If you’re a fan of stories that send shivers down your spine, January has some treats for you. From a reissued classic to a mind-bending Japanese mystery, here are three horror books that deserve a spot on your reading list.

Strange Pictures by Uketsu

First up is Strange Pictures, a haunting novel by the enigmatic Japanese author Uketsu. Known for his mysterious online persona—always masked and speaking through a voice changer—Uketsu’s work is just as intriguing. This book, his first to be translated into English, is a layered horror mystery packed with cryptic clues.

The story kicks off with two college students in Tokyo stumbling upon an abandoned blog. The blog chronicles a man’s life, including the tragic death of his wife during childbirth and her eerie drawings. Convinced these sketches hold secrets, the students dive into unraveling their meaning. But things get darker as they uncover a series of unsolved murders tied to strange drawings found at crime scenes. With nine mysterious sketches holding the key, the truth is anything but straightforward.

While the third section of the book feels a bit repetitive, the overall mystery is brilliantly crafted, keeping you hooked until the very last page.

At Dark, I Become Loathsome by Eric LaRocca

Next on the list is At Dark, I Become Loathsome, a deeply unsettling tale by Eric LaRocca. If you’re into horror that makes your skin crawl, this one’s for you. LaRocca’s work is known for its unflinching exploration of guilt, grief, and the darker corners of the human mind.

This novel is no exception. It’s a raw, unapologetically queer story that dives into the psyche of a character shattered by loss. The narrative is as gruesome as it is thought-provoking, making it a standout in the genre.

A Reissued Classic

Rounding out the list is a reissued horror classic that’s making a comeback this month. While details are still under wraps, fans of the genre won’t want to miss this updated edition of a timeless tale.

Whether you’re into psychological thrillers or supernatural mysteries, these three books offer something for every horror lover. So grab a blanket, turn on a dim light, and prepare to lose yourself in these chilling reads.