As the crisp air of fall settles in and the days grow shorter, there’s no better time to curl up with a blanket, a warm drink, and a book that transports you to mysterious places. The season of Halloween and harvest naturally calls for stories that offer chills, thrills, and perhaps a dash of the supernatural. If you’re looking to add some eerie but cozy reads to your bookshelf, here are five fantastic picks that are perfect for setting the autumn mood.
1. The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
A classic in the world of horror literature, Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House is the quintessential haunted house story. The novel follows four characters as they investigate the paranormal happenings at Hill House, but it's much more than a simple ghost story. Jackson masterfully weaves psychological tension, exploring the thin line between reality and madness. With its gothic atmosphere and haunting prose, this is the perfect read for a stormy fall evening when the wind howls outside your window.
2. In the Company of Witches by Auralee Wallace
If you love a bit of mystery mixed with witchy vibes, In the Company of Witches is a delightful cozy mystery. The story follows Brynn Warren, a witch who runs a bed and breakfast with her aunts, as she is thrown into solving a murder mystery. Set in a small, magical New England town, this book offers the perfect balance of charm and intrigue, with just enough supernatural elements to keep things interesting. It's a lighter read for those who want some autumnal ambiance without the full-on scares.
3. Damnable Tales: A Folk Horror Anthology edited by Richard Wells
For lovers of folk horror, Damnable Tales offers a collection of chilling short stories that explore the darker sides of rural folklore. Each story dives into the eerie, the uncanny, and the often forgotten corners of human experience, where the old ways hold sway and sinister forces lurk. The anthology format is perfect for dipping in and out on cozy nights, with tales ranging from subtly disturbing to outright terrifying. This book will leave you with a lingering sense of unease that’s perfect for fall.
4. Roald Dahl's Book of Ghost Stories edited by Roald Dahl
You may know Roald Dahl for his whimsical children’s stories, but his curated Book of Ghost Stories shows his darker side. Dahl selected a collection of his favorite ghost stories, written by masters of the genre, each one offering a spine-tingling experience. These stories have a timeless quality and a deliciously creepy undertone, perfect for reading as the leaves turn and the nights grow colder. With its eerie yet classic vibe, this book is an ideal companion for fall.
5. A Witch's Guide to Burning by Aminder Dhaliwal
Aminder Dhaliwal’s A Witch’s Guide to Burning is a sharp, thought-provoking graphic novel that blends dark humor with societal critique. The story follows a young witch navigating a world where women with power are vilified and feared. With its striking artwork and biting wit, this graphic novel delves into themes of feminism, autonomy, and rebellion, offering a compelling narrative that's both funny and poignant. Dhaliwal's portrayal of witches is fresh and modern, making this book a perfect choice for readers looking for something a little unconventional and utterly engaging for fall.
These books offer a range of spooky, atmospheric reads that are perfect for the fall season, whether you’re looking for psychological thrills, witchy mysteries, folk horror, or classic ghost stories. So light a candle, make a cup of tea, and dive into these hauntingly cozy reads—you won’t regret it!
What’s on your fall reading list? Share your favorite cozy and creepy reads in the comments!