Read Joe Hill Books In Order : Every Fan MUST Know!

By Kathy | Last Updated on June 11, 2026

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Joe Hill, born Joseph Hillström King, is a prolific writer of horror, supernatural fiction, and suspense. With a surname that automatically brings to mind one of the most famous literary families in history-his father being none other than Stephen King-Joe Hill has carved out his own identity in the literary world. Known for his distinct voice, Hill blends elements of traditional horror with psychological depth, dark humor, and intricate character development. His works, often layered with symbolism, explore themes of identity, loss, and the boundaries between good and evil.

Over the years, Hill has become known for his nuanced, gripping storytelling, drawing readers into chillingly atmospheric worlds while simultaneously allowing for deeply human connections. His books not only reflect a masterful use of horror but also showcase his ability to craft compelling narratives that are not merely about fear but about understanding the human condition under the strain of the unexplainable.

Whether you’re a fan of his famous Locke & Key graphic novel series or his spine-tingling novels such as Heart-Shaped Box or NOS4A2, Hill’s work leaves a lasting impression. But for newcomers to his writing, one question often arises: Where do you start? And is there an ideal order to read his books to get the most out of them?

In this article, we will delve into the world of Joe Hill’s books, breaking down the publication history, reading order, and ultimately answering whether or not there’s a recommended way to approach his work.

List Of Joe Hill Books In Order

More On Joe Hill Books In Chronological Order

1. Heart-Shaped Box (2007)

Joe Hill’s debut novel, *Heart-Shaped Box*, is a chilling ghost story that follows aging rock star Judas Coyne, who buys a haunted suit online, only to find out that he’s purchased more than just a piece of clothing-he’s bought a vengeful spirit. This haunting tale is packed with mystery, terror, and a sense of isolation that grips you from start to finish. Hill does a fantastic job of mixing classic horror with deep emotional beats, making it not just a scary ride, but a heartfelt exploration of guilt, love, and redemption.

2. Horns (2010)

In *Horns*, Hill takes us on a wild, supernatural journey following Ig Perrish, a man accused of a crime he didn’t commit-his girlfriend’s brutal murder. One day, he wakes up to find horns sprouting from his head, and along with them, a bizarre power: he can hear people’s deepest desires, including their sins. This darkly comedic and tragic tale mixes elements of fantasy, horror, and a touch of romance, creating a gripping story of self-discovery and justice in a world full of moral gray areas.

3. NOS4A2 (2013)

With *NOS4A2*, Hill ups the ante in the horror genre, creating an epic, chilling battle between two characters, Vic McQueen and the evil Charles Manx. Vic, a woman with a special ability to find lost things, faces off against Manx, a vampire-like figure who kidnaps children and takes them to a horrifying place called ’Christmasland’. The novel blends a rich narrative about trauma, memory, and resilience with horrific elements that will keep you up at night. It’s a dark, haunting ride across a vast landscape that proves Hill’s mastery in creating unforgettable, terrifying worlds.

4. The Fireman (2016)

In *The Fireman*, Hill introduces us to a world where a deadly, plague-like virus spreads through the population, causing those infected to burst into flames and burn to death. The survivors are left in a post-apocalyptic society where fire-wielding ’dragons’ become both a danger and a means of power. The story follows Harper Grayson, a nurse who is determined to survive, even as she faces her own fiery fate. Hill’s apocalyptic horror is layered with themes of survival, community, and what it means to be human in a world on the brink of destruction.

5. Strange Weather (2017)

*Strange Weather* is a collection of four novellas, each one delivering a unique, eerie, and often unsettling experience. From the story of a woman trying to uncover the secret behind a strange weather phenomenon that causes deadly lightning to a man grappling with his own haunted past, each tale in this collection is dark, thrilling, and thought-provoking. Hill’s strength as a storyteller shines in these compact narratives, filled with suspense, dread, and a sense of unease that lingers long after the pages are turned.

6. Full Throttle (2019)

*Full Throttle* is another collection of novellas, this time with a bit more of a supernatural edge. The title story is a high-octane tale of a biker gang getting involved in a deadly race against time and forces beyond their control. There’s also a creepy story about a family man who gets entangled in a deadly ride of his own making. As always, Hill’s ability to weave tension, horror, and sometimes even a touch of humor into his stories is on full display here. Each novella brings a new form of terror and offers a satisfying bite-sized experience for fans of his writing.

7. The Black Phone (2021)

In *The Black Phone*, Hill crafts a nail-biting, suspense-filled short story about a young boy named Finney who is kidnapped by a sadistic killer. Trapped in a soundproof basement with only an old, disconnected black phone on the wall, Finney begins to receive calls from the phone-calls from the previous victims of his captor, offering cryptic advice and guidance. The story is full of tension and horror, but Hill also focuses on themes of bravery, family, and survival. It’s a dark and compelling read that doesn’t hold back on the scares or the emotional depth.

8. Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Official Movie Novelization (2022)

This novelization of the classic horror movie *Texas Chainsaw Massacre* takes the brutal, heart-pounding story of Leatherface and his terrifying family and expands on the gritty atmosphere of the film. Hill brings a new layer to the movie’s iconic terror, fleshing out characters and adding depth to the horror that’s become synonymous with the Texas Chainsaw legend. If you’re a fan of the franchise, this is a fantastic dive into the gruesome world Hill expertly recreates with his signature writing style.

Background On Joe Hill Books

Joe Hill’s journey into the world of literature began with a deliberate decision to avoid using his famous last name. He wanted to be recognized on his own merits rather than ride on the coattails of his father’s fame. So, he chose a pen name that would give him the freedom to develop his own voice without the weight of expectation. His debut novel, Heart-Shaped Box (2007), immediately showcased his distinctive style: a gripping, atmospheric horror tale that was both deeply unsettling and profoundly human. The novel was met with critical acclaim, setting the tone for his future works.

