There’s nothing better than relaxing with a good book and getting through the fall. This list includes a wide variety of genres, including romance, fantasy, and horror.
Fall is just around the corner. Soon the leaves will turn orange, the nights will get colder, and it’s time to break out the sweaters. If one of your favorite fall activities is curling up with a good book and a frothy latte, these books are the perfect addition to your selection.
“The Secret History” by Donna Tartt
Initially, The Secret History will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a fall day in Vermont straight out of your dark academic daydreams. What seems like a story about a group of close friends slowly turns into an ominous tale about the dark side of humanity after they commit a murder and fight to cover it up. The novel’s suspense, mystery, and unreliable narration make it a perfect book to get lost in.
“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” by JK Rowling
What’s better for an autumn afternoon than a little nostalgia? The magic, friendship and childlike wonder embodied in this novel are hard to beat. The novel is mostly set against the backdrop of the fall and winter seasons. It’s perfect for light reading and as a sequel – watching the film with friends makes for a perfect movie night.
A short story by Edgar Allan Poe
Starting a novel in your free time during the semester can sometimes be overwhelming, but you can turn to a short story collection instead. Edgar Allan Poe is the perfect author for fall. His stories are horror classics and a perfect way to get in a little fall reading without committing to an entire novel. Stories like “The Black Cat,” “The Fall of the House of Usher,” and “Ligeia” are a perfect fit for the upcoming Halloween festivities. His works often involve murder, madness, and demons, while still focusing on humanity and the battle between good and evil. If you’re someone who prefers the spookier aspects of fall, you need to check out Poe’s work.
“The Shining” by Stephen King
You may have seen the movie adaptation of The Shining, but have you read the book? Set in late fall, this book is absolutely spooky and will keep you hooked. The book is unsettling from the start – overwhelming readers with the inescapable fear that something bad is going to happen, but not when. When Jack and his family move into the Overlook Hotel, they must face their inner demons, as well as real demons. The novel is intense, but if you’re in the mood for a thriller, it’s a must-read.
“The Hobbit” by JRR Tolkien
What’s better for a fall day than a fantasy novel? Anything by JRR Tolkien is perfect for fall. However, if you’re not familiar with his books, start with The Hobbit. The novel follows Bilbo Baggins on his life’s adventure and makes many friends along the way. The novel not only includes battles with wizards, dragons and elves, but also cozy nights around a campfire or a well-filled dinner table with friends. Its magical plots and settings will take you away from the stress of the fall semester.
The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling
Last but not least, there’s a good fall romance. After Vivienne Jones, a witch, is dumped by her boyfriend, she puts a drunken curse on him. Nine years later, when her now ex-boyfriend returns to town, the curse takes effect and they must work together to break it. The book is full of magic, ghosts, and fall festivals, and is set in a cozy, autumnal town. It’s a fun, spooky will-they/won’t-they romance that’s perfect for fall.
Reading one of these books would be the perfect way to spend a weekend this fall. Whether you’re a horror fan or looking for something lighter, this list has something for everyone.
