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As the days grow shorter and that familiar winter chill starts creeping in, there's really no better time to dive into books that match the season's mood. There's something about the darker months that makes me crave stories with a little more —books that pull you into their world with layers of mystery, complexity, and just the right amount of eerie atmosphere.
So, I’ve rounded up five dark-themed books that are perfect for this time of year. Whether you're in the mood for supernatural thrills or stories that explore deeper, more unsettling themes, these are ones you’ll definitely want on your radar. If you’ve read any of them, or if they spark new interest, let’s chat—I’d love to hear your thoughts and dive deeper into what makes these books so captivating.
Bunny
Genre: Contemporary Horror
Author: Mona Awad
Standalone
This book is wonderfully bizarre, and I’m all about it! If you enjoyed Heathers or Mean Girls, you’ll be captivated by this fever dream of a story.
“We never joke about bunnies, Bunny.” ― Mona Awad, Bunny
Meet Samantha, an outsider at Warren University’s prestigious MFA program. The tight-knit group of her classmates calls themselves the "Bunnies," and they’re not exactly welcoming. But when they unexpectedly invite Samantha into their fold, she’s torn between curiosity and the desire to fit in. Prepare yourself for the delightful weirdness that follows, but with an even darker core; loneliness! Want to read more -soft- horror, read my review about Ninth House!
The Bell Jar
Genre: Literary Classic
Author: Sylvia Plath
Standalone
One of my rare five-star reads this year is *The Bell Jar*. It’s a profound exploration of dark themes, particularly depression, through the eyes of its main character, Esther.
“The silence depressed me. It wasn't the silence of silence. It was my own silence.”― Sylvia Plath, The Bell Jar
Set in the 1960s, the novel captures the complexities of mental health during that era. In the first half, we witness Esther’s downward spiral, feeling as if a bell jar is closing in on her, suffocating her spirit. The second half plunges into a haze, leaving her disconnected from the world. This book is hauntingly beautiful and absolutely worth your time.
The Book Thief
Genre: Historical Fiction
Author: Markus Zusak
Standalone
Looking for a book that will make you weep? Look no further than *The Book Thief*. It tells the poignant story of Liesel, a nine-year-old girl navigating life in foster care after her parents are sent to a concentration camp. Her act of stealing books becomes a powerful symbol in a dark time.
“Even death has a heart.”― Markus Zusak, The Book Thief
What makes this book unique? It’s narrated by Death, offering a fresh perspective on World War II. It's one of those stories that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page—on my “I love you, but can’t read you again” list alongside A Little Life and My Dark Vanessa.
Interested in more historical fiction? Go to my In Memoriam by Alice Winn page!
Scythe
Genre: Dystopian, Sci-Fi, YA
Author: Neil Shusterman
Trilogy (completed)
Remember when dystopian novels dominated the literary scene? *Scythe* is a worthy addition to that era. In a future where sickness, hunger, and war have been eradicated, the only control over population comes from professional Scythes, who gleam—aka kill—randomly.
“The greatest achievement of the human race was not conquering death. It was ending government.”― Neal Shusterman, Scythe
Rowan and Citra find themselves as apprentices to become Scythes, but even in a utopia, corruption lurks. Their bond is tested when they learn one of them must glean the other. This trilogy is thrilling and dark, and even as someone who isn’t usually into sci-fi, I found it incredibly engaging!
This Savage Song
Genre: Fantasy, YA
Author: V.E. Schwab
Duology (completed)
Could I create a dark-themed list without including V.E. Schwab? Absolutely not!
“Sing you a song and steal your soul.” ― Victoria Schwab, This Savage Song
Set in the gritty V-City, this tale follows Kate and August, heirs to rival families fighting for control. While Kate aims to embrace her father’s ruthlessness, August yearns for humanity. After a botched assassination attempt forces them to collaborate, they must navigate a city where monsters lurk in every shadow.
It’s dark yet thrilling, and if you’re a fan of beautiful editions, you’re in luck—gorgeous copies of this duology were released recently! If you’re curious about more of Schwab's works, check out my latest review or my Fall Recommendations.
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