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144 New Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Horror Books Coming Out in September

New releases from Leigh Bardugo, Tananarive Due, Alice Hoffman, Ken Liu, Josh Malerman, China Miéville, Emily St. John Mandel, and many more.
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September’s new sci-fi, fantasy, and horror books lean especially into that last category, with spooky season closing in. But with the month’s traditionally epic list to choose from, there are also plenty of sweeping romances and space adventures—as well as quite a few anthologies gathering multiple acclaimed authors in the same volume. Hope you’re ready to spend all month turning pages!

September 1

Books Sept1
© Vintage, Tachyon Publications

All the Hidden Places by Cadwell Turnbull

“In his debut collection, acclaimed novelist Cadwell Turnbull takes readers across an omniverse of monsters, gods, and people, all trying to make peace with the parts of themselves they don’t want others to see.” (September 1)

Blacktail by Scott Hawkins

“A one-of-a-kind dark fantasy in which a wolf sets out on an epic journey of revenge.” (September 1)

Bones by K.L. Speer

“In a post-apocalyptic survivalist world, a young woman with a healing gift is forced to confront the horrors of her past and a love that will change everything.” (September 1)

Bound by Fate by A.N. Caudle

“As dark forces gather to claim the realms, Ryker, Kya, and Zalen must master their own deadly challenges to stop them in this pulse-pounding second book in the Realms in Peril series.” (September 1)

The Cannibal by I.V. Ophelia

“The explosive final book in I.V. Ophelia’s darkly addictive, nationally bestselling Poisoner trilogy about a botanist who kills unsavory men and the one man who’s resistant to her poisons yet possesses his own deadly charms.” (September 1)

Divine Oaths by Elizabeth Agyemang

Ninth House meets Legendborn in this thrilling dark academia novel following a new student fueled by questions about her prestigious university and the haunting answers she uncovers as her heart pulls her in two different, dangerous directions.” (September 1)

Dragons, Heists, and Other Retirement Plans by Meg Pennerson

“A spellbinding cozy fantasy adventure that will make you believe in second chances, for fans of TJ Klune and Travis Baldree—complete with dragons, cats, and dragon-cats.” (September 1)

Edge of Obsession by Megan Crane

“A dark, high-heat dystopian romance about a brotherhood of modern-day Vikings.” (September 1)

The Endless One by Emma Hamm

The Gravesinger trilogy ends as “Jessamine must decide how much of herself she is willing to sacrifice to end a war. Bound to Elric, the god who loves her, she must choose between the humanity that shaped her and the power required to tear divinity down at its source.” (September 1)

Engines of Reason by Adrian Tchaikovsky

“The highly anticipated sequel to the Hugo Award–nominated Elder Race. On a planet where stories govern identity, where science and magic are merely a point of view, a fallen princess, a reluctant wizard, and a precocious child must unravel the past to shape the future.” (September 1)

The Eye of Goliath by Diego Muizzo, translated by Rahul Bery

“A dark, propulsive literary gothic novel that puts a modern twist on Stevenson and Poe, from a thrilling new voice in Latin American horror.” (September 1)

Fire Power by Mir Benitz

Fourth Wing meets Formula One in this enemies-to-lovers sports romantasy about a stubbornly ambitious dragon rider who goes up against her childhood friend-turned-racing rival in the ultimate dragon race.” (September 1)

Ghosts of Halloween by Layla Fae

“A broken woman finds herself in a haunted house with three dangerous spirits bent on revenge, but her darkest desires might be the greatest threat of all.” (September 1)

The Hocus Pocus Handbook by Ann Aguirre

“A cozy fae fantasy romance featuring a sunshine-shadow slow burn, a grumpy-but-secretly-tender love interest, an unforgettable found family, and a world lush with wildcraft magic.” (September 1)

I Am the Night: The Ultimate Unauthorized History of Batman: The Animated Series by Daniel Dockery

“A narrative history of the popular television show Batman: The Animated Series, including exclusive interviews and never-before-shared stories from the making of the series.” (September 1)

I Hope This Email Finds You in Hell by Mackenzie Reed

“When staying late at the office leads to witnessing an exorcism, Brie Benson’s mundane life takes a hellish turn… literally.” (September 1)

An Immaculate Deception by Isabela Livino

“A debut Gothic horror set in 1870s Brazil—a tale of creeping suspense in which a young pregnant woman finds herself unable to escape her lover’s isolated family home, and a family’s deal with the devil goes terribly wrong.” (September 1)

