By Laura McCarthy.
In October, we revel in the joys of pumpkin carving; autumnal walks on bright, crisp mornings; and, of course, in consuming our favourite Halloween themed media. When it comes to reading, I have some suggestions which I have listed here, organised by “creature” this time around. Fear not (well, maybe a little bit) as there is some variation of genre here – it’s not all blood and gore.
Werewolves
Such Sharp Teeth by Rachel Harrison
Not only is this an immersive and engaging horror romance, it is also a powerful metaphor for pregnancy and trauma. Harrison writes such relatable and real female characters, something which is the certainly case here and also, if you’re in the mood for something more satanic, in her book Black Sheep. In Such Sharp Teeth, we observe a shocking animal attack on our protagonist Aurora (or Rory for short) which turns her life upside down as she learns to deal with becoming a werewolf. There are various dramatic twists, turns, and reveals but these only serve to make the read more compelling; at its heart, it is really about hardship within the female experience and the value of love. Harrison is also a genuinely funny person, using humour in just the right points to punctuate intense body horror and relationship drama.
The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle
OK, so not strictly a werewolf story but definitely the most Gothic of all Sherlock Holmes stories by Conan Doyle (and my personal favourite of his writing); it features glimpses of a horrific hound, unlike any dog you’ve ever seen, as Holmes and Watson endeavor to solve the case of the cursed Baskerville family. If you’re a fan of mysterious detective fiction, this is a great choice for October due to the supernatural overtones and stunning but bleak backdrop of Dartmoor. This is a classic for a reason and if you haven’t got round to reading it yet then it is the perfect time of year to give this a chance.
Witches
Hooky by Míriam Bonastre Tur
This fantasy graphic novel series follows two siblings from a family of witches, Dani and Dorian, who get caught in the midst of a long standing rivalry between between humanity and witch-kind. The artwork is bursting with character and vitality. A vibrant and emotional read full of brilliant characters which you’ll definitely enjoy.
Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman
If you’re looking for romance with an edge, search no longer. In this novel, we are introduced to the Owens family. They have been known as witches for generations, simultaneously avoided and sought out by their neighbours. The first of the series revolves around sisters Sally and Gillian as they grow. We see them through tragic turns as well as their romances. It is such a compelling narrative that I powered through this in a day and I think many of you will too.
Wicca: A Modern Guide to Witchcraft and Magick by Harmony Nice
As a Wiccan myself, this non fiction pick is close to my heart. Harmony Nice makes the religion and witchcraft accessible to all with this easy to follow guide. She offers practical guidance on using magical tools such as crystals and tarot cards as well as detailing the core belief systems of Wiccans, pointing out the diversity and differences within the community. This is a beautiful book, complete with charming illustrations and an attractive cover to boot.
Witch Hat Atelier by Kamome Shirahama
Coco wants to be a witch. In this manga series, we get the privilege of joining her on this journey as she learns how to cast spells through drawing, merging this fictional tale with real witchcraft which utilises runes for magick. Each character is varied and captivating, well fleshed out as the series progresses. Every setting and delightful costume is intricately drawn in the fantastical art style which makes this story all the more spellbinding.
Vampires
Carpe Jugulum by Terry Pratchett
Part of Pratchett’s Discworld series, this features both witches and vampires, so it is certainly a suitable read for October. Pratchett’s well loved witches Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg and Agnes Nitt return in the twenty third book of the series to contend with Count Magpyr and his vampiric family. Whether you’ve read the rest of the series or not, this is a great read either way as it is a hilarious parody of the conventions of vampire literature. I guarantee you’ll be in tears of laughter with this one.
Cirque du Freak: The Saga of Darren Shan by Darren O’Shaughnessy
How about some addictive teen fiction? Darren Shan is a teenager like any other, except for his obsession with spiders and spooks. That is until he makes the fateful decision to attend the Cirque Du Freak with his best friend, Steve, where he sees the amazing performances of Hans Hands, Gertha Teeth, the Wolf Man, Rhamus Twobellies, and Mr Crepsley… a vampire. When Darren dares to steal Mr Crepsley’s spider, his life changes forever. This is perfect for both teenagers getting into the horror genre and for adults who want a fun vampire story.
The Undead
Handling the Undead by John Ajvide Lindqvist
Best known for his outstanding vampire novel Let The Right One In, John Ajvide Lindqvist once again stuns with this tale of the undead. It’s a zombie story unlike any other. When the dead reawaken in Stockholm, the Swedish find it impossible to know how to react to this insane scenario. Their loved ones are back and they are different, detached, but they’re clearly not like the snarling beasts of zombie cinema either. As is characteristic of his writing, the narrative feels grounded, as though it could really happen. It expertly follows multiple threads, focusing on the situations of different characters and how they react. This is a slow burn which ultimately explodes with intense, visceral imagery.
Poor Things by Alasdair Gray
Perhaps you went to see the cinematic adaption of this book featuring Emma Stone last year. The original novel was published in 1992 and promises to be just as absurd. This is essentially a comedic, feminist Frankenstein, telling the story of Bella Baxter; the ridiculous Godwin Baxter reanimates the corpse of woman who must learn what it is to be alive. It is not only a hilarious read but is also told in a really interesting way, where the same narrative is told through contrasting perspectives, highlighting the subjectivity of memory.
