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Spooky Christian books
With Halloween just around the corner, now is the perfect time to pick up some scary Christian fiction books. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling read for your Fall book club or something new to explore in your faith journey, these scary stories offer an exciting and unique way to experience Christianity.
Add one of these spine-tingling tales to your reading list this season and get ready for a truly haunting adventure!
What is edgy Christian fiction?
Edgy Christian fiction is a genre of literature that tackles deeper, more thought-provoking topics from a Christian perspective. It doesn’t include sex, violence, or language but does include topics like spiritual warfare, the human condition, and darker life themes.
It seeks to explore the complexities of faith in an honest and engaging way while staying true to its core values.
It also challenges readers with difficult questions about their beliefs and encourages them to think critically about how they view the world around them. By examining these issues from both a Biblical standpoint as well as through personal experience, this subgenre can provide valuable insight into our own lives.
Real life is messy, and it can be valuable to read it in fiction format to help us live out our faith authentically.
Top 3 Scary Christian Fiction
Here are the top three scary Christian fiction books that have been loved by me and other readers. From suspenseful thrillers to supernatural encounters, these stories will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re a fan of horror or just want something different, these titles should be at the top of your list.
- The Souls of Lost Lake Jaime Jo Wright
- Finding Lady Enderly by Joanna Davidson Politano
- Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch
Best Scary Christian fiction books
1 | Hangman’s Curse by Frank Peretti
Christian Horror Thriller, YA
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.88 out of 5 stars
In this thrilling mystery, two brave teenage twins take it upon themselves to uncover the truth behind an eerie curse taking over their high school – attacking student-athletes one by one with fear and dread. Will they be able to save Baker High from destruction?
🎃 Why you should read this book? This book is a great read because it dives deep into the issue of peer abuse and its lasting consequences. It features interesting characters but still has the expected cliches that are often seen in high school young adult books.
The topics addressed in this book are still relevant today which gives readers of all ages an opportunity to connect with them.
“A little love and attention can go a long way…too bad more people don’t realize that.”
― Frank Peretti, Hangman’s Curse
2 | The Souls of Lost Lake Jaime Jo Wright
Christian Historical Thriller Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.28 out of 5 stars
Wren Blythe and Ava Coons, two women from different eras are connected by an evil force lurking in the Northwoods. When a little girl goes missing near their home, they join together to save her – but first must confront secrets long buried around them both: for Wren, it’s a mysterious porcelain doll etched with her name; for Ava, it’s the dark truth behind what happened ten years prior when she emerged from the forest as an eight-year-old covered in blood.
Together these brave souls strive to overcome this insidious power before more innocent lives are taken.
🎃 Why you should read this book? I find Jamie Jo Wright’s books to be some of the best examples of scary Christian fiction books. This novel, in particular, has a richly detailed dual timeline and complex characters. The mystery that lies within will keep you guessing until the end; I’m always surprised by the twists and turns her stories take.
The suspense and horror are expertly crafted in each of her books, and she has an amazing ability to draw the reader into the story. Any of her books fit the spooky genre and would make a great addition to any fall book club picks!
3 | Firefly Diaries by C.C. Warrens
Christian Suspense
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.79 out of 5 stars
Noelle’s world is in shambles after the tragic death of her child, but she finds solace when she discovers an old house that needs restoration. With help from a local, the renovation project gives her purpose and hope until strange clues make it seem like something sinister might be lurking beneath its walls.
Unwilling to turn away without answers, Noelle vows to uncover whatever secrets lie hidden within – no matter what consequences may follow.
🎃 Why you should read this book? This book is an amazing read because of its relatable characters and inspiring growth in faith. I found myself really connecting with the characters and their journeys as they grow in their faith and overcome their struggles.
The author has created the perfect balance between suspense and romance, keeping readers on their toes as they unravel the mysteries together with the characters.
4 | Finding Lady Enderly by Joanna Davidson Politano
Chrisitan Historical Mystery, Romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.12 out of 5 stars
Raina Bretton, a rag woman from London’s east end, is unexpectedly offered the chance of a lifetime when an enigmatic stranger beckons her to Rothburne Abbey.
There she discovers secrets and danger lurking beneath its grand facade that challenge who she thought she was–and only one man can keep them hidden. But with each unraveled mystery comes the risk of exposing herself for good.
🎃 Why you should read this book? This book has a spooky, gothic Jane Eyre feel and is an original historical plot line that you probably have never read before. The complex characters will keep you hooked throughout the entire novel!
“By his grace, before I was even ready for it, I had been made a reflection of God, the ultimate restorer.”
― Joanna Davidson Politano, Finding Lady Enderly
5 | A Mug of Mayhem by Angela Ruth Strong
Christian Cozy Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.56 out of 5 stars
Marissa and Connor’s wedding plans take a turn for the worse when he is arrested in connection with a murder at their venue. With time running out, Marissa and her maid of honor Tandy must get to the bottom of it before calling off the nuptials – but they’re not alone in this mystery!
