Category: book review

The best books I read in 2025

2025 wasn’t a great year. It was, in fact, a damn hard year. But you know what? We’re not going to focus on that today. Because there was one thing 2025 was good for, and it was books.

The books that I read this year were, let me tell you, fantastic. Normally, when I do my top ten list for the year, at least some of them are old books that are just new to me. This year, every book on my list either came out this year or in 2024. So well done, everyone, keep up the good work.

I did review most of these books earlier in the year, so I won’t go into a lot of details here. I’ll leave links to the full reviews if you’d like to check them out.

Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman

Told entirely from the point of view of a little girl named Bella, this is the horrific tale of a demonic possession that rips a family apart.

Sunrise on The Reaping by Suzanne Collins

This might be the final book in the Hunger Games series. And it was fantastic. If you’ve somehow not read this, do it now. Haymitch’s story is heartbreaking at every turn.

The Bewitching by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

This book was so cool. There’s witchcraft, lesbians, and Mexican ambiance. Everything one could want in a horror story. I almost wish I’d saved it for a more wintery month, as it feels like a winter horror book. So if you’re looking for something to read while the snow falls, this might be the book for you.

Everything is Tuberculosis by John Green

This book was fascinating. I learned so much that I didn’t really want to know about how terrible tuberculosis is, and how it really doesn’t have to be. We are choosing to let it be because, you guessed it, money and racism.

The Dead Husband’s Cookbook by Danielle Valentine

This book was fantastic. The tension was thick, the recipes were great. The subterfuge was well-layered. The cooking puns abounded.

Horrorstor by Grady Hendrix

Alright, I lied. This one actually came out in 2014. But it was a great story.

I love a good haunted house. But I don’t think we consider that other buildings and places can be haunted. Like, for instance, a big furniture store.

This book kept me entertained while I spent a lot of time traveling back and forth to different hospitals for The Darling Husband. So for that, I owe it a great debt.

The House of My Mother by Shari Franke

This was one of the last books I reviewed for Haunted MTL before it closed. This book also broke my damned heart.

You all know I’m a bit obsessed with fundie families, and the Ruby Franke case in particular. I was raised in the Mormon church, the same as Ruby and Shari. And it is so good to see Shari reclaiming her voice.

Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix

For someone who isn’t a woman, isn’t a witch, and isn’t a pregnant teenager in the middle of the Summer in fucking Florida, Hendrix has somehow managed to capture the feeling of all of these things. I read this book in the dead of winter and felt too hot. I felt a lot of things reading this book.

We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer

This book was fantastic. Charlie and Eve are in the middle of renovating their new home when a mysterious family shows up. It seems like a simple visit down memory lane, until their daughter vanishes into the house.

At no point did I know what the hell was going on in this book. Though I will say that I’m glad I can recognize Moris Code.

This was a debut novel, and I am incredibly jealous. I can’t wait to see what else this author has in store for us.

The Conjuring of America by Lindsey Stewart

This was hands down the best book I read this year.

Look, I consider myself to be a fairly ‘woke’ person. I try. I want to understand racism and what I can do to combat it. But I did not realize exactly how much of my daily life I owe to Black women. Like blue jeans, Vicks VapoRub, and pancakes. I’m also newly angry at every racist person who was mad about the Little Mermaid being Black.

I learned so much from this book. If you have any interest in American history, I highly recommend it.

So now it’s your turn. What was the best book you read this year? What books are you most looking forward to next year? Let us know in the comments.

Also, this will be my last post of the year. I’m taking next week off for some much-needed rest and family time. I hope you all have a fantastic holiday. And I’ll see you in January for another year of writing and reading.

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My winter reading list 2025/2026

Winter is almost here. Inside of me, there is still a little class kissass who loved getting a reading list. (There’s still also some strep. So if you notice any grammar issues in this post, mind your business.)

I’m especially excited about this Winter’s reading list. I’ve asked for some exciting books for Yule. And, I found two new Christmas books that might well end up on a new ‘Christmas books that aren’t romance’ post once I’ve collected enough. You can find links to those posts here, here, and here.

In the meantime, here’s what I intend to read as the weather gets cold and hopefully I recover. They’re in no specific order. Some are witchy, some are fiction. Some are new, and some are just new to me. I hope you enjoy.

A Christmas Story, by Jean Shepherd

I don’t know how I managed to miss this one for so long, especially in the annual search for Christmas books that aren’t about a meet-cute at a ski rink.

I think everyone knows this story. A middle-class family fights and loves through the holiday season, while the main character only wants a gun for Christmas. Let’s see if the book holds up to the warm fuzzy reputation of the film.

Fear Not by Anne Holt

This is a dark murder mystery about a serial killer before Christmas. Feels like a pretty common setup. But it sure is catnip to me.

You weren’t meant to be human by Andrew Joseph White

The cover caught my attention at my local library. It’s about a dark alien invasion in West Virginia. I can’t wait to dig into it.

