7 2022 releases for fans of Dark Academia and Gothic Fantasy
Trying to find new books with Dark Academia vibes is a challenge. It’s still not recognised as a genre in the mainstream, so hunting for a title that will scatch the itch is a real mission.
Keywords you can try for matching, or similar, flavours include:
Modern Gothic
Gothic Fantasy
Earthy Fantasy
Myth Retellings
Psychological Horror
Gothic Mystery/Thriller
It’s like a treasure hunt! And whereas you will struggle to find something that scream ‘The Secret History’, the books I’ve found are definitely Dark Academia adjacent (something we talk about on our podcast, click here to follow on Spotify!)
So here’s a list of 2022 releases that regardless of how well they stand up against the Dark Academia framework, sound AMAZING.
‘Tripping Arcadia’ by Kit Mayquist
Promises to be an evocative and atmospheric twist on the Gothic, entwining Gatsby elements with a sinister and uh… poisonous premise.
Goodreads Link - Expected February 24th by Dutton
‘Gallant’ by V.E. Schwab
Fantasy powerhouse Schwab swings, and if the blurb is anything to go by, it won’t be a miss. Leaning into the Gothic device of the “haunted crumbling house”, I’m really interested to see how the secrets and mystery ufold.
I’ve actually not read anything by this author yet, but I’ve had some of her other books on my TBR for years. Maybe this will be the one!
Goodreads Link - Expected 1st March by Titan Books
‘Wake the Bones’ by Elizabeth Kilcoyne
Oh, there is something about this book that calls to me so strongly. An earthy, witchy book, it feels like it will be full of primal and evocative language and imagery.
“The sleepy little farm that Laurel Early grew up on has awakened. The woods are shifting, the soil is dead under her hands, and her bone pile just stood up and walked away.”
Goodreads Link - Expected 22nd July by Wednesday Books
‘Book of Night’ by Holly Black
Another author I’ve not personally read, although I think Sophie rates them quite fondly. I haven’t really been tempted by her titles… Until this one came along.
A dark and sinister sweeping tale, this is Holly Black’s adult debut. I LOVE when YA authors crossover because I think they make better adult titles for their experience in the YA genre. holds up hands I don’t make the rules, just look at Leigh Bardugo… ‘Ninth House’ is iconic.
Goodreads Link - Expected 3rd May by Del Ray
‘The Woman in the Library’ by Sulari Gentill
Alright, from knee-deep in fantasy to balls-to-the-walls mystery. This is a bit of a curveball compared to the other titles, but the premise of a murder, four strangers forced to stay put, and you’ve got the classic who dunnit. I love the idea of this one becuase even though the format is familiar, I think that the reveal will be surprising.
It’s got ‘who killed Bunny, then?’ vibes, if you feel me?
Goodread Links - Expected 7th June by Poisoned Pen Press
‘Anatomy: A Love Story’ by Dana Scwartz
Set in the 1800s, a woman who wants to become a surgeon, some grave robbing, mysterious happenings. It’s a historical Gothic treat. It has to be. And just LOOK at that cover, plus if it’s endorsed by Neil Gaiman…
Goodreads Link - Expected March 24th by Piatkus
‘A Far Wilder Magic’ by Allison Saft
Uh hello, yes. I can confirm whole-heartedly that this book is wonderful. I received a proof copy from Hachette Childrens Group, so watch this space for a review.
Alchemy, Gothic landscapes and settings, a wild hunt, an intoxicating mixture of blood-thumping action and romantic writing. Love it, love it, love it.
Goodreads Link - Expected 6th March by Orion
What’s on your TBR for 2022?
Written by Sarah