An unlikely team composes an eclectic cast: from senior citizens who may be witnesses or suspects, to a cranky military veteran on his own mission, as well as a retired spy suffering dementia and a former Broadway star still performing.
Unless they can unmask the real killer soon enough, death could tear them apart forever.
🎃 Why you should read this book? This book is perfect for the Halloween season for all types of readers. It’s not overly scary and perfect for those of us who are looking for some light-hearted entertainment and are not interested in the more horrifying aspects of Halloween.
It provides an excellent blend of cozy mystery and romance that will keep you engaged throughout the story.
6 | Boo by Rene Gutteridge
Christian Romance Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.73 out of 5 stars
With a dose of humor, small-town charm, and faith at its core, Boo tells the story of Skary’s transformation from a failing town to one made famous by Wolfe Boone – known affectionately as ‘Boo’.
But when he falls in love with Ainsley Parker instead of continuing his Horror writing career, it is up to the townsfolk to come together and plot an ingenious plan that will get him back into “the thrill business” while also teaching them all about enduring faith.
🎃 Why you should read this book? This book is great because it provides readers with plenty of fun dialogue and interactions between the main characters and the townsfolk. It keeps the plot line moving quickly with small mysteries scattered throughout, making sure the reader never quite knows what will be uncovered next.
Despite its thriller-like premise, the book is set during the fall and is about a horror author, but don’t let that fool you – it’s not a scary read. It’s more on the edge of some spooky things and a cozy mystery.
7 | Lost in Darkness by Michelle Griep
Christian Historical Romance, Gothic
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.12 out of 5 stars
Amelia Balfour’s dream of exploring Egypt is cut short when she learns of a revolutionary procedure that could potentially help her disfigured brother.
With the aid of Dr. Graham Lambert, Amelia hopes to save him from his affliction and possibly reveal his hidden feelings for her before it’s too late – but will he be able to prevent disaster?
🎃 Why you should read this book? As a reader, I found this retelling of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein to be an incredibly spooky and captivating book. Not only did the topic of experimentation on people make me feel uneasy, but the historical research for the time period and characters was also incredibly well done.
It enabled me better to understand the setting and motivations of the characters, making it much easier for me to fall in love with them.
8 | The Body Under the Bridge by Paul McCusker
Christian Paranormal Thriller
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.86 out of 5 stars
Father Gilbert, a former Scotland Yard detective turned priest of an Anglican church in the small town of Hailsham, is faced with two unexpected deaths – one from suicide and another that has been mummified for over 200 years.
The connections between these deaths lead to revelations about ancient family feuds as well as suspicions surrounding Lord Haysham’s murder and David Todd’s involvement. It turns out there may be sinister forces at work – namely a secret occult society performing Black Masses which could have resurfaced after all this time.
🎃 Why you should read this book? I was immediately pulled in by its creepy supernatural mystery that had me contemplating the reality of spiritual warfare. It kept me guessing with so many unexpected twists and turns that I couldn’t help but wonder what would happen next.
The dark setting perfectly added to the suspense, making it a perfect book to read at night – but beware, you might be too scared to turn the next page!
9 | House by Ted Dekker, Frank E. Peretti
Christian Horror Thriller
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.57 out of 5 stars
Enter House and take part in a thrilling game of life or death, where the only way to come out alive is by following three mysterious rules written on an old tin can. Seven players are thrown together for one night with no guarantee that any will make it until dawn.
🎃 Why you should read this book? This book was really great, not only because it was written by some of the biggest names in Christian horror, but also because it has an incredible Christian message that is full of twists and turns.
It really kept me on the edge of my seat! The plot is so creepy and suspenseful, I couldn’t put down the book. It was also made into a movie in 2008.
“Light came into the darkness, but the darkness didn’t understand it,” Susan said. “Look to the light. Only the light can save you from yourself.”
― Ted Dekker, Frank E. Peretti, House
10 | Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch
Christian Romantic Suspense
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.29 out of 5 stars
FBI special agent Fiona Kelly is on the hunt for a notorious serial killer, known as the Nursery Rhyme Killer. This cold-case murderer has resurfaced and left a gruesome message at one of his crime scenes – an all too familiar goose feather.
As she works to track him down with her ex-husband, former fellow FBI Agent Asa Kodiak by her side; Fiona must confront painful memories from their shared past in order to finally put this criminal behind bars — before he claims what he’s always wanted: her life.
🎃 Why you should read this book? I thoroughly enjoyed this book because of its shocking and thrilling plotline. As I was reading, my mind raced to keep up with the plethora of danger and psychological puzzles described in the story. It kept me on the edge of my seat.