Can you sign my tentacle by Brandon O’Brian

I was lucky enough to hear the author read some of his poetry during the recent SFWA Quasar. It’s fantastic. I had to order it right away.

The End of the World As We Know it by various authors

Someday, I hope to be a well-known enough author to be invited to something like this.

This is a collection of stories in the world of The Stand. I’ll be honest, I’ve already partially read it before I put it aside for more festive fare. What I’ve read so far is fantastic.

Star Spangled Jesus by April Ajoy

I’m still looking for other people who survived high-control religions. April is hilarious if you’re not following her already on Instagram. I can’t wait to dig into this one.

Jesus and John Wayne by Kristin Kobes and Du Mez

In the same vein as the last book. I’m finding myself increasingly angry about how America has corrupted Christianity. I’d like to know more about this.

Your favorite scary movie by Ashley Cullins

My favorite horror movie franchise is actually Paranormal Activity. But Scream is a real close second. It’s a horror series for horror fans. And, being the big old nerd that I am, I’d like to learn more about it.

The Green Witch’s Guide to Herbal Magic by Annabel Margaret

I’m not a very green witch myself. But I do love making tonics, teas, and desserts that double as spells. And that’s exactly what this book has.

I also follow Annabel on YouTube. If you want to get started in green witchcraft, her channel is the place for you.

The Bible Says So by Daniel McClellan

As I heal from my upbringing, I find myself more and more wanting to be a good Christian. Part of that is trying to understand the Bible for what it really is. So it seems like the book written by a Biblical scholar who also happens to be the most liberal Mormon I know is a great place to start.

Marie Laveau Voodoo Grimoire by Denise Alvarado

Alvarado’s first book about Mother Marie was fantastic. When I saw this book on the shelf of my local witchy shop, it was an instant buy for me. I’m very excited to read it. I’ll let you know how it goes.

Discovering Christian Witchcraft by Sara Raztresen

Again, I want to be a better Christian. For me, that means being a better Christian witch. I also think Raztresen is starting an online church in January. Stay tuned, I’ll let you know when I know.

So now it’s your turn. What are you reading this Winter? Have you read any of the books on my list? Let us know in the comments below.

By the way, Smashwords is having an end of year sale. Most of my books are half off. This one is free.

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A retrospective on the Hunger Games series

“If a book will be too difficult for grown-ups, then you write it for children,” 

–Madeleine L’Engle

Hello, my name is Nicole. I’m thirty-nine years old, and I love young adult fiction. No, I don’t think we need a support group for this. Unless we all support each other in telling people who judge us to mind their own damn business.

One of my favorite series is Hunger Games. It’s been getting a lot of talk recently, with the release of the latest prequel, Sunrise on The Reaping. The good news is that the book was terrific. The bad news is that Suzanne Collins has said publically that this will likely be the last Hunger Games book.

However, I think that we’ll still be talking about this series for a very long time. While its popularity will likely wax and wane, this is the sort of story that stands the test of time. 

Inspired by the new book launch, I recently reread the series. And I have some thoughts, both as a writer and as a person living through the prolog of a distopian novel. 

So I know we’ve talked about several of the books by themselves. But today, I want to pull out and look at the series as a whole. Maybe we can learn something about writing a series that will stand the test of time. Maybe we can also learn something about dealing with our political situation. 

There are so many questions remaining

At this point I’ve read the whole series twice, except for Sunrise. And I still have so many questions. If anything, I have more questions after the reread. What happened to Lucy Gray? Is the Tigress that shelter’s Katness Snow’s cousin? If so, why does she now hate him so much?!

A great story doesn’t do all the heavy lifting from us. It leaves things open to interpretation, and argument. It allows fans to feel like we’re a part of the story. It also builds a community. A fandom. 

Speaking of which. What do you think happened to Lucy Gray? Let me know in the comments. I personally think she ran off and found a covey in the forest. 

The characters are complicated

There are several characters in Hunger Games that are wonderful people.

Katness is not one of those people. Neither is Haymich. And I don’t even think I need to discuss what sort of person Snow is. 

But, maybe I do? Because he’s not always a monster. Sometimes he’s kind. Sometimes he’s compassionate. He’s brave even, in some ways. 

That’s probably the best thing about this series. The main characters are morally gray. They do some bad things. And some good. These are characters that I think we can all see ourselves in, for better or worse. I think it’s the worse part that’s the bigger hook, actually. 

For me, Katness has a lot of the flaws I see in myself. She’s selfish. She uses people. She refuses to consider that other people might care about her. And she clearly doesn’t ever trust another human soul.

These are parts of myself that I don’t like. And so, I don’t like Katness. But I’ll also never forget her.

It asks something of us

I don’t think it’s any surprise to anyone that we are living through some dark times. Honestly, I lack the energy and time to list all the things wrong with our society right now. 

