Hey there bookworms and horror fans! Are you ready to dive into the spookiest most bone-chilling books of 2023? Well buckle up because I've got a list that will make your hair stand on end and keep you turning pages all night long. Let's jump right into the world of horror literature and see what's been cooking in the cauldron of creativity this year!

1. "Graveyard of Lost Children" by Katrina Monroe

This book is a wild ride into the scary world of motherhood. Imagine having a baby and then starting to believe in spooky tales about changelings and dealing with the dead. That's what happens to Olivia the main character. It's like "Rosemary's Baby" but even more intense with some really creepy moments that will make you think twice about becoming a parent!

1. "The Others Of Edenwell" by Verity M. Holloway

Set in the aftermath of World War I this story is more about the creepy stuff happening in the background than the war itself. It's about a place called Edenwell where soldiers go to heal and two guys Freddie and Eustace become friends. But there's something evil lurking in the woods. It's like a classic old-timey horror story with a twist.

1. "Maeve Fly" by CJ Leede

If you're into dark humor and don't mind a bit of gore "Maeve Fly" is your book. Maeve the main character is not your typical girl. She's got a dark side and doesn't care about rules. The story is full of wild moments especially when Maeve loses her cool. It's a bit like "American Psycho" but with a female lead who's just as twisted.

"All the Sinners Bleed" by S.A. Cosby

This book is a mix of a detective story and horror. It's about a Black sheriff in Virginia who has to solve some really dark crimes in his town. The story talks about big issues like race and power and it's super intense. Think of it as a crime novel but with a spooky twist.

"Camp Damascus" by Chuck Tingle

This one's set in a gay conversion camp which is scary enough on its own. But then things get supernatural and really weird. The main character Rose starts seeing creepy things and has to face her own demons. It's a horror story but it's also about accepting who you are which is pretty cool.

"Looking Glass Sound" by Catriona Ward

This book is hard to describe in just a few words. It's super complex and smart mixing a ghost story with a coming-of-age tale. It's set in Maine and has a vibe like "The Secret History" meets Stephen King. It's the kind of book that people will be talking about and studying for years.

"Wild Spaces" by S.L. Coney

This story is about a boy who lives by the sea and starts to change after his grandfather arrives. It's got a Lovecraftian feel with creepy sea creatures and a mysterious plot. And there's a dog named Teach who's a big part of the story. It's a short book but really powerful.

"What Kind of Mother" by Clay McLeod Chapman

This book is set in the Chesapeake area and mixes ghost stories with Southern Gothic vibes. It's about a dad looking for his missing son and has some really shocking moments. The author doesn't give away too much about the plot so you'll have to read it to find out what happens.

"Lotería" by Cynthia Pelayo

Cynthia Pelayo's "Lotería" is a fascinating collection of short stories that takes readers on a spine-tingling journey through Latin American folklore and the intriguing world of the Mexican card game Lotería. Each story is a unique blend of the supernatural and the cultural filled with eerie ghosts menacing monsters and chilling moments that keep you on the edge of your seat. These stories while deeply rooted in Latin culture have a universal appeal in their spookiness making them accessible to a wide range of readers. 

"The Drift" by C.J. Tudor

In "The Drift" C.J. Tudor known for crime novels ventures into the realm of horror with a gripping narrative set in a post-pandemic world. This novel weaves together the stories of various groups of people who find themselves trapped in terrifying situations. Tudor masterfully connects these stories creating a tapestry that is part horror part murder mystery. The setting in the aftermath of a pandemic resonates with contemporary readers and adds a layer of realism to the horror elements. The novel's blend of suspense and horror has been compared to the works of Stephen King appealing to fans of both genres. 

"Don't Fear the Reaper" by Stephen Graham Jones

Stephen Graham Jones' "Don't Fear the Reaper" is the eagerly awaited second book in a trilogy set in the small town of Proofrock Idaho. This novel marks a return to the life of Jade Daniels a character who is not only a horror movie aficionado but also finds herself confronting a real-life horror scenario. In this installment Jade faces a new killer in town blending a mix of suspense classic horror movie trivia and deep emotional undercurrents. The novel has been praised for its clever integration of horror movie culture into the narrative making it a standout read for fans of the genre. 



"Our Share of Night" by Mariana Enriquez

"Our Share of Night" by Mariana Enriquez is a monumental book stretching over 700 pages and it delves deep into decades of Argentina's history. This novel isn't just a casual read; it's an intricate journey into a family's involvement with the occult presenting a narrative that is both dark and complex. Enriquez's storytelling is rich and detailed creating a world that is as captivating as it is daunting. This book is particularly suited for those who are not afraid to explore the darker and more intricate aspects of storytelling.

"The Spite House" by Johnny Compton

Johnny Compton's "The Spite House" is a novel that redefines the classic haunted house story. It's not just about the scares; it's a clever blend of ghostly tales family drama and insightful commentary on social issues. The story revolves around a house built out of spite but the real intrigue lies in what sinister secrets it harbors. This book is both frightening and intellectually stimulating offering a fresh perspective on the haunted house genre. 

"Wasps in the Ice Cream" by Tim McGregor

"Wasps in the Ice Cream" by Tim McGregor is a unique blend of a coming-of-age tale with a twist of horror. Set in the year 1987 it captures the essence of teenage life in a small town. The story follows a teenager and his friends delving into the trials and tribulations of growing up with an added supernatural element that adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. This book is more than just a horror story; it's a reflection on the challenges and adventures of adolescence. 

"The God of Endings" by Jacqueline Holland

    This novel asks whether being immortal is a good or bad thing. It follows a vampire through different times and places from traditional vampire lore to modern stories. It's a mix of horror romance and thriller and it's really well-written.

And there you have it folks! The best horror books of 2023 will keep you up at night and make you think twice about turning off the lights. Happy reading and don't forget to keep a flashlight handy!