Some bathe in the comforting warmth of a summer’s sun, and some anticipate the festive spirit of a winter’s day. I prefer, without a doubt, autumn’s cosiness. When nature is ablaze with a multitude of colours, it brings forth a want to experience. A steaming cup of hot chocolate with an overwhelming number of marshmallows and a perfect read to accompany you.
This season fills me with a need for a literary adventure and an urge to discover something truly mysterious. I submerge into the worlds depicted on a page. With no further ado, allow me to indulge you with a list of fiction, fantasy, and thriller books to give a chance this haunting season.
Looking for a book that will keep you on the edge of your seat? Michaelides’s psychological thriller will keep you questioning every single aspect of the book from the start, and the answer to it all is totally worth the buildup wait! If you are a fan of Freida McFadden’s writing and have not heard of this one, it is a MUST read.
Looking for a book that is a mixture of beauty and eeriness? Tartt’s novel captures the anxiety of holding a deadly secret amongst a group of students. The paranoia and a constant rise towards the inevitable downfall fuels this read with countless emotions. For all of the dark academia enjoyers out there!
Looking for a quick read with a hint of gothic romance? Le Fanu’s novella predates Bram Stoker’s Dracula and sets the haunting scene of humans oblivious to the vampires living among them. This piece of literature is seductive as it is mysterious. A genuinely perfect read in anticipation of Halloween!
Looking for a classic read with supernatural elements? Wilde’s incredible ability to visualise decadent depictions is truly something to indulge in. To what end will one go to preserve beauty? Laced with betrayal and obsession with aestheticism that corrupts one’s soul, this book will leave you wanting more.
Looking for something a little more adventurous and magical? Shannon’s world-building will not disappoint! Emerge into a world divided by belief as it follows four characters scattered across it. The book might seem intimidating at first due to the amount of content, but once you familiarise yourself with the characters and the setting, the journey promises to be a thrilling one.
As the autumn leaves fall and the air turns crisp, there’s no better time to curl up with a captivating book. Whether you’re seeking spine-tingling suspense, dark academic intrigue, gothic romance, or a fantastical journey, this list has a title for every mood. From the psychological twists of The Silent Patient to the chilling elegance of The Picture of Dorian Gray, each of these books offers an immersive escape into mysterious worlds. If you’re in the mood for a supernatural classic, Carmilla will set the perfect eerie tone for Halloween. And for those craving an epic adventure, The Priory of the Orange Tree offers rich world-building and dragons that will fuel your imagination well beyond the fall season.