From Heart-Shaped Box, Hill’s reputation only continued to grow, with each subsequent book adding another layer to his literary profile. His second novel, NOS4A2 (2013), cemented his standing in the genre, garnering widespread praise for its originality and tension. With a sprawling, multi-layered plot, it explored the battle between a malevolent figure and a group of ordinary people caught in his twisted, supernatural web.

In addition to his novels, Joe Hill has also had considerable success with short stories and graphic novels. The Locke & Key series, created with artist Gabriel Rodríguez, remains one of his most successful projects. This blend of supernatural horror, fantasy, and mystery has captured the imaginations of readers and has been adapted into a popular Netflix series. Hill’s skill with short fiction is evident in works like 20th Century Ghosts (2005) and Strange Weather (2017), where he distills his eerie and atmospheric storytelling into brief but potent bursts.

Each of Hill’s works maintains a hallmark: his ability to combine dark, supernatural elements with compelling emotional arcs. His characters are often placed in extraordinary situations, yet they remain deeply relatable, which makes the horror feel all the more visceral and terrifying.

Reading Order Explained

Joe Hill’s works are not part of a shared universe in the same way that Stephen King’s works sometimes intertwine. That said, there is a chronological flow to Hill’s career, with novels, short story collections, and graphic novels each showcasing different aspects of his talents. The order in which you read Joe Hill’s books largely depends on whether you’re interested in his early works, his larger novels, or his graphic novels.

Here’s a suggested reading order that takes into account the progression of his writing career and the development of his signature style:

1. Heart-Shaped Box (2007)

   Start with Hill’s debut novel. Heart-Shaped Box introduces readers to Hill’s ability to craft atmospheric horror with complex characters and a chilling supernatural plot. It’s the perfect introduction to his writing, establishing the tone and emotional depth that would define his future works.

2. 20th Century Ghosts (2005)

   If you’re interested in Hill’s short fiction, this collection is a great follow-up. Comprised of eerie, thought-provoking stories, 20th Century Ghosts captures Hill’s knack for blending the supernatural with the human experience. These stories give you a deeper sense of his versatility and ability to evoke terror in both short form and long.

3. NOS4A2 (2013)

   Hill’s second novel, NOS4A2, is a brilliant follow-up. It’s a sprawling, epic horror novel with a complex structure, featuring a truly sinister villain. NOS4A2 takes Hill’s signature horror to a grander scale, making it a key work in understanding his storytelling evolution.

4. Locke & Key (2008-2013)

   This graphic novel series is a fan favorite and one of Hill’s most successful endeavors. It spans six volumes, beginning with Locke & Key: Welcome to Lovecraft. The series blends horror, fantasy, and mystery, with supernatural keys that unlock hidden powers. If you’re open to graphic novels, this series is essential.

5. Strange Weather (2017)

   This short story collection is a dark, multifaceted look into Hill’s storytelling. It’s filled with atmospheric horror and psychological depth, perfect for those who want to experience his writing in smaller doses. The stories tackle everything from dystopian futures to supernatural oddities.

6. The Fireman (2016)

   This standalone novel is an ambitious exploration of societal collapse, with a viral epidemic turning people into "firemen" who can burn others with their touch. It’s a unique entry in Hill’s catalog and one that showcases his ability to blend horror with speculative fiction.

7. Full Throttle (2019)

   Another collection of short stories, Full Throttle dives into the macabre with stories that deal with themes of vengeance, survival, and the supernatural. Hill’s ability to pack deep emotional weight into short narratives shines through here.

8. The Black Phone (2021)

   This collection includes a mix of short stories, with The Black Phone-a tale of a kidnapped boy haunted by the voices of previous victims-being the centerpiece. Hill’s mastery of the short story format continues to captivate and terrify.

What I Like About The Series?

Joe Hill’s works are distinguished by several aspects that set them apart from others in the horror and supernatural genres. Here’s what stands out the most:

1. Complex Characters

   One of Hill’s greatest strengths is his ability to create deeply flawed, complex characters who anchor his stories. Whether it’s the haunted protagonist of Heart-Shaped Box or the courageous survivors in NOS4A2, Hill’s characters are never mere plot devices. They feel authentic and relatable, even when they’re caught up in extraordinary circumstances.

2. Atmosphere

   Hill is a master of atmosphere. Whether in a haunted house, a dilapidated hospital, or the grimy streets of a desolate town, he creates settings that are imbued with an almost tactile sense of dread. It’s not just what’s happening in his stories, but where it’s happening that makes them so chilling.

3. Thought-Provoking Themes

   Beyond the horror, Joe Hill’s work often deals with deeper themes such as grief, fear, and the human need for connection. In NOS4A2, for example, the tension between the supernatural and the emotional stakes of the characters is what makes the book so compelling. His works are never just about scares-they delve into the darkness of human nature.

4. Blending Genres

   Hill is able to blend multiple genres into a single narrative, often mixing horror with fantasy, mystery, or even dystopian elements. This keeps his work fresh and unpredictable, ensuring that readers are never sure exactly what to expect next.

Should You Read Joe Hill Books In Order?

While Joe Hill’s works are not interconnected in a strict narrative sense (except for Locke & Key), reading his books in order can still help you appreciate the evolution of his writing style and themes. Starting with his earlier novels will give you insight into the development of his voice as a writer, and seeing how his storytelling skills have grown over time can deepen your understanding of his craft.

However, if you prefer to dive straight into a particular book that catches your attention, feel free to do so. Each of Hill’s novels and collections is a self-contained experience, meaning you won’t be lost if you pick up a later work first.