10 Best Paranormal Books 2025 in the United States

'You Like It Darker: Stories' by Stephen King is a prime offering in the paranormal-books category, especially for enthusiasts of horror anthologies and supernatural thrillers. This unabridged audiobook spans over 20 hours and is narrated by the talented Will Patton and the author himself, Stephen King, ensuring an immersive listening experience. The book's high ranking in Audible's bestsellers, particularly in Horror Anthologies and Supernatural Thrillers, speaks to its popularity and quality.

King's writing style, known for its compelling storytelling and deep character development, shines through, making each story gripping and memorable. The subgenre primarily leans towards horror and dark supernatural themes, which King masterfully blends with intricate plotlines. Settings vary across the stories, offering a rich tapestry of eerie and suspenseful environments that enhance the dark tone of the collection.

Character types range from everyday individuals encountering the supernatural to more sinister and complex beings, adding depth and variety to the narratives. The plot complexity is moderate to high, with each story woven with enough twists and turns to keep listeners engaged throughout. While the audiobook format is convenient and enhances the storytelling experience, some listeners might prefer physical books or e-books for easier reference and navigation. Additionally, at over 20 hours, it requires a significant time investment, which might not suit everyone. However, for those who enjoy in-depth, spine-chilling tales narrated by skilled voices, 'You Like It Darker: Stories' is a captivating choice.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief: The Graphic Novel is an adaptation of the popular young adult fantasy series. The subgenre here is clearly urban fantasy, combined with mythology, making it an exciting read for those interested in Greek gods and paranormal adventures. The setting spans modern-day locations like New York City but with hidden mythical aspects, providing a rich backdrop for the story.

The character types include demigods, mythical creatures, and gods, offering a diverse cast that keeps the narrative engaging. The plot is moderately complex, involving quests, battles, and mythical artifacts, which can be intriguing without being overwhelming. The writing style is tailored for a graphic novel format, blending dialogue and visuals effectively to create a dynamic storytelling experience.

Some readers might find the 128-page length a bit short if they're used to more extensive graphic novels. The visual format makes it accessible and enjoyable for younger readers or those new to the paranormal genre. This graphic novel is best suited for young adults and fans of the original Percy Jackson series looking for a visually engaging way to relive the adventures.

'The Haunting of Hill House' by Shirley Jackson is a classic in the paranormal genre, specifically haunted house subgenre. Set in a mysterious mansion, the atmosphere is eerie and unsettling, perfect for those who love a spine-chilling read. The setting is vividly described, making it easy for readers to visualize the haunting environment.

The characters are diverse and richly developed, each bringing their own quirks and fears, which add depth and intrigue to the story. The plot is moderately complex with twists and turns that keep you engaged and guessing. Jackson's writing style is sophisticated yet accessible, making it a compelling read for both seasoned horror fans and newcomers to the genre.

However, some readers might find the pacing a bit slow at times, and the psychological elements can be quite intense, which might not appeal to everyone. At 288 pages, it’s a manageable length for most readers. The hardcover edition is well-made with dimensions that make it easy to handle. If you enjoy atmospheric, character-driven horror with a mix of psychological suspense, 'The Haunting of Hill House' is a standout choice.