Fall is finally here, which means it’s officially the season for warm drinks, chunky sweaters, and books that feel like comfort food. Whether you’re into witches, small-town romances, or dark academia, nothing pairs better with crisp nights and flickering candles than the perfect autumn read.
Here are 10 books that bring all the cozy (and sometimes spooky) vibes to your fall TBR.
1. Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman
If there’s one book that screams fall, it’s this one. Alice Hoffman’s Practical Magic inspired the iconic ’90s movie starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, and the story is just as enchanting on the page. Sisters Sally and Gillian Owens come from a long line of witches, but their magical legacy comes with a curse. When Gillian’s abusive boyfriend turns dangerous, the sisters must use their powers to protect themselves — and face the darker sides of their family history.
2. Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli
For fans of swoony enemies-to-lovers stories with witchy twists, this fantasy delivers. Rune hides her identity as a witch by day while secretly working as the Crimson Moth, rescuing others like her by night. But when she draws the attention of Gideon Sharpe, a ruthless witch hunter, their fake courtship becomes more complicated than either expected.
3. The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore
Pumpkin spice season isn’t complete without this sweet small-town romance. When Jeanie inherits her aunt’s café in Dream Harbor, she hopes for a fresh start. What she doesn’t expect is Logan, a grumpy local farmer determined not to fall for the new girl — or her pumpkin spice lattes. This one practically smells like cinnamon and nutmeg.
4. The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Dark academia at its finest. A group of eccentric college students fall under the spell of their brilliant classics professor — and their obsession leads to obsession, betrayal, and murder. Tartt’s cult-favorite novel is moody, atmospheric, and perfect for reading under a blanket with a glass of red wine.
5. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
Sometimes the coziest reads are the classics. Anne Shirley’s adventures in Avonlea are pure comfort, full of humor, heart, and vivid autumn imagery. If you’ve only ever watched the adaptations, fall is the perfect time to dive back into Anne’s world.
6. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
For those who love historical fiction with all the feels, this WWII novel follows sisters Vianne and Isabelle as they navigate love, loss, and survival in Nazi-occupied France. It’s emotional, sweeping, and unforgettable — the kind of story you’ll want to discuss with a friend after reading.
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7. One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig
This gothic fantasy has serious fall vibes. Elspeth Spindle carries a monster in her mind known as the Nightmare — and she might need its power to survive. Teaming up with a mysterious highwayman, Elspeth sets off on a dangerous quest to save her kingdom. It’s dark, romantic and deliciously creepy.
8. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
Not sure if high fantasy is your thing? Start here. Bilbo Baggins doesn’t want to leave his cozy hobbit-hole, but when adventure (and a dragon) calls, he rises to the occasion. Tolkien’s world is immersive but surprisingly approachable in this classic, making it a perfect fall-and-winter reading project.
9. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
If Practical Magic is witchy and dark, this one is witchy and heartwarming. Mika Moon is one of the few witches in Britain, and she’s always kept her magic hidden — until she’s asked to help three young witches control their powers. Found family, romance and a cozy house full of secrets? The ultimate feel-good fall read.
10. A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness
Diana Bishop is a scholar who wants nothing to do with magic — until she accidentally finds a powerful enchanted manuscript. Enter Matthew Clairmont, a mysterious vampire, and suddenly Diana is drawn into a supernatural battle she can’t escape. Forbidden romance, history and magic make this one irresistible for autumn nights.
