To be recognized as one of the creepiest bookstores in Canada, a vast collection of horror literature is crucial, but the genre is not the only way to create an eerie ambiance. Rare and vintage books can evoke a peculiar sense of nostalgia, preserving echoes of past lives. Additionally, stores featuring spell-casting, divination, and other ritualistic materials can also contribute to the haunting atmosphere.
Although not all the independent businesses listed specialize exclusively in horror literature, each offers a unique space for community engagement. These are places where readers can interact with writers, unfinished stories are refined, local authors find their works showcased, and where both literal and figurative tea are served.
Here are six of Canada’s most spine-chilling bookstores, each brimming with ambiance, individuality, and local flavor.
Nocturne Books, Calgary
The inspiration behind opening Nocturne Books in Calgary was simple for Scott Ross-Molyneux: his wife. Describing themselves as the quintessential “goth girlfriend, golden retriever boyfriend” duo, Ross-Molyneux and co-owner Alliye Iriye’s shared love for horror literature and films led them to establish the bookstore. Iriye’s unique taste in macabre literature has shaped Nocturne Books, reflecting a preference for dark and intense reads. One notable title on their shelves is Tender Is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica, a dystopian narrative exploring a world where cannibalism is legalized. Ross-Molyneux’s personal favorite, Episode Thirteen by local author Craig DiLouie, emphasizes the store’s connection to the local creative community through events and book clubs.
Raven‘s End Books, Winnipeg
Chelsea McKee-Trenchard’s vision for Raven’s End Books in Winnipeg goes beyond the typical horror section found in chain bookstores. The bookstore prioritizes works from smaller publishers and lesser-known authors, featuring dedicated sections for body horror, queer narratives, and Indigenous storytelling. Raven’s End Books also hosts various events, from craft nights to book clubs, creating a welcoming space for the community. McKee-Trenchard’s personal favorite reads lean towards haunted-house stories with a gothic twist, recommending titles like Apparitions by Adam Pottle and Bad Cree by Jessica Johns.
Mystic Wisdom Tea and Bookshop, London, Ont.
Mystic Wisdom Tea and Bookshop in London offers a diverse selection of books on witchcraft, divination, and paganism, alongside tarot cards, crystals, and herbs. The shop’s tea section hosts events and gatherings, emphasizing inclusivity and shared experiences. Run by Charles and Carolyn Innis, Mystic Wisdom aims to combat isolation through books and community engagement. Their top spooky picks include classics like Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Stephen King’s Carrie, reflecting the shop’s focus on meaningful conversations alongside literary exploration.
Little Ghosts Books, Toronto
Established in 2022, Little Ghosts Books in Toronto has quickly become a hub for horror enthusiasts and authors. Known for its Work in Progress Night, where local writers share and discuss their unfinished works, the bookstore fosters a supportive creative community. Co-owner Chris Krawczyk highlights works like Lor Gislason’s Cosmic Dyke Patrol as standout Canadian horror, emphasizing the diverse and inclusive nature of the horror genre.
The Haunted Bookshop, Sidney, B.C.
The Haunted Bookshop in Sidney, B.C., established in 1947, specializes in old and unique books, particularly focusing on science fiction, fantasy, and supernatural fiction. Owner