There are a few things that are just part of the fall season — getting pumpkin-spiced everything, busting out the cozy sweaters you put away for the summer, and, of course, binge-watching Gilmore Girls for the 90th time. But, if the idea of watching Rory be an insufferable, know-it-all loser is too much for you to handle this year, you might want to give the show a break — in fact, you might want to give all shows a break. Instead, you can get cozy with a book that’s perfect for the fall. I mean, doesn’t the idea of snuggling up in a blanket with hot cocoa and a good book sound way better than watching Rory be the ultimate pick-me?
Now, a book that’s “perfect for the fall” doesn’t have to be fall-themed exactly. As long as it gives cozy vibes that’ll help you through the last few months of the year, it’s right on theme. But if you can’t think of a single book, don’t worry — here’s a whole list of books you can stock up on for the fall recommended by Betches staff.
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The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches By Sangu Mandanna
There’s nothing cozier than a witchy romance, and The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna delivers that and more. Between raising chaotic little witches and their undeniable chemistry, things get delightfully spicy. It’s enemies to lovers with a magical twist, and honestly, where can I sign up to join this society?
Before the Coffee Gets Cold By Toshikazu Kawaguchi
Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi is the kind of book that gently tugs at your heartstrings and refuses to let go. It’s tender, thought-provoking, and will have you questioning what you’d do if given the same opportunity to ~travel in time.~ Fair warning: you might need tissues, because this story has all the feels, with just the right splash of magic.
The House in the Cerulean Sea By TJ Klune
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune is like a warm hug wrapped in the coziest blanket. This book is pure magic and heart, filled with quirky humor and tender moments that’ll make you believe in love, found family, and embracing your weirdness. It’s whimsy at its finest, and I am here for it.
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman is your new favorite crime-solving squad — and they happen to be a group of retirees living in a quiet English village. With sharp wit, clever twists, and a heartwarming dose of friendship, this book is like Clue meets cozy mystery, but way more fun. Trust me, these senior sleuths will charm your socks off.
Be Ready When the Luck Happens is Ina Garten’s first-ever memoir, and it’s as warm, inspiring, and effortlessly charming as you’d expect. Full of personal stories, behind-the-scenes adventures, and life lessons, this memoir is as satisfying as her signature roast chicken.
Legends & Lattes By Travis Baldree
Legends & Lattes is the ultimate cozy fantasy, serving up orc barbarian vibes with a side of cappuccinos. With a dash of romance and a heaping spoonful of heart, this is the fantasy novel you never knew you needed — where the stakes are low but the vibes are immaculate. And it’s set in a cafe! Definitely fall vibes.
And Then There Were None By Agatha Christie
And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie is the gold standard of classic murder mysteries. It’s a masterclass in suspense, full of chilling twists and turns that’ll keep you guessing until the very last page. The queen of mystery at her absolute best!
The Midnight Club By Margot Harrison
The Midnight Club by Margot Harrison keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With secrets unraveling and danger lurking, this mystery explores life, death, and the bonds that form in the darkest of times. Equal parts eerie and emotional, this book will have you hooked the entire time.
The Color Purple By Alice Walker
The Color Purple by Alice Walker is one of those timeless classics that hits you right in the soul. Set in the deep South in the early 1900s, it follows Celie, a young Black woman who’s been dealt the worst hand — abuse, isolation, and heartbreak — but girl refuses to stay down. Through letters she writes to God, we watch her go from feeling invisible to discovering her own strength and power, thanks to the incredible women she meets along the way. An absolute classic for a reason!
Long Island Compromise By Taffy Brodesser-Akner
Long Island Compromise by Taffy Brodesser-Akner is the juicy, whip-smart novel you didn’t know you needed. Picture this: a suburban family living the so-called dream in the Hamptons, but under all that shiny privilege, things are seriously falling apart. It’s all about messy relationships, identity crises, and the hilarious, heartbreaking realities of life. Drama, dysfunction, and dark humor? Sign me up!
Forever in Blue: The Fourth Summer of the Sisterhood by Ann Brashares is the perfect nostalgia trip for anyone who grew up with these iconic girls and their magical jeans. It’s the final summer, and our fave foursome are dealing with all the post-high school drama you’d expect. College, love, heartbreak, and, of course, the pants that somehow still fit (I wish). It’s bittersweet, full of laughs, tears, and that classic sisterhood bond that’ll have you texting your BFFs by the end.
She And Her Cat By Makoto Shinkai
If it’s just you and your cat against the world, I’d pick up She and Her Cat. It follows four stories of women learning life lessons with their feline friend by their side.
I used to read Ray Bradbury as a kid and even now it’s a source of comfort for me. Something Wicked This Way Comes is no exception. It has sinister magic, freaky carnivals, and everything else you need for the perfect spooky season read.
The Secret History By Donna Tartt
This book is from the 90s but it still is the perfect read for anyone looking for a good read this fall. I mean, it has mystery, excitement, and elitist college kids that learn how to think outside of the world of privilege they’re used to.
