This time of year, when it turns cooler and the nights draw in, is ideal for indulging in a bit of spooky reading. Nothing too awful or gruesome, one just wants to that certain kind of atmosphere and a good story that perhaps sends a chill, but doesn't freeze the blood to ice! So generally that means old tales (though there are modern writers such as Susan Hill, who fit in with the classics), such as classic ghost stories and stories of suspense, these tend to have everything you are looking for. Modern settings and everything that comes with that do not do anything for me.
M.R. James was a master of the ghost story and one can't go wrong in choosing him.
An anthology of various authors in this genre is a good way to enjoy spooky tales too, as you can read through or pick and choose. Despite not believing in ghosts, I enjoy reading ghostly tales and legends.
Two books I found this year on eerie Scottish tales:
Of course, with it being Halloween, 'Hallowe'en Party' by Agatha Christie, is ideal.
Settle down comfortably and lose yourself in a thrilling tale or two, just be sure all the doors and windows are locked...
