Our Top 20 Splatter Fictions Writers

Authors who specialize in writing splatter fiction each contribute their own unique perspective to the genre. These writers possess a distinct talent for crafting narratives that push the boundaries of horror, often delving into the darkest recesses of human depravity and fear. With a fearless approach to storytelling, they explore taboo subjects and provoke intense emotional reactions from their readers. Their works are characterized by graphic violence, explicit gore, and unflinching portrayals of the macabre, challenging traditional notions of acceptability in literature.

Despite the controversial nature of their content, these authors are unapologetic in their exploration of the human condition, using horror as a lens through which to examine society’s deepest fears and anxieties. Through their visceral prose and shocking imagery, they aim to evoke genuine terror and provoke thought, leaving a lasting impression on those brave enough to venture into the dark worlds they create. Whether seasoned veterans or rising stars, these authors continue to captivate audiences with their relentless storytelling and uncompromising vision, solidifying their place as masters of the splatter fiction genre.

Here are twenty of them

Richard Laymon, (1947 – 2001)

Richard Laymon was a prolific writer known for his contributions to splatter fiction and horror literature. His works, including “The Cellar” and “In the Dark,” are characterized by their relentless pacing and graphic depictions of violence and gore. Laymon’s ability to evoke genuine terror in his readers has earned him a devoted following and cemented his legacy as one of the most influential writers in the genre.

Joe Lansdale, (1951 – Present)

Joe Lansdale is a master storyteller known for his ability to blend elements of splatter fiction, crime, and dark humor. His works, including “The Drive-In” and “Bubba Ho-Tep,” showcase his talent for crafting immersive narratives filled with memorable characters and unexpected twists. Lansdale’s unique voice and knack for blending genres have earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his status as a legendary figure in the world of speculative fiction.

Clive Barker, (1952 – Present)

Clive Barker is a legendary figure in the world of horror fiction, known for his imaginative storytelling and unflinching exploration of the macabre. While not exclusively a splatter fiction writer, Barker’s works, such as “Books of Blood” and “The Hellbound Heart,” often contain elements of extreme violence and graphic horror. His ability to blend fantasy, horror, and philosophical themes has earned him a dedicated following and solidified his place as one of the most influential voices in modern horror literature.

David J. Schow, (1955 – Present)

David J. Schow is a prolific writer of splatter fiction, known for his unapologetically graphic portrayals of horror and gore. With a career spanning decades, Schow has established himself as a master of the genre, captivating readers with his visceral descriptions and twisted narratives. His works, such as “The Kill Riff” and “The Shaft,” showcase his talent for crafting chilling tales filled with blood-soaked imagery and relentless suspense. Schow’s contributions to splatter fiction have earned him numerous awards and accolades, solidifying his reputation as one of the foremost voices in the genre.

Edward Lee, (1957 – Present)

Edward Lee is a controversial figure in the world of splatter fiction, known for his extreme depictions of violence, sex, and gore. His works, including “The Bighead” and “Header,” push the boundaries of the genre with their graphic and unapologetic portrayals of taboo subject matter. Lee’s willingness to explore the darkest aspects of humanity has earned him a dedicated following among fans of extreme horror, establishing him as a polarizing but influential voice in the genre.

John Skipp, (1957 – Present)

John Skipp is a visionary writer known for his contributions to splatter fiction, horror, and speculative fiction. His works, including “The Light at the End” and “The Scream,” are characterized by their inventive storytelling and unflinching exploration of the macabre. Skipp’s ability to blend horror with social commentary has earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his status as a pioneering figure in the world of speculative fiction.

Craig Spector, (1958 – Present)

Craig Spector is a versatile writer known for his contributions to splatter fiction, horror, and science fiction. His works, including “The Light at the End” (co-authored with John Skipp) and “Tooth and Nail,” showcase his talent for crafting gripping narratives filled with visceral horror and thought-provoking themes. Spector’s ability to blend intense action with deep emotional resonance has earned him praise from critics and fans alike, establishing him as a respected voice in the world of speculative fiction.

Poppy Z. Brite, (1967 – Present)

Poppy Z. Brite is a groundbreaking author known for her unique blend of horror, erotica, and splatter fiction. Her works, including “Lost Souls” and “Exquisite Corpse,” push the boundaries of the genre with their graphic depictions of violence and taboo subject matter. Brite’s exploration of themes such as identity, desire, and the human condition has earned her a cult following and established her as a trailblazer in the world of splatter fiction.

Brian Keene, (1967 – Present)

Brian Keene is a prolific writer known for his contributions to splatter fiction, horror, and dark fantasy. His works, including “The Rising” and “Ghoul,” are characterized by their relentless pace and unflinching portrayals of violence and terror. Keene’s ability to blend traditional horror tropes with modern sensibilities has earned him a devoted following among fans of the genre, establishing him as one of the leading voices in contemporary horror literature.