In the Hunger Games series, Katness is raised in a very dark world. She hates this world, but she accepts it. Her aim is never to overthrow the Capital. It’s just to make sure her sister survives. And while Peeta is happy to fight, he probably never would have if he hadn’t been backed into a corner where it was his only option.

Haymich wants to fight in Sunrise on The Reaping. So does Lenore Dove. They fight. They do not go quietly. They battle with everything they have, as little as it is. 

They paint their posters.

Hunger Games asks us to consider our actions in the America of right now. Are we painting our posters? Are we making good trouble? Or are we just enjoying the bread and circus?

We should strive to be Haymich and Lenore Dove, so that later generations don’t have to be Katness and Peeta. Sing the protest songs. Vote. Send physical mail to representitives. Protect your neighbors and show up for your community. 

Speaking of showing up for your community. I know a lot of people are struggling right now. But if you can, please consider donating to The Trevor Project. Their federal funding ended on July 17th, and they do crucial work to support LGBTQ+ youth.

Another charity that means a lot to me is the Brigid Alliance. They help people travel to access abortion care. 

Please do what you can, when you can, while you can. Don’t let the sun rise on another facist regime. 

Oh, I guess that got a little political. It’s almost like art is crucial in dark times. Go write something rebellious today. 

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The best books I’ve read in 2025, so far

It’s Summer, it’s July. As you’re reading this it’s the Fourth of July which I am not celebrating. I’m just coincidentally making ribs and watching fireworks today.

Hopefully, I’m also catching up on my reading. Because according to Goodreads, I am eight books behind where I should be to reach my goal for the year.

Boo.

This is even more of a tragedy because the books I have read this year have been great. Today, I’m sharing my roundup of the top ten best books I’ve read this year. Some came out this year, some didn’t. But all are books I read for the first time in 2025. And of course, we’re starting with number ten and working our way up.

Inspiring Creativity Through Magic by Astrea Taylor

I did a whole review of this book. It was a wonderful overview for both creatives and magical practitioners. If you’re a witch or a creative, this book is certainly worth a read.

Who Holds The Devil by Michael Dittman

This was such a fun book to read. I also reviewed it here.

The characters were delightful, and the story was eerie. And, it’s set in my hometown. Fun all around.

Everything is Tuberculosis by John Green

I’m going to do a full review of this book soon. It’s a great example of writing compelling nonfiction. More on this to come.

Incidents Around The House by Josh Malerman

As a horror fan, I loved how creepy this was. The story was immersive, touching, and infuriating in the best way possible.

As a writer, I loved the formatting and style choices. It was a bold move, writing the whole thing without proper punctuation. But it paid off.

Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix

Everything Hendrix writes is amazing. This one was no different. I can feel the discomfort of the main characters. I can feel the fear and the fury. Even reading this in my living room in winter, I felt the humid Florida Summer on every page.

Never Flinch by Stephen King

Every Holly book just keeps getting better. I’ll be talking about this book in more detail next week. But in short, Holly is hired as a bodyguard by a feminist icon who’s being hunted by a religious zealot. Meanwhile, Detective Izzy is hunting a serial killer who’s murdering innocent people to drive those he considers to be truly guilty mad. I love it.

Horrorstor by Grady Hendrix

I was on a Hendrix kick earlier this year. And I listened to Horrorstor while keeping house and doing far too many things that required my hands and eyes.

If you get a chance, listen to this one as an audiobook. It was a fantastic time.

Also, if you’ve ever felt something deeply disturbing lurking beneath the fake plastic of a big box store, you’ll love this story.

Sunrise on The Reaping by Suzanne Collins

I talked about this book. Everyone talked about this book. Bookstagram wouldn’t shut the hell up about this book. And frankly, I understand why. It was amazing. I had to read the whole series again with this new insight into Haymich’s game. And it was exactly what the series needed to fit everything together.

I just wish there were more books to come. But Collins has said she doesn’t plan to write anymore in this world. Which is a shame, because I can think of several novels I’d love to see off the top of my head.

The House of My Mother by Shari Franke

Let me warn you now. I do not suggest reading this book unless you’re in a good place mentally.

I imagine most people know about Ruby Franke and the horrific abuse her children suffered at her hands. Shari is the oldest of these children. She is also her sibling’s champion.

This book is Shari’s story in her own words. And it is heartbreaking. But also incredibly inspiring.

We Used To Live Here by Marcus Kliewer

Finally, We Used To Live Here was easily my favorite book of the year. The story, which is about a young couple who buys a house only to have a very unwanted visit in the middle of the night, is terrifying. It messes with you. It makes you rethink everything you think. And it makes you start counting the windows in your home.

I love a book that makes me start wondering if I’m losing my mind. Well done.

So now it’s your turn. What are the best books you’ve read so far? Let me know in the comments.

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My 2025 Summer Reading List

It’s officially Summer. My life is starting to settle into a new normal, and I’m feeling pretty good.

This post might even be on time for a change.

