Best Collections of Short Stories in Every Genre

In this article, we present a curated selection of the best short story collections across genres. From heart-pounding thrillers to mind-bending science fiction, enchanting fantasy realms to tender romances, evocative historical sagas to bone-chilling horror, each genre offers its unique flavor. 

Discover exceptional works by renowned authors and emerging voices that showcase the depth, creativity, and imagination of short stories. These collections pack a punch with thrilling plots, imaginative worlds, complex characters, and emotional journeys. Join us on a literary adventure as we explore the remarkable tales that have left an indelible mark in their respective genres.

Here are the best short story collections in your favorite genres.

Best Thriller/Mysteries 

“Twelve Red Herrings” by Jeffrey Archer

This collection presents twelve brilliantly crafted short stories, each filled with surprising twists and turns. Archer takes readers on a thrilling journey through the realms of espionage, deceit, and revenge, showcasing his mastery of the suspense genre.

“No Middle Name: The Complete Collected Jack Reacher Short Stories” by Lee Child

Featuring Lee Child’s iconic character, Jack Reacher, this collection brings together all of Reacher’s thrilling short adventures. Each story is packed with action, intrigue, and Reacher’s trademark tough and resourceful persona.

“In the Dark: Four Tales of Suspense” by Richard Laymon

Richard Laymon delivers four chilling and suspenseful tales in this collection. These stories delve into the darkest corners of human nature, featuring compelling characters and shocking twists that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

“The Mammoth Book of Best British Crime” edited by Maxim Jakubowski

This anthology presents an impressive selection of crime stories by acclaimed British authors. Spanning a wide range of styles and themes, these gripping tales explore the dark underbelly of society, offering a captivating glimpse into the world of British crime fiction.

“Men Without Women” by Haruki Murakami

Murakami delves into themes of loneliness, longing, and the complexities of male relationships in this collection. Through seven thought-provoking stories, he explores the emotional depths of his characters, inviting readers to contemplate the enigmatic nature of human connection.

“The Big Book of Rogues and Villains” edited by Otto Penzler

This anthology assembles an impressive cast of rogues and villains from the world of crime fiction. From mastermind criminals to charming con artists, these stories provide a captivating look at the dark and seductive allure of the antihero.

“Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World” by Haruki Murakami

Murakami’s novel intertwines two distinct narratives—one a futuristic mystery, the other a surreal journey. This mind-bending work combines elements of noir, fantasy, and science fiction, creating a thought-provoking and mesmerizing exploration of identity and existence.

“The Best American Mystery Stories” series edited by various authors

Each year, this renowned anthology presents a curated selection of the finest mystery stories published. Showcasing the work of both established and emerging authors, this series offers a diverse collection of captivating tales from the world of mystery fiction.

“Nightmare Magazine: The Best Horror from the First Ten Years” edited by John Joseph Adams

This anthology gathers the most memorable horror stories from the first decade of Nightmare Magazine. With contributions from notable authors, these terrifying tales delve into the depths of fear, exploring the macabre and unsettling aspects of the human psyche.

“The Black Lizard Big Book of Locked-Room Mysteries” edited by Otto Penzler

This collection presents a captivating assortment of locked-room mysteries. These mind-bending stories challenge readers to unravel seemingly impossible crimes, where the perpetrators seemingly vanish into thin air, leaving behind perplexing puzzles and clues.

Science Fiction

“The Illustrated Man” by Ray Bradbury

In this collection, an enigmatic traveler’s body is covered in tattoos that come alive, each telling a unique and captivating science fiction tale. Ray Bradbury’s haunting and poetic stories explore themes of humanity, technology, and the consequences of our actions.

“The Complete Stories of Isaac Asimov” by Isaac Asimov

This extensive collection brings together the remarkable short stories of Isaac Asimov, one of the most influential science fiction authors of all time. From futuristic worlds to mind-bending concepts, Asimov’s stories delve into the complexities of science, humanity, and the universe itself.

“Exhalation: Stories” by Ted Chiang

Ted Chiang’s collection presents nine extraordinary stories that delve into deep philosophical questions and explore the potential consequences of technology and human existence. Each thought-provoking story is a masterful blend of scientific concepts, moral dilemmas, and compelling characters.