Wrath James White, (1970 – Present)

Wrath James White is a controversial figure in the world of splatter fiction, known for his extreme and unflinching portrayals of violence and depravity. His works, including “Succulent Prey” and “The Resurrectionist,” push the boundaries of the genre with their graphic and unapologetic exploration of taboo subject matter. White’s willingness to confront the darkest aspects of humanity has earned him both praise and condemnation, establishing him as a polarizing but influential voice in the realm of extreme horror.

Ryan C. Thomas, (1975 – Present)

Ryan C. Thomas has established himself as a leading voice in the realm of splatter fiction, known for his ability to blend visceral horror with rich character development. His novels, such as “The Summer I Died” and “Hissers,” are characterized by their relentless pacing and unflinching portrayals of violence. Thomas’ talent for crafting immersive and emotionally resonant narratives has earned him praise from critics and fans alike, cementing his status as a powerhouse in the genre.

Scott Milder, (1977 – Present)

Scott Milder is a rising talent in the world of splatter fiction, known for his visceral storytelling and knack for crafting chilling horror scenarios. His novels, including “Fleshbound” and “The Butcher’s Block,” are characterized by their relentless pace and shocking twists. Milder’s ability to evoke genuine terror in his readers has earned him praise from critics and fans alike, solidifying his place as a promising new voice in the genre.

Matt Shaw, (1980 – Present)

Matt Shaw is a prolific writer known for his contributions to splatter fiction and extreme horror. His works, including “Sick Bstards” and “Rotting Dead Fcks,” are characterized by their graphic depictions of violence, depravity, and taboo subject matter. Shaw’s unflinching approach to horror has earned him a devoted following among fans of extreme fiction, establishing him as a leading figure in the realm of splatter fiction.

Kristopher Triana, (1981 – Present)

Kristopher Triana is a rising star in the realm of splatter fiction, known for his fearless exploration of the darkest corners of human nature. His novels, including “Body Art” and “The Ruin Season,” are characterized by their brutal realism and unflinching depictions of violence. Triana’s ability to blend visceral horror with thought-provoking themes has garnered him a dedicated following among fans of the genre, establishing him as a formidable talent in the world of splatter fiction.

Wile E Young, (1990 – Present)

Wile E Young stands out in the realm of splatter fiction for his ability to blend dark hum or with extreme violence, creating a unique and captivating reading experience. His works, such as “Candy Coated Madness” and “Gore Whore,” showcase his talent for crafting over-the-top scenarios filled with blood-soaked absurdity. Young’s irreverent approach to the genre has earned him a dedicated following among readers who appreciate his twisted wit and unabashed embrace of the grotesque.

Kenzie Jennings, (Unknown – Present)

Kenzie Jennings has emerged as a prominent voice in splatter fiction, pushing the boundaries of the genre with her uncompromising narratives and visceral prose. Her debut novel, “Reception,” garnered critical acclaim for its shocking portrayal of a wedding turned nightmare, showcasing Jennings’ talent for crafting intense and disturbing stories. With her unique blend of horror and psychological tension, Jennings continues to captivate readers and solidify her place as a leading figure in the realm of splatter fiction.

Bryan Smith, (Unknown – Present)

Bryan Smith is a seasoned writer of splatter fiction, known for his ability to deliver gut-wrenching horror with unflinching intensity. His novels, such as “Depraved” and “68 Kill,” are characterized by their relentless pacing and graphic depictions of violence. Smith’s talent for crafting immersive and disturbing narratives has earned him a dedicated following among fans of the genre, cementing his reputation as a master of splatter fiction.

Monica O’Rourke, (Unknown – Present)

Monica O’Rourke is a formidable presence in the realm of splatter fiction, known for her uncompromising exploration of taboo subjects and extreme violence. Her works, such as “Suffer the Flesh” and “In the End, Only Darkness,” push the boundaries of the genre with their unflinching portrayals of depravity and horror. O’Rourke’s ability to delve into the darkest recesses of the human psyche has earned her a reputation as one of the most daring and provocative writers in splatter fiction today.

Wade H. Garrett, (Unknown – Present)

Wade H. Garrett has made a name for himself in the world of splatter fiction with his relentless and unapologetic approach to horror. His novels, including “Pretty Dead Things” and “Scum of the Earth,” are characterized by their raw intensity and graphic depictions of violence. Garrett’s ability to evoke visceral reactions from his readers has solidified his reputation as a master of the genre, with his work earning him a devoted following among fans of extreme horror.

Gonzalez, (Unknown – Present)

Gonzalez is a versatile writer known for his contributions to splatter fiction, science fiction, and fantasy. His works, such as “Survivor” and “The Doll Master,” showcase his talent for crafting gripping narratives filled with visceral horror and thought-provoking themes. Gonzalez’s ability to blend intense action with deep emotional resonance has earned him praise from critics and fans alike, solidifying his place as a respected voice in the world of speculative fiction.

 

And that’s our list of the 20 best platter fiction writers. What’s your take on these – any surprises, or any splatter fiction authors not on this list that you feel should make the top 20?

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