With the spooky season upon us, now is the time to read something dark and spine-chilling. Here are a few monstrous new books in PWPL’s collection.

“Vampires of El Norte” by Isabel Canas (Fiction, 2023)

Isabel Canas’s “Vampires of El Norte” isn’t only about vampires; it’s about colonialism, family, and love. Set in Mexico in the 1840s, it follows the story of Nena and Nestor, a pair of star-crossed lovers separated when Nena is attacked by a mysterious figure during a late-night rendezvous. They are reunited years later when the United States attacks Mexico and they both become involved in the war. What ensues is an epic and devastating love story overshadowed by violence, betrayal, and bloodthirsty creatures that lurk in the night.

Fans of historical fiction, romance, and horror alike will all find something to sink their teeth into in this gripping vampire western.

“Night Fever” by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips (Graphic Novel, 2023)

Rated M / Mature

This Hitchcock-esque graphic novel shows us that sometimes, the monster is within ourselves. Anyone can be tempted by darkness, as is the case with Jonathan Webb, the antihero of “Night Fever.” What starts out as a sleepless night in Paris becomes a violent days-long escapade that drags Jonathan into a strange world that he never thought he’d see-and one he seems to fit right into.

The stunning art in this graphic novel elevates the sense of unease, danger, and the battle inside Jonathan’s mind. If you’re up for a little noir this Halloween, you’ll be sure to appreciate this dark and disturbing tale.

“Unnatural Ends” by Christopher Huang (Mystery, 2023)

A murder mystery seemingly pulled from the vaults of Agatha Christie, “Unnatural Ends” by Christopher Huang follows Sir Lawrence Linwood’s three adopted children as they scramble to solve his murder, as the one who does so inherits his entire estate. The first clue is the way he was killed: in his study, with a medieval mace.

The 1920s post-World War I setting is an interesting backdrop for this story, as it adds another layer to the grief and the family dynamics at play. Full of twists and turns that you don’t see coming, “Unnatural Ends” would be an excellent addition to anyone’s reading list this fall.

By Kelsey Matthews

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