Kiss Slay Replay by Rachel Harrison

“After a horrifying turn of events, Willa comes to understand that she’s stuck in a loop of carnage and terror that she must learn how to escape or else suffer a fate worse than death—being an eternal wedding guest.” (September 1)

The Knave and the Moon by Rachel Gillig

“Rachel Gillig, the queen of gothic romantasy, returns with higher stakes, darker mysteries, and deeper longings in this gorgeous sequel to The Knight and the Moth.” (September 1)

Land of Oz edited by Marie O’Regan and Paul Kane

“Thirteen original stories of dark fantasy inspired by the classic tales of L. Frank Baum and the land of Oz, from the masters of fantasy and science fiction, including M. R. Carey, Christina Henry, and Adrian Tchaikovsky.” (September 1)

Mantras and Minotaurs by Ashley Bennett

“A single mom decides to take life—and love—by the horns as she falls for a hunky minotaur in this steamy monster romance.” (September 1)

Mothersucker by Kim Bohyun

“A chilling international debut following a vampire who targets men who have harmed women—in the present, past, and future—and the woman-led task force entrusted with solving the murders.” (September 1)

The Nudge by Joseph Fink

“A new horror novella from the creator of Welcome to Night Vale and Alice Isn’t Dead featuring original illustrations from Night Vale series artist Jessica Hayworth.” (September 1)

Precious Children by Mary G. Thompson

“A wealthy family trying to cheat death is overmatched by a stubborn teenager hiding in a body that looks like their son. In this taut tale of genetics and entitlement, nature vs. nurture goes horrifyingly wrong.” (September 1)

The Pumpkin Bride by Fiona Buttercup

Shrek meets The Princess Bride in this cozy, low-stakes romantic fantasy.” (September 1)

Reign by Bethan Croome

“A fierce feminist romantasy about choosing freedom over fear and setting fire to the throne.” (September 1)

Rider of Dragons by A.T. Qureshi

“Genevieve’s family is dead set against her joining the deadly dragon races. Desperate for help, she agrees to a terrible deal: Qais, a member of a dragon-poaching gang, will train her to win the races if she agrees to give him her prize money. To win, is she willing to lose everything?” (September 1)

Scion by James Islington

John Wick meets Ghost in the Shell in this fast-paced cyberpunk thriller.” (September 1)

Still Lost: Tales From the Year 2080 by Sam A. Miller

“From the beloved creator of the wildly popular Sam O’Nella Academy YouTube channel, an irreverent and timely science fiction collection that offers a wry look at the not-so-distant future.” (September 1)

A Time of Witches by Madeline Martin

“Two women, bound by blood and betrayal, must break silence across centuries—or be silenced forever.” (September 1)

The Tower of Beggars by Torsten Weitze

“When tragedy strikes her family, Niri finds herself penniless and alone in a city determined to turn their back on ‘her kind.’ Her only possession is also her only hope—a copper coin that grants her admission to the prestigious Stormfell Academy, renowned for its magical and combative training. But Niri must learn to adapt and fight if she is to survive the academy—and its occupants.” (September 1)

Unbearable by A. Lee Martinez

“Ortiz is a man without grand ambition or talent. He survives by being mildly useful and eminently disposable, destined to end up in a shallow grave. But on the day he’s digging that grave, he discovers a magic sword. He’s the last guy who should bear it, but where can a man surrounded by the worst people find a hero to rise to the challenge?” (September 1)

Under Story by Chloe Benjamin

“A genre-defying exploration of the promise of this life, what might lie beyond it, and how far we would go for more time with the people we love.” (September 1)

White Raven by Stacey Marie Brown

This new fantasy is set in a world where “199 years ago, the Blood War between the Ravens and the Leatherwings divided the land into Day, Night, and Dusk, cursing the land with the blood of the dead,” and only one woman has the power to unite all the realms. (September 1)

The Wolf Queen’s Curse by Kaylee Archer

“In the much-anticipated sequel to Witch of the Wolves, Cordelia and Bishop must seek alliances with other packs and confront their Alphas in order to restore their beloved Trevelyan, no matter the cost.” (September 1)

September 8

Books Sept8
© S&S/Saga Press, Del Rey

Absolon Creed by R.S. Ford

“A legendary soldier is the last line of defense between his city and monstrous chaos in this grimdark adventure from an unmissable voice in epic fantasy.” (September 8)