“The Best of Philip K. Dick” edited by Jonathan Strahan

This anthology showcases the best works of Philip K. Dick, a visionary writer known for his mind-bending and thought-provoking stories. From androids questioning their humanity to alternate realities and dystopian societies, Dick’s stories challenge our perceptions of reality and explore the complexities of the human condition.

“Mirrorshades: The Cyberpunk Anthology” edited by Bruce Sterling

This influential anthology captures the essence of the cyberpunk genre, featuring stories from renowned authors. Through tales of high-tech futures, artificial intelligence, and the underbelly of society, the collection explores the collision of technology and humanity, painting a vivid picture of a gritty and immersive future.

“The Martian Chronicles” by Ray Bradbury

Ray Bradbury’s collection weaves together interconnected stories that chronicle humanity’s attempts to colonize Mars. With poetic prose and imaginative storytelling, Bradbury explores themes of loneliness, exploration, and the consequences of human colonization in a foreign world.

“Fragile Things: Short Fictions and Wonders” by Neil Gaiman

In this collection, Neil Gaiman’s imaginative storytelling shines as he takes readers on a journey through dark and whimsical tales. From supernatural encounters to mythological retellings, Gaiman’s stories are a delightful blend of fantasy, horror, and magic.

“Stories of Your Life and Others” by Ted Chiang

Ted Chiang’s collection presents a series of mind-expanding stories that seamlessly blend science and philosophy. From the award-winning story “Story of Your Life” (adapted into the film “Arrival”) to other captivating tales, Chiang explores the complexities of language, time, and our place in the universe.

“I, Robot” by Isaac Asimov

Asimov’s iconic collection of interconnected stories explores the relationship between humans and robots. Delving into the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and the Three Laws of Robotics, Asimov’s stories examine the boundaries of technology and its impact on society.

“The Paper Menagerie and Other Stories” by Ken Liu

Ken Liu’s collection blends science fiction and fantasy with poignant explorations of family, identity, and cultural heritage. With stories that span time and space, Liu’s work combines powerful emotion with breathtaking imagination, offering a rich tapestry of tales that resonate deeply with readers.

Romance

“My True Love Gave to Me: Twelve Holiday Stories” edited by Stephanie Perkins

This festive anthology presents twelve heartwarming holiday stories by acclaimed young adult authors. From first love to magical encounters, these tales capture the spirit of the season and celebrate the power of love.

“Everything I Needed to Know about Love, I Learned from a Little Golden Book” edited by Diane Muldrow

This charming collection brings together classic illustrations from Little Golden Books with snippets of wisdom about love. Filled with nostalgia and sweetness, the book offers delightful reflections on the joys and lessons of love.

“Summer Days and Summer Nights: Twelve Love Stories” edited by Stephanie Perkins

In this anthology, twelve bestselling authors explore the magic and romance of summer. From beachside encounters to enchanting adventures, these stories capture the essence of summer love in all its forms.

“Meet Cute: Some People Are Destined to Meet” edited by Jennifer L. Armentrout

This collection features stories of unexpected and adorable encounters between characters. From chance meetings to extraordinary circumstances, these “meet cute” moments set the stage for memorable love stories.

“Myths, Monsters, and Mary: An Anthology of Lesbian and Bisexual Women’s Love Stories” edited by JoSelle Vanderhooft

This diverse anthology presents a collection of love stories featuring lesbian and bisexual women protagonists. From mythological settings to contemporary romances, these stories celebrate the power of love and the beauty of diverse relationships.

“Kiss Me in Paris: A Romance Short Story Collection” by Various Authors

Set in the romantic city of Paris, this collection of short stories explores love, passion, and serendipitous encounters. From the Eiffel Tower to quaint cafes, these stories transport readers to the enchanting streets of Paris.

“Once Upon a Curse: Stories and Fairy Tales for Adult Readers” edited by Yasmine Galenorn

This anthology offers a twist on classic fairy tales, exploring love and romance in a darker and more adult context. Featuring reimagined tales, these stories blend fantasy, romance, and magic.

“Holiday Kisses: A Holiday Romance Collection” by Various Authors

Set during the holiday season, this collection of short stories brings heartwarming and enchanting romance to readers. From cozy fireside moments to mistletoe magic, these stories capture the joy and love of the holiday season.

“Love, Laughter, and Happily Ever Afters: A Collection of Short Stories” by Various Authors

This collection presents an array of heartwarming and feel-good love stories. From unexpected encounters to second chances at love, these stories celebrate the power of connection and the pursuit of happily ever after.

