As Halloween fast approaches, chilling and scary books are moving to the top of your to-be-read pile. From monsters to murderers, everyone loves a good horror read. Make the spooky season even spookier with six of the best horror books to give you goosebumps.
The Changeling by Victor LaValle
Combining fantasy with horror, LaValle’s novel follows Apollo Kagwa as a new father who notices that his wife, Emma, becomes distant and disinterested in their baby boy. At first, he thinks these are the signs of postpartum depression, but he soon realizes it’s more a matter of magic. Apollo journeys to an enchanted land as he fights to get his real wife and son back.
False Memory by Dean Koontz
This horror novel doesn’t contain magic or monsters, but the true terror of realizing your memories aren’t real. A married couple begins experiencing strange episodes and a deep sense that something is terribly wrong. No spoilers, but this mystery thriller may give some pause in trusting a psychotherapist.
@bookfidelity
Fledgling by Octavia Butler
Infusing the supernatural with social commentary, Butler’s paranormal horror novel is the story of a girl with inhuman abilities. She soon discovers that she is, in fact, a genetically-modified vampire who must discover her past life as she learns who wants to be rid of her and her family. It’s perfect for readers who want a new take on the classic monster.
@gameseed1
From Hell by Alan Moore
Best known for Watchmen and V for Vendetta, Moore turns his talents to the Jack the Ripper story. Rather than take a page from the many theories of who the murderer was, Moore’s horror graphic novel envisions the murders as a conspiracy at the very heart of British rule, including the Free Masons and the Royal family.
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
A classic horror novel for the ages, Jackson’s tale of terror follows four people looking for a genuine haunting. An occult scholar is joined by his happy-go-lucky assistant and meets up with a lonely woman who has met ghosts and the heir of Hill House. Netflix took on the timeless story and brought its horror to life as well. Check out both!
@reading.with.isabelle
Alice by Christina Henry
Henry does a twisted take on the children’s fairytale Alice in Wonderland. Within the crumbling towers of Old City is a woman in the hospital with vague recollections of a tea party, long ears, and blood. One night, a fire gives her the opportunity to escape, and the chance to find out her past. But a monster escaped with her that night.