Adam, Mine by K. Ancrum

“A queer romantic horror thriller that is a love letter to Frankenstein about the consequences of our decisions, the legacy of family, and the depths we’ll go to be forgiven.” (September 8)

All Hallows Eve: Stories of Halloween and Other Festivals of the Dead edited by Ellen Datlow

“A chilling horror anthology of 19 original short stories from a world-class line-up of the masters of horror, delving into the histories and traditions of the spookiest season of the year. Featuring stories by Josh Malerman, Stephen Graham Jones, and Garth Nix, as well as many more.” (September 8)

Big Bad Wolf by Laurie Gilmore

“A new small-town romance set in the quirky town of Maple Hollow.” (September 8)

Burn of the Everflame by Penn Cole

“The final book in the Kindred’s Curse Saga, a slow-burn, epic romantasy series following one woman who must risk everything to save her family—and all of mortalkind.” (September 8)

The Cult of Dr. Black by E.B. Hudspeth

“The long-awaited follow-up to The Resurrectionist, this gorgeously illustrated volume continues the story of Dr. Spencer Black. Genius. Healer. Madman. Destroyer.” (September 8)

Disenchanted by Lucy Jane Wood

“A reluctant witch must confront the magic she’s always denied after accidentally triggering a curse in this delightfully cozy fantasy.” (September 8)

Driven by Mason Coile

“A terrifying locked-room mystery set in a cutting-edge autonomous car.” (September 8)

The Enigmatic Madam Ingram by Meihan Boey

In the sequel to The Formidable Miss Cassidy, the title character returns to 19th-century Singapore “to help solve another dazzling supernatural mystery.” (September 8)

The Exorcism of Faeries by J.L. Vampa

“A brand new dark academia romance in the vein of Ninth House meets Nocticadia and If We Were Villains.” (September 8)

Hexy Beast by Avery Flynn

“An impulsive witch and a buttoned-up werewolf discover love is its own beast in this spicy rom-com.” (September 8)

Level Up for Love by Lenora Woods

“Sparks fly as two former college rivals are forced together for a new D&D campaign—clashing both in and out of the game—in this fusion of contemporary second-chance romance and fantasy.” (September 8)

Massif by Garth Nix

“A brilliant and poignant stand-alone story of sentient starships, galactic warfare, and the bonds a crew forms far, far from Earth.” (September 8)

Morfran, Dark Lord Reformed by S.B. West

“Abandoning his days of beheading to live out an undercover retirement as a goat farmer, Morfran finds himself accidentally leading a rebellion against the kingdom’s Dark Lord, who, inconveniently, is him.” (September 8)

The Passing of the Dragon and Other Stories by Ken Liu

“Thought-provoking, heartbreaking, and wonderous are some of the many ways the tales in this collection will engage readers, from the titular story about a painter who fears she’s failing as an artist to the 12 other examples of captivating science fiction.” (September 8)

Pictures of You by Josh Malerman

“A woman becomes the unknowing subject of an artist’s dangerous work in this intense Hitchcockian horror.” (September 8)

She’s a Doll by Barbara Truelove

“A ghoulish and gleeful tribute to the unstoppable power of female rage and a love letter to the friends who have our back—in this life and the next.” (September 8)

A Snake Among Swans by Hannah Kaner

“A dark, atmospheric tale of warring kingdoms, wild magic, female rage, and the choice between love and power in a world ruled by conquest.” (September 8)

Sorrow & Strangers by Jeannette Rose and Alexis Rune

“The second book in the nationally bestselling Avalon University dark academia series, following Summer Tuatha De Daanan as she recovers from the devastating year before, but as her magical, combat, and mental training pushes her to confront the darkness in her soul, that same darkness pulls her towards the shadows of her mysterious stalker.” (September 8)

Strange Is the Light by Sarah Maria Griffin

“After 20 years, Daphne, Ronan, Leonie, and Finn will finally have to face the consequences of cutting their last adventure short—having accidentally opened a rift into a dangerous alternate dimension while playing a mysterious RPG version of their childhood game.” (September 8)

The Swordmaster by Kate Heartfield

“A swashbuckling Vampires of Dumas story, featuring a new story arc following Françoise de Montesquiou d’Artagnan, a minor nobleman’s daughter who travels to Paris and becomes embroiled in a war between shapeshifters and vampires.” (September 8)

Tempest by Victoria Aveyard

“A romantic fantasy epic like no other in which a fallen noblewoman faces off against her former love—the last great pirate captain—amid a brutal war for the high seas.” (September 8)

