October 2025’s newsletter: “Spooky Book Recommendations for October”
I love the Halloween season! And what better way to get into the spirit of things (sorry for the pun) than reading ghostly, ghoulish, and spooky books. I’ve picked out ten titles that I think you’ll enjoy, ranging from horror to fantasy to romance, and middle grade to adult.
“Dracula” by Bram Stoker
Genre: Horror
Let’s start this off with a classic!
We’re all a little (or more than a little) spoiled on the plot, now. It’s easy to forget this was originally written as a slow-burn horror, where the readers figured out what was going on alongside the characters. Although it’s had countless adaptations over the decades, you’d be surprised how few match the original exactly right. Did you know Mina was a badass? Or a cowboy shot Dracula? If not, it might be time to give “Dracula” a read. (Or listen to this very funny reading stream, like I did.)
“Whispering Pines” by Heidi Lang and Kati Bartkowski
Genre: MG Horror
If you’re looking for a middle grade horror that’s genuinely creepy, this is a good series to check out. Follow two kids trying to protect their small town against monsters, extra-dimensional forces, and an evil, scheming company. It gives “Stranger Things” vibes. The series’ biggest problem is that the third book hasn’t made it to my local library yet and I’m dying to read it!
“Don’t Let the Forest In” by C.G. Drews
Genre: YA LGBTQ+ Romantic Dark Academia Botanical Horror
Get ready for a creepy, gorgeously written horror that will have you hesitating any time you step into a forest. From roots growing beneath the skin to monsters made from ink and vines, this book is full of shiver-worthy imagery. All the while, you’ll be asking yourself: how much of the horror is real? Is the forest truly invading, or is it in the hero’s head? The stand-alone is full of clever twists that will keep you guessing.
“Cattywampus” by Ash Van Otterloo
Genre: MG Witch Paranormal
A whimsical and spooky middle grade stand-alone that features witch magic, friendly werewolves, a racoon familiar, and the invasion of an undead army on a small, unsuspecting town. At its heart, this story is about outcasts who find themselves in their family heritage and the healing friendships they make with each other.
“Anna Dressed in Blood” by Kendare Blake
Genre: YA Romantic Horror
Boy meets ghoul in this horror-romance duology. I usually stay away from ghostly horror, because ghosts freak me out. However, the duology focuses more on action than ghostly suspense. Blood, injury, and death abound, so be ready. And since the duology is also a romance, there’s a heavy emphasis on relationships to balance out the horror.
“Shadowghast” by Thomas Taylor
Genre: MG Adventure Contemporary Fantasy
“The Legends of Eerie-on-the-Sea” series’ third book, and one that’s particularly fitting for October since it takes place during Halloween. While the whole series is wonderfully eerie and whimsical, this book is particularly spooky as our young heroes face a living shadow that haunts their seaside town. This is such an underrated middle grade series, and the third book is perfect to read during the spooky season.
“The Wicked Deep” by Shea Ernshaw
Genre: YA Paranormal Romantic Fantasy
A seaside town plagued by the yearly haunting of three vengeful sister ghosts. A visiting stranger with no idea of the danger he’s walked into. A budding romance threatened by a deadly– or undead– secret. This stand-alone is a story about second chances, and what someone will sacrifice to protect those they love.
“The Masque of the Red Death” by Edgar Allen Poe
Genre: Horror Short Story
Another creepy classic. Edgar Allen Poe is widely considered one of the greats when it comes to gothic horror, and this short story is a quick read to get you in the mood for the spooky season. Plus, it’s always fun to read about billionaires getting their comeuppance!
“The Other Ones” by Fran Hart
Genre: YA LGBTQ+ Contemporary Romance
This stand-alone overflows with autumnal mood, vivid settings, and plenty of fall vibes. It proves not all hauntings are supernatural. If you’d be interested in a story like Hearstopper, but one of them happens to live in a haunted house, then this book is for you. The drama ramps up with a mid-way twist, but you’ll have to read the book to find out more.
“The Ghostkeeper” by Johanna Taylor
Genre: YA LGBTQ+ Paranormal Graphic Novel
A hauntingly beautiful tale about grief, trauma, and mental health… with ghosts! This stand-alone graphic novel is full of ghosts, and also the importance of self care. It’s sweet and sad, but also hopeful. A gentle reminder that all people need care and love, including the caregiver.
I hope you’ve found at least one fun, spooky book to read from this list that’ll get you into the mood for the season. Happy reading, and happy haunting.
Thanks for reading!
-S. Labrecque
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