Books

25 Spooky, Witchy and Overall Fantastic Books of Halloween

It’s not fall until Freeform’s 31 Nights of Halloween premieres, where you can watch “Hocus Pocus” in all its witchy glory on repeat along with some other Fall favorites. In honor of that spooky tradition, I wanted to put together a list of 25 books to read this Halloween, including some books coming out later in 2020 that just need to be included.

Dread Nation by Justina Ireland

Justina Ireland’s series debut is set in an alternate America, one in which the Civil War is derailed by the rising dead. Part historical horror novel this book should be at the top of any Halloween reading list.

Anna Dressed In Blood by Kendare Blake

A ghost hunter must contend with a 50 year old vengeful ghost who has killed every person to cross her path. Except him. This paranormal YA will give you goosebumps.

Time’s Convert by Deborah Harkness

If you haven’t read any of the All Souls Books, you should brew a cup of tea and settle down for a lush series full of vampires, witches, demons and a dash historical fantasy.

Remember Me by Chelsea Bobulski

There’s something about hotels that make the perfect setting for spooky reads (and movies). This eerie novel has enough mystery to keep you reading late into the night and morning.

The Bone Garden by Heather Kassner

A young girl tethered to the world by magic and imagination must uncover what makes the bones in the graveyard come alive. This middle-grade is atmospheric and creepy and a perfect addition to any spooky reading list.

These Witches Don’t Burn by Isabel Sterling

Set in Salem, this sapphic novel is both compelling and witchy and I would hate for you to miss this one!

House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig

Set in a gothic manor by the sea, this Twelve Dancing Princesses retelling is beautiful and a bit creepy and the gorgeous setting at Highmoor is enough to draw you in on a cool Fall day.

The Babysitter’s Coven by Kate Williams

With a comparison to “Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” this hilarious novel about witchy babysitters is an absolute delight.

There Will Come a Darkness by Katy Rose Pool

Character-driven with an ensemble cast (my favorite), the shocking twists and turns will stay with you long after you’ve finished this fantasy.

Gideon The Ninth by Tasmyn Muir

If you haven’t read this perfect space fantasy, you need to read it immediately and let it shatter all expectations.

Monster of Elendhaven by Jennifer Giesbrecht

This novella is short and packs a brutal and bloody punch. Anyone looking to fill the creeptastic hole that Gideon The Ninth filled (and I know there are at least a few of you lurking about) needs to pick up The Monster of Elendhaven.

The Bone House by Emily Lloyd-Jones

Protagonist Ryn’s family are gravediggers, GRAVEDIGGERS. Tell me of a more Halloween appropriate occupation, except that these gravediggers may have to contend with the rising dead.

Tuesday Mooney Talks To Ghosts by Kate Racculia

A group of misfits are sent on a treasure hunt by a dead billionaire. The pop-culture references alone make this book a delight to read around Halloween!

Caster by Elsie Chapman

One review I read of this described it as a magical fight club and if that doesn’t sell you on why you need to read this during Halloween, then I don’t know what will!

The Okay Witch by Emma Steinkellner

Growing up is hard enough without having magic powers and a secret hidden legacy to contend with. This graphic novel combines my love for middle-grade stories along with witchy stories and will be a perfect quick Halloween read.

Beyond The Black Door by A.M. Strickland

A dark fantasy and compelling mystery lie at the heart of this addicting novel about a soul-walker. Pair with a rewatch of Labyrinth this Halloween season!

Kingdom of Souls by Rena Barron

This West African inspired fantasy is rich and compelling, about Witch Doctors and a demon king with a craving for souls.

Strange Grace by Tessa Gratton

I can’t help but including as many witchy fantasies on this list and Strange Grace is one you must include on your Halloween reading list. A gorgeously written book, with a dash of darkness and creepiness that makes it stick with you long after you read.

The Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo

One of the most buzzed about book releases this year and highly anticipated, this adult debut from Leigh Barduo is horrific in its own way and may not be for everyone. But if you heed the content warnings and aren’t triggered by them, you might find this one of the most captivating and intense books of 2019.

The Devouring Grey by Christine Lynn Herman

I can’t help but be completely drawn in by books about small towns and magic. The atmospheric nature of the book is the number one reason you should read it around Halloween, as it instantly sets the tone for Halloween and the rest of Fall.

Winterwood by Shea Earnshaw

I devoured this book and think that once it comes out this November, you will too. I couldn’t resist adding it to the list because even though it’s set in the Winter, the Pracical Magic-esque feel of the book makes it a perfect read for next Halloween, if you can wait that long.

The Deep & Dark Blue by Niki Smith

I couldn’t stop myself from adding another graphic novel to the list especially one as fun and heartfelt as this one, about magic and political intrigue. Recommended for a read along with your favorite tweens next Halloween (since it’s out in January).

The Witch’s Kind by Louisa Morgan

Louisa Morgan’s novel is an irresistible blend of magic and historical fantasy. The sweet dog is a plus. There are a few content warnings to take note of but overall, I think this book could be enjoyed with a mug of something warm and something sweet in the days leading up to Halloween.

A Witch In Time by Constance Sayers

Are you a fan of The Time Traveler’s Wife or Outlander? What drew me to both of those movies was the love affair that spans across time and the slight paranormal element that created such an alluring narrative that I fell deeply in love with the concept. This book is the same and if you enjoy rereading (or watching) those books during the Fall, you won’t be able to resist A Witch In Time.