Frankenstein

This book completely surprises many modern readers who think they know the story—and find it to be nothing at all like they expected. Many critics consider Shelley's eerie tale of a dangerously ambitious young doctor and the monster he creates to be the very first science fiction novel, and influential for the horror genre as well. Fewer people know it all started as a ghost story, when Shelley and her husband stayed with Lord Byron and everyone came up with spooky stories to entertain one another. Though she couldn't think on her feet, Mary later wrote down her creepy story (said to be inspired by a nightmare). It remains a classic to this day. (Take note: Audible exclusive is read by Dan Stevens.)