The Best 25 Stephen King Books, Ranked by Popularity (2023)

Stephen King, the master of horror and suspense, has captivated readers for decades with his thrilling and chilling stories. In this blog post, we present the top 25 Stephen King books of 2023, ranked by popularity. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to King's works, this list will guide you through his most beloved and talked-about novels. Get ready for a journey into the dark and captivating world of Stephen King!

1. Fairy Tale by Stephen King:

"Fairy Tale" takes readers on a haunting journey into a twisted version of classic fairy tales. King weaves together familiar characters and settings, infusing them with his signature blend of horror and suspense. Prepare to have your childhood memories shattered as you explore the dark underbelly of fairy tales.

2. Billy Summers: The No. 1 Sunday Times Bestseller by Stephen King:

"Billy Summers" follows the story of a skilled assassin who takes on one final job that will test his skills and push him to the limits. As Billy embarks on his dangerous mission, he confronts his past and battles with the demons that haunt him. This Sunday Times bestseller is a thrilling and suspenseful read.

3. The Stand by Stephen King:

"The Stand" is a post-apocalyptic epic that explores the aftermath of a devastating pandemic. The survivors are caught in a battle between good and evil, as they struggle to rebuild society and confront the dark forces that threaten to consume them. This gripping tale of survival and redemption is a must-read for any Stephen King fan.

4. Mr Mercedes by Stephen King:

In "Mr Mercedes," a retired detective is drawn into a deadly game of cat and mouse with a deranged killer. As the detective races against time to stop the madman, he must confront his own fears and demons. This heart-pounding thriller will keep you guessing until the final page.

5. It: Film tie-in edition of Stephen King's IT:

"It" is a horror masterpiece that introduces readers to the terrifying entity known as Pennywise the Dancing Clown. Set in the fictional town of Derry, Maine, the story follows a group of childhood friends who must confront their deepest fears and battle an ancient evil. This iconic novel has become a cultural phenomenon and is a must-read for horror enthusiasts.

6. Dark Tower I: The Gunslinger by Stephen King:

"The Gunslinger" is the first book in Stephen King's epic "Dark Tower" series. It follows the journey of Roland Deschain, the last gunslinger, as he traverses a desolate and dangerous world in pursuit of the enigmatic Man in Black. This blend of fantasy, western, and horror elements creates a unique and compelling narrative that will captivate readers.

7. The Shining by Stephen King:

"The Shining" is a chilling tale of supernatural terror that takes place in the isolated Overlook Hotel. As the winter caretaker and his family become trapped in the hotel, they are subjected to the malevolent forces that reside within its walls. This psychological thriller will keep you up at night, questioning the limits of sanity.

8. The Institute by Stephen King:

"The Institute" delves into the sinister world of a secret facility where children with supernatural abilities are subjected to cruel experiments. As the young protagonists discover the truth behind the Institute, they must fight for their livesand find a way to escape. This gripping and suspenseful novel explores themes of power, corruption, and the resilience of the human spirit.

9. The Outsider: The No.1 Sunday Times Bestseller by Stephen King:

"The Outsider" introduces readers to a baffling murder case that seems impossible to solve. When evidence points to a beloved community figure, the lines between reality and the supernatural blur. This Sunday Times bestseller combines crime and horror elements, delivering a thrilling and thought-provoking narrative.

10. 'Salem's Lot by Stephen King:

"'Salem's Lot" is a chilling vampire tale set in the small town of Jerusalem's Lot. As darkness descends upon the community, a writer and a group of unlikely heroes must confront the ancient evil that threatens to consume the town. This atmospheric and suspenseful novel will leave you sleeping with the lights on.

11. Finders Keepers by Stephen King:

In "Finders Keepers," King explores the consequences of obsession and the power of literature. When a reclusive author's unpublished manuscripts are discovered by a young boy, a dangerous game of cat and mouse ensues. This gripping thriller combines elements of crime and suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

12. End of Watch by Stephen King:

"End of Watch" is the thrilling conclusion to the Bill Hodges Trilogy, featuring retired detective Bill Hodges. As a sinister force emerges and threatens the lives of innocent people, Hodges must once again face his nemesis in a final showdown. This page-turner delivers a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.

13. Night Shift: INCLUDES THE STORY OF ‘THE BOOGEYMAN’ :

"Night Shift" is a collection of Stephen King's early short stories, showcasing his mastery of the horror genre. From the chilling tale of "The Boogeyman" to the eerie "Children of the Corn," this collection will send shivers down your spine and leave you craving more of King's imaginative storytelling.