Tethered by Elayna Gallea

“The first book in the Binding Chronicles, Tethered is a darkly seductive romantasy for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses and The Serpent and the Wings of Night, blending forbidden love, dangerous magic, and a bond that defies fate.” (September 8)

Twig’s Traveling Tomes by Gryffin Murphy

“Louella Twig lives her life sequestered with her stories, just as she likes it. When devilishly handsome rogue Everett Sharp stumbles in looking to remove some handcuffs—closely followed by Louella’s former tutor, whose prized grimoire has been stolen—her literary sanctuary is fully upended. Only Louella’s magic can locate the grimoire, and teaming up with Everett is her best chance at retrieving it. (September 8)

Wickhills by Premee Mohamed

“In the dangerous magical city of Wickhills, a streetwise secret agent is tasked with protecting a foreign defector from his pursuers… even at the threat of war.” (September 8)

Wildwood by Ashley Woo

“A chilling debut gothic mystery about a house with dark secrets beneath its floorboards.” (September 8)

The Witches of Cambridge by Alice Hoffman

“The brand-new series from the bestselling author of Practical Magic, following two brilliant young women in 1950s Cambridge, Massachusetts, as they become immersed in a mysterious secret group of witches at Radcliffe known as the Lilith Society.” (September 8)

September 15-16

Books Sept15
© Titan Books, Knopf

The Age of Blood and Magic by Hannah Mathewson

“A trillion-dollar company selling magic. A family at war for its throne. A murderer at their gala. And then a vampire joins the party… This is an eat-the-rich story. Literally.” (September 15)

The Art and Craft of Stephen King by Guy Astic and Frank Lafond

“The first complete, in-depth examination of every work published by the ‘King of Horror,’ Stephen King.” (September 15)

Avalon Tower by C.N. Crawford and Alex Rivers

“A demi-fey gets abducted and taken to a spy school where she’s trained to fight an evil fey king in this first book in the riveting contemporary romantasy Fey Academy for Spies trilogy that’s Fourth Wing meets Arthurian legend.” (September 15)

Bigfoot Confidential by Jasmine Kuliasha

“Jericho James is back for another hilarious and spicy cryptid romcom.” (September 15)

Bodies of Magic by Freya Marske

“At the Academie of the Grand Duchy of Sieuxerr, every mage with the healer’s gift has five years to master their power and to prepare for the infamous Grand Exam—a five-day trial whose results will determine their entire future. Are you ready?” (September 15)

Catherine Over Water by Nancy Schoellkopf

“In the heat and smoke of a California autumn, the mother of a kidnapped girl finds unexpected guidance from a chatty young crow she names Veronica, who leads her to abandon her self-imposed isolation and seek hope despite her grief-filled limbo.” (September 15)

Daughter of the Dark by R.J. Valldeperas

“When a twist of fate offers her the title of Royal Demon Hunter, Solana finally finds a path to the freedom she’s always craved… but it draws her closer to the darkness. Torn between turning her back on a fight she never asked for and the pull of loyalties old and new, Solana must decide… choose fate and freedom? Or death, destruction… and revolution.” (September 15)

Dead Beat by Leigh Bardugo

“Demons are creeping through the streets of New Haven and the Yale campus, feeding on the souls of the living, terrifying the dead. Alex and her allies can hunt them, but it’s only a matter of time before the gates to the underworld open and they face a war they cannot win.” (September 15)

Doomsdate by Laura Piper Lee

“When a first date between a doomsday prepper and a nerdy film professor goes horribly zombie-apocalypse-level wrong, the mismatched pair team up on a road trip to safety in this delightfully feral rom-com.” (September 15)

The Emperor’s Enemy by Jasmine Mas

“An addictive true enemies-to-lovers dark romantasy with a heroine who doesn’t need saving, an enemy she can’t escape, and a war neither of them plans to lose.” (September 15)

An Empire in the Clouds by Ai Jiang

“A riveting and highly inventive Chinese-inspired science-fantasy of a royal family torn apart, painful betrayal, and deadly secrets, set on a drowning continent full of corruption and deception and strange technology.” (September 15)

Exit Party by Emily St. John Mandel

“The award-winning, bestselling author of Station Eleven and Sea of Tranquility returns with a breathtaking novel of doubles, shadow worlds, and fractured timelines as a man disappears from a glittering Los Angeles party and a woman—a gunrunner, an art collector, an operative of the State—searches for answers.” (September 15)

