The temperature is finally dropping—as are the leaves and everyone’s energy levels. It’s officially fall: the season of the readers! Somehow, over time, fall has been claimed by the numerous page-turners of the world. Something about the cozy, gloomy weather makes it easy to curl up and crack open a good book.
Books for the Season
Spooky Recommendations
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Mary Shelley’s iconic story, Frankenstein, is often considered to be a ‘horror classic’ but is so much more than that. Although it was originally published in 1818, the story continues to be a Halloween hit. The story of Frankenstein has been adapted and altered in many ways, but Shelley’s original story is one for the books! This gothic, science fiction story follows a scientist as he creates a monster out of a corpse. The intriguing storyline paired with the unique point of view are both reasons the story has yet to dwindle in popularity.
Small Favors by Erin A. Craig
Small Favors by Erin A. Craig is the perfect combination of fantasy and horror. Craig’s story takes place in a small town with a dark secret. Ancient creatures hide within the surrounding forest, wreaking havoc on those who attempt to leave. Protagonist Ellerie Downing meets a stranger at the same time a group of men go missing. As the creatures creep closer to her home, Ellerie wonders if she can trust the unfamiliar young man that abruptly appeared. Craig’s eerie setting, horrifying creatures, and use of suspense truly forces your attention to remain on the pages of her novel.
The Cellar by Natasha Preston
Although Natasha Preston’s The Cellar was first shared on Wattpad, she eventually published it in 2014 after reader’s blew up the story. The novel follows Summer as she is abducted by a strange man and forced to live underground with three other girls. Outside, her friends and family search for her. Inside, Summer fights to stay alive and find a way to escape. Preston’s antagonist easily makes readers uneasy, adding to the psychological thrills. Her novel has a way of messing with readers’ minds, making it difficult to trust any of her characters.
Feel-Good, Cozy Fall Recommendations
The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore
The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore is the perfect embodiment of fall. The story follows Jeanie Ellis as she leaves behind her city life and moves to a small, cozy town after her aunt gifts her the Pumpkin Spice Café. When she meets a grumpy pumpkin farmer, the two are quickly drawn to one another. Gilmore’s cozy, fall setting and the magic of the Pumpkin Spice Café makes this the perfect cozy read for a chilly, fall afternoon.
Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune
Similar to Gilmore’s story, TJ Klune‘s Under the Whispering Door also includes a cozy setting. After a man passes away, he’s sent to a strange tea shop filled with other lost spirits. Klune’s wonderful writing style guides readers through the ‘afterlife’ as the protagonist hunts for his purpose. Not only does this story give readers a warm feeling inside, it also incorporates a unique plot that combines magic and love. Klune’s homey atmosphere reflects the mood of the season quite well, while also tying in various life lessons.
@hayleys.pdf late night post, i am hoping to post some book reviews soon! until then, here is this little idea 💫 #underthewhisperingdoor #bookishthoughts #reading
♬ Ghost on the Walls – Wren Whispers
Witches Get Stuff Done by Molly Harper
Molly Harper‘s Witches Get Stuff Done is a witchy, romantic comedy for all magic-loving readers. After losing her mother and inheriting an ancient Victorian mansion, Riley uncovers a family secret and discovers that she is a witch. Making friends with the spirits that reside in the home, Riley realizes she must help them resolve their unfinished business. Edison Held, a local librarian, befriends Riley and assists her throughout her journey, while also catching her eye. The moody, spooky theme of the story captivates readers and embodies the season of fall perfectly, making this a wonderful addition to your “to be read” list!
The Creation of the ‘Fall’ Genre
As a reader, it’s difficult to resist the cozy ambiance, cooler weather, and earlier evenings that fall brings. As the temperature drops and plans reduce, readers have additional time to start a new book. The gloomy, darker atmosphere adds to the spooky thrillers and cozy fall stories. Overtime, the built-in aesthetic of the season eventually became somewhat of a genre for readers.
When the time comes around, readers will often request or recommend “fall” books to read. Writers have picked up on the season’s popularity and continue to feed into the fall trends. The reading community has formed the “fall” reading category due to their love of emotional comfort and sensory aesthetics found in fall-inspired stories. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram contribute to this by making readers think about how a book will make them feel instead of what it contains. Ultimately, this popular fad influences readers into enjoying these aesthetics.
So, N Crowd, as the weather drops and the colors change, we hope you’ll consider one of these cozy recommendations to read. Whether you’re a fan of the spooky Halloween vibes, or the cozy, pumpkin spice reads, one of these stories are sure to grab your attention.
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