The 20 Best Paranormal Fiction Books

Paranormal fiction, a captivating genre within literature, delves into the supernatural, exploring phenomena beyond the realm of scientific explanation. Rooted in folklore and mythologies, it intertwines elements of mystery, horror, and fantasy to weave intricate narratives that both thrill and unsettle readers.

British paranormal fiction often draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of the nation’s history and folklore, incorporating legends of ghosts, witches, and other spectral beings. These stories frequently unfold against the backdrop of ancient castles, misty moors, and secluded villages, evoking a sense of eerie atmosphere and suspense.

Characters in British paranormal fiction may possess extraordinary abilities such as telekinesis, clairvoyance, or the power to commune with the dead. They navigate a world where the line between the ordinary and the supernatural blurs, confronting malevolent spirits, cursed artifacts, and otherworldly entities.

Authors like Susan Hill, Neil Gaiman, and Sarah Waters have contributed to the rich tapestry of British paranormal fiction, crafting tales that resonate with readers’ deepest fears and fascinations. Through their skilful storytelling and vivid imagery, they invite readers to embark on thrilling journeys into the unknown, where the paranormal lurks just beyond the shadows, waiting to be discovered.

Here’s a selection of the very best paranormal fiction books for you.

The Woman in Black by Susan Hill, 1983 “The Woman in Black” follows Arthur Kipps, a young solicitor, as he visits a remote English village to settle the estate of a deceased client. As Arthur uncovers the dark secrets surrounding Eel Marsh House and encounters the vengeful spirit of the Woman in Black, he finds himself entangled in a chilling mystery that threatens his sanity and his life. Hill’s atmospheric prose and spine-tingling suspense make “The Woman in Black” a haunting classic of British ghost fiction.

The Serpent and the Wings of Night by William King, 1998 In “The Serpent and the Wings of Night,” William King weaves a tale of ancient magic and forbidden love set in a world where dragons and humans coexist uneasily. As the kingdom teeters on the brink of war, a young dragon rider named Seraphina must navigate treacherous politics and confront her own dark past to save her people from destruction. With its lush world-building and complex characters, “The Serpent and the Wings of Night” captivates readers with its blend of fantasy and romance.

Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris, 2001 Set in a small Louisiana town, “Dead Until Dark” follows telepathic waitress Sookie Stackhouse as she becomes entangled in the world of vampires after meeting the mysterious Bill Compton. Amidst a series of murders targeting women associated with vampires, Sookie discovers the dark secrets lurking beneath her seemingly ordinary community. Harris skillfully blends romance, mystery, and the supernatural, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Empire of the Damned by Darren Shan, 2003 In “Empire of the Damned,” the third book in the “Saga of Darren Shan” series, Darren finds himself trapped in a nightmarish world ruled by the powerful vampire Prince, Steve Leopard. As Darren struggles to survive in the brutal vampire society and evade capture by his enemies, he uncovers shocking truths about his own lineage and the dark forces at play. Shan’s gritty and action-packed narrative immerses readers in a dystopian world of bloodthirsty vampires and desperate battles for survival.

Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison, 2004 In “Dead Witch Walking,” bounty hunter Rachel Morgan, a witch with a talent for causing chaos, quits her job at the supernatural law enforcement agency and becomes a freelance operative. As Rachel delves deeper into the criminal underworld of Cincinnati, she confronts powerful adversaries, including vampires, werewolves, and demons, while uncovering dark secrets about her own past. Harrison’s blend of action, humour, and intricate world-building makes “Dead Witch Walking” a spellbinding start to the “Hollows” series.

Dark Lover by J.R. Ward, 2005 The first instalment in the “Black Dagger Brotherhood” series, “Dark Lover” introduces readers to a world where powerful vampire warriors, led by Wrath, battle against their enemies while protecting their kind. When Wrath is called upon to train Beth Randall, a half-breed unaware of her heritage, their fates become intertwined in a dangerous game of loyalty and desire. Ward’s intricate world-building and steamy romance make “Dark Lover” a captivating read for fans of paranormal fiction.

Fledgling by Octavia E. Butler, 2005 “Fledgling” follows Shori, a young girl who wakes up with no memory of her past and discovers she is a member of a genetically modified vampire-like species called Ina. As Shori struggles to piece together her identity and navigate the complexities of Ina society, she forms a bond with a human symbiont and uncovers a conspiracy that threatens both Ina and humans alike. Butler’s thought-provoking exploration of race, identity, and power dynamics makes “Fledgling” a compelling and original take on the vampire genre.

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer, 2005 “Twilight” introduces readers to Bella Swan, a teenage girl who moves to Forks, Washington, and falls in love with Edward Cullen, a mysterious and handsome vampire. As their romance blossoms, Bella becomes entangled in the supernatural world of vampires and werewolves, putting herself in danger as she uncovers dark secrets about her love interest and his family. Meyer’s portrayal of forbidden love and the allure of the paranormal captivates readers, making “Twilight” a cultural phenomenon that has left a lasting impact on the young adult genre.

Moon Called by Patricia Briggs, 2006 In “Moon Called,” Mercy Thompson, a shape-shifting mechanic with the ability to turn into a coyote, finds herself drawn into a dangerous world of werewolves, vampires, and fae when her former boss is murdered. As Mercy investigates the crime, she uncovers a conspiracy that threatens the delicate balance between supernatural creatures and humans. Briggs crafts a compelling urban fantasy with a kick-ass heroine and a thrilling plot that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.

Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning, 2006 “Darkfever” follows MacKayla Lane as she travels to Dublin to investigate her sister’s murder and discovers a hidden world of faeries, where she teams up with enigmatic Jericho Barrons to find answers. As Mac delves deeper into the mystery, she realizes that she possesses rare abilities that make her a target for both the fae and other supernatural beings. Moning’s atmospheric writing and complex characters make “Darkfever” a gripping start to the “Fever” series, blending urban fantasy with elements of mystery and romance.

A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole, 2006 In “A Hunger Like No Other,” Lachlain MacRieve, a Scottish werewolf, is driven by an insatiable hunger for revenge against the vampires who imprisoned him. When he meets his fated mate, Emmaline Troy, a half-Valkyrie, half-vampire hybrid, their explosive attraction ignites a dangerous passion that threatens to consume them both. Cole’s blend of steamy romance, supernatural intrigue, and intense action makes “A Hunger Like No Other” an addictive read for fans of paranormal romance.

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare, 2007 In the first book of “The Mortal Instruments” series, “City of Bones” follows Clary Fray as she discovers her ability to see supernatural beings and becomes embroiled in a world of Shadowhunters, demons, and angels. As Clary searches for her missing mother, she uncovers long-buried secrets about her own heritage and the dangers lurking in the shadowy streets of New York City. Clare’s fast-paced storytelling and richly imagined world make “City of Bones” a gripping read that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost, 2007 “Halfway to the Grave” introduces readers to Cat Crawfield, a half-vampire with a vendetta against the undead, who hunts vampires with a vengeance until she meets the enigmatic Bones. Teaming up with Bones, Cat discovers a world of danger and intrigue as they face off against powerful foes while navigating their own complicated relationship. Frost blends action, romance, and dark humour in this thrilling urban fantasy, making “Halfway to the Grave” a must-read for fans of paranormal romance.

Magic Bites by Ilona Andrews, 2007 “Magic Bites” introduces readers to Kate Daniels, a mercenary who navigates a post-apocalyptic Atlanta where magic fluctuates with technology. When her guardian is murdered, Kate delves into a dangerous underworld of necromancers, shapeshifters, and vampires to uncover the truth. Andrews’ inventive world-building and kick-ass protagonist make “Magic Bites” a thrilling urban fantasy that combines action-packed adventure with witty dialogue and steamy romance.

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, 2008 In “The Graveyard Book,” a young boy named Nobody “Bod” Owens is raised by ghosts in a cemetery after his family is murdered by a mysterious figure known as the Man Jack. As Bod grows up, he navigates the dangers of the supernatural world while seeking answers about his past and his connection to the Man Jack. Gaiman’s masterful storytelling and vivid imagination create a hauntingly beautiful tale that explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of love and friendship.

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick, 2009 In “Hush, Hush,” Nora Grey finds herself drawn to the enigmatic Patch Cipriano, who harbours a dark secret: he’s a fallen angel. As Nora uncovers the truth about Patch’s true nature and the dangers surrounding him, she becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of love and betrayal. Fitzpatrick’s electrifying romance and suspenseful plot twists make “Hush, Hush” a thrilling read for fans of paranormal romance.

The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters, 2009 “The Little Stranger” follows Dr. Faraday, a country doctor who becomes entangled with the Ayres family, the owners of Hundreds Hall, a once-grand estate that is now in decline. As strange and sinister events plague the Ayres family, Faraday becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind the haunting of Hundreds Hall, even as his own sanity is called into question. Waters’ atmospheric prose and slow-building tension make “The Little Stranger” a chilling and haunting tale of psychological horror.

Ask for Andrea by Tina Wainscott, 2011 In “Ask for Andrea,” Andrea “Andie” Sommers discovers she has the power to communicate with spirits after surviving a near-death experience. With the help of paranormal investigator Ethan Cole, Andie navigates her newfound abilities while unraveling the mystery behind her psychic connection to a murdered girl. Wainscott’s gripping storytelling and compelling characters make “Ask for Andrea” a captivating blend of mystery, romance, and the supernatural.

Into the Uncanny by Paula Guran (Editor), 2011 “Into the Uncanny” is a collection of short stories that explores the eerie and unsettling aspects of the paranormal. From ghostly encounters to encounters with otherworldly creatures, each tale delves into the uncanny realm where reality blurs and the supernatural lurks just beyond the surface. With contributions from renowned authors such as Neil Gaiman, Kelly Link, and Caitlín R. Kiernan, “Into the Uncanny” offers a diverse and captivating exploration of the supernatural.

House of Sky and Breath by Sarah J. Maas, 2022 In “House of Sky and Breath,” the sequel to “House of Earth and Blood,” Bryce Quinlan must navigate the dangerous politics of Crescent City as she investigates a series of brutal murders with her angelic partner, Hunt Athalar. As Bryce delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers dark secrets about her own past and the true nature of the city’s ruling elite. Maas’ lush world-building and complex characters make “House of Sky and Breath” a gripping fantasy tale that explores themes of power, betrayal, and redemption.

___

And that’s our list of the 20 best paranormal fiction books. What’s your take on these – any surprises, or any weird paranormal novels not on this list that you feel should make the top 20?

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *