In my neighborhood, Halloween has evolved into a month-long celebration. And honestly, I’m not complaining! Fall is my favorite season, and Halloween brings candy, fun, and, of course, a good dose of creepiness. Audiobooks are a perfect way to dive into the spooky spirit, and nearly every sub-genre of mystery and thrillers has its own way of embracing the eerie. Whether you prefer chilling mysteries, dark humor, or paranormal adventures, there's something for every listener to enjoy.
YOU LIKE IT DARKER
by Stephen King, read by Will Patton, with select stories read by Stephen King, Sean Patrick Hopkins
Simon & Schuster Audio
This audiobook offers listeners 12 chilling stories, including a novella—each one a masterclass in creeping dread. Stephen King’s unmatched talent for storytelling shines through, but a standout for me is "Two Talented Bastids." Narrated superbly by Will Patton, the story explores the mystery of creative talent and where it really comes from, offering an out-of-this-world explanation. In the afterword, narrated by Sean Patrick Hopkins, King reveals the origins of his story ideas. This intimate glimpse into his creative process is worth the listen all on its own.
THE ANGEL OF INDIAN LAKE
by Stephen Graham Jones, read by a full cast
Simon & Schuster Audio
AudioFile Earphones Award
Speaking of King, he makes a voice cameo in THE ANGEL OF INDIAN LAKE, the final book in Stephen Graham Jones’s Indian Lake trilogy. This Earphones Award-winning audiobook features a stellar performance led by Sisseton Wahpeton Dakota actor Isabella Star LaBlanc, with the author narrating the final chapter. Set in the “murder capital of America”—Proofrock, Idaho—the book concludes a dark and bloody tale that touches on generational trauma. Despite its serious themes, listeners will appreciate the humor sprinkled throughout.
ROSE/HOUSE
by Arkady Martine, read by Raquel Beattie
Tantor Media
AudioFile Earphones Award
From eerie suburban neighborhoods, we shift into a dystopian future. In Rose/House, AI steps into the spotlight as a main character. This Earphones Award-winning audiobook, masterfully narrated by Raquel Beattie, centers on an AI house. Beattie seamlessly voices both the AI persona and the humans who are trying to solve a murder in the house. The combination of well-crafted narration and a gripping plot makes this dystopian horror story an engaging listen.
THE VILLAGE LIBRARY DEMON-HUNTING SOCIETY
by C.M. Waggoner, read by Cindy Piller
Random House Audio
For those seeking something a bit lighter, THE VILLAGE LIBRARY DEMON-HUNTING SOCIETY offers a delightful mix of cozy mystery and paranormal adventure. Set in a quaint upstate New York village, this audiobook follows Sherry Pinkwhistle, a librarian with a talent for solving murders—much to the local sheriff’s frustration. Cindy Piller’s narration brings warmth to the character of Sherry and builds tension as the story dips into demon hunting. It’s a nice blend of lighthearted charm and spooky fun.
BLESS YOUR HEART
by Lindy Ryan, read by Stephanie Németh-Parker
Macmillan Audio
I've always been slightly suspicious of the phrase "bless your heart." And this audiobook just adds layers of creepiness to the phrase by introducing the Strigori—a powerful vampire. The Evans women, owners of a funeral parlor in Southeast Texas, take it upon themselves to figure out who let the vampire out and to return it to whence it came. Narrator Stephanie Németh-Parker uses her voice talents to make this a charming, eerie listening experience.
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