The Faerie Handmaid by Louisa Morgan

“When it’s revealed that the new king of Camelud is cursed, Braithe, handmaid to the most powerful priestess in the realm, must travel to the land of the fae to break the curse, but to do so, Braithe must step out of her mentor’s shadow and into her power in this bewitching coming-of-age tale.” (September 15)

Grim Tidings by B.K. Borison

“When a runaway grim reaper tries to save a life, she clashes with a skeptical Guardian, forcing them to form an unlikely partnership beyond the grave.” (September 15)

The Hopeless Romantic’s Guide to Enchantment edited by Marie O’Regan and Paul Kane

“Rivalries ignite into heated romance, lost lovers seek second chances, and friendships turn to something more in these 12 stunning romantasy stories. Including brand-new stories from beloved and bestselling authors, including Hannah Nicole Maehrer, Kelley Armstrong, Alexis Hall, L. R. Lam, and more.” (September 15)

Observer by Nicholas Russell

“A disquieting, atmospheric debut horror novel about a young woman investigating her mother’s disappearance at an abandoned Nevada observatory.” (September 15)

The Olympian Artifacts by Liz Molloy

In 1924, an archaeologist discovers “an artifact of Olympian power” that “thrusts her into a deadly game. Hunted by ruthless rivals who would use it to reshape the world, she must rely on an unexpected ally: Henry Ashford, her brilliant and infuriating academic rival. Together, they navigate a treacherous journey across Europe, unravel ancient secrets, and fight to protect humanity from chaos.” (September 15)

The Palace Beneath the Sea by Lauren Wiesebron

“A sweeping, lyrical novel inspired by a mermaid folktale filled with exploration, love, adventure, and magic.” (September 15)

Rooted by Leopoldo Goût

“One woman’s return to Mexico City digs away the layers of her forgotten past and the Aztec gods she awakened.” (September 15)

The Rouse by China Miéville

“From the bestselling, award-winning master of uncanny fiction comes a defining work, 20 years in the making—a deeply moving, decade- and continent-spanning epic of personal grief, global tumult, and grim conspiracy.” (September 15)

The Sleeping Key by Gemma Ashborne

“A young woman discovers dark powers lie within her nightmares and that her life—and love—depends on her defeating her demons in this dark romantasy.” (September 15)

A Spell of Heart & Havoc by Kristen Vale

“Maerryl Kirim, a surly half-dwarf with the world on her shoulders, will do anything to save her deathly ill brother. Joining a guild of thieves to gather enough coin for his cure, she agrees to infiltrate a noble family. But acting as a bodyguard for their haughty, spoiled daughter is no walk in the enchanted forest, and spending every moment together is infuriating—at first.” (September 15)

Thoughts Be Bloody by Auden Patrick

“A struggling student, a resident golden boy, and the curse that will bring them together: this queer, trans retelling is Hamlet as you’ve never read it before.” (September 15)

Turncloak by L.K. Steven

“Three rival mages race for power, vengeance, and the fate of Atherin in the epic second installment of the Silvercloak Saga.” (September 15)

Unearthed: New Horror of Ancient Ruins edited by Dan Coxon and Philip Fracassi

“Featuring the best modern writers of horror and dark fantasy, these stories explore the caverns and the catacombs, the ruined temples, and the monoliths—and drag an ancient evil back into the light.” (September 15)

Eternal Is the Night by Alayna Ravenwood

“Twenty-year-old Anna was already different before her mother was murdered—and before she vanished for a year she can’t remember. When her former mentor returns, Anna embarks on a dangerous journey to Nightfall Castle, the mysterious private college her mother once attended, desperate for answers about her past and the dormant power she’s ignored her entire life.” (September 16)

September 22-25

Books Sept22
© Random House, Del Rey

Africanfuturism Short Stories edited by Chinelo Onwualu

“This new collection focuses on stories that are set in and about Africa—whether that’s a future Africa, an alternative Africa, or a parallel Africa. The genre leans towards science fiction rather than fantasy and towards positive scenarios and concepts but, of course, is open to interpretation.” (September 22)

The Big Bad Book of Kaiju edited by Jonathan Maberry and Henry Herz

“A thrilling and cataclysmic collection of city-smashing titans and the desperate coalitions of humanity clinging to survival in the wreckage.” (September 22)

Bright and Broken Things by Ryan Graudin

“A young scholar learns he may be the key to uncovering an ancient Egyptian artifact coveted by a powerful cabal of magicians in this enchanting novel set among the glittering parties and Egyptology craze of 1920s London.” (September 22)

