🕯️ Supernatural

Habeas Corpse

✍️ Blood Bound Books
Reader Score
4.5
(1 review)
$12.99
In stock — ready to ship Ships in 1–2 business days
📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

A forensic technician who is a returned corpse hunts a killer in Pittsburgh.

The novel examines the legal and social status of Risers, people who have died and come back. It focuses on Theo’s professional life and his supernatural investigation methods. The plot centers on a series of violent crimes that threaten the community. Theo’s unique talent provides crucial clues but carries significant personal costs. Dr. Henry Libitin supports him throughout the ordeal. The book positions itself against later works in the genre, offering a distinct take on the living dead.

Key Themes
Riser rights forensic investigation Pittsburgh setting
Literary Context

Nikki Hopeman writes this independently published work for release in 2026. The story draws on traditions of zombie fiction and crime procedural narratives. It references the legacy of George Romero and compares itself to iZombie. The text highlights Bram Stoker Award winner Michael Arnzen’s endorsement, linking it to established horror literature.

Difficulty
●● Medium
Recommended For Fans Of
George Romero · Tim Waggoner · CSI franchise · Zombie detective fiction
🕯️
Supernatural
🏛 Independently Published 📅 2026 🌐 English 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9798254444657

📝 Description: Habeas Corpse

Nikki Hopeman’s Habeas Corpse presents a crime horror thriller set in Pittsburgh. The protagonist, Theo, is a Riser who works as a forensic technician for the local police force. These Risers are individuals who have returned to life after death and possess legal rights within this society. However, social tension remains high as many citizens oppose their integration. When grisly murders terrorize the Steel City, Theo utilizes his dark gift to hunt the killer. This ability allows him to experience the victims' final moments, though it exacts a shocking price for the user. He partners with Dr. Henry Libitin, his only friend, to solve the case. The narrative blends mystery, horror, and urban fantasy elements. Critics note its sharp prose and strong characterization. Tim Waggoner describes it as a cross-genre work that George Romero might have created if he designed CSI. The story offers an alternative to later zombie detective stories by exploring these themes earlier, appealing to readers of books in the genre.

💎 Our verdict on Habeas Corpse

“
🩸
Horror Reads editorial team
Horror desk
Habeas Corpse successfully merges crime thriller conventions with supernatural horror, creating a distinct narrative voice. Theo’s role as a forensic technician who is also a Riser allows for innovative investigative methods, such as experiencing the victims' final moments. The exploration of social tension regarding the integration of Risers adds depth beyond typical genre fare. Critics praise the sharp prose and strong characterization, noting its position against later works in the genre. The partnership between Theo and Dr. Henry Libitin grounds the supernatural elements in human connection. This book suits readers who appreciate cross-genre storytelling that balances mystery with dark fantasy, offering a fresh perspective on the undead detective archetype through its early exploration of these themes.
✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers seeking a unique blend of crime procedural and supernatural horror will find much to appreciate in this Pittsburgh-set thriller. The narrative appeals to those interested in the complex social dynamics surrounding Risers, individuals who have returned from death with legal rights yet face significant societal tension. Theo’s ability to experience victims' final moments provides a compelling investigative mechanic, though it comes at a personal cost. Fans of cross-genre works that merge mystery with dark fantasy elements will enjoy the sharp prose and strong characterization. The story offers a fresh take on the living dead, providing an alternative to standard zombie tropes by focusing on legal status and community integration rather than just survival.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Horror Reads —

Reader rating

4.5
Based on 1 reviews
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Horror Reads editorial team

Habeas Corpse successfully merges crime thriller conventions with supernatural horror, creating a distinct narrative voice. Theo’s role as a forensic technician who is also a Riser allows for innovative investigative methods, such as experiencing the victims' final moments. The exploration of social tension regarding the integration of Risers adds depth beyond typical genre fare. Critics praise the sharp prose and strong characterization, noting its position against later works in the genre. The partnership between Theo and Dr. Henry Libitin grounds the supernatural elements in human connection. This book suits readers who appreciate cross-genre storytelling that balances mystery with dark fantasy, offering a fresh perspective on the undead detective archetype through its early exploration of these themes.

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