If You Loved My Best Friend’s Exorcism, You Need These Books

Have you ever finished a book and felt like you’d just lived through something intense with your best friend? That’s the vibe of My Best Friend’s Exorcism by Grady Hendrix, a novel that blends 80s nostalgia with genuine horror and a surprising amount of heart. If you’re looking for a similar blend of terror, friendship, and pop culture references, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into some books that capture that same unique spirit.

Grady Hendrix’s My Best Friend’s Exorcism wasn’t just another horror novel; it was a cultural phenomenon that tapped into a very specific zeitgeist. Released in 2016, the novel quickly gained a loyal following, attracting fans who appreciated its clever mix of horror and 80s nostalgia. The story of Abby and Gretchen, two best friends whose bond is tested when demonic possession enters the picture, offered something unique. It wasn’t just about scares; it was about friendship, growing up, and the terrors of adolescence, all wrapped up in a neon-soaked package. Before this, horror novels often had more serious and somber tones. Hendrix changed that. He injected humor, pop culture, and a strong sense of realism in the horror. My Best Friend’s Exorcism wasn’t just a hit; it was a game-changer, establishing a new way to write horror that’s both terrifying and relatable, and influenced many authors to come. Now, let’s explore more titles with the same irresistible mix.

Spooky Stories of Friendship and Fear: Books Like My Best Friend’s Exorcism

If the heart of My Best Friend’s Exorcism was its central friendship, along with the unsettling horror, here are some books that tap into similar vibes:

• The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix: Of course, we have to start with another Grady Hendrix title. If you loved the mix of horror and humor in My Best Friend’s Exorcism, you’ll feel right at home with this one. It follows a group of women in a book club who discover a vampire has moved into their neighborhood. Hendrix perfectly blends the mundane of suburban life with the extraordinary terror of the supernatural. This book leans more into the 90s with pop culture, but you will find the same engaging characters and creepy suspense. It’s a page-turner that will keep you on the edge of your seat while still making you laugh. You’ll find the same kind of nostalgic and relatable feeling you got from My Best Friend’s Exorcism here.

“Grady Hendrix masterfully takes mundane, everyday suburban life and twists it into something truly terrifying,” says Dr. Eleanor Vance, a specialist in supernatural narratives. “His stories resonate because he grounds the horror in real-life anxieties and relationships.”

• Meddling Kids by Edgar Cantero: Imagine if the Scooby-Doo gang grew up, had real life problems and the monsters they battled were actually real? That’s essentially what this book is. The former members of the Blyton Summer Detective Club reunite as adults to confront a mystery they failed to solve as kids. It’s funny, it’s meta, and it’s surprisingly heartfelt, while still keeping things spooky. This is a perfect choice for those who enjoy humor and a sense of adventure with their scares, plus the story is very character-driven, similar to the way My Best Friend’s Exorcism prioritizes its core characters.

• Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia: If you are looking for a gothic vibe with a strong female lead, this book will appeal to you. Set in 1950s Mexico, Noemí Taboada travels to a remote mansion to investigate her cousin’s disturbing claims. It’s eerie, atmospheric, and the mystery will keep you hooked until the very end. While not having the same comedic element as Hendrix, the themes of friendship, resilience, and overcoming sinister forces are prominent. This is a good pick if you prefer a more gothic tone.

Dive into the 80s: Books with Retro Vibes and Supernatural Twists

Part of the charm of My Best Friend’s Exorcism is its setting and the immersion into 1980s life. Here are other books that deliver on the nostalgic vibe while also delivering on the scares:

• Paperbacks from Hell: The Twisted History of 70s and 80s Horror Fiction by Grady Hendrix: While not a novel, this book is a deep dive into the horror boom of the 70s and 80s, from the paperbacks to the cover art. If you love the retro references, this book is a must have. It’s a non-fiction look at the influences, trends, and absurdities that make the horror genre during this time period so fascinating. This would be perfect for anyone looking for more context on the kind of horror My Best Friend’s Exorcism references. Consider this a supplemental reading material for all lovers of 80s horror. This is an exceptional choice for those seeking to understand the historical context and evolution of the very genre My Best Friend’s Exorcism plays with.

“Hendrix’s work provides invaluable insight into the cultural context of the horror genre,” states Professor Arthur Finch, an expert in pop culture. “His exploration of 70s and 80s horror is both entertaining and informative, revealing much about the society that created these narratives.”

• Summer of Night by Dan Simmons: If you appreciate the coming-of-age element present in My Best Friend’s Exorcism, you’ll love this one. This epic horror novel follows a group of boys in the summer of 1960, as they uncover something sinister in their small town. It’s a great read for those who enjoyed the setting and themes in Stephen King’s It. Simmons does a fantastic job of blending the familiar with the monstrous, making it an unsettling and unforgettable story. It has the same sense of childhood adventure mixed with terrifying horror.

