We often think of horror novels as dark, moody, and atmospheric, which is why the autumn and winter months feel like the perfect time for horror. But spring can be just as scary! Plants are growing, flowers are blooming, and animals are frolicking.
It might not seem sinister at first glance… but looks can be deceiving. Here are scary horror books you can read this season for all the spring vibes.
Bloom by Delilah S. Dawson
What’s more spring-appropriate than a farmer’s market? In this sapphic horror story, that’s where Ash and Rosemary meet. Ash is selling beautiful artisanal soaps, cupcakes, candles, jars of honey, and more. Ro has never met a woman more perfect, and she can’t tell if she wants to be with her or wants to be her. Ro’s obsession with Ash makes her believe the other woman can do no wrong. But is Ash as perfect as she seems? And if Ro is willing to give Ash anything, how much will Ash take from her?
Honeyeater by Kathleen Jennings
Spring is a time of rebirth and regrowth, and in eco-horror stories, it’s often a time for Mother Nature to reclaim what’s rightfully hers. Charlie is planning to leave his hometown of Bellworth, where nature is starting to take over. But then Grace arrives in town. Grace emerges out of nowhere with strange growths and blue roses coming out of her skin. Her appearance piques Charlie’s curiosity. He knows he can’t leave until he finds out what’s really going on in Bellworth and what Grace is.
Cursed Bunny by Bora Chung
Easter may be over, but bunnies still feel like a symbol of spring. That’s why this season is the perfect time to pick up South Korean author Bora Chung’s critically acclaimed, genre-bending short story collection. Mixing horror, fabulism, and science fiction, Cursed Bunny is filled with stories that use these genres to explore the very real horrors of the patriarchy and capitalism. This was a National Book Award finalist and also shortlisted for the International Booker Prize.
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English (US) · 