Best Occult Fiction Books of 2025

Haunting Adeline by Cat and Mouse Duet is a suspenseful thriller that tells the story of a manipulator and a shadow. The manipulator can control the emotions of anyone who lets her, but the shadow is immune to her powers. As they fall in love, the shadow becomes obsessed with making her his. This book is a continuation of Satan's Affair and ends on a cliffhanger. The storyline is gripping and the characters are well-developed, making it a must-read for fans of suspense thrillers.

Inheritance: The Lost Bride Trilogy #1 is a haunting ghost story written by Nora Roberts. The novel follows Sonya MacTavish, a graphic designer, who inherits a Victorian mansion on the Maine coast from her late uncle, Collin Poole. However, Sonya soon discovers that she has also inherited a curse that has plagued her family for centuries. As she delves deeper into her family's history, she uncovers the mystery of her father's long-lost twin and the tragic fate of his bride, Astrid. With a perfect blend of romance, suspense, and paranormal activity, Inheritance: The Lost Bride Trilogy #1 is a must-read for fans of ghost fiction.

The London Séance Society by Sarah Penner is a gripping tale about two women who join forces to solve a high-profile murder. Set in 1873, the novel follows Lenna Wickes as she accompanies acclaimed spiritualist Vaudeline D’Allaire to England to investigate a crime. As they delve into the mystery, they begin to realize that they may be in danger themselves. Penner's writing is suspenseful and atmospheric, and the story blurs the lines between truth and illusion. Overall, The London Séance Society is a captivating read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Hell Bent: A Novel (Alex Stern, 2) is a sequel to the smash New York Times bestseller Ninth House from #1 bestselling author Leigh Bardugo. The book follows Galaxy “Alex” Stern as she attempts to break Darlington out of purgatory, even if it costs her a future at Lethe and at Yale. Together with a team of dubious allies, they navigate a maze of arcane texts and bizarre artifacts to uncover the societies’ most closely guarded secrets. Bardugo’s signature twists and intricate world-building make Hell Bent a page-turner. Overall, this occult fiction book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys dark fantasy and magic-themed stories.

Leigh Bardugo's Ninth House is a spellbinding tale of magic, power, and privilege among Yale's elite. Alex Stern, the most unlikely member of Yale's freshman class, is given a second chance to attend one of the world's most prestigious universities. However, she is tasked with monitoring the activities of Yale's secret societies, which are more sinister and extraordinary than any paranoid imagination might conceive. Bardugo's long-awaited adult debut is a must-read for fans of literary fantasy writing. Ninth House is a unique and captivating addition to the occult fiction genre.

The Last Heir to Blackwood Library is a mysterious and enchanting book that tells the story of Ivy Radcliffe, a young woman who inherits a vast library in post-World War I England. Despite warnings from the staff, Ivy feels inexplicably drawn to the library's dusty shelves, which house both familiar and esoteric texts. As Ivy delves deeper into the library's secrets, she uncovers rumors of ghosts and curses, and the elusive manuscript at the center of it all. The book is a love letter to books and a reflection on memory and female agency, making it a must-read for bibliophiles and fans of occult fiction.

The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is a gripping and highly addictive murder mystery that follows the story of Aiden Bishop, tasked with identifying the killer of Evelyn Hardcastle in a never-ending cycle. Stuart Turton's inventive twist on time-turning and locked-room mystery will keep readers guessing until the very end. The book is a blend of Agatha Christie's whodunnit, Downton Abbey's setting, and the time-travel element of Groundhog Day. Overall, the book is an excellent read, and its unique blend of genres makes it stand out among other thrillers.

The Stand by Stephen King is a riveting post-apocalyptic novel that portrays a world devastated by a lethal virus, leaving only a few survivors. The story revolves around two leaders, Mother Abagail and Randall Flagg, who represent good and evil, respectively. It's a tale of adventure, romance, prophecy, and allegory, with elements of fantasy, realism, and apocalypse. The book is a #1 bestseller and has been praised for King's peerless imagination, crackling suspense, and explosive climaxes. Overall, The Stand is a must-read for horror fans, and King's master storytelling skills make it a unique and unforgettable experience.

The Cabinet of Dr. Leng is the latest addition to the Agent Pendergast series by Preston & Child. In this book, Pendergast and Constance Greene cross paths with Dr. Enoch Leng, Pendergast's own ancestor and New York's deadliest serial killer. Constance travels back in time to prevent the deaths of her siblings, but Leng is waiting for her. Meanwhile, Pendergast searches for a way to reunite with Constance before it's too late. The book is rife with inventive scenarios, amusing exchanges, and tantalizingly spooky mysteries, making it a pure pleasure to read. Overall, The Cabinet of Dr. Leng is a must-read for fans of the series and occult fiction lovers alike.

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a heartwarming and captivating novel that follows Mika Moon, a witch who has to hide her magic in order to stay safe. When she is invited to teach three young witches how to control their powers, she is drawn into a world of secrets and unexpected romance. The book is filled with charming characters and a cozy atmosphere that will delight readers. Overall, this whimsical romance is a must-read for anyone who loves a good found family story with a touch of magic.