I love to theme read. Maybe some thriller or horror novels for Halloween, or a cute, cozy Christmas romance for December. If you’re looking to get into the mood of the month of October with your reading, I’ve compiled a list of great spooky reads for October.
It by Stephen King
I won’t read this one again. You could say I’m not a huge fan of clowns. I read this when I was younger, and also watched the first “IT” movie. I won’t watch the new one, but if you’re looking for a great spooky read for October, this is it!
The Night Swim by Megan Goldin
The Night Swim is one I finished recently, and I loved it. It had all of my favorite elements: thriller, suspense, courtroom. It was great. However, I will give a trigger warning here for violent sexual assault.
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
This is one by Ruth Ware that I have not personally read, but I hear great things about it. Other books by Ruth Ware that I’ve read in the past are “One by One”, “In a Dark, Dark Wood”, and “The Lying Game”.
Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley & Maurice Hindle
Typical of a Halloween theme, why not read a classic, “Frankenstein”. I can also say I have not read the book “Frankenstein”, but I’m sure it would be a great spooky read for October.
The Witch Elm by Tana French
Another book that I haven’t read, but was recommended to me as a great read to add to this post is “The Witch Elm” by Tana French.
Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
Yet again, a classic murder mystery. Agatha Christie always seems to deliver these types that are great for a bit of spook, but maybe not too much.
Final Girls by Riley Sager
“Final Girls” was the first Riley Sager novel I read. He’s my favorite thriller writer, so I would honestly recommend all four of his novels as good spooky reads for October. Riley does write pretty descriptive scenes, so if gore isn’t your thing, these might not be the best choices for you.
The Whisper Man by Alex North
I finished reading “The Whisper Man” by Alex North while we were on vacation earlier this year. Yes, I brought a horror novel to a cabin in the woods. I know I’m not the only one. Anyway, this one definitely brought some spook and there were times, mostly at night, when I had to put it down. A trigger warning for this one would be child abuse/neglect.
You by Caroline Kepnes
“You” is one that I haven’t READ, but I did watch the Netflix series, so I can only imagine how great the book is. I usually like books more than their corresponding shows or movies.
The Couple Next Door by Shari Lapena
I picked up “The Couple Next Door” while my husband and I were in an airport a couple of years ago. Our flight, which was only going to be like a 45-minute flight, was delayed a couple hours due to storms. So, I snagged this book from one of those airport stores, thinking I could finish it before we left. You know, you can return or resell the airport books back to the stores at a discounted price. I didn’t finish it before we left, but did finish it on our trip, and returned it to a different airport store. It was a great read!
Behind Closed Doors by B.A. Paris
This book was recommended to me several times and when I finally picked it up, I couldn’t believe it took me so long! I have read a couple B.A. Paris books and I think any would be great spooky reads for October.
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
By this point, I think this book is pretty well known. Again, another great thriller if you’re looking to get into the spooky mood for this month.
Where to Get these Books
I’m a big fan of checking out books at my local library, so that’s always a great option.
Otherwise, for used books, I’d recommend Better World Books. They have a great mission and donate a book for every book that is purchased through them.
For new books, whether audio, e-book, or physical book, Amazon is my go-to.
Pin Spooky Reads for October for Later
Happy Reading!