Buzzard by Inez Ray

“In 2086, corporations are monitoring fertility. Abortion is illegal. And the last woman alive who can perform the procedure is in hiding … Buzzard is a ferocious dystopian debut that traces the possible trajectory of our current political and technological reality—and the power of our deepest human bonds.” (September 22)

Call Off the Dark by Hallie Shepherd

“A haunting, atmospheric debut thriller with a love story at its heart, following a feisty young woman caught between her husband and a mysterious stranger who disturbs their off-grid life in rural Washington.” (September 22)

A Complement of Scoundrels by S.V. Lockwood

“A bold, raucous journey through the underbelly of an empire where the devil’s rules reign, and morality, loyalty, and friendship are values few can afford.” (September 22)

Crone by Keith Rosson

“A haunting, fearsome story of a father searching for his missing daughter and finding darkness—both human and not—at every turn.” (September 22)

A Curse for Christmas Past by Morgan Lockhart

“For fans of Good Spirits, Hallmark holiday movies, and general witchy shenanigans, this charming holiday romance follows a woman with a curse and the handsome witch she reluctantly enlists to help her break it.” (September 22)

Damned If I Do by Alexandria Bellefleur

“The devil’s right-hand woman must convince her long-lost husband to renounce their vows so she can wed a prince from Hell.” (September 22)

Faery Queen by Michelle M. Pillow

“In a war-ridden land, destiny rides on the wings of a faery queen and on the will of an earl who refuses to acknowledge their love.” (September 22)

Fold Catastrophes by Peter Watts

In this short-story collection, “Watts posits unlimited brain-computer interfaces, the possibility of life existing inside stars, the hacking of human behavior, and ecological collapse. (Also, the healing power of revenge.)” (September 22)

Harbinger by Geneva Lee

“Arden Icaros prefers life on the family farm with dirt under her nails over the fine dresses at court. She just needs to get through one boring ceremony, inherit her earth magic, and return home. Instead, she’s handed a dagger and, with it, an impossible choice.” (September 22)

The Henchperson’s Guide to Unionizing by Marshall J. Moore

A lab assistant, a vampire’s bride, and a witch’s feline familiar become acquainted when they all end up living in the same isolated mansion. “When the trio discovers that they’ve been unwitting participants in a horrible plan to destroy the world as they know it, they must work together to stop their masters from bringing on armageddon.” (September 22)

In the Woods They Wait by Carrie Lee South

A park ranger working in the same forest where her brother went missing 15 years before leads the search when another child suddenly vanishes in a hauntingly similar manner. (September 22)

Incarnate by Alma Katsu

“A terrifying reimagining of The Picture of Dorian Gray for the internet age. An illuminating, haunting tale of algorithmic worship and beauty that can kill.” (September 22)

Little Kin by Katya de Becerra

“When Cass inherits a crumbling house on Rothagisht—a remote island near the Arctic Circle—she’s desperate for a new start. The land is stunning, the people strangely healthy, and for the first time, Cass feels like she might finally belong. But as Cass is drawn into the island’s mysteries—and into the secrets of her own bloodline—she discovers Rothagisht is stalked by ancient creatures that rise from the heated depths when the old covenant stirs.” (September 22)

Mazywood by Tananarive Due

All the Sinners Bleed meets Erasure in this literary thriller from the award-winning author of The Reformatory following the grandson of a famous Black actress who returns to his grandmother’s cabin retreat in the California mountains only to encounter the legacy of her rage born in Old Hollywood.” (September 22)

Monstrous by Bryan Smith

In this cosmic horror tale, “an aspiring serial killer journeys to a remote mountainous location at the same time as a woman looking to bury evidence of a heinous crime walks the same trail. A sudden unnatural storm transports them to a mist-shrouded field that rolls on for countless miles in all directions.” (September 22)

Morocco by Norah Labiner

This reimagining of Henry James’ Washington Square “confronts the ambiguity of memory, the horrors of history, and what it means, or does not mean, to read a book and tell a story.” (September 22)

The Need by Megan Mostyn-Brown

“Every family has its secrets. But in this electric, provocative, and dizzyingly fast-paced horror debut, some families have the Need—a rare genetic disorder. Those who have it must consume human flesh or die. For some, the Need is power. For others, it is a curse.” (September 22)

