Physical Address

304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

10 Books to Read in Autumn

One of my favorite elegant hobbies is to read, especially as the leaves change color and the air turns crisp. Fall is the perfect time to curl up with a hot cup of pumpkin spice tea and a good book. So I put together a list of my 10 favorite, captivating reads to enjoy this autumn.

Whether you are a fan of mystery, historical fiction, or young adult fantasy, this list has something for everyone! From classics to contemporary best-sellers, these novels are sure to transport you to different worlds, all from the comfort of your snuggly couch.

#1: The Secret History

Author: Donna Tartt

This dark academia thriller follows a group of eccentric classics students at an elite New England college. Tartt knows exactly how to set the aesthetic of the storyline with her atmospheric prose and complex characters. The Secret History makes for a gripping read as the story unravels around a shocking murder…(gasp)

Who doesn’t love a good murder mystery?

#2: The Goldfinch

Author: Donna Tartt

Can you tell I love books by Donna Tartt yet? Another Tartt masterpiece, this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel explores deep concepts of loss, identity, and healing through art. Follow along the story of Theo Decker, a young boy, and his journey from a tragic childhood to the underground art world in this beautiful coming-of-age story.

#3: If We Were Villians

Author: M.L. Rio

This one is for my girlies who love suspense and a bit of Shakespearan drama. This novel delves into the intense world of a group of theater students. As their on-stage rivalries spill out into real-life, the line between performance and reality blurs with deadly consequences…

Ok not all of these books will involve crime and murder I promise!

#4: Rebecca

Author: Daphne Du Maurier

Ahhh an oldie but a goodie. This classic gothic romance was hand-crafted for those chilly autumn evenings. Du Maurier tells a haunting tale of love, jealousy, and the lingering presence of a first wife all set at a mysterious wealthy estate by the sea (enough to keep you on the edge of your seat yet?) It is a juicyyyyy read.

This is a great one if you want both mystery/thrill and a smidgen of romance.

#5: To Kill A Mockingbird

Author: Harper Lee

Odds are, you had to do a book report on this novel for school. BUT I strongly encourage you to read it again for pleasure because it is a timeless novel. As you may remember, this book touches on racial injustice in the American South and the loss of innocence through the eyes of a young girl, Scout Finch. It’s powerful message and unforgettable characters make it a must-read for any season (but especially autumn).

#6: Dead Poets Society

Author: N.H. Kleinbaum

I usually dislike books that were written based off movies but the Dead Poets Society is an absolute exception to that rule. This novel celebrates the power of poetry, rebellion, and individualism. Join Mr. Keating (played by Robin Williams in the original movie) and his students as they learn to seize the day and find their own voices in a conformist society.

#7: The Bell Jar

Author: Slyvia Plath

Pheewwww. This chilling book is guaranteed to evoke some deep emotions within you. Plath’s semi-autobiographical novel offers such a raw and honest portrayal of mental illness. As the days grow shorter and we drift closer to winter, immerse yourself in the mind of Esther Greenwood. A young woman and her poignant struggle with depression and societal expectations.

Not light reading by any means but such a meaningful read.

#8: Little Women

Author: Louisa May Alcott

The best way to spend a snuggly fall evening is by picking up this heartwarming classic and following the March sisters as they navigate love, loss, and personal growth in Civil-War-era America. Alcott’s timeless story of family and sisterhood is the PERFECT cozy read for fall evenings.

Plus, this book comes in so many cute cover designs so it also makes for elegant decor.

#9: The Song of Achilles

Author: Madeline Miller

Another epic love story, Miller’s retelling of The Illiad focuses on the relationship between Achilles and Patroclus. This is a beautifully written novel that brings ancient Greek mythology to life with it’s lyrical prose and exploration of love, fate, and heroism.

Fall is the perfect time to fall for love, which makes this romantic novel one of my favorites to revisit every year.

#10: Harry Potter Series

Author: J.K. Rowling

You know I HAD to include the Harry Potter Series to have any credibility on this article. Fall is the ideal time to revisit (or discover) the magical world of Harry Potter. From the enchanting atmosphere of Hogwarts to themes of friendship and courage, this beloved series offers something for readers of all ages.

So whether you are in the mood for a thrilling mystery, a piece of classic literature, or magical adventures, I hope you found something to add to your reading list for this autumn season. So grab a warm blanket, a steaming cup of hot tea, and immerse yourself in the captivating worlds waiting to be explored within the pages of these engrossing novels. Be sure to add your favorite fall reads in the comment section below! Happy reading everyone!

With love from Genovia,

-Amiya

This blog post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission for any purchases made through these links. Click here for my full disclosure statement.