One of the best is 'The Wolfen' by Whitley Strieber. It presents werewolves in a very menacing and unique way, set in an urban environment which adds to the horror. The way the werewolves are described as intelligent predators is quite chilling.
Well, 'Skinwalkers' by Tony Hillerman is quite good too. It combines elements of Native American mythology with werewolf lore. The story follows the investigation into a series of murders that seem to be related to some sort of werewolf - like creatures. It's different from the typical werewolf horror novels as it has a strong cultural backdrop.
One common theme is the struggle between the human and the beast within. The werewolf is often a symbol of the repressed, wild side of human nature that can break free in a terrifying way.
One popular adult werewolf horror novel is 'The Wolf's Hour' by Robert R. McCammon. It combines elements of werewolf lore with a thrilling, dark narrative.
The werewolf, of course, is a main character. Then there are usually the victims, like innocent villagers or hikers. There might also be a hunter or a person who tries to stop the werewolf.
The werewolf horror story typically has some recurring elements. There's the transformation process which can be really grotesque and painful - bones cracking, fur sprouting. Then there's the werewolf's insatiable appetite for flesh. It hunts not just for food but also seems to have a bloodlust. And there's often a struggle between the werewolf's human side and its animal instincts, which can add an interesting layer of complexity to the story.
Werewolf horror stories are popular because they tap into our primal fears. The idea of a human transforming into a beast is both terrifying and fascinating. It blurs the line between man and monster.
One classic werewolf horror story is 'The Wolf Man'. It features a man who is cursed to transform into a werewolf during full moons. Another is 'An American Werewolf in London' which combines horror with dark humor as the main character struggles with his new lycanthropic nature. Also, the short story 'The Werewolf' by Angela Carter is well - known for its unique take on the werewolf legend.