If You Like This, Read That: 90’s Halloween Movie Edition: What to Read Based on Your Favorite Spooky Classics
Hey Spooky Babes!
It’s almost Halloween, and nothing gets me in the spooky mood quite like a marathon of 90’s Halloween movies (and, let’s be real, a lot of candy corn). But what happens when you’ve watched Hocus Pocus for the millionth time, or you need something fresh after quoting Beetlejuice line for line? Time to dive into some magical romantasy reads! Whether you’re here for witches, quirky ghosts, or a sprinkle of romance with your haunted vibes, I’ve got book recs to match your fave Halloween classics.
Grab your cozy blanket, light a pumpkin spice candle, and let’s get spooky!
If You Liked The Nightmare Before Christmas, Read:
Tim Burton’s quirky, spooky world of Jack and Sally is a perfect mix of whimsy and dark magic. If you loved that vibe, these books will deliver all the magic, romance, and eerie fun:
1. A Spindle Splintered by Alix E. Harrow
This Sleeping Beauty retelling is filled with fractured fairy tales, a witty heroine, and just the right amount of dark magic. If Jack Skellington found his way into a fairy tale? This would be it. It’s got a little romance, a lot of magic, and that quirky charm we love.
2. The Bone Witch by Rin Chupeco
Do you love exploring a world of necromancers, eerie magic, and misunderstood outcasts? This dark and atmospheric read about a girl who can raise the dead will suck you right in with its world-building, much like the strange and wonderful worlds Jack gets lost in.
3. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
For something whimsical and magical, but with a touch of darkness, try The Night Circus. The circus that only opens at night? Check. A magical competition that feels like a dance between life and death? Double check. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into Halloween Town with this one.
If You Liked Beetlejuice, Read:
If you’re here for chaos, laughter, and a bit of romance in the afterlife, these reads are sure to hit the spot (and possibly summon a ghost or two)!
1. The Ex-Hex by Erin Sterling
This witchy rom-com is like Beetlejuice meets modern-day magic. When a witch’s ex returns to town, a cursed hex sets off chaos and hijinks. Think quirky small-town magic, hilarious banter, and a cursed lover – this one has all the chaos of a Beetlejuice situation, but with a much cuter love story.
2. Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson
If you loved the weird, quirky vibe of Beetlejuice, you’ll get a kick out of this magical adventure. In a world where enchanted books can come to life (yes, really!), a librarian teams up with a sorcerer to save the day. It’s got the right mix of magical mischief, snarky characters, and adventure to keep you hooked.
3. Deadly Sweet by Lola Dodge
In this fun paranormal cozy mystery, a cupcake-baking witch gets tangled up with demons and magic. It’s got a snarky, lovable heroine and a whole lot of chaos – basically, if Beetlejuice got into the bakery business. There’s humor, magic, and a dash of romance too!
If You Liked Practical Magic, Read:
Give me witches, give me sisterhood, give me all the heart! If you swooned over the Owens sisters’ story, these reads will enchant you with their magical bonds, love stories, and a sprinkle of witchy drama.
1. A Witch in Time by Constance Sayers
This one’s got the same magical charm and deep emotional connections as Practical Magic. It follows a cursed witch through several lifetimes as she navigates love and tragedy, weaving romance and magic together just like the Owens sisters do.
2. The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
More feel-good than spooky, but this enchanting story of found family and magic will give you all the cozy feels. It’s about a magical orphanage, but with the same heartwarming relationships and charm you loved in Practical Magic. Plus, it’s just the right amount of whimsical.
3. The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow
Witchy sisters? Check. Fighting for their place in a world that doesn’t believe in magic anymore? Double check. This one is all about women, witches, and fighting for their power. If you loved the sisterly bond and feminist vibes of Practical Magic, this book is for you.
If You Liked Hocus Pocus, Read:
For all you Hocus Pocus fans (me included!), these books are packed with witchy antics, quirky characters, and all the magical mayhem you could hope for.
1. The Witch’s Heart by Genevieve Gornichec
A witch in love with a god? Sign me up. This Norse mythology retelling is filled with magic, sisterhood, and the kind of enchanting, powerful witch who would fit right in with the Sanderson sisters.
2. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
This one’s got all the humor, heart, and magic of Hocus Pocus, with a contemporary twist. It follows a young trans boy who accidentally summons a ghost (oops!) and tries to help him find peace, all while navigating his own magical powers. It’s heartfelt and hilarious.
3. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sang Sorensen
Imagine Hocus Pocus but with a quirky group of witches trying to hide their powers while finding family and love. This adorable, witchy rom-com will give you all the cozy, magical vibes, with just enough chaos to keep things interesting.
Want more amazing indie Romantasy reads? Click here to download my curated list of 100 Indie Romantasy Books You Need To Read Right Now
So, what are you waiting for?
Whether you’re cozying up with a pumpkin latte or waiting for trick-or-treaters, these books are perfect for your next magical read. Which one are you picking up first? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram with your spooky book recs!
Happy reading, witches! 👻📚
