The occult fiction genre, steeped in mystery and esotericism, has a rich history that traces its roots to ancient mythologies, folk traditions, and the practice of mystical arts. Emerging in the 19th century, it gained prominence during the Victorian era, a time marked by a fascination with spiritualism, the paranormal, and secret societies. Early works, such as Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” and Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” laid the groundwork for the genre by intertwining supernatural elements with societal anxieties.
The 20th century witnessed a surge in Occult fiction, influenced by spiritual movements like Theosophy and the proliferation of occult practices. Authors like H.P. Lovecraft explored cosmic horror and forbidden knowledge, while Aleister Crowley’s influence permeated the works of writers like Dennis Wheatley. Occult fiction evolved to encompass diverse subgenres, from witchcraft and alchemy to demonology and psychic phenomena.
In the contemporary era, Occult fiction continues to captivate readers with its exploration of hidden realms, ancient rituals, and the blurred boundaries between the mundane and the mystical. Authors like Neil Gaiman and Clive Barker infuse their narratives with occult themes, while a new wave of writers embraces diverse perspectives, pushing the genre’s boundaries. The enduring allure of Occult fiction lies in its ability to delve into the shadows of human existence, offering a literary portal to the unknown and a canvas for exploring the complexities of the spiritual and supernatural realms.
Here are twenty occult fiction books that will put you right in the middle of it:
“Utriusque Cosmi, Maioris scilicet et Minoris, metaphysica, physica, atque technica Historia”, Robert Fludd, 1617-1621
Robert Fludd’s monumental work “Utriusque Cosmi” delves into the metaphysical, physical, and technical aspects of the cosmos, exploring the occult mysteries of the universe with intricate diagrams and esoteric symbolism, weaving together alchemy, astrology, and mysticism into a comprehensive philosophical framework.
“Zanoni”, Edward Bulwer-Lytton,1842
In “Zanoni,” Edward Bulwer-Lytton crafts a captivating narrative interwoven with occult themes, following the immortal adept Zanoni as he navigates the mystical realms of ancient wisdom and eternal love, set against the backdrop of a mesmerizing tale of romance and enlightenment.
“The Perfect Way or The Finding of Christ”, Anna Kingsford, 1882
Anna Kingsford’s “The Perfect Way” offers a profound exploration of mystical Christianity, blending esoteric insights with spiritual allegory to reveal the path of divine transformation and the realization of Christ consciousness, inviting readers to embark on a journey of inner illumination and spiritual awakening.
“The Kabbalah Unveiled”, Samuel Liddell MacGregor Mathers, 1887
Samuel Liddell MacGregor Mathers’ “The Kabbalah Unveiled” serves as a seminal text in the study of Jewish mysticism, offering an elucidating interpretation of the esoteric teachings of the Kabbalah, delving into its cosmology, symbolism, and spiritual practices to unveil the hidden mysteries of the divine.
“The Secret Doctrine”, Helena Blavatsky, 1888
Helena Blavatsky’s “The Secret Doctrine” serves as a cornerstone of modern esotericism, presenting a vast synthesis of occult knowledge drawn from Eastern and Western traditions, unveiling the hidden truths behind the cosmos, human evolution, and the spiritual hierarchy that governs the universe.
“The Astral Plane: Its Scenery, Inhabitants and Phenomena”, Charles Webster Leadbeater, 1895
Charles Webster Leadbeater’s “The Astral Plane” provides a detailed examination of the astral realm, unveiling its ethereal landscapes, inhabitants, and mystical phenomena, offering practical guidance for astral travelers and seekers of esoteric wisdom to navigate this subtle dimension of consciousness.
“The Secret of Mental Magic”, William Walker Atkinson,1907
William Walker Atkinson’s “The Secret of Mental Magic” unveils the principles and techniques of mind over matter, delving into the esoteric secrets of mentalism, hypnotism, and psychic phenomena, empowering readers to harness the hidden forces of the mind to manifest their desires and transform their reality.
“The Book of Ceremonial Magic”, Arthur Edward Waite,1911
Arthur Edward Waite’s “The Book of Ceremonial Magic” provides a comprehensive exploration of ceremonial magic, encompassing its history, rituals, and practitioners, offering insights into the arcane traditions of sorcery, summoning, and the invocation of spiritual powers.
“The Great God Pan”, Arthur Machen, 1894
Arthur Machen’s “The Great God Pan” weaves a haunting tale of supernatural horror and occult intrigue, exploring the sinister consequences of forbidden knowledge and the ancient deity Pan’s malevolent influence on human consciousness, leaving readers spellbound with its eerie atmosphere and existential dread.
“Initiation into Hermetics”, Franz Bardon, 1956
Franz Bardon’s “Initiation into Hermetics” serves as a practical guide to spiritual development and magical initiation, offering a systematic approach to mastering the occult arts through exercises, meditations, and rituals, leading aspirants on a transformative journey towards self-realization and mastery over the elements.
“The Teachings of Don Juan: A Yaqui Way of Knowledge”, Carlos Castaneda, 1968
Carlos Castaneda’s “The Teachings of Don Juan” documents his extraordinary apprenticeship with a Yaqui Indian shaman, unveiling profound insights into the nature of reality, consciousness, and mystical experience, challenging conventional perceptions of existence and offering a path to transcendent wisdom.
“Dictionary of Mysticism”, Nevill Drury, 1985
Nevill Drury’s “Dictionary of Mysticism” serves as an invaluable reference guide to the diverse traditions, concepts, and figures within the realm of mysticism, offering concise definitions and explanations of esoteric terms, fostering a deeper understanding of the mystical dimensions of human experience.
“Buckland’s Complete Book of Witchcraft”, Raymond Buckland, 1986
Raymond Buckland’s “Complete Book of Witchcraft” serves as a comprehensive guide to Wiccan practices, rituals, and beliefs, offering practical instruction for aspiring witches and seekers of the Craft, blending traditional wisdom with modern perspectives to empower readers on their spiritual journey.
“Voudon Gnostic Workbook”, Michael Bertiaux, 1988
Michael Bertiaux’s “Voudon Gnostic Workbook” delves into the syncretic traditions of Vodou and Gnosticism, presenting a profound synthesis of occult wisdom, magical rituals, and mystical teachings, providing initiates with a transformative path to spiritual enlightenment and communion with divine forces.
“The Holy Book of Women’s Mysteries”, Zsuzsanna Budapest, 1989
Zsuzsanna Budapest’s “The Holy Book of Women’s Mysteries” celebrates the divine feminine through a collection of rituals, meditations, and teachings, empowering women to reclaim their spiritual heritage and embrace the goddess within, fostering a deeper connection to nature, intuition, and the cycles of life.
“Celtic Magic”, D. J. Conway, 1990
J. Conway’s “Celtic Magic” explores the rich tapestry of Celtic spirituality and folklore, offering readers a practical guide to Celtic rituals, spells, and divination techniques, inviting them to tap into the ancient wisdom of the Druids and connect with the mystical energies of the Celtic pantheon.
“The Magick of Aleister Crowley: A Handbook of the Rituals of Thelema”, Lon Milo DuQuette, 2003
Lon Milo DuQuette’s “The Magick of Aleister Crowley” provides a comprehensive exploration of the rituals and philosophy of Thelema, as outlined by the influential occultist Aleister Crowley, offering practical instruction for aspiring magicians to work with Thelemic principles and unleash their inner
And that’s our list of the 20 best occult fiction books. What’s your take on these – any surprises, or any occult novels not on this list that you feel should make the top 20?