Horror: “A Dowry of Blood” by S.T. Gibson

“A Dowry of Blood” reimagines the classic tale of “Dracula,” focusing on the stories of the famous vampire’s immortal spouses. The novel concentrates especially on Dracula’s first bride, Constanta, and her experience with immortality, her husband’s violent and manipulative whims and, of course, blood. Gibson takes the reader through a story filled with obsession, secrets and gore; the perfect book to satisfy your craving for a dark, scary novel. “A Dowry of Blood” will haunt you long after you finish its final page in the best possible way. 

Rom-com: “Love in the Time of Serial Killers” by Alicia Thompson

Thompson’s romantic comedy follows true crime-obsessed Ph.D. candidate Phoebe Walsh, who is convinced that her new neighbor is a serial killer. It’s not long before she realizes her neighbor could be much worse; a nice guy she finds can capture her heart. “Love in the Time of Serial Killers” is a sharp, addictive romance, leaving readers with a funny, lovable read. 

Perfect for the fall season: “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt

Tartt’s contemporary classic, “The Secret History,” is known in the BookTok community as one of the best books to fit your gloomy fall mood. Following a close-knit, cult-like group of classics students at a small liberal arts college in Vermont, “The Secret History” will have its readers turning page after page, trying to uncover how the small group of students spiraled into chaos. Complete with dark academia and morally gray plotlines, contrasted against the backdrop of a beautiful Vermont fall, “The Secret History” is a brilliant psychological thriller that will leave you disturbed yet enthralled.