Escape Reality: What’s New in September’s Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Horror?

A Universe of Stories: 70+ Sci-Fi, Fantasy, and Horror Books to Devour in September

September is a literary feast for fans of science fiction, fantasy, and horror, with a wealth of new releases promising thrilling escapes to fantastical realms, chilling encounters with the unknown, and thought-provoking journeys through the future. From gothic horror to galactic empires, vampires to monstrous road trips, supernatural mysteries to romantasy sagas, there’s a world waiting to be explored within these pages.

Get ready to dive into a month of captivating narratives:

September 1:

• In Our Likeness by Bryan VanDyke: When co-workers at a tech start-up discover their algorithm holds the power to alter reality, they face a daunting dilemma: control a force that could rewrite existence or let it unravel unchecked. This is a technological thriller with profound implications, exploring the ethics of AI and the potential consequences of unchecked innovation.

September 3:

• American Ghoul by Michelle McGill-Vargas: A poignant blend of historical fantasy and romance, this story follows a former slave who becomes a vampire and his relationship with a powerful, enigmatic woman. Set against the backdrop of post-Civil War America, their journey unravels the complexities of interracial love, prejudice, and the struggle for identity.
• The Cursed by Harper L. Woods: The Coven of Bones romantasy series continues, building on its premise of betrayal, revenge, and the power of witchery. The protagonists’ quest for justice becomes interwoven with the struggle for acceptance and the fight to protect the Coven from those who would seek to destroy them.
• The Fallen Fruit by Shawntelle Madison: Professor Sarah Mason’s academic life takes a wild turn when she uncovers the truth about her family—a unique curse that causes one member to travel back in time in every generation. The story blends historical fantasy with mystery, as she grapples with the implications of her family’s secret and seeks to break the curse before it consumes her.
• The Games Gods Play by Abigail Owen: A sarcastic nobody finds herself thrust into the center of a cosmic game, where Greek gods pit mortals against each other to determine the new ruler of Olympus. A witty and action-packed story that blends classic mythology with modern sensibilities.
• The Gods Below by Andrea Stewart: This sweeping epic fantasy delves into a realm of magic, betrayal, love, and loyalty. Two sisters, caught on opposite sides of a war against the gods, must navigate their personal bonds and obligations in the face of a world on the brink of collapse. It’s a story of choice and consequence, where family and destiny are intertwined.
• Haunt Sweet Home by Sarah Pinsker: The unintentional scares of a kitschy reality TV show take a chilling turn when the staged haunted house becomes genuinely terrifying. This spooky ghost story explores the line between reality and illusion, and the psychological impact of fear.
• The Haunting of Moscow House by Salnikova Gilmore: Set in post-revolutionary Russia, this elegant gothic horror tale centers around two sisters who seek to uncover their family’s deeply buried secrets. The haunted house they inherit holds dangerous memories and a deadly past, blurring the lines between the living and the dead.
• The Life Impossible by Matt Haig: A retired teacher inherits a remote Mediterranean island home, only to unleash a series of unforeseen and uncanny encounters. This surreal sci-fi tale explores themes of fate, identity, and the unexpected journeys life throws our way.
• Megacosmic Rift by Abby Goldsmith: Four heroes, prophesied to save the galaxy, must confront a menacing galactic empire that threatens to consume all. Outnumbered and outgunned, they will need every ounce of their combined skills and will to survive. This is epic space opera that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
• The Night Guest by Hildur Knútsdóttir, translated by Mary Robinette Kowal: A mysterious ailment plagues a woman, causing extreme fatigue and leaving her inexplicably exhausted. When her fitness watch reveals she’s taken 40,000 steps while seemingly asleep, she’s thrust into a supernatural mystery that forces her to confront the hidden depths of her own mind.
• Out of the Drowning Deep by A.C. Wise: In a distant future where mortals co-exist with gods in the vast expanse of space, an unlikely trio—a recovering addict, an ancient automaton, and an angel—must solve a murder in a forgotten corner of the galaxy. This space-faring thriller blends science fiction with a unique cast of characters and an intriguing cosmic setting.
• Pay the Piper by George A. Romero, finished by Daniel Kraus: A terrifying tale of supernatural horror set in the cursed Louisiana bayou, this novel is a collaboration between the legendary director George Romero and best-selling author Daniel Kraus. A world teeming with ancient evils and chilling suspense awaits readers.
• Phantasma by Kaylie Smith: A captivating dark romantasy where a necromancer must find a dangerous phantom to help her win a deadly competition. Forbidden love and high stakes fuel this spicy and suspenseful story that will keep readers hooked from beginning to end.
• The Royal First Irregulars: A Maradaine Saga Story by Marshall Ryan Maresca: These elite soldiers, despite their incredible skills, are often overlooked and undervalued. Determined to prove their worth, they embark on a perilous mission that challenges their courage and exposes the corrupt underbelly of their society.
• Under the Eye of the Big Bird by Hiromi Kawakami, translated by Asa Yoneda: This philosophical speculative fiction presents a world where humans are facing extinction, forcing readers to re-evaluate reproduction, ecology, evolution, and humanity’s future. A profound and thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be human and the potential pathways to survival.
• We Came to Welcome You by Vincent Tirado: A suburban horror thriller where a new home in a gated community becomes a crucible of unease and fear. As strange events unfold, the couple is forced to confront the unsettling nature of their neighbors and the hidden darkness that lurks beneath the veneer of normalcy.

