comedies. Me? I curl up with horror. When I think of horror, I feel a mix of excitement, anticipation and a surprising sense of comfort. It might seem strange: how can a genre designed to shock, scare, disturb, and terrify also be soothing?

The truth is, this isn’t a new phenomenon. Horror stories have existed in every culture for centuries, told in countless ways. They’ve often been used as teaching tools, but they also help us process big, frightening emotions in a safe, controlled way.

Emotion and Imagination

For me, horror novels offer a unique kind of catharsis. They let me face intense emotions and fears without any real danger. Through horror, I’ve ventured into the darkest corners of my imagination, knowing I could close the book if it got to be too much. That safety makes the experience deeply reassuring.

I started reading scary stories when I was young — usually in secret, because I worried I’d get in trouble. Now I tell people there’s no reason to be ashamed of loving horror. In fact, it can be a healthy form of entertainment. These stories give us a safe dose of fear, followed by an adrenaline rush and a wave of relief when the scary moment passes. That cycle can be surprisingly enjoyable. 
 

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Escape and Connect 

Horror is also my favourite form of escapism. During times of stress or uncertainty, I can dive into a story completely unlike my everyday life. The genre also lets me process heavy emotions like grief, fear and anxiety. At times, it feels almost therapeutic.

It’s not just a solitary experience either. When I read a horror novel a colleague has also read, it feels like we’ve shared an adventure together. That connection can strengthen friendships and build a sense of community. Almost our entire group of FVRL Reading Advisers share a love of horror. 

Scary Stories for Every Reader

Horror is for all ages and all seasons. At FVRL we carry everything from spooky picture books and middle-grade chills to cosy horror stories, visceral disturbing body horror, literary horror and even Christmas horror. So I encourage you to step outside your comfort zone. You might just find it comforting after all.

Are you seeking your next spine-chilling read? Explore some of our suggestions below or try My Reading Adviser. Our team of reading experts will help you find the perfect book for the spooky season!
 

Sally is an FVRL Reading Adviser and horror enthusiast.

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