Frankenstein by Junji Ito
Whilst we’re on the topic of Frankenstein retellings, let me briefly mention this manga masterpiece from horror icon Junji Ito. Yes, it is the self same story you’ve seen before but Ito’s outstanding and characteristically unsettling illustrations make for a haunting October read.
Ghosts
Dark Matter: A Ghost Story by Michelle Paver
Our narrator, Jack Miller, joins an arctic expedition which turns out to be even more challenging than he expected. Set in 1937, the foreboding shadows of war turn out to be the least of the adventurers’ troubles when they are haunted by a series of unfortunate accidents caused by something supernatural. The backdrop of this icy wilderness enhances the sense of danger, isolation and dread which builds throughout this enthralling novel.
The Atrocities by Jeremy C. Shipp
If you want a quick dose of horror, this little novella will serve you well. Ms. Valdez has been offered work as a tutor at Stockton House but, disturbingly, she’s hired to tutor a dead child. Shipp employs psychological horror, making us question whether there is a ghost or merely hallucinations prompted by shared grief. This has everything you want in an October read: a haunted house; a Gothic ghost; a maze filled with supernatural statues.
Gustavo the Shy Ghost by Flavia Z. Drago
This is the most adorable picture book about Gustavo, a shy ghost, who learns how to be brave and make friends. Yes, it is aimed at children (and is a wonderful choice for your little ones) but I personally own a copy because it is just so lovely. Mexican artist Flavia Z. Drago incorporates her culture into her vivid and joyous illustrations. Best of all, if you like this one, you can take your pick of her other creature features, including Leila the Perfect Witch and Vlad the Fabulous Vampire.
The Silent Companions by Laura Purcell
Recently widowed and pregnant, Elsie feels isolated in her new home. She thinks she’s alone but all is not quite as it seems when she discovers an unusual painting which looks just like her. I quickly figured out what the twist would be but I still enjoyed it. Well written and immaculate Gothic vibes for the start of autumn.
The Shining by Stephen King
Let’s be real: there are so many Stephen King novels which could feature on this list. I chose The Shining because it is my favourite of all his novels, just beating Misery in my eyes. You know the synopsis by now… down on his luck Jack takes his wife and child to stay at the Overlook Hotel where he gets employed as a caretaker and sinister events ensue.
Demons
Last Call at the Nightshade Lounge by Paul Krueger
Picture this: demons are real and bartenders use cocktails which give them magical powers to fight them. A screwdriver grants super strength. A martini grants invisibility. Who will be able to unlock the godly powers of a long island iced tea? This may not be high literature but this is a fun book which doesn’t take itself too seriously. I also commend Krueger for the diversity of his characters, featuring various races and sexualities with ease (take note, writers!).
Doctor Faustus by Christopher Marlowe
This play is a staple of many A-level English classes for a reason. Exquisite language and visuals make for an enthralling ride as we see the tragic consequences of Faustus’ overreaching ambitions. He makes a deal with a demon, Mephistopheles, in which he exchanges his soul for the pursuit of knowledge. I don’t need to tell you that things go very wrong indeed. I also recommend following this read with Terry Pratchett’s Eric which is a hilarious parody of the original narrative.
Humans are the worst monsters
Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind
Jean-Baptiste Grenouille is gifted… or cursed… with an elevated sense of smell and so becomes an apprentice to a perfumer. Motivated by a compulsion to capture the most beautiful scent, Grenouille goes down a path of murderous depravity in order to fulfil his desires. This is a truly chilling, unsettling read and a wonderful choice on the lead up to Halloween.
Pillowman by Martin McDonagh
This play by McDonagh, well known for his films The Banshees of Inisherin and In Bruges, is very typical of his brand of black comedy. It is both hilarious and so, so grim. In it, a writer is interrogated about their short stories and the gruesome similarities with murders of children in town. If you ever get the opportunity to see it performed, I also recommend it, having watched Steve Pemberton and Lily Allen star in 2023.
My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite
Compelling and easily binged, this 2018 bestseller focuses on Korede who has a sister called Ayoola. And yes, Ayoola kills people – what did you expect? In fact, Ayoola has a bad habit of killing her boyfriends and Korede is the one left to clean up the mess. This darkly comic thriller will have you questioning how far you would go for your family.
The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris
I just had to include this one. It’s been a favourite of mine for a decade now. In fact, I love the entirety of the series due to the tense and captivating writing. Like with Jodie Foster in the film, this one is the stand out due to the character of Clarice, a promising young FBI agent who pushes against misogny to prove herself when on the case of Buffalo Bill, who kills women to make a skin suit.
Jamaica Inn by Daphne du Maurier
I wanted to finish on a real high note with yet another of my absolute favourite books of all time. Really, I could have put many Du Maurier books on the list as she was a master of the art of thrills and chills. Our strong and dignified protagonist stays with her villainous uncle in a ghastly inn. Whilst living there, she contends with wickedness for the novel is truly a study of the pure evil within humanity. If you adore it as much as I do, I also recommend visiting the real Jamaica Inn in Cornwall, especially in October!
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