10 Autumn Fiction Reads to Cosy Up With This Fall

Autumn has a special magic about it—cooler days, crisp evenings, the scent of fallen leaves, and the warm comfort of a good book. There's no better time to settle into your favourite reading nook and dive into a novel that matches the mood of the season. Whether you're drawn to atmospheric thrillers, heart-warming romance, or something a little spookier, there’s a book for every type of reader this autumn.

To help you build your perfect fall reading list, here are 10 autumn fiction books you won’t want to miss this season.

1. "The Pumpkin Spice Café" by Gilmore Laurie

*Genre: Romance, Cosy Fiction*

For those who crave a little romance with a fall twist, The Pumpkin Spice Café is the perfect book to read as the seasons change. Set in a small, charming town, this heartwarming story revolves around a young woman who moves to take care of her relative's cafe. Moving there from the big city brings some big changes as well as some big characters into her life.

Perfect for: Readers who love small-town charm, romance, and cosy settings with a fall vibe.

2. "The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue" by V.E. Schwab

Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy

This bestselling novel is both haunting and beautiful, following the story of Addie LaRue, a woman who makes a Faustian bargain in exchange for immortality. But there's a catch: no one remembers her. Set against sweeping historical backdrops, this story weaves through centuries of time and explores themes of loneliness, identity, and love. It’s a hauntingly gorgeous read, perfect for those crisp autumn nights.

Perfect for: Fans of historical fiction with a touch of the supernatural.

3. "Belladonna" by Adalyn Grace

Genre: Dark Fantasy, Mystery

With a deliciously eerie atmosphere, Belladonna is perfect for autumn lovers who like a bit of darkness in their fantasy. The story follows Signa Farrow, a young woman orphaned by tragedy and raised by her cruel relatives. When she is drawn into the mystery surrounding her family’s estate, she uncovers a world of ghosts, secrets, and poison. With its lush, atmospheric world and suspenseful mystery, Belladonna will leave you hooked from the first page.

Perfect for: Readers who enjoy gothic romance with dark fantasy elements.

4. "The Family Upstairs" by Lisa Jewell

Genre: Psychological Thriller, Mystery

Lisa Jewell is known for her knack for suspense, and The Family Upstairs is no exception. This twisty, psychological thriller revolves around a woman named Libby who inherits a mansion in London, only to discover it’s tied to a dark, disturbing past. With secrets, betrayals, and an unsettling mystery, this novel is a perfect match for anyone seeking a thrilling read with autumn’s darker days.

Perfect for: Fans of psychological thrillers with complex characters and a dark family mystery.

5. "The Witches" by Roald Dahl

Genre: Children's Fiction, Fantasy

This classic from Roald Dahl is as delightfully spooky as it is fun. The Witches tells the story of a young boy who encounters a secret society of witches, led by the Grand High Witch, who plan to eliminate all children. With witches that wear gloves to hide their claws and terrifying plots, this book is a perfect mix of creepy and charming.

Perfect for: Those who want a nostalgic, fun read with a spooky edge.

6. "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros

Genre: Romance, Fantasy

A book that took the internet by storm in 2023 because of its captivating world-building and well-represented characters, Fourth Wing follows the story of Violet as she fights her way through a series of challenges to become a dragon rider. Along the way, she finds out truths about her world that were hidden in plain sight.

Perfect for: Fans of dragons, factions and steamy romance

7. "Thirteen" by Steve Cavanagh

Genre: Thriller, Mystery

For fans of thrillers, this one is a must-read. A slightly darker setting makes it a perfect spooky-season read. We follow a high-profile solicitor as he works to clear the name of a man claiming to be innocent after his wife is found dead with their security guard. What's more, is that there is a person who is determined to set successful people up and enjoys watching their downfall... from the jury.

Perfect for: Fans of courtroom dramas and murder mysteries.

8. "The Clockmaker's Daughter" by Kate Morton

Genre: Historical Fiction, Mystery

If you're in the mood for a historical mystery with layers of intrigue, The Clockmaker's Daughter by Kate Morton offers the perfect autumn read. The story moves between time periods, following a group of characters linked by a long-buried secret involving a clockmaker’s daughter and an old house. Morton's richly detailed settings and intricate storytelling will keep you hooked until the very end.

Perfect for: Lovers of historical mysteries with a touch of romance and tragedy.

9. "The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides

Genre: Psychological Thriller, Mystery

For a fast-paced read with plenty of twists and turns, The Silent Patient is a thrilling psychological mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It tells the story of Alicia Berenson, a celebrated painter who is accused of murdering her husband, then goes mute. A psychotherapist becomes obsessed with her case and attempts to uncover the truth. Its dark tone and gripping plot make it a great autumn read.

Perfect for: Fans of twisty psychological thrillers with dark, suspenseful plots.

10. "Dear Jane" by Theodora Radisa

Genre: Epistolary novella, Mystery Thriller

A series of letters is found by a group of teenagers as they roam an abandoned house. A legend is told of the phantom who is responsible for a series of disappearances. At first, these letters seem to simply be recounting memorable moments from a family, but as the letters go on, the more dark secrets they reveal. A short read that is perfect for spooky season with its dark plot.

Perfect for: Fans of mystery and murder

Conclusion

Autumn is the perfect time to dive into a book that transports you to another world, whether it’s a spooky mystery, a heart-warming fantasy, or a gothic classic. The 10 books listed above each offer something unique to suit the season’s moods, from crisp, cool nights to rainy afternoons spent curled up by the fire.

So grab a blanket, pour yourself a hot drink, and let these autumn fiction reads sweep you away.

Which of these books are you most excited to read this fall? Have any autumn reads of your own to recommend? Let me know in the comments below!