While others are excited about Summer blockbusters or trips to the beach, I have a different view of what my months of warmth will look like. They include long puppy walks, trips to the park and the pool, and lots of reading.

As luck would have it, four of my favorite authors either have new books out or are releasing new books. And, I went on a bit of a buying spree a few months ago. So I’ve got a stack of new books awaiting me.

Shoutout to Thriftbooks.

Here’s what I’ll be reading this Summer. As always, some of these are re-reads. Some are new, and some are old. Some have been on my list before, but I didn’t get to them so I’m trying again. Some are for horror fans, some for writers, and some for witches. Whoever you are, I hope you find something in here to spark your interest.

Never Flinch by Stephen King

Anyone who follows me on Instagram should know this was coming. Hell, anyone who knows me should know this was coming.

But come on. A book about Holly and Detective Izzy solving cryptic murders and protecting an egotistical feminist icon? Yes, please.

The Bewitching by Sylvia Moreno-Garcia

The latest Moreno-Garcia book is always one of my Summer highlights. And, I mean, anything about witches is going to catch my attention.

I’m vain.

This book is about secrets and witchcraft that reach from Mexico to Massachusetts. And I love Mexican witchcraft almost as much as I love Salem witchcraft. And after reading Silver Nitrate, I know Moreno-Garcia will more than do the magic justice.

It comes out on July 15th. I am counting the days.

Dead Husband’s Cookbook by Danielle Valentine

Coming out in August, Valentine’s latest book is about a celebrity chef who might or might not have killed her husband and indulged in cannibalism. But having read all of her other works, I’m assuming it’s going to be much deeper than that.

I cannot wait to find out.

The House of Quiet by Kiersten White

This one comes out on September 9th. Which is technically still Summer, even though I’ll have already decked out my house in pumpkins by this time. And honestly, it seems like the best sort of book for this liminal time between Summer and Fall.

It’s about a woman who infiltrates a house that claims to be for children undergoing ‘the procedure’. But it turns out to be a place for people with strange powers. Honestly, it sounds like a cross between X-Men and Witchcraft for Wayward Girls and I am here for it.

Mexican Gothic by Sylvia Moreno-Garcia

I’ve been meaning to re-read this one since I originally listened to it as an audiobook. There’s nothing wrong with that, it’s just a different experience. And I’m already more than halfway through. I love this book and I’ve talked about it at length. Suffice to say that if you’ve never read a book by this author, start here. You’ll never look back.

Apostate’s Guide to Witchcraft by Moss Matthey

I’m already about halfway through this one as well. But it’s helping me work through some lingering damage from my childhood in a high-control religion. If you’ve suffered something similar, even if you’re not a witch, consider giving this one a read.

Sisters in Hate by Seyward Darby

I’ve been meaning to read this for ages. But I couldn’t find a copy anywhere. So I went ahead and bought one. It’s about white women and the poisonous work we’ve done for white nationalism. I don’t expect it to be a comfortable read.

The Witching Year by Diana Helmuth

Another re-read. But this time I have my own copy, so I can go to town with the highlighter. If witchcraft has been calling to you, read this book.

City Witchery by Lisa Marie Basile

Again, I have read this one before. But there’s so much good content in here that it certainly bears a re-read.

While you might associate witchcraft with something best practiced in forests or by the sea, not all of us live in those environments. Some of us can’t (A house in the woods? In this economy?) Some of us don’t want to. And if you’re in either of those camps, this book will help you feel more spiritual while walking your city streets.

Long Quiet Highway by Natalie Goldberg

I can’t get enough of Goldberg’s writing. Whenever I’m feeling uninspired, I turn to her. And a memoir about America, when I’m feeling this level of concern for our country’s future, is exactly what I need. Don’t worry, there will be a review of this one as soon as I finish it.

Let the Whole Thundering World Come Home by Natalie Goldberg

One of the many things I love about Goldberg’s writing is that each book tells the story of a different chapter of her life. This one is about her and her partner suffering from life-threatening cancer. With the health issues the Darling Husband has been facing, this one’s likely to leave me in tears.

The Magical Writing Grimoire by Lisa Marie Basile

Are we sensing a theme yet? I want to dive deeper into my writing, cutting to the bone and writing about things that truly, deeply matter to me. I did that in Quiet Apocalypse, which is about a haunted apartment building but is also about my deep-seated fear of dying alone. To this date, that is my favorite book I’ve written. I want to reach that height again.

Lucy Undying by Kiersten White

I am rereading this, and I am doing it soon. But it was such a fantastic story. It was the lesbian retelling of Dracula that we all need right now.

Writing on Empty by Natalie Goldberg

As I mentioned, each one of Goldberg’s books is about a chapter in her life. This one is about how she felt isolated during the Covid pandemic, and how it seemed to deprive her of her writing. Which is, let me assure you, its own special kind of hell. I need to know how my mentor dealt with that.