14. Elevation by Stephen King:

"Elevation" takes readers on a heartfelt journey of acceptance and understanding. Set in the small town of Castle Rock, the story follows a man who begins to inexplicably lose weight while maintaining his physical appearance. This poignant novella explores themes of prejudice, compassion, and the power of human connection.

15. Gwendy's Final Task by Stephen King:

"Gwendy's Final Task" is the thrilling conclusion to the Gwendy's Button Box Trilogy. As Gwendy faces her ultimate challenge, she must make difficult choices that will impact the fate of the world. This gripping and suspenseful finale will keep readers hooked until the very end.

16. Misery by Stephen King:

"Misery" tells the story of a famous author held captive by his number one fan. As the fan's obsession spirals out of control, the author must use all his wit and courage to escape her clutches. This psychological thriller is a gripping exploration of obsession, creativity, and the thin line between sanity and madness.

17. Pet Sematary: King's #1 bestseller – soon to be a major motion picture by Stephen King:

"Pet Sematary" explores the darkest depths of grief and the consequences of playing god. When a family moves to a new home near an ancient burial ground, they unknowingly unleash a series of horrors that test the limits of love and sacrifice. This bestseller is a haunting and emotionally charged tale that will linger in your mind.

18. The Dark Tower III: The Waste Lands by Stephen King:

"The Waste Lands" is the third installment in the epic "Dark Tower" series. Roland Deschain's quest for theDark Tower continues as he and his companions journey through the post-apocalyptic landscape known as Mid-World. In this installment, they face new challenges, encounter strange allies and enemies, and inch closer to their ultimate goal. This fantasy adventure will immerse you in a rich and sprawling universe that blends genres and captivates the imagination.

19. Doctor Sleep by Stephen King:

"Doctor Sleep" serves as a sequel to King's iconic novel, "The Shining." It follows the adult life of Danny Torrance, who still possesses his psychic abilities. As he confronts a group of supernatural beings known as the True Knot, Danny must tap into his powers and protect a young girl with similar abilities. This gripping and atmospheric novel combines elements of horror and redemption.

20. The Green Mile: The iconic horror masterpiece by Stephen King:

"The Green Mile" takes readers on an emotional journey set on death row in a Southern prison during the 1930s. Through the eyes of prison guard Paul Edgecombe, we witness the extraordinary events surrounding an inmate with a miraculous gift. This haunting and deeply moving story explores themes of compassion, injustice, and the power of the human spirit.

21. The Talisman by Stephen King and Peter Straub:

"The Talisman" follows the adventures of a young boy named Jack Sawyer, who embarks on a perilous quest to save his mother's life. In a parallel world known as the Territories, Jack must navigate a treacherous landscape filled with supernatural creatures and powerful forces. This collaborative effort between Stephen King and Peter Straub is a thrilling blend of fantasy and horror.

22. The Eyes of the Dragon: A Novel by Stephen King:

"The Eyes of the Dragon" takes readers to the fictional realm of Delain, where a young prince is wrongfully accused of a heinous crime. As he fights for justice and freedom, he must confront a malevolent magician and uncover dark secrets that threaten the kingdom. This departure from King's usual horror fare is a captivating and imaginative tale of adventure.

23. "Under the Dome" by Stephen King:

"Under the Dome" presents a chilling scenario in which a small town is suddenly and inexplicably cut off from the rest of the world by an impenetrable dome. As the residents struggle to survive and maintain order, tensions rise, and the true nature of humanity is laid bare. This epic novel explores themes of power, corruption, and the fragility of society.

24. "Needful Things" by Stephen King:

"Needful Things" introduces readers to a mysterious shopkeeper named Leland Gaunt, who opens a store in the town of Castle Rock, offering residents their deepest desires in exchange for a small favor. However, these seemingly innocent transactions unleash chaos and destruction as dark secrets and hidden desires come to light. This gripping and suspenseful tale delves into the darker side of human nature.

25. "Later" by Stephen King:

"Later" by Stephen King is a gripping supernatural thriller that follows a young boy with a unique ability to communicate with the dead. As he becomes entangled in a series of macabre events, he must confront malevolent forces beyond his control. King's expert storytelling and vivid characters make "Later" a captivating read that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Conclusion:

Stephen King's novels have captivated readers worldwide with their gripping narratives, unforgettable characters, and masterful blend of horror, suspense, and psychological depth. This list of the best 25 Stephen King books, ranked by popularity in 2023, offers a diverse range of stories that showcase King's immense storytelling prowess. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his works, these novels will transport you to worlds filled with terror, mystery, and profound human experiences. Prepare to be enthralled, frightened, and mesmerized by the brilliance of Stephen King's literary masterpieces.