September 10:

• Countess by Suzan Palumbo: A queer, Caribbean, anti-colonial sci-fi novella focusing on a betrayed captain who seeks vengeance against the galactic empire that subjugated her people for generations. This action-packed story blends political themes with personal struggles, offering a compelling exploration of power dynamics and the fight for liberation.
• The Devil by Name by Keith Rosson: The chilling sequel to Fever House takes readers back to a world that has been irrevocably altered by an apocalyptic message delivered via phone call. This post-apocalyptic horror deals with the consequences of destruction and the struggle to survive a world transformed.
• Fears: Tales of Psychological Horror edited by Ellen Datlow: A collection of twenty-one unsettling tales by a diverse group of authors, including Stephen Graham Jones, Priya Sharma, Josh Malerman, and Margo Lanagan. The stories delve into the dark psychology of dysfunctional families, toxic friendships, and troubled relationships, exploring the depths of fear and its destructive potential.
• Good Night, Sleep Tight by Brian Evenson: A collection of new stories that delve into the complexities of artificial intelligence and the evolution of human-machine relationships. These unsettling narratives explore the boundaries between the real and the artificial, raising questions about the future of humanity in a world increasingly dominated by technology.
• Guillotine by Delilah S. Dawson: An aspirational writer’s quest for professional success takes a sinister turn when a weekend getaway to a secluded island mansion turns into a violent rebellion by the staff who are tired of being mistreated. This gothic thriller blends social commentary with suspense, providing a thrilling and unpredictable read.
• In These Hallowed Halls: A Dark Academia Anthology edited by Marie O’Regan and Paul Kane: A collection of dark academia stories by Olivie Blake, M.L. Rio, David Bell, and Susie Yang, among others. These tales explore the seductive allure of knowledge and the sinister undercurrents that can flow beneath the surface of academia.
• The Inhabitant by Beth Castrodale: An artist inherits a home rumored to be haunted, finding herself drawn into a world of mysterious events and unsettling secrets. This supernatural thriller blends intrigue and psychological tension, leaving readers guessing until the very end.
• Lucy Undying: A Dracula Novel by Kiersten White: A vampire escapes the clutches of Dracula, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and searching for true love. This epic and seductive gothic fantasy adds a twist to the classic tale, giving Lucy a chance to reclaim her agency and define her own life.
• Nightmare of a Trip by Maureen Kilmer: A family road trip takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a half-burned farmhouse, unleashing a wave of supernatural occurrences that threaten their journey. This family-friendly supernatural thriller blends humor and suspense, offering a light-hearted but engaging read.
• Old Wounds by Logan-Ashley Kisner: Two transgender teens find themselves trapped in a small, isolated town where they are targeted by locals who seek to sacrifice one of them to a monster. This dark and suspenseful thriller addresses important issues of identity and prejudice, using fantasy elements to explore the power of fear and the fight for survival.