“A Touch of Magic: A Paranormal Romance Anthology” edited by Various Authors

This collection of paranormal romance stories combines magic, mystery, and love. From witches and werewolves to vampires and fae, these tales weave enchanting romances against a backdrop of supernatural elements.

Fantasy

“The Last Wish” by Andrzej Sapkowski

This collection of interconnected stories introduces readers to Geralt of Rivia, a legendary monster hunter known as a Witcher. Set in a rich fantasy world, the tales follow Geralt’s adventures as he battles supernatural creatures and grapples with moral dilemmas.

“Unfettered” edited by Shawn Speakman

This anthology features a diverse range of fantasy stories from some of the genre’s most prominent authors. From epic quests to magical encounters, these tales transport readers to imaginative worlds filled with wonder and adventure.

“Fragile Things: Short Fictions and Wonders” by Neil Gaiman

In this collection, Neil Gaiman weaves together a tapestry of enchanting and haunting tales. From whimsical fantasies to dark and mysterious narratives, Gaiman’s stories blur the boundaries between reality and myth, captivating readers with his unique storytelling style.

“The Sword and Sorcery Anthology” edited by David G. Hartwell and Jacob Weisman

This anthology showcases the best of sword and sorcery fiction, featuring stories that brim with action, magic, and larger-than-life heroes. From ancient realms to treacherous dungeons, these stories immerse readers in thrilling and dangerous adventures.

“The Language of Thorns: Midnight Tales and Dangerous Magic” by Leigh Bardugo

In this collection, Leigh Bardugo presents a stunning array of fairy tales set in her Grishaverse. Blending elements of dark fantasy and folklore, these stories delve into the hidden depths of her richly imagined world, weaving together captivating narratives with a touch of danger.

“The Bloody Chamber and Other Stories” by Angela Carter

Angela Carter’s collection reinvents traditional fairy tales with a feminist twist. These dark and sensual stories explore themes of desire, power, and transformation, taking readers on a journey through fantastical worlds where danger and enchantment lurk.

“The Chronicles of Harris Burdick: Fourteen Amazing Authors Tell the Tales” edited by Chris Van Allsburg

Inspired by the enigmatic illustrations of Harris Burdick, this anthology features stories by fourteen different authors. Each story serves as a creative interpretation of one of Burdick’s haunting images, resulting in a collection that is both imaginative and diverse.

“The Mammoth Book of Celtic Myths and Legends” edited by Peter Berresford Ellis

This anthology brings together a comprehensive collection of Celtic myths and legends from across the Celtic lands. From heroic warriors to magical creatures, these tales offer a glimpse into the rich and vibrant folklore of ancient Celtic cultures.

“The Best of Gene Wolfe: A Definitive Retrospective of His Finest Short Fiction” edited by Gene Wolfe and Neil Gaiman

This collection celebrates the legendary author Gene Wolfe, showcasing a selection of his most memorable and influential short stories. Known for his intricate prose and imaginative world-building, Wolfe’s tales span a wide range of themes and genres, captivating readers with their depth and complexity.

“The Unicorn Anthology” edited by Peter S. Beagle and Jacob Weisman

This enchanting anthology explores the mythical creature of the unicorn through a collection of diverse and captivating stories. From ancient legends to modern interpretations, these tales celebrate the enduring fascination and magic surrounding unicorns, showcasing their power to inspire awe and wonder.

Historical Fiction

“The Oxford Book of Historical Stories” edited by Antonia Fraser

This anthology presents a collection of historical fiction stories spanning different eras and cultures. From ancient civilizations to modern history, the tales offer glimpses into the lives of historical figures and evoke the atmosphere of the past.

“The Best American Historical Fiction” series edited by various authors

This ongoing series showcases the best historical fiction short stories published each year. Featuring a diverse range of authors and time periods, the collection provides a captivating exploration of history through fictional narratives.

“The Mammoth Book of Historical Crime Fiction” edited by Mike Ashley

In this anthology, historical settings become the backdrop for thrilling crime stories. From ancient civilizations to more recent times, the collection offers a blend of mystery, suspense, and historical accuracy.

“The Penguin Book of Historic Speeches” edited by Brian MacArthur

This collection brings together influential speeches that shaped history. From political addresses to rallying cries, the book offers a glimpse into the power of words and their impact on society.

