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 Lair of the Wolven, Book 1 by J.R. Ward is a paranormal audiobook with a mix of contemporary romance and women's fiction elements. The subgenre focuses on paranormal romance, which might appeal to those who enjoy supernatural themes blended with romantic plots. Given the author's history, it likely has a well-developed and immersive world that fans of J.R. Ward will appreciate.

The characters seem to be at the forefront of the story, with a mix of human and supernatural beings, which adds depth and intrigue. The plot complexity is probably moderate to high, given the listening length of over 11 hours, suggesting a detailed and engaging storyline. The writing style is expected to be engaging and accessible, making it suitable for a broad audience, especially fans of women's fiction and contemporary romance.

One strength is the audiobook format, narrated by Jim Frangione, which could enhance the storytelling experience. However, the book's ranking indicates it might not be the top choice for everyone, specifically in a highly competitive market. It might be less appealing to those who prefer straightforward contemporary fiction without paranormal elements. This audiobook is a solid choice for those who enjoy detailed, character-driven paranormal romances and are comfortable with a longer listening commitment.