Velvet Was The Night by Sylvia Moreno-Garcia

Why am I re-reading this one? Because I found it at Dollar General of all places and had to rescue a copy. I also straight-up bullied a friend of mine until she bought one as well.

Also, the story is just great. A woman so bored with her life that she steals silly things from her neighbors accidentally finds herself involved in a massive political espionage plot. How is that not the perfect Summer read?

Broke Millennial by Erin Lowry

Finally, Broke Millennial is a book I feel like I need to read. As a writer, I’m probably never going to be overburdened with cash. So I need to manage what little of it I have responsibly if I want to keep eating, having a roof over my head, and occasionally indulging in a glass of damn good wine. And while I have read this one before, it was years ago. I need a refresher.

If you can believe it, that’s not everything on my massive TBR pile. But they’re all the books I think I’ll reasonably have time to read before September 22nd.

So now it’s your turn. What’s on your Summer reading list? Let us know in the comments. And if you want to follow along with my reading journey, you can do so on Goodreads.

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Missing Stitches is going wide on June 27th! Check out all the places it will be available here.

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My review of Inspiring Creativity Through Magick

Writing and magic seem to go hand in hand. When I started my witchcraft practice, I was shocked by how many witches were also writers.

Well, not just writers. Singers, painters, dancers, actors. Witches seem drawn to art.

That makes sense to me. Writing has always seemed to me a tangible form of magic. To be able to experience other worlds while lying on your couch. To be distracted in stressful times and invited to another place or time. To hear the thoughts and musings of people long dead, but still here in ink and paper. To write something, and have it read by people all over the world.

That’s magic.

Many books have been written about writing from a magic perspective. I’ve read a few. But, I’ve never really talked about them here. I don’t know why. Maybe it’s because the witch part of my life still feels like something very private. I’m slowly getting over that. I even posted a whole Modern Witch review series on Haunted MTL. So I think it’s time to introduce you to my favorite writing books for witches. Because if there’s one thing that’s universal, it’s that we all want to be better artists.

Today, we’re talking about Inspiring Creativity Through Magick, by Astrea Taylor.

Published in 2023, Inspiring Creativity Through Magick is a firsthand guide to creating a fulfilling ritual around your art. It walks the reader through each step of the creation process, from inspiration to the final product. And it is delightful.

The book starts with a conversation about creative spirits. Muses, and the like. This was great fun, and I actually learned about spirits I hadn’t heard of before.

The thing I appreciated most about this part was the discussion of the unnamed creative spirits that many artists say they’ve come in contact with. Taylor even mentions Stephen King talking about his muse in one of my favorite writing books of all time, On Writing. There he talks about his muse being a short man with a cigar that might show up and start working his magic if King puts the work in and all the conditions are right.

Taylor also talks about Big Magic, another book I’ve talked about here. This book also talks about feeling as though the artist is a partner in the act of creation. We are all capable of tapping into the creative flow of the universe and inviting spirits that want to help us bring our creations to life.

And we know this is true. Every artist has those moments when it doesn’t even feel like we’re on the same plane of existence anymore. When the words are coming or the paint is flying with no effort. When all the pieces fall together, or that subplot now makes sense and is exactly what the main story needed, or the character says just the right (or wrong) thing at just the perfect time. When you write a poem that just smacks you between the eyes because it’s so true, and you hadn’t even thought of those words before they were in front of you on the page, somehow coming out of your own hand.

Clearly, this was my favorite part of the book.

We then delve into the step-by-step process of creating a finished art piece. Not the technical details, of course. This book is for all artists, after all, and that would be a bit much. Instead, it explores the basic stages of creation. The inspiration phase. The first pass phase where we create our rough drafts and start telling ourselves our stories. The edits, and revisions. And of course, the eventual release of the work out into the world.

This is wonderful for many reasons. First, sometimes it’s hard to feel the creative magic in the later phases. Writing a rough draft is all creation. Making something from nothing. There are no rules, we’re just throwing words on the page and seeing what sticks. But editing? Revising? Grammar checking? That’s not creative.

It very much is. Honestly, I find that I’m far more creative in the second and third passes of my stories. It doesn’t feel as immense anymore. I have a better idea of what I’m trying to say, and how I utterly failed to say it the first time. So I can fix this bit here, and rewrite that part there. I know what doesn’t work, and now I can figure out what does work. And this is a process that is clearly explained in a far better way than I ever could in this book.

It’s also wonderful to have this breakdown of steps, especially as a beginner. Looking at a finished project, it’s impossible to see all the work that went into it. And if you’re starting at the other end, looking at a blank page, the thought of turning that blank page into a whole book is incredibly overwhelming.

Breaking this process down, step by step, is more manageable. And it’s something I still do. Today, I’m not writing a book. I’m just writing this scene or this chapter. I don’t need to worry about the edits or the rewrites. Or even the next chapter. All I need to worry about is writing this page right now.

