For those who like the Gothic genre, what's the best novel you've read?

It’s not a gothic novel, but The Mayor of Casterbridge by Thomas Hardy was the first one that came to mind. It reminded me of Wuthering Heights ( in a very tenuous way).

Frakenstein by Mary Shelley is good, far better than every movie adaptation.

I would second Frankenstein.

If you are accepting Southern gothic answers, then I would also suggest As I Lay Dying, The Sound and the Fury, and Absalom, Absalom! by William Faulkner.

I love Wuthering Heights.
Heathcliff was definitely a vampire – I did an essay on that once.

Another vote for Wuthering Heights. I can’t wait for the new movie that’s coming out this year!

Wieland

If it counts as such, I’d say the comic Johnny the Homicidal Maniac. However, Blood Meridian is not only one of the best gothic novels I’ve read, but one of the best books in general.

The Monk.
I found Vathek very amusing.

@Earthgirl : when?

@Earthgirl, are you sure you’re not thinking of Jane Eyre?

@Earthgirl‘s right. There’s a new movie adaptation coming out. It’s one of my favourite books. I’m looking forward to seeing the movie. Natalie Portman was supposed to play Catherine, but pulled out so I’m not entirely sure who’ll play her now.
I’m looking for titles other than the one’s I’ve mentioned though, so thanks for the new recommendations.

It’s in post production now. I think it’s supposed to premiere in June. The director is Andrea Arnold. She is supposed to be excellent though I haven’t seen any of her films. She wanted to cast authentically with young actors. The role of Heathcliff was difficult to cast. They put out a casting call for Rom (gypsy) actors to audition. Here’s one article about the actor they cast.
http://www.filmshaft.com/unknown-actor-picked-for-heathcliff-in-andrea-arnolds-wuthering-heights/
It was all top secret for the longest time. The role of Cathy is being played by Kaya Scodelario.
There is also a link on that site to a trailer of the new Jane Eyre movie. Great news for all of us Gothic fiction fans.

Awesome! Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights are two of my faves! Thanks for the update!