Moreover, I found myself deeply moved by the redemption and healing faith themes that were throughout the book.
11 | Criss Cross by C.C. Warrens
Christian Thriller
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.60 out of 5 stars
Holly is living on borrowed time and her worst nightmare has come true – someone knows where she is. As old secrets are uncovered, a deadly mystery unfolds as God, an inquisitive detective, and a ruthless killer all try to get closer to the truth about Holly’s past.
With tensions rising by the minute, will she be able to stay alive long enough to unravel this complex web of lies?
🎃 Why you should read this book? I’m so glad I picked up this stalker-suspense book because it was impossible to put down. The complex characters and action packed plotline kept me hooked until the very end, and I ended up staying up late just to finish the book!
This a great book to add to your scary Christian fiction books TBR list.
12 | Mist of Midnight by Sandra Byrd
Christian Historical Suspense
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.83 out of 5 stars
The gripping story of Rebecca Ravenshaw, a young woman returning to her family’s estate in Victorian England after the death of her parents. Upon arriving home she discovers that an imposter has assumed both her name and inheritance – only for them to pass on once more when the false claimant dies before long.
With suspicion around every corner and Captain Luke Whitfield now holding power over Headbourne House, can Rebecca trust him with both it, as well as his affections?
🎃 Why you should read this book? This book is a must-read for fans of gothic novels! With an evocative setting that transports readers to the time period, it delicately blends dark drama with themes from God’s word.
13 | The Lost Melody by Joanna Davidson
Christian Historical Mystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 4.01 out of 5 stars
When Vivienne Mourdant inherits the care of an adult ward, she is compelled to unravel a mysterious past connected to her father and Hurstwell Asylum.
As she delves into murky secrets in forgotten towers at this Victorian-era institution, strange music and messages with rose petals between pages lead her down a path that blurs sanity from madness.
🎃 Why you should read this book? This book is an amazing read that will leave you with a lasting impression. From the creepy and heart-pounding plotline, I found myself questioning the sanity of every patient.
It forces us to confront difficult topics, like mental health, in a compassionate way while also giving us hope in times of darkness.
14 | The Hunted by Mike Dellosso
Christian Horror Suspense
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.94 out of 5 stars
Joe Saunders, a man with a young faith, returns to his hometown of Dark Hills after hearing news about the disappearance of his beloved nephew. When rumors spread that there is an aggressive lion on the prowl in nearby woods, he sets out to discover what lurks beneath their peaceful facade – and finds something far more sinister than anyone could have imagined.
With God as his shield against evil forces threatening to tear apart this small town’s secrets for three generations, can Joe prevail?
🎃 Why you should read this book? This book is a great read because of its powerful demonstration of the power of prayer in spiritual warfare.
It has complex characters that are easy to relate to, making it an engaging and immersive experience. The non-stop suspense will keep you guessing until the very end, with twists and turns that will surprise even the most experienced reader.
15 | Waking Hours by Lis Wiehl
Christian Paranormal Suspense
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ 3.87 out of 5 stars
Welcome to East Salem, a seemingly sleepy town where an ancient supernatural force is stirring. When a high-school girl turns up murdered in the park of one of Westchester County’s wealthiest communities, forensic psychiatrist Dani Harris and former NFL linebacker Tommy Gunderson are drawn into uncovering the truth behind her death.
As they investigate together, it appears that something more sinister than human malice may be at play – could there also be some heavenly power working against this evil? With their newfound friendship growing stronger by the day, can Dani and Tommy unmask what lies beneath before darkness falls upon East Salem?
🎃 Why you should read this book? This book was really enjoyable for me because it had some great features that made it stand out. The characters were really relatable and their mistakes and growth gave me a strong connection to them.
Plus, the level of scariness was perfect- just enough to make me feel on edge but not too much to be overwhelming. I loved the combination of mystery and romance– it was certainly an unexpected twist that had me riveted from start to finish!
Did you find any Scary Christian fiction books for your TBR?
This Halloween season, why not try something new and pick up a scary Christian fiction book? From cozy mysteries to dark psychological thrillers, these books have it all. If you’re looking for even scarier reads, make sure to check out the Christian Horror Book List recommendations.
There are plenty of thrilling stories with complex characters that will draw readers in and keep them guessing until the end. Whether it’s suspense or romance that you crave, there’s no doubt that reading one of these exciting novels is sure to be an unforgettable experience! So what are you waiting for? Pick up your next favorite scary Christian fiction novel today and get ready for some chills this October!
I have read several of these ones. I LOVE C.C. Warren and Jaime Jo’s books. I have not read The Souls of Lost Lake yet, but I do have it and A Predominition at Wither’s Farm checked out from the library. Thanks for sharing!
I’m glad you liked it! Jamie Jo’s books are perfect for halloween time!