7 New YA Horror Novels to Add to Your Fall Reading List

The spirit of Halloween is creeping closer, and even if the sun is still shining bright, it’s the ideal time to start curating your fall horror reading list. Horror isn’t just a genre; it’s a unique mood that can range from spine-tingling chills to psychological thrillers. It wouldn’t be surprising if some books make you laugh, while others may keep you tossing and turning at night. The beauty of horror lies in its diversity, and this fall, there’s a treasure trove of young adult (YA) horror novels that are perfect for cozying up with a cup of chai.

Let’s explore seven upcoming YA horror novels to excite your reading journey this autumn. Each of these books brings something different to the table, whether you love gory thrills or prefer an eerie, atmospheric story.

1. And The River Drags Her Down by Jihyun Yun (Release: 10/7)

Soojin Han has always felt the loss of her older sister, Mirae, who mysteriously drowned in a river. Overwhelmed with grief, Soojin decides to use her ancestral magic to bring Mirae back. The reunion is sweet at first, but things soon take a dark turn. Mirae is restless and vengeful, causing chaos in their town as she seeks to uncover family secrets. As eerie weather patterns rage, Soojin starts to regret her fateful decision.

2. Beautiful Brutal Bodies by Linda Cheng (Release: 11/4)

Meet Tian—a teenage pop sensation who seems to have it all. Yet, she lives in a gilded cage, raised in isolation with her best friend, Liya, who isn’t exactly human. Following a disastrous livestream where fans suffer fatal accidents, Tian and her friend embark on a healing retreat. Unfortunately, the island holds horrifying secrets, and they must confront dark forces lurking in the woods. This queer folk horror tale promises to be an intense ride with a tagline that calls it a “feral fairy tale.”

3. The Devouring Light by Kat Ellis (Release: 10/7)

Haden Romero and her music rival, Deacon Rex, end up stranded on their way to a rock festival. Just when it seems their situation couldn’t get worse, they find refuge in a seemingly safe house that turns out to be anything but. This house has an insatiable hunger, and soon, bodies begin to pile up. Prepare for a blend of rock and horror that will keep you engaged till the last page.

4. He’s So Possessed With Me by Corey Liu (Release: 10/14)

In this campy spin on the horror genre, Colin finds himself in a bizarre situation when his best friend Ren claims to be in love with him but also mysteriously changed after a strange incident at a dance club. After a ghostly encounter, Colin must rally a unique group of friends to help him save Ren before it’s too late. This book may remind you of the cult classic “Jennifer’s Body,” wrapped in a humorous yet scary narrative.

5. The Resurrectionist by Kathleen S. Allen (Release: 10/7)

Dilly Rothbart discovers her late father’s journal filled with secrets about bringing the dead back to life. With dreams of becoming a groundbreaking scientist, Dilly is willing to cross ethical lines. She contemplates grave robbing and even murder to achieve her goal, but her twin sister wants her to stop. “The Resurrectionist” is a gothic tale with a modern twist that explores the price of ambition.

6. The Transition by Logan-Ashley Kisner (Release: 9/30)

Hunter is ecstatic about finally getting top surgery, but his happiness is cut short when he experiences a terrifying attack in his backyard. His best friend Gabe is there to help him escape, but as strange changes begin to manifest in Hunter, they must uncover the truth behind his condition. Is he turning into something otherworldly? This coming-of-age horror story promises to be both thrilling and thought-provoking.

7. Who’s All Going to Die? by Lisa Springer (Release: 9/16)

Ariana is thrilled to visit a wellness retreat in Barbados, organized by her new friend Oakley’s parents. However, when bizarre activities and strange occurrences start to unfold, what was supposed to be a relaxing getaway turns dangerously nightmarish. From bee venom facials to eerie rituals, this book will keep you on your toes.

If YA horror fascinates you, these novels are sure to satisfy your cravings for thrills and chills as the leaves turn golden. Each of these exciting reads showcases the intricate art of storytelling within the horror genre. Whether you prefer gothic tales or contemporary scares, there is something for everyone. So, grab a warm drink, snuggle under your blanket, and delve into these captivating horrors this fall!

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Original Text – https://bookriot.com/fall-2025-ya-horror/