“Tales of the South Pacific” by James A. Michener

Set during World War II, this collection of interconnected stories explores the lives of American servicemen and the locals they encounter in the South Pacific. Rich in detail and vividly portrayed, the tales capture the hardships, camaraderie, and human connections forged in a time of war.

“Legends of the Middle Ages: Narrated with Special Reference to Literature and Art” by H.A. Guerber

This collection delves into the legends and myths of the Middle Ages, exploring tales of knights, kings, and heroic deeds. Drawing from literature and art, the book provides a comprehensive and engaging overview of this historical period.

“The Best American Short Stories of the Century” edited by John Updike and Katrina Kenison

This anthology compiles the most celebrated short stories from the 20th century. With contributions from renowned authors, the collection showcases a wide range of themes, styles, and perspectives, offering a glimpse into the cultural and literary landscape of the past century.

“The Civil War Stories of Ambrose Bierce” by Ambrose Bierce

This collection features short stories by Ambrose Bierce, a writer and veteran of the American Civil War. Through his vivid and often dark narratives, Bierce provides a unique perspective on the war and its impact on individuals and society.

“The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher: Stories” by Hilary Mantel

In this collection, acclaimed author Hilary Mantel presents a series of fictional stories exploring different periods and characters. From historical figures to contemporary settings, Mantel’s writing delves into the complexities of human nature and societal dynamics.

“The Collected Stories of Stefan Zweig” by Stefan Zweig

This collection brings together the short stories of Stefan Zweig, an influential Austrian writer. Known for his psychological insights and rich characterizations, Zweig’s stories span various historical periods and offer a glimpse into the complexities of human relationships and emotions.

Horror

“Night Shift” by Stephen King

This collection showcases Stephen King’s mastery of horror in a series of chilling and unsettling short stories. From terrifying creatures to psychological terrors, the book takes readers on a journey through the darkest corners of the imagination.

“The October Country” by Ray Bradbury

Ray Bradbury’s collection delves into the eerie and macabre, blending horror with elements of fantasy and science fiction. Through his evocative prose, Bradbury explores the haunting mysteries of life and death, delivering stories that linger in the reader’s mind.

“Haunted: Tales of the Grotesque” by Joyce Carol Oates

Joyce Carol Oates offers a collection of unsettling and disturbing stories that explore the darker aspects of the human psyche. With themes of obsession, violence, and psychological terror, the book delves into the depths of human nature and the horrors that can lurk within.

“Ghost Stories of an Antiquary” by M.R. James

M.R. James is known for his classic ghost stories, and this collection showcases his mastery of the genre. Set in atmospheric and often historical settings, the tales offer spine-tingling encounters with the supernatural that leave readers with a sense of lingering unease.

“The Complete Stories of Edgar Allan Poe” by Edgar Allan Poe

Edgar Allan Poe’s iconic collection features his most famous tales of horror and suspense. From “The Tell-Tale Heart” to “The Fall of the House of Usher,” Poe’s stories explore themes of madness, death, and the supernatural, leaving readers enthralled and disturbed.

“20th Century Ghosts” by Joe Hill

Joe Hill’s collection presents a blend of horror, dark fantasy, and supernatural tales. With imaginative and thought-provoking stories, Hill explores the complexities of human emotions and relationships while weaving in elements of the uncanny and the terrifying.

“Books of Blood” by Clive Barker

Clive Barker’s “Books of Blood” is a landmark collection that redefined horror fiction. Filled with visceral and often disturbing imagery, Barker’s stories push boundaries and delve into the realms of the grotesque and the macabre.

“The Lottery and Other Stories” by Shirley Jackson

Shirley Jackson’s collection showcases her talent for atmospheric and psychologically unsettling stories. From the iconic and chilling tale “The Lottery” to other haunting narratives, Jackson’s stories delve into the darkness that can lie beneath seemingly ordinary lives.

“Strange Weather: Four Short Novels” by Joe Hill

This collection by Joe Hill presents four novellas that blend horror and thriller elements. With unique premises and compelling characters, Hill’s stories explore the consequences of supernatural events and human frailty in the face of extraordinary circumstances.

“Fragile Things: Short Fictions and Wonders” by Neil Gaiman

Neil Gaiman’s collection offers a blend of dark fantasy, horror, and whimsy. Through his vivid storytelling, Gaiman takes readers on journeys through strange and unsettling worlds, filled with mythical creatures, haunted places, and captivating characters.