• The Scarlet Throne by Amy Leow: This dark and political epic fantasy features scheming demons, morally grey heroines, talking cats, and cutthroat priests in a story about power, corruption, and betrayal. A thrilling and richly imagined world that will captivate readers with its intricate intrigue and compelling characters.
• The Shadow Key by Susan Stokes-Chapman: A young doctor arrives on a secluded estate in late-18th-century Wales, only to uncover dangerous secrets that put his own life at risk. This spellbinding gothic tale blends suspense with historical intrigue, creating a chilling and captivating read.
• So Thirsty by Rachel Harrison: A woman, discontent with her life, finds herself drawn into the world of vampires after a chance encounter with a mysterious group of strangers. This paranormal romance weaves lighthearted humor with the darker aspects of the vampire myth, offering a fun and exciting escape.
• Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune: This heartwarming sequel to The House in the Cerulean Sea digs deeper into the story of Arthur Parnassus, the headmaster of a magical orphanage, who dedicates his life to protecting the "dangerous" children in his care. This charming and uplifting tale explores the power of love, acceptance, and the extraordinary beauty of differences.
• Under Her Spell by K.L. Cerra: A woman returns to her hometown to investigate her childhood friend’s disappearance, only to find herself entangled in a web of deception and dark magic. This mysterious thriller weaves a tale of love, loss, and the consequences of hidden truths.
• Vilest Things by Chloe Gong: The sequel to Immortal Longings, this novel, inspired by Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra, follows Calla and Anton as they put their differences aside to protect their kingdom from a looming threat. This action-packed and romantic adventure continues the saga of these two captivating characters.
• Warlords of Wyrdwood by RJ Barker: The Forsaken Trilogy continues, delving into the perilous journey of the people of Harn as they venture into the Wyrdwood, a forest teeming with danger and mystery. Cahan, their protector, must guide them towards safety even as he is targeted by dark forces.
• William by Mason Coile: A haunted house story with a twist – the haunting is not by ghosts but by artificial intelligence. This thought-provoking thriller explores the chilling implications of artificial consciousness and the potential consequences of technology outpacing human understanding.
• The World Is Not Yours by Kemi Ashing-Giwa: A toxic polycule struggles to survive on a hostile planet, battling their own jealousy and resentment as well as the dangers of their environment. This action-packed novella offers a glimpse into a complex web of relationships and the struggle for power.
• World Walkers by Neal Asher: A man who can traverse alternate universes finds himself caught in a power struggle between the totalitarian Inspectorate and a resistance fighting for freedom. This standalone novel, set within the Owner Trilogy, promises exhilarating action and a thrilling exploration of parallel worlds.

September 17:

• An Academy for Liars by Alexis Henderson: A woman with the power of persuasion is invited to a secret magic college, where she finds herself torn between her passion for her studies and her growing affection for her advisor. This dark academia romantasy explores the dangers of ambition, the consequences of hidden agendas, and the importance of trust.
• Alien Clay by Adrian Tchaikovsky: A political prisoner must navigate the secrets and dangers of a strange and potentially deadly alien planet. This future-looking science fiction delves into themes of adaptation, survival, and the meaning of home in a hostile environment.
• Bringer of Dust by J.M. Miro: This magical adventure, set in 1880s Sicily, continues the Talents Trilogy as a new evil threatens to unleash the world of the dead. The Talents, a diverse group of individuals with unique abilities, must unite to defend their world and protect their loved ones.
• Buried Deep and Other Stories by Naomi Novik: A collection of thirteen stories that span the realms of science fiction and fantasy. Readers will encounter a mix of original tales and glimpses into the world of Novik’s upcoming epic fantasy series. This is a chance to dive into the diverse breadth of her storytelling talent.
• A Change of Place by Julie E. Czerneda: The Night’s Edge cozy fantasy series continues as Jenn and Bannan’s happiness is threatened by the rise of a tyrannical toad queen. This light and charming series offers a delightful blend of fantasy adventure with a touch of romance.
• A Dark and Drowning Tide by Allison Saft: A sharp-tongued folklorist must join forces with her academic rival to solve the murder of their mentor. This sapphic fantasy romance is set in a lush and evocative world, filled with mystery and romance.
• Dearest by Jacquie Walters: A new mother, seeking help, takes in her estranged mother, only to unknowingly invite something much darker into her home. This supernatural psychological thriller explores the complexities of family relationships and the dangers of grief.
• The Escher Man by T.R. Napper: A cartel enforcer, caught in a web of paranoia and violence, must escape his world to save his family. This cerebral and multi-layered cyberpunk science fiction offers a gripping glimpse into a future where technology and human desires collide.
• Evil in Me by Brom: An aspiring musician seeks to escape her small town, only to find herself possessed by a demon after encountering an ancient artifact. This horror story balances supernatural horror with personal struggles, as the protagonist grapples with her newfound powers and the evil that now resides within her.
• Exodus: The Archimedes Engine by Peter F. Hamilton: Thousands of years after humans fled Earth, their descendants have formed a vast intergalactic society, but their advanced status has created a class divide between those who have evolved and the "regular" humans. This epic space opera explores themes of rebellion, exploration, and the search for a new home.
• Fear the Flames by Olivia Rose Darling: An exiled princess must join forces with the last man she trusts to survive in a dazzling and unforgettable epic fantasy romance. This action-packed series promises a world of political intrigue, magical battles, and forbidden romance.
• Hampton Heights: One Harrowing Night in the Most Haunted Neighborhood in Milwaukee, Wisconsin by Dan Kois: Six paperboys confront a multitude of monsters and their own personal demons in one harrowing night in a haunted Midwestern neighborhood. This rollicking and hair-raising adventure blends humor with supernatural chills, offering a nostalgic and entertaining read.
• My Vampire Plus-One by Jenna Levine: As this paranormal romance suggests, fake-dating a vampire can be a recipe for hilarious chaos. This lighthearted and charming story offers a fun escapist read for fans of vampires and romance.
• Nightstrider by Sophia Slade: A vicious demon seeks to conquer the land, forcing nightmares and humans to unite against the growing evil. This heart-stopping dark fantasy series promises epic battles, compelling characters, and a thrilling world filled with magic and danger.
• Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood: A burned-out witch must rekindle the magic within herself by seeking help from her friends and trusting in her own abilities. This cozy fantasy offers a lighthearted and inspiring escape for fans of witches and magical realism.
• Ultra 85 by Logic: Two friends uncover the truth about the utopian planet Paradise as they confront the secrets and complexities of the seemingly perfect society. This thought-provoking science fiction invites readers to question the nature of utopia and the potential pitfalls of blind faith.

September 24:

• Beyond the Throne: Epic Journeys, Enduring Friendships, and Surprising Tales by Kristian Nairn: The Game of Thrones star shares his personal journey, from his childhood during the Troubles in Ireland to his successful DJ career and his time as Hodor on the hit HBO show. This insightful memoir offers a glimpse into the life of a beloved actor and the many obstacles he has overcome.
• Carl’s Doomsday Scenario by Matt Dinniman: The Dungeon Crawler Carl series continues as Carl and Princess Donut – his ex-girlfriend’s cat – face fantastical creatures and deadly mobs in their quest for fame and recognition within the world of dungeon masters. This humorous and action-packed fantasy is a wild and entertaining read.
• Darkside by Michael Mammay: The Planetside series continues as retired Colonel Carl Butler takes on another military investigation, facing corporate intrigue, dangerous secrets, and advanced technology. This fast-paced science fiction thriller offers a compelling glimpse into a future where corporations hold vast power and technology poses both opportunities and threats.
• Devils Kill Devils by Johnny Compton: A woman discovers that her guardian angel is not who she thought he was when he murders someone she loves. Forced to confront a dark and demonic side, she must find her own strength to survive this supernatural thriller.
• A Fire in the Sky by Sophie Jordan: A designated "whipping girl" for royalty, a woman finds herself thrust into a marriage scheme when a warrior invades their kingdom. She soon uncovers hidden magical abilities within herself, throwing her life into a whirlwind of change. This adult romantasy blends political intrigue with romantic escapism.
• The Forest of Lost Souls by Dean Koontz: A fearless woman, raised in the forest, fights a group of powerful men who seek to control her world. This heartfelt and suspenseful novel explores themes of good versus evil, the enduring power of myth, and the importance of love.
• I’m Starting to Worry About This Black Box of Doom by Jason Pargin: A mysterious box and a hefty sum of cash prompt a driver to embark on a cross-country adventure. This thrilling story blends road trip dynamics with conspiracy and action, questioning the nature of truth and the potential consequences of power.
• In the Garden of Monsters by Crystal King: A model in 1948 Italy, with amnesia, finds herself posing for Salvador Dalí in a Roman garden filled with giant statues. She is soon drawn into a mysterious world of mythology and hidden agendas. This atmospheric thriller blends historical fiction with supernatural suspense.
• The Midnight Club by Margot Harrison: Four friends reunite after 25 years to investigate a mysterious death that has haunted them for years. Their quest leads them to uncover buried memories using a mystical method, opening old wounds and revealing long-hidden truths. This thrilling mystery blends paranormal elements with the complexities of friendship and trauma.
• The Naming Song by Jedediah Berry: In a world without words or borders, the Names Committee seeks to restore order amid roaming ghosts and monsters. A courier, tasked with delivering new words, embarks on her own journey to find her long-lost sister and uncovers the key to a brighter future. This thought-provoking fantasy explores the power of language, connection, and the search for meaning in a complex world.
• Rainier’s Legacy by Chad Corrie: Join Corwyn Danther, "Famed Bard of the Midlands", as he encounters halfling highwaymen, forgotten horrors, mystical encounters, and conniving con men. This short story collection offers a glimpse into the adventures of this captivating character and the magic that surrounds him.
• Rumor Has It by Cat Rambo: The crew of the You Sexy Thing navigates the aftermath of their encounter with a pirate king and the shifting dynamics of their relationships. This action-packed space opera continues the hilarious and unpredictable adventure that has captivated fans.
• Sinophagia: A Celebration of Chinese Horror 2024 edited by Xueting C. Ni: Fourteen stories explore the psyche of modern China through the lens of horror. This anthology features a diverse array of tales that delves into the hidden fears and anxieties of contemporary Chinese society.
• Space Oddity by Catherynne M. Valente: The Metagalactic Grand Prix– a blend of gladiatorial contest, beauty pageant, and concert extravagance – returns, with the fate of Earth once again at stake. This sequel to Space Opera promises high-stakes adventure, cosmic intrigue, and a fight for humanity’s survival.
• A Tide of Black Steel by Anthony Ryan: This epic fantasy trilogy, inspired by Norse mythology, introduces a world where humans are forced to fight for their survival amidst mythical creatures and warring factions. This series promises a thrilling exploration of ancient legends and the consequences of choosing sides.
• Tiny Threads by Lilliam Rivera: A woman striving for success in the fashion industry finds herself drawn into a sinister world of supernatural secrets. This thrilling story weaves together the glamorous world of fashion with the chilling allure of the unknown.
• The Village Library Demon-Hunting Society by C.M. Waggoner: A librarian with a knack for solving mysteries discovers the true nature of her small town and the existence of a demon-hunting society. This cozy fantasy mystery blends supernatural thrills with small-town charm, offering a lighthearted and entertaining read.

This diverse selection of books promises a month of literary adventure that will leave you entertained, challenged, and fascinated. So, get ready to lose yourself in fantastical worlds, face terrifying encounters, and embark on extraordinary journeys through the realms of science fiction, fantasy, and horror.

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