• The Final Girl Support Group by Grady Hendrix: This is another book by authors like grady hendrix, in which Hendrix delves into the lives of the survivors of famous horror movie massacres. This book focuses on the real-life ramifications of dealing with such a traumatic event. The book is full of pop-culture references to classic horror films, so readers will find that element relatable. It’s funny, insightful, and terrifying all at once, and it really questions the tropes of the horror genre we love.

Horror and Humor: The Perfect Combination

What makes My Best Friend’s Exorcism so memorable is the way it combines genuine scares with humor. Here are a few more reads that understand how to use both effectively:

• Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman: This comedic take on the apocalypse follows an angel and a demon who team up to prevent the end of the world. It’s laugh-out-loud funny with a touch of supernatural terror. Though it leans into fantasy more than horror, the witty banter and quirky characters will appeal to those who enjoy the light-hearted moments in My Best Friend’s Exorcism. The book is a testament to how humor can make even the darkest situations more engaging.

• Horrorstör by Grady Hendrix: If you’re looking for a book that is very much in line with the setting and tone of My Best Friend’s Exorcism, this might be the perfect match for you. This novel follows a group of employees as they work an overnight shift at a furniture store that is haunted. The book is told with IKEA-like catalog, which adds to the surreal experience. It’s a unique concept, blending satire with spine-chilling horror, a signature of grady hendrix horrorstör. This is an inventive horror that uses the most mundane setting and makes it creepy.

• Bunny by Mona Awad: If you’re in the mood for a weird, surreal and darkly comedic read, you’ll want to check this one out. It follows a student in a graduate program who becomes obsessed with a group of wealthy, cliquish girls. There’s a slow build to the bizarre events of the book, and it keeps you guessing until the end. It will be a good choice for those looking for something different and unexpected.

Why These Books Hit the Spot

So what makes these books feel like they’d be a perfect fit for fans of My Best Friend’s Exorcism? It’s about more than just the scares; it’s about the emotional core:

• Strong Friendships: Like Abby and Gretchen, the characters in these stories have bonds that are tested and often strengthened by the horror they face.
• Nostalgia: Whether it’s the 80s, 90s, or another time period, these books are effective in evoking the feeling of another era, making the settings familiar and relatable.
• Unique Blend of Genres: These books mix horror with other genres like humor, mystery, and even coming-of-age stories, offering a satisfying and well-rounded reading experience.

Conclusion: Your Next Favorite Read Awaits

If you finished My Best Friend’s Exorcism and felt a longing for more, you’re not alone. The books we’ve discussed capture the same unique blend of horror, friendship, and nostalgia that made that book so special. From spooky thrillers to laugh-out-loud comedies with a touch of the supernatural, there’s something here for every reader looking for a similar experience. Go ahead and dive in – your next favorite book is waiting. These novels should bring some of the same feelings as My Best Friend’s Exorcism.

Related Materials

• 80s Horror Movie Classics: For more retro horror, take a look at classics like The Evil Dead or A Nightmare on Elm Street.
• John Hughes Movies: If you enjoyed the 80’s setting and themes of My Best Friend’s Exorcism, then you should check out teen dramas like The Breakfast Club or Pretty in Pink.
• Podcasts About Horror Literature: There are several podcasts available that discuss and analyze classic and modern horror novels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes My Best Friend’s Exorcism unique? Its blend of 80s nostalgia, dark humor, and genuine horror, all tied together with a focus on the complex friendship between the two main characters.

2. Are there any other books that have a similar setting as My Best Friend’s Exorcism? Yes, Summer of Night by Dan Simmons also has that retro, coming-of-age feel, this time in the 60s rather than the 80s.

3. What are some common themes found in similar books? Friendship, dealing with the supernatural, growing up, and a touch of humor are themes you can commonly see in the books in this list.

4. Do all these books have the same level of horror? No, the intensity varies. Some are more comedic with light horror elements while others are genuinely scary. You can explore and discover which ones fit your specific preferences.

5. Which book is most similar in tone to My Best Friend’s Exorcism? Many would argue that best horror books authors like Grady Hendrix’s The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires or Horrorstör have a similar mix of horror and humor as My Best Friend’s Exorcism.

6. Can I find books with similar female lead characters? Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a great option if you are looking for a strong female lead.

7. Are there any non-fiction books that explore the horror genre of the 80s? Yes, Paperbacks from Hell: The Twisted History of 70s and 80s Horror Fiction by Grady Hendrix delves into the history and trends of the genre during that period.

8. What if I prefer dark comedy over horror? Good Omens by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman might be more up your alley as it has a stronger emphasis on comedy with a touch of supernatural.

9. What makes these books worth reading? They offer a unique blend of scares, humor, heart, and unforgettable characters that create an enjoyable reading experience.