Our Cut of Salt by Deena Helm

“In this lyrical debut, three generations of Palestinian women must put the haunting of their ancestral home to rest before the secrets of the past drown them all.” (September 22)

Out of Body by Chris Vanjonack

“A wildly inventive collection of interconnected speculative stories—spanning the multiverse, demonic attachment, and life after death—from an electrifying new voice in fiction.” (September 22)

Revolution in the Heart: Stories Inspired by Ursula K. Le Guin edited by Jonathan Strahan

“With Revolution in the Heart, award-winning editor Jonathan Strahan asked 15 of the most celebrated writers working in science fiction and fantasy today to create new and urgent works inspired by Le Guin’s work and words.” (September 22)

Sometimes I Scare Myself: A Collection of Horror by Jeneva Rose

“Three horror stories. A dinner party. A quiet house. A roadside stop. You’ll recognize the setup. You won’t recognize what comes next.” (September 22)

The Sweetest Fiend by Raven Kennedy

“The first book in an alluring and addictive romantasy duology set in a world of fae and dark magic, loosely inspired by the legend of the Pied Piper.” (September 22)

#VanDeath by Brian Asman

“Two feuding #VanLife influencers must put aside their differences in order to survive when they are stalked by a masked killer in a remote stretch of Death Valley.” (September 22)

Welcome to the Kokoro Cat Clinic by Syou Ishida

“Cats once again prove to be the best medicine in the wonderful third book following the award-winning, bestselling Japanese novel We’ll Prescribe You a Cat. When you are lost, the Kokoro Clinic for the Soul will find you.” (September 22)

Witch Daughter by Tanaz Bhathena

“A tale of love and loss in ancient Persia with her take on the timeless tragedy of Tahmineh, a temptress, a witch, a victim, or, perhaps, a woman trying her hardest to protect her loved ones.” (September 22)

The Wretched Divine by Adalyn Grace

“The heart-pounding adult debut from bestselling author Adalyn Grace is about an ancient war between angels and demons and the human knight determined to end it at any cost. (September 22)

You’re the One That I Haunt by Katie Jung

“To save her best friend and lifelong crush from his family’s deadly curse, Libby must team up with (and try not to catch feelings for) a handsome ghost only she can see.” (September 22)

Etched in Ink by Corinne Price

“Everything Sybil Wyntres believed is a lie. The rune etched into her body, the magic she can’t control, even the order she once trusted. None of it is what it seems. Forced back into the Bastion she barely escaped, Sybil is sent across the fractured lands of Crae Vost with an ancient enchanter whose motives are as obscured as the truth she seeks.” (September 25)

September 29

Books Sept29
© Orbit, Avon a

Baldur’s Gate 3: Astarion by T. Kingfisher

“The roguish charlatan Astarion will free himself from a centuries-long fate of servitude or die (a second time) trying—in this decadently dark fantasy adventure.” (September 29)

Beyond the Graves Waits Mist and Sea by Kathleen Kaufman

“A marine biologist’s search for an undiscovered species of octopus leads her to an isolated island where long-buried memories rise like specters from the deep, intent on dragging her darkest truths to the surface.” (September 29)

Blood Drunk by Ben Shepherd

“Join a new kind of vampire hunter—former gangster Freddie Burns—as he fights for his place, for his family, and for the hell of it in London’s gritty magical underworld. Mostly for the hell of it, to be honest.” (September 29)

The Court of Venus by Bel Banta

“An ensnaring romantic fantasy in which a moon-blessed magician is summoned back to the deadly, Tudor-inspired magical court she thought she had escaped, where power is determined by the stars—and the closer you are to the king, the more likely you are to die.” (September 29)

Cursed City by Kate Golden

“With enemies closing in from all sides and a ticking clock on her life, Viv must save the Half City from destruction while surviving a betrayal that strikes at the heart of everything she’s fighting for. Because in a world where monsters wear familiar faces and temptation cuts deeper than any blade, making it through her second semester at Harker will take more than skill—it will take everything Viv has left to give.” (September 29)

A Divided Duty by Seanan McGuire

“The bestselling and Hugo Award-nominated October Daye series finds Toby Daye torn between caring for her newborn daughter and keeping the world of Faerie—and her found family—safe.” (September 29)

Forged in Fiyah: Celebrating Ten Years of Black Speculative Fiction edited by DaVaun Sanders

“Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of FIYAH Magazine of Black Speculative Fiction, this collection of 18 stories features tales from mainstays of genre fiction alongside the dynamic, groundbreaking work of several of FIYAH’s most promising newcomers.” (September 29)

