Book Recommendations for Fall
With a new season before us, we are all looking for activities to soak up the cozy autumnal vibes while they’re here. There’s something special about Fall that makes you want to curl up in blankets with a hot coffee and a good book. As academics kick in, the weather cools down, and the pace of life slows a bit, maybe immersing yourself in a good book is exactly what you need. And some books capture the essence of the season so well that there’s no better time to read them than now. As a sucker for a good fiction novel myself, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorites that match the energy of Autumn in one way or another. So whether you’re a veteran bookworm or trying to pick it up for the first time, there’s something on this list for you this Fall!
The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
If Knives Out were a book, but make it teenagers with a splash of romance. A mystery billion-dollar inheritance, mind games, and old-money characters make this book an absolute page turner, and perfect for the season. The best part is that if you like it, it’s a series!
If you like fantasy and dark academia, this one's for you! Six young magic users have the chance to join a secret Alexandrian Society, but their admittance comes with a cost. It has a bit of a darker setting, but the flawed characters and detailed world had me hooked from the beginning.
Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
This novel is short, sweet, and incredibly heartwarming. It takes place in a Tokyo cafe, where customers have the chance to go back in time as long as they return before their coffee gets cold. The vibes are so cozy and touching, and I recommend reading it with your hot cup of coffee as well for the best experience!
The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston
What screams spooky season more than ghosts? In this romance novel, a copywriter travels back to her small hometown, only to be followed by the ghost of her suddenly dead (and incredibly handsome) editor. Although silly and romantic, this book also has deeper themes that make it a satisfying read. If you are looking for a lighthearted yet not too-cheesy novel, this might be the one!
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Set at a small University in rural Vermont, a group of six friends studying classics take their academic endeavors to a new level. It’s another thrilling dark academia novel, and some twists had my jaw dropped, but that’s all I’ll say. In my opinion - the less you know, the better. You’ll just have to trust me when I say it encompasses the Fall vibe immaculately.
Caraval is the first novel in a fantasy series that follows two sisters and their journey through Carval, a magical game that players must compete in to earn a wish of their choice. This book is whimsical and explores magic, heartbreak, and more. I highly recommend it if you like strong worldbuilding, because you feel like you are a part of the fantastical world that is Caraval while you read! I always believed that fantasy is best in the cooler seasons when you can escape to another world, so this might be your sign to try it!
And Then There Were None by Agathe Christie
Autumn is the perfect time to get absorbed in a chilling mystery. What better way to do so than through the queen of mystery novels herself? Set in 1939, ten strangers are invited to an island, only for them to realize a murderer is among the group. This book had me on my toes the whole time, and the thrilling vibe of the book is perfect for a crisp Autumn night. If you like Clue, you’ll love this one!
Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco
This novel follows a girl in 1888 London as she investigates the notorious Jack the Ripper and his series of murders. It has many shocking twists and turns, humor, and even a side plot of romance. The historical setting of this book is incredibly well done, and you fall in love with the characters as you read. This book is great if you are looking for an engaging read or are a fan of criminal documentaries and forensics!
Although wildly different at first glance, all of these books capture the essence of Fall in their unique ways. Now, go curl up with your favorite drink and a book while the season is still in front of us. Happy reading!
By Paige Barclay
Design by Noelle Daunch
