Five Deliciously Spooky Reads for October

What do you get if you cross Bambi with a ghost? Bamboo! —Joshua T., Cheltenham

OK, let’s get one thing straight. I detest anything horror, thriller, and definitely demonic. You will never catch me watching Hereditary or reading any of Stephen King’s novels. In fact, I never really understood how most people can get scared stiff, whether it be by a book or a movie,  and yet are able to sleep peacefully without any care in the world. The last time I was forced to watch a scary movie, going to bed afterward was the worst experience of my life. I kept anything that produced light on in my room. I had two copies of my personal Bibles on each of my nightstands, and I made sure that God himself wouldn’t be able to open my closet door in the middle of the night. Alright, that was a bit much, but I’m sure you get the point. With all that, I know you’re a little confused by the title of this post. No, I am not contradicting myself. I still loathe all things scary, but I also want to muster up the courage to finally read a spooky book that is not intended for middle-graders. Though I have a feeling I might regret this idea, I’ve bravely compiled a small TBR for this month, which will only be read during daylight hours. Let’s get started!

  • Frankenstein by Mary Shelley —  This is a book that I think will help me dip my toes into the thriller genre without suffering a heart attack.  I am actually looking forward to reading it.
  • The Other Woman by Sandie Jones — I am playing it somewhat safe with this girl-against-girl thriller showdown. I’ve heard good things about this book, so I don’t anticipate any nightmares with this one either.
  • Lock Every Door by Riley Sager — We’re inching closer to possible paranoia anxiety with this novel. Some of my favorite Booktubers have gushed about how amazing it is. I’m not sure if I’ll have the same experience, but I know can make it to the end with this read. I think.
  • A Monster Call by Patrick Ness — OK, I’ll have to admit that I’m actually curious about this read. I’ve seen the trailer, but I never watched the film—you guys know why. However, from what I’ve read from a few reviews, this book has a bittersweet ending. I’m all for it!
  • The Turn of the Key By Ruth Ware — And finally, the mother of all evil! When I first heard about this book, I instantly made up my mind that I wasn’t going to read it, let alone even look at it when I visit my local bookstore. Yet, here I am with this thriller story in my possession. This novel will definitely put my bravado to the test for sure.

I know this TBR might not meet your standard of creepy, but I am taking a gigantic step out of my comfort zone. I will come clean and say that at times, I would come across a scary book that actually sounds so interesting, but reflecting on the consequences to follow, has helped me stay clear from reading such novels. 

Have you ever read a book outside of your comfort zone? Or what about a genre that you never thought you would enjoy? I would love to read about your experience! Remember to share it below!

Thanks for stopping by!