Books Like...

'My Best Friend's Exorcism' by Grady Hendrix is a horror novel set in the 1980s that follows the story of two best friends, Abby and Gretchen. The book combines elements of friendship, coming of age, and demonic possession. When Gretchen becomes possessed by a demon, Abby must navigate through the challenges of high school drama, toxic friendships, and the supernatural to save her best friend with the power of their unbreakable bond. The writing style is a mix of horror, comedy, and nostalgia, with seamless incorporation of 80s references, creating a fast-paced and entertaining read that keeps readers engaged till the end.

'Horrorstor' by Grady Hendrix is a parody horror story set in an Ikea knock-off store where mysterious and creepy occurrences take place after hours. The store manager recruits a team of employees to stay overnight to investigate, leading to a mix of scary and funny moments, with pop culture references sprinkled throughout. The book is designed like a catalog, with furniture descriptions changing as the story gets darker, adding a unique visual element to the horror narrative. The characters are well-developed, and the story is a blend of humor, horror, and paranormal elements, making it an engaging and fast-paced read.

In 'The Final Girl Support Group' by Grady Hendrix, a group of final girls, the last girls standing after massacres or mass murderers, meet regularly with a counselor to discuss their struggles. When one of the members goes missing, Lynette Tarkington suspects that someone is targeting the final girls, leading to a wild ride full of twists and turns. The novel explores the backstories of each final girl, while delving into themes of trauma, survival, and the impact of living in fear.

The book combines elements of slasher movies popular in the late 20th century with a fresh take on the final girl trope, offering a mix of horror, mystery, and thriller. As the final girls navigate through horrifying and sometimes humorous situations, the story unfolds to reveal the complexities of their lives post-trauma, with a focus on the harm women inflict on each other within a patriarchal system.

'Paperbacks from Hell: The Twisted History of '70s and '80s Horror Fiction' by Grady Hendrix is a detailed exploration of the horror paperback publishing industry from the mid-70s to mid-80s. The book delves into the colorful covers and beautiful artwork created by renowned illustrators during this era, showcasing the evolution of horror trends and social issues reflected in the genre. Hendrix provides insights into the behind-the-scenes of the cover artists, publishers, and the impact of these horror novels on the genre, making it an essential read for horror enthusiasts and those interested in the cultural history of the 1970s and 1980s.

The book offers a mix of humor, affection, and informative content, presenting a nostalgic look at the horror fiction boom of the '70s and '80s through vivid descriptions of novels and their iconic cover art. Hendrix's writing style combines snarky humor with a genuine appreciation for the subject matter, providing readers with an engaging and educational journey through the history of horror literature, covering various sub-genres like haunted houses, vampires, and more.

The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix is a horror novel set in the late 1980s to early 1990s that follows a group of Southern housewives who form a book club focusing on true crime stories. When a new neighbor arrives in town, suspicions arise about his true nature, leading to a chilling discovery that he might be a vampire preying on the town's children. The book delves into themes of class divisions, gender bias, racial prejudice, and the strength of female friendships, all while building suspense and terror through well-crafted writing and vivid narration.

'How to Sell a Haunted House' by Grady Hendrix is a modern day Gothic ghost story that follows a protagonist contending with colorful family members and creepy dolls in a Southern setting. The book combines horror elements with outrageous humor and touches of sadness, creating a well-designed tale filled with shocking events and creepy puppets central to the plot. The author's writing style is praised for its unique blend of horror, dark humor, and exceptional storytelling that keeps readers hooked until the insane and brilliant climax.

Final Girls by Riley Sager is a psychological thriller that follows Quincy Carpenter, one of three survivors of separate massacre incidents. Quincy, dubbed a Final Girl by the media, struggles with memory loss surrounding the night her friends were murdered at Pine Cottage. When another Final Girl is found dead, Quincy is forced to confront her past and unravel the mysteries surrounding the traumatic events that have haunted her for years. The book weaves between Quincy's present life and the chilling events of the past, keeping readers on edge with unexpected twists and suspenseful storytelling.

Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix is a compelling story that dives deep into the struggles of young women facing societal oppression and the consequences of their choices. Set in the 1960s, it follows Fern and other pregnant girls in a maternity home, exploring themes of power dynamics and the impact of adult judgment on youth. The narrative is both emotional and thought-provoking, addressing issues like women's rights and the societal fear of female empowerment through a blend of horror and empathy.

Hendrix's writing style is engaging and vivid, pulling readers into a world that feels both distant and disturbingly relevant. He skillfully expresses the inner thoughts of the characters, leaving readers connected to their struggles. While some may find the characters a bit two-dimensional, the overarching themes of empowerment and the experience of being a 'wayward girl' resonate deeply. This book challenges readers to reflect on the past while also confronting the ongoing issues faced by women today.

The book follows Sandy, a journalist turned novelist, as he investigates the death of a music promoter connected to a legendary band called the Nazgul. The story delves into Sandy's past, the resurrection of the rock band, and the mysterious motives of a man named Edan Morse. The narrative is set in the early eighties, blending elements of the sixties counterculture with a mix of supernatural mystery and dark fantasy. The book captures the essence of the 60s and 70s music scene, with vivid descriptions that immerse the reader in the era.

'Utopia Avenue' by David Mitchell is a novel set in London in the late 1960s that follows the journey of a fictional band named Utopia Avenue as they rise to fame in the music industry. The book captures the essence of the time period, incorporating real-life musicians like David Bowie and Jimi Hendrix. Mitchell delves into the lives of the band members, exploring their struggles, triumphs, and the creative process behind their music. The writing style includes elements of supernatural and fantastical elements, while also portraying the camaraderie and dynamics within the band.