I Read Two Horror Books
Huge news. This month, I read multiple horror novels. I also completed my Goodreads goal, but the horror novels are the real stars of this October reading recap newsletter.
I normally don’t read horror, because thanks to my generalized anxiety disorder, I can already imagine the worst case scenario for most things, but I’m really glad I stepped outside of my reading comfort zone. As you’ll find out below, one of the aforementioned horror novels turned out to be one of my favorite 2023 reads. OK! Let’s dive in!
The Scarlet Veil by Shelby Mahurin
The Scarlet Veil is the first in a trilogy fantasy series from Shelby Mahurin. The story takes place in the same universe as Mahurin’s Serpent and Dove series. However, you needn’t be familiar with that universe, as I stepped into this book with no previous knowledge and still enjoyed it. There’s vampires, intense world building, and a tale of star-crossed lovers that go from enemies to romantic partners.
Part Of Your World by Abby Jimenz
Abby Jimenz is one of my favorite rom-com authors, and Part Of Your World proved just as adorable, sweet, and readworthy as her other books.
The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot by Marianne Cronin
If you don’t like crying or feeling things, I would not recommend reading this book. It’s a really heartfelt tale about an unlikely friendship.
Throne of the Fallen by Kerri Maniscalo
This was the most me book to me this month. It has vampires, fairies, romance, steamy scenes, and all of the fantasy elements that I love. It’s also the first book in a series, so yes, there is some information dumping and world building. However, I really enjoyed this read.
The Guest by Emma Cline
Ok, I can’t figure out how I feel about this book. I finished it so quickly, but I was so mad at its conclusion. When I read a book, I want an ending. I need things to be wrapped up or at least solved. I don’t want to have to Google what the ending mean or read a bunch of theories on Reddit. Maybe you like that? And if so, read this book.
None of This is True by Lisa Jewell
My favorite thing about thrillers centered around women is that women in thrillers do some genuinely questionable things. It’s wild to me how quickly these fictional characters will befriend complete strangers. This one is for fans of true crime podcasts.
The Spirit Bares Its Teeth by Andrew Joseph White
This horror-meets-fantasy novel is one of the most special books I’ve ever read. It’s so visual and haunting. Plus, the story centers on a trans main character with autism. It’s such a rare and much-needed viewpoint in fictional YA offerings. I feel really lucky that something drew me to this book.
The Foxglove King by Hannah Whitten
I didn’t love this fantasy novel as much as Whitten’s other books, but it was still an enjoyable read. I’m all for creating your system of Gods and Goddesses in a book, but I don’t want to drown in a religious backstory.
Black Sheep by Rachel Harrison
As a surviving youth group member, I wouldn’t have picked up this book had I known the full scope of the story. I tend to stay away from stories centered around cults and Satanism even if they’re fictional. This story was definitely out there and unexpected. You might like it, but I prefer Harrison’s story Such Sharp Teeth.
What are you reading and listening to? How is life? Are we having fun reading newsletters? Me too. Like and subscribe and comment and live, laugh, love.