One thing I will say is that Inspiring Creativity Through Magick does feel like a beginner book. If you’ve been creating art for a long time, it might feel redundant. I already knew the steps of creating, I didn’t need them drawn out for me. So there might be parts that a more experienced artist finds a bit boring.

Overall, though, this was a really useful book. I think every artist can take something useful and uplifting away from this book. Whether you’re a witch or not, it’s well worth a read.

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My top ten favorite books of 2024

The year is nearly over. And while the events of 2024 might have sucked (it sucked so hard) I read some great books. Like, some really great books.

So let’s focus today on the good books and not on the horrible life and world events.

Here are the top ten best books I’ve read this year. It was a tough decision. I was shocked that Rift didn’t make it, even though I loved that book. But here’s what made the cut.

Also, if the book in question is a horror book, assume that I reviewed it on Haunted MTL. Just in case you want a more in-depth perspective on one title.

You Like It Darker by Stephen King

I can’t believe a King book made the list at the bottom! Don’t worry, he’s coming out with a new Holly book next year, and I’m sure that one will make it higher.

I did a whole review of this one on Haunted MTL. But the short version is this.

You Like It Darker had stories for long-time King fans, like a follow-up to Cujo. But it also had some fantastic stories that any new reader will love. My favorite of the bunch is Danny Coughlin’s Bad Dream.

A Well Trained Wife by Tia Levings

This is not an easy read. But it was so impactful. Here’s a link to my full review. But if you’re struggling with an abusive religion or an abusive marriage, this is the book to remind you that you are not alone.

Hekate by Courtney Weber

If you’re interested in witchcraft, or if you’re already practicing and want to deepen your understanding of the goddess of Witchcraft, this is a must-read.

Bad dreams in the night by Adam Ellis

If you’re not already following Adam Ellis on Instagram, do it. These stories were eerie, clever, and fun to read.

Hide comic by Kiersten White

This was a year of comic books for me, starting with Bone and ending here.

Last year I read Hide and loved it. When I found out there was a comic version, it seemed like a great read. And, it was. Whether you’ve read Hide the novel or not, you should check this graphic novel out.

Two sides to every murder by Danielle Valentine

If you’re a big slasher or true crime fan, like you know I am, this is a book for you. It had all the quaint and gorey charm of a good horror movie, with a modern feel.

The Hacienda by Isabel Canas

I read this book in January, and I haven’t shut up about it since. It’s a fantastic little ghost story with a love story built in. And, of course, a witch priest. Love it.

Three simple lines by Natalie Goldberg

I thought this would be a book about writing haiku, and in a way it was. But it was also about traveling to an unknown country and experiencing everything that had to offer. And, it turns out I needed to read that. Some of you might know I had to take a trip by myself out of my hometown alone for the first time in 16 years. But I had courage. Because if Natalie could go to Japan alone, I could go to another city alone.

So thank you, as always, Natalie.

Horror Movie by Paul Tremblay

This book was brilliant. It was so well thought out. The writing was so clever. It was so meta. The punchline was completely unexpected. I loved every second of it.

Mister Magic by Kiersten White

The fact that Mister Magic made number one on my list should not surprise anyone. This book wrecked me. I mean it led me down such a journey, I can’t begin to tell you.

If you are suffering from religious trauma, read this book. If you just want a beautiful, dark horror story, read this book. If you’re breathing, read this book.

Well, that is it for my top ten list and it for the year. But don’t worry, I’ll be back next Friday to start another year of reading, writing and struggling against the forces of evil.

See you then.

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My 2024/2025 Winter reading list

It’s cold outside, I don’t want to go anywhere, and there’s nothing I want to do more right now than read. This mood isn’t likely to change through most of Winter.

Which, when you think about it, is what Winter is for.

So, here’s what I plan to read during the winter of 2024, 2025. If you’ve read my planned reading lists before, you might notice this list is shorter. I have more information to come regarding this. You might also see some repeats from my last list. This is because Maggie Smith died and I had to read all of the Harry Potter books again. These things happen.

As always, this is a reading list that encompasses my many hats. I’m a writer, a witch, a horror critic, and sometimes I like to read something for fun. Hopefully, you’ll discover something here that you didn’t know about or had forgotten. If you plan to read any of these, or if you have already, let me know in the comments.

Appalachian Folklore Unveiled by Darkness Prevails

I’m all about folklore and legends. And, of course, I live in Northern Appalachia. So this book looks right up my alley.

Also, I discovered this book exists because it was featured on my local library’s website. Get involved with your local library, my friends. The benefits are endless.

Writing on Empty by Natalie Goldberg

I recently discovered a treasure trove (like, four) of Natalie Goldberg books I’ve never read. And through a series of events, most of which sucked, I’ve only read one of them so far. But this one is about her struggles with writer’s block during Covid lockdowns. I can’t imagine Natalie Goldberg having writer’s block, so this one is near the top of my list.

