By Shannon Elaine Sweeney
Lose yourself in a world of suspense, mystery, and horror this summer with these eerie stories. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, soaking up some sun by the pool, or hiding from the heat indoors, there’s nothing quite like a well-crafted horror story to keep you on the edge of your seat and give you chills on even the hottest of days. With so many great young adult horror books, it can be tough to know where to start, so here are some of the best young adult horror novels to read this summer and get your heart racing in the best possible way.
- The Honeys by Ryan La Sada
Ryan La Sala’s queer horror novel, The Honeys, delves into the heart-wrenching journey of Mars, a genderfluid teenager, in search of the truth behind his sister’s death and the involvement of the infamous Honeys. These girls, with their superior status and power over the social order at Aspen, actively participate in maintaining their reign over the rest. This summer read is an ideal pick for those who attended summer camps as kids, witnessed social hierarchies, and whose memories of such experiences continue to shape their personalities, adding a bonus layer of relatability to the already gripping narrative.
- You’re Not Supposed To Die Tonight by Kalynn Bayron.
Kalynn Bayron’s young adult horror novel You’re Not Supposed to Die Tonight opens with Charity Curtis, a Black teenager, gearing up to entertain a group of customers at Camp Mirror Lake, a theme park featuring a full-contact terror simulation rooted in the 1980s slasher film The Curse of Camp Mirror Lake. Portraying the final girl in the simulation, Charity and her crew recreate terrifying scenes from the movie, providing guests with a chilling experience. However, when Charity’s colleagues fail to show up for work, she enlists the help of friends, only to uncover a disquieting truth: the staff has vanished, and the simulation has turned harrowingly real. Driven by the need to unveil the killer’s identity and their motives, Charity finds herself thrust into a heart-pounding mystery. Enthusiasts of Final Girls Club by Grady Hendrix and fans of rewatching horror films from the 1980s will find this an irresistible pick.
- This Delicious Death by Kayla Cottingham
This Delicious Death is a young adult horror novel by Kayla Cottingham. The story follows a quartet of best friends, all survivors of a pandemic-like affliction known as the Hollowing, as they venture to a desert music festival armed with a cooler filled with SynFlesh. Amidst the festival excitement, they stumble upon a grisly discovery: a victim consumed by one afflicted by the Hollowing. Faced with the daunting task of concealing the truth and devising a solution before they are held accountable, the friends unravel a sinister scheme to expose and demonize individuals like themselves. This gripping narrative intertwines body horror elements, young love, and a compelling twist ending, making it a must-read for fans who revel in these chilling themes.
- In Nightfall by Suzanne Young
Nightfall by Suzanne Young is a young adult dystopian novel set in the enigmatic town of Gatlin, where the sun sets only once every twenty-four years. At the heart of the story are twins Marin and Kana alongside their friend, Line, who belong to the dwindling group of young individuals who have witnessed daylight. As the trio accidentally stumbles upon a sinister truth concealed within Gatlin’s history, they find themselves compelled to flee the town before another prolonged period of darkness descends, locking them within a realm replete with hidden mysteries. This riveting tale is perfect for summer reading, juxtaposing endless sunlight against a backdrop of suspense and intrigue. Fans of narratives centered around friendships triumphing over malevolent forces will find this story exceptionally captivating.
- The Lake House by Sarah Beth Durst
The Lake House by Sarah Beth Durst immerses readers in a suspenseful and chilling journey within its young adult horror narrative. The plot orbits around teenagers Claire, Reyva, and Mariana, anticipating a serene summer camp experience in the wilderness. However, upon reaching their destination, they are greeted by the charred remains of what was meant to be their lodge, segueing into a harrowing saga of survival entwined with enigma and tension. This gripping tale caters to enthusiasts of atmospheric horror, especially those fortunate enough to bask in the ambiance of a lake house during their summer getaways.
Bonus Retro Pick: The Dead Lifeguard by R.L. Stine
The Dead Lifeguard is a thrilling addition to R.L. Stine’s esteemed Fear Street series, featuring a cryptic lifeguard whose actions indicate a penchant for murder. The protagonist, Jade, becomes embroiled in a network of panic and suspicion after she begins to harbor sinister thoughts about the lifeguard. As the death toll mounts, Jade is pressed for time to unravel the reality behind the lifeguard’s strange behavior before it is too late. This tale is one of my cherished picks, notable for introducing me to an unreliable narrator. It’s a must-read for anyone who relishes the experience of being a lifeguard or camp counselor, coupled with a love for who-dun-it storylines.
Author Bio
Shannon Elaine Sweeney is a Feature Writer for Page Turner Magazine.