Galinda: A Charmed Childhood by Gregory Maguire

“In this sister volume to Elphie, bestselling author of Wicked Gregory Maguire shares the eagerly awaited origin story of Galinda, the pink-clad, effervescent, and popular favorite character.” (September 29)

The Ghosts of Merry Hall by Heather Davey

“In modern-day England, a mother and daughter move into a crumbling Victorian house through which wind whistles eerily, floorboards creak ominously, and things go bump in the night. The ghost of a girl who performed in Victorian freak shows haunts this chilling gothic ghost story.” (September 29)

I Think We Should Kill Other People by L.M. Chilton

“The new laugh-out-loud serial killer thriller from L.M. Chilton, author of Don’t Swipe Right and Everyone in the Group Chat Dies.” (September 29)

The Invisible Roommate by Timothy Janovsky

The Invisible Man meets Love Is Blind in this autumnal love story.” (September 29)

Jenny Will Eat You Now by Gillian Daniels

“Sometimes you want to eat the ones you love… right? In this gorgeous horror-romance, river monster Jenny Greenteeth stalks a handsome academic through Boston after a chance encounter leaves her hungry and curious about the world she’s been hiding from.” (September 29)

The Lost Spectacular by Zoé Duhaime

“A dazzling ode to the life-changing power of books, as childhood loves-turned-rivals chase each other through the stories that shaped them, leaping through classic literature and famous paintings and private letters and family dinners until all that’s left is to confront the grief they’ve been running from…and decide whether they might face it together instead.” (September 29)

Merry Ex-Mas by C.C. Dador

“All Marygrace Silva wants for Christmas is a date to impress her big, boisterous family. Instead, a disastrous setup and an awkward run-in with her ex-best friend Robbie leave her wishing for a holiday miracle. Then a slip on the ice lands her in a time loop—reliving Christmas Eve with a different ex each time.” (September 29)

Mestra: A Short Story by Madeline Miller

“A vibrant reimagining of the powerful and forgotten myth of Mestra.” (September 29)

Newbourne Park by Jennifer Thorne

“A darkly funny, blood-soaked horror novel about the terrifying seduction of unlimited power.” (September 29)

The Only Way Out Is Up by Django Wexler

“A small-time scrapper and his pet robot will fight their way out of the junk heap in a tournament that will either make them richer than gods or rip them apart in the first book of Django Wexler’s lightning-paced progression fantasy adventure.” (September 29)

The Ship of Death by Kyle Winkler

House of Leaves meets Jumanji in this brilliantly original and twisted novel composed entirely of found documents, following an unwitting couple ensnared by a sinister tabletop role-playing game.” (September 29)

The Sisters of Crimson House by Melissa Anderson Sweazy

“A haunting Southern Gothic horror following one woman from a long line of psychics who will do anything to save her family legacy and the haunted house she grew up in from an entity threatening to destroy everything she’s built.” (September 29)

Something Followed Us Home: Tales of Latiné Horror edited by Cynthia Pelayo

“Dive into the chilling depths of Latiné horror with this groundbreaking anthology, edited by Bram Stoker Award winner Cynthia Pelayo, where each story reimagines immigration, colonization, faith, and folklore as the fears we inherit and carry across borders and generations.” (September 29)

Spellstruck by Martha Waters

“Chemistry isn’t only for cocktails in this lightly magical, enemies-to-lovers rom-com about the owner of a speakeasy supplying magical drinks and an enforcer of the ban on magic who must team up when potions begin to go awry.” (September 29)

The Thief and the Traitor Bride by V.L. Bovalino

“Set in the world of The Second Death of Locke, a devastatingly romantic epic fantasy between a spy and thief who were married and are now estranged enemies forced to work together.” (September 29)

Trad Wife by Sarah Langan

“A journalist descends into horror as she uncovers the sinister truth behind a trad wife influencer in this blend of chilling suspense and razor-sharp commentary on modern femininity, performative domesticity, and social media.” (September 29)

The Unhaunting by Micaiah Johnson

“At the end of the Civil War, a daughter of the Confederacy made what she thought was an innocent wish: to build a house where nothing bad could happen. But peace came at a price, and 170 years later Shantell and her friends are about to discover where all that darkness ended up.” (September 29)

Wither by Dan Warner

“A propulsive, darkly funny literary sci-fi debut about technology, privacy, and humanity in transition.” (September 29)

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

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