The Morrigan by Courtney Weber

I’ve already read a book by this author about Hekate. It was fantastic, faith-affirming, and packed with information I did not have.

I’ve been fascinated by The Morrigan since reading Mists of Avalon as a child. I know, that’s pretty basic but there it is. So I can’t wait to learn more about Her.

Long Quiet Highway by Natalie Goldberg

This was originally published in 1993, and it’s about Goldberg’s journey as a student of Zen Buddism. It also feels like it’s going to be about America. I’ll let you know after I read it.

Poetry as spell casting byTamiko Beyer, Destiny Hemphill, Lisbeth White

Honestly, the title says it all. Art is witchcraft and vice versa for me. So using poetry as spell casting is right up my witchy little ally.

This book is also about bringing about good changes in the world. Which I think we could use right now.

An Apostate’s Guide to Witchcraft by Moss Matthey

Any of my very Christian readers might worry about this one. But it’s about a topic that I need some help with, healing religious wounds and trauma. Because Jesus loves me, but the church of my childhood did not. Or, at least it wasn’t a healthy love.

We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer

I actually don’t know a lot about this book except that it’s a dark, cold wintery haunted house story. And it must be damn well popular because I have been on the waiting list at my library for it forever. Watch Haunted MTL, I’ll be reviewing it as soon as I can get my hands on it.

Who holds the devil by Michael Dittman

I had the pleasure of meeting Michael at a local author’s event. He seems like a dear. And when he talked about this book, I had just one question for him. Is the witch the good guy? When he said yes, I had to read it.

Also, it’s about a tree that was holding back an ancient evil in my hometown. I also wrote about trees holding back an ancient evil. Obviously, I had to read it. Again, watch Haunted MTL for the review.

Fairy Heards and Mythscapes by Kerry E.B. Black

I also met Kerry at the same author’s event, and we swapped books. I always love someone else who understands that fairy’s are dangerous and should be treated with respect and caution. Can’t wait to crack into this one.

Witchcraft for wayward girls by Grady Hendrix

Two of my favorite writers are putting out books this year about witchcraft. I know it isn’t just for me, but I like to think it’s a little bit for me.

This is a story about a pregnant teenager sent to a school for girls in that situation, who learns witchcraft as a way to take back control of her life. Relatable.

We’ll prescribe you a cat by Syou Ishida and Madison Shimoda

This one is way different than anything else on this list, as it is not horror and still fiction. Essentially it’s a story about lonely people who are, for many reasons, given a cat. I have two, and a dog, and I can tell you they’ve saved me during some dark times.

Never underestimate the power of pets.

This one’s probably going to make me ugly cry on public transportation.

Don’t let the forest in by C.G. Drews

Finally, I put this book on my to-read list because Bookstagram will not shut up about it. Then, of course, there’s the cover.

This seems to be a story about a writer and artist who accidentally birth monsters. Which, you know, sounds like catnip to me.

And, again, have you seen the cover?

So that’s the plan. I hope to get through all of these books and find that they lived up to the hype.

Now it’s your turn. What are you reading this winter? Let us know in the comments.

You can find all of these books, and follow along with everything I’m reading on Goodreads.

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The best horror books I’ve read in 2024

The time has come for ghosts and monsters. Eerie sounds and terrifying frights!

I’ve been celebrating Halloween since September 29th. But it’s less than a week away now, so I’m getting excited. Of course, my favorite form of horror is, has always been, and always will be, the horror novel. From reading Goosebumps as a child to devouring Stephen King as an adult, there is just nothing better to me than a good scary story. So, here are the top nine best horror novels I’ve read so far this year.

I won’t go into a lot of detail about these books, because I’ve reviewed many of them either here or on Haunted MTL. And of course, we’ll see some repeats here from my top ten best books of 2024 so far post back in June.

Coal Region HooDoo by Maxim W. Furek

This was a delightful historical read about some local ghost, alien and Big Foot sightings right in Western PA. You don’t have to be from this region to enjoy the stories, though.

Hearts of Darkness by Jana Monroe

This is the memoir of FBI agent Jana Monroe, who among other things coached Jody Foster when she was getting ready to play Clarice in Silence of The Lambs. It’s a fascinating look at the agency from a unique point of view.

Ghost Hunters by Ed and Lorraine Warren

Are the first three books on this list nonfiction? You bet they are because truth is always scarier.

Ghost Hunters is one of many books by the amazing Ed and Lorraine Warren about their battles against demons and vengeful ghosts. And even though I found out they wouldn’t have approved of me (being a practicing witch and all) I still really loved this book.

You Like It Darker by Stephen King

This was the latest short story collection by King, and it was great fun. There wasn’t a story in here I didn’t enjoy. But my favorite was a follow-up to the infamous Cujo.

The Hacienda by Isabel Canas

I have gushed about this book twice already. And I’ll probably keep doing it. A lonely hacienda in the middle of Mexico. A witch priest. A brutal murder. What more could you possibly want in a book?

