1.Cozy mysteries
The cozy mystery genre is often written off as being too formulaic. But if the formula of amateur sleuthing in a small town works, then the cozy mystery is the genre for you this fall. Snuggle up somewhere comfortable and dive into these books and try to solve a mystery with the story’s characters. They’re the best kind of mystery for someone who maybe wants to only flirt with darker things in the fall but still be cozy. Books in this genre include: “Murder at Cape Cod,” “In the Company of Witches,” and “Magic, Lies, and Deadly Pies.”
2.Dark academia
It’s worth noting that dark academia is more of a subculture and an aesthetic than a genre of literature, but there are a certain collection of books that fall under this label. Dark academia usually revolves around academia, arts and literature, and traditional styles of dress as well as a bit of a gothic twang to it most of the time. Most novels under this description are set in the autumn time. Novels include “The Secret History,” “Frankenstein,” “If We Were Villains,” and “Babel.”
3.Paranormal romance
Tired of your fall romance novels not having enough magic, monsters, and time travel? Then try paranormal romance. The genre involves romances that exist outside the realm of reality and blends with genres like science fiction, fantasy, and horror. You can mix a desire for snug fall romance with the spooky and bizarre elements of the Halloween season. Examples include: “The Witches of Thistle Grove series,” “Pride and Prejudice,” “Pittsburgh,” and “A Dowry of Blood.”
4.Gothic horror
The gothic genre undeniably thrives in fall. Terrifying environments and looming supernatural threats. This genre is perfect for someone who wants to dive head first into what’s truly scary about fall and enjoy the horrific and magnificent world that the authors build. Gothic horror can range from super violent to super subtle, so choose at your own discretion. Books include: “Dracula,” “Mexican Gothic,” “What Moves the Dead,” and “Haunting of Hill House.”
5.Ghost story
Ghosts can show up in ANY story but a ghost story specifically describes a story where the ghost and the haunting is a central theme. They can be horrifying and comedic and everything in between. What’s autumn without some ghosts to haunt the place? Stories include: “Heart Shaped Box,” “How to Sell a Haunted House, “The Woman in Black,” and “The Shining.”
In the end, remember the most important thing is you find the book that fits your autumn the best. Curl up in bed, enjoy some tea, crack open the book, and tell yourself the noise you heard in your dorm was all in your head….right?
