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If you are a fan of Halloween and love to read, here are some books to add to your to-be-read pile this spooky season!
Frankenstein By Mary Shelley
It would not be October if there weren’t someone recommending this book to you. If you’ve read it for class previously, go back and re-read it. Frankenstein is a book that can give you new perspectives every time you read it, after all, it is the first ever science fiction novel, and it is written by Mary Shelley, one of the most extraordinary literary badasses ever.
Carmilla by Sheridan Le Fanu
Yet another classic however this inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. If you’re into a lesbian vampire story about love, loss, and yearning for both the past and the unobtainable future, this is a book for you. Also, the cover is stunning.
Her Body and Other Parties by Carmen Maria Machado
If a huge novel or a classic is intimidating to you, pick up this amazing short story collection. Carmen Maria Machado’s debut collection is hauntingly beautiful and worth the read. Her memoir In The Dream House is equally beautiful and I cannot recommend it enough.
Love in a Time of Serial Killers by Alicia Thompson
This new romance book that was just published back in the middle of August is perfect for true crime addicts and romance lovers. Not only is the cover actually beautiful, but it is also the perfect way to read something this spooky season that isn’t horror related.
Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman
For witch lovers, you may have seen the movie with Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, but did you know that it’s a book? All of the indie crystal lovers have to read this book as it gives you the perfect vibes for a witchy fall.
We Have Always Lived In A Castle by Shirley Jackson
If you want to look like a total baddie reading on the bus to campus, read Shirley Jackson, specifically this book. The Haunting of Hill House is iconic, but this book is just better in my opinion, and has a stunning cover.
Manhunt by Gretchen Felker-Martin
A post-apocalyptic horror novel that focuses on a gendered apocalypse. The band of characters includes trans characters, women, and barely any straight men… what more could you ask for honestly? It’s gory, it’s brutal, and it WILL shock you.
Night Rooms by Gina Nutt
This essay collection is one that is currently on my list to read this spooky season, and I think it should be on yours as well. The essays weave together horror tropes, mental health, identity, grief, and survival which is perfect for sad girl autumn. Get it at The Raven Bookstore to support our independent bookstore!
The Hacienda by Isabel Canas
Not only is this a debut novel, but it also has elements of supernatural and mystery. Set after the Mexican War of Independence this speculative fiction novel is perfect for those who love anything fantasy and mystery related.
They Never Learn by Layne Fargo
If you are looking for a dark academia book and are a fan of the “good for her” trope here is another book to add to your list. For a short and sweet summary, it’s essentially about a university professor who begins to kill men who are predators.