Two Sides to Every Murder by Danielle Valentine

If you love slasher films, especially camp slashers, you’re going to love this one. And, of course, there’s a killer twist.

Bad Dreams in the Night by Adam Ellis

Adam Ellis writes some messed up stories. They’re only surpassed by the cute/creepy cartoons he creates to go along with them. My only complaint about this book was that it took me less than an hour to read.

Horror movie by Paul Tremblay

This one stuck with me! Horror Movie is a wildly smart book that absolutely got me. It sucks you in and is wickedly genre savvy. It’s about the horror film industry and all the dark seedy corners it contains. But it’s also about how we, as fans, react to horror. And how we, as artists, can get a little too caught up in it.

Mister Magic by Kiersten White

Finally, I cannot stop talking about this book. It’s amazing, it messed with me, and I am still not over it.

This book is about a group of people who used to be in a kid’s show. But more than that, it’s about being trapped in a community that tends to wrap itself around your neck and strangle you with banality. And by this, I do mean the LDS church.

So that’s it. Now I want to hear from you. What are the best horror books you’ve read so far this year? Let us know in the comments.

And if you want to follow along with what I’m reading, you can do so on Goodreads.

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You can pre-order Missing Stitches now on Amazon.

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My 2024 Fall reading list

Fall will be with us officially on Sunday. Banned Books Week also starts on Sunday. So it seems like a good time to sit down with a scented candle, a good cup of something warm and write out a reading list for the Fall season.

While I am unsure if any of these books are on the official banned book list, I feel comfortable saying they would almost all be banned in Florida schools. So we’re rolling with that.

This list is not full of new books, but all but one are new to me. Some are fiction, some are nonfiction. All have caught my eye. Rather than suggesting that you read every book on this list, I’d like to invite you to make your own Fall reading list. And please, as always, share it with us in the comments.

Happy Fall reading.

Fairy Tale by Stephen King

This one’s been on my list for a while. When I found it at random on the library shelf, I took that as a sign to grab it. It’s the story of a boy and his dog discovering a magical and dark world in their shed. There’s nothing to dislike there.

Halloween Tree by Ray Bradbury

I read this every Halloween. It’s a fantastic blend of poetic writing and history. If you haven’t read it, consider this your sign to read it this year. And if you have littles, read it aloud to them. It’s a magical time.

William by Mason Coile

This is a new novel about an AI smart house that, as always, turns evil. I love stories like this. And it is an example of an old story told in a new way. At l—at, I think it’ll be a great example. I haven’t read it yet.

We Used To Live Here by Marcus Kliewer

I should say I plan to read this if I can get my hands on it. I’m currently fifteenth in line for this book at my local library. It’s been all over Instagram, and people are not shutting up about it. And as it is a haunted house story, I had to read it.

Writing on Empty by Natalie Goldberg

I’m still playing catch-up with Goldberg’s work. I forget sometimes that people continue to live and do things when I’m not looking at them. But Writing on Empty should be fascinating, as it’s one of my favorite writers struggling with something I don’t believe in, writer’s block. Let’s see if she changes my mind on this. If anyone can, she can.

We Sold Our Souls by Grady Hendrix

I think this is about a rock star who sold her soul for musical talent. I know it’s by Grady Hendrix and I’ve yet to find a book of his that I didn’t simply devour. He’s become an instant buy (or borrow) author for me.

Lucy Undying by Kiersten White

This is the story of Lucy, one of Dracula’s first victims. And if it’s anything like the other works by White, I cannot wait to start reading it.

Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall

Feminism has never been as intersectional as we’d like it to be. Part of fixing that is educating myself. I’m also fascinated by women who do daring things. So this one should be a great read.

Sisters in Hate by Darby Seyward

It’s not just men who hold up these damaging alt-right beliefs that are so damaging to our country and communities. I want to hear the stories of the women who align themselves with these horrific ideologies. Maybe if I can hear their stories, I can understand how to help them write better ones.

We’ll Prescribe You A Cat by Syou Ishida and translated by E. Madison Shimoda

I am entranced by the premise of this story. People in emotional and physical need are given cats. These cats proceed to change their lives.

I’m writing this post with the cat who has brought so much brightness into my life on my lap right now. I plan to read this one with her stationed squarely on my stomach.

The Hygge Witch Handbook by Courtney Hope

Oh, you didn’t think I was going to get through this whole list without adding one witchcraft book, did you?

Hearth witchcraft is not exactly the core of my practice, but it’s a big part of it. And I’ve been practicing hygge for years. The concept of slowing down, savoring life and embracing little joys is essential for living joyfully in a world full of darkness. I am very excited to learn about incorporating hygge into my witchy homemaking practices.

Will I get to all of these books? I dearly hope so. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram to check in with me.

And if you’re looking for new books to add to your Fall reading list, don’t forget that Starting Chains is coming out on October 4. Broken Patterns is already available on Amazon.

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