4 Terrifying New Releases from Indie and Small Presses in July 2024

This summer is set to be a real scream.

Cover of "The Nightmare Box and Other Stories" by Cynthia Gómez, "The Atropine Tree" by Sarah Read, "Tricksters" by N.L. McLaughlin, and "Stay On the Line" by Clay Chapman
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  • Photo Credit: Steve Richey/Unsplash

Do you need something to really make you sweat in the peak of summer? July brings more than hot dogs and fireworks—it has a load of terrifying new horror reads waiting for you!

And what better way to celebrate Independence Day than by supporting small and independent authors and publishers? From slow-creeping gothic chills to vicious shapeshifters, we've got everything you need to keep your TBR fresh.

Here are four of our most anticipated horror books from indie and small presses this July!

The Nightmare Box and Other Stories

The Nightmare Box and Other Stories

By Cynthia Gómez

This debut short story collection from Cynthia Gómez contains 12 gripping tales that serve as a magic-infused love letter to Oakland.

In one tale, a witch crafting custom nightmares realizes all her victims are linked to the Black Panthers, causing her to consider who has hired her. In another, a new-hire at the blood bank turns out to be a recently turned vampire luxuriating in her increased libido and unnatural strength.

This book is now available for pre-order, and will be released on July 9th by Cursed Morsels Press!

The Atropine Tree

The Atropine Tree

By Sarah Read

In this tense gothic horror tale, Alrick Aldane returns to his family home to take over his father's land and title. But that's not all he inherits—Aldane Manor also comes complete with a dark and disturbing history.

Woven through the manor's crumbling walls and poisonous gardens is a past rife with witchcraft and deadly secrets. A ghostly mystery awaits Alrick, and it could lead him down a path worse than death.

This book is now available for pre-order, and will be released on July 16th by Bad Hand Books!

Tricksters

Tricksters

By N.L. McLaughlin

The Tricksters have lived in the West Texas mountains for generations. They've sustained themselves and kept their existence a secret by preying on unsuspecting travelers.

While on a road trip, Ash and her friends roll through the small town of Sierra Diablo. Here they meet the beautiful and charismatic Caleb, who has a group of strange friends in tow.

When a little girl runs into their campsite that night pleading for help, the friends find themselves tossed into a terrifying battle of survival against a pack of ravenous coyote shapeshifters.

This book is now available for pre-order, and will be released on July 25th by Black Rose Writing!

Stay on the Line: A Novelette

Stay on the Line: A Novelette

By Clay Chapman

In the wake of a devastating hurricane, a small coastal town's survivors begin to frequent an out-of-service payphone to work through their grief. Here they pour out their hearts and bid farewell to the ones they lost.

And then the phone starts ringing. As more and more people begin answering the inexplicable call, it seems that those lost to the vicious storm are looking to find their way back home.

This book is now available for pre-order, and will be released on July 30th by Shortwave Publishing!

Want more indie horror? Check these books out:

Featured image: Steve Richey/Unsplash