Now that it’s October, Halloween is just around the corner, and the end of the year is quickly approaching. If you’re a reader like me, you probably set a reading goal at the beginning of the year—and if your year has been as busy as mine, I imagine that you’re still a little far from reaching it. So, if you want to squeeze in a few more books before the year ends, I’ve put together a list of books that are perfect for spooky season and, best of all, relatively quick reads!
Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman
I feel like more people are familiar with the movie than the book. And while the film is one of my favourite things to watch in October, the book is just as cozy and perfect for the spooky season. The story follows two witchy sisters, Sally and Gillian Owens, who have spent their lives living under a family curse. The magic is fun, of course, but the relationships and its emphasis on sisterhood are what make the story special.
Alice Hoffman has written four books in the Practical Magic series, and while I haven’t read the other three just yet, the first one is definitely worth your time, especially if you’re a fan of the movies.
The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune
If you’re a fan of the found family trope, The House in the Cerulean Sea is definitely one to add to your TBR. The story follows Linus Baker, a caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, who is sent to investigate an orphanage housing six magical children. He expects to find something dangerous, but realizes they’re just children trying to find their place in a world that disapproves of their differences.
Tender Is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica
Tender Is the Flesh is a dystopian novel set in a world where a mysterious virus has made all animal meat poisonous to humans, forcing society to find disturbing alternatives. If you aren’t afraid of a book that makes you uncomfortable, it’s worth considering. It’s dark and unsettling. It really makes you think about society and how far people will go to survive. That said, I’d recommend viewing the themes and content warnings before picking it up, as it deals with some pretty disturbing subject matter. It’s not exactly a cozy fall read, but if you’re in the mood for something dark and thought-provoking, it will stick with you long after you finish it.
We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson
This book also explores sisterhood and a dark family secret, making it perfect if you’re in the mood for something gothic this Halloween. The author, Shirley Jackson, is also known for The Haunting of Hill House, which gained even more popularity after Netflix adapted it into a successful series. If you enjoy unsettling stories like The Haunting of Hill House, this might be perfect for you.
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
This is one of my favourite literary classics, following a man who wishes to remain young and beautiful forever. After having his portrait painted, Dorian Gray becomes obsessed with never aging, and somehow, his wish comes true. While he remains youthful, the portrait gradually changes to reflect his immoral actions. It’s a dark, gothic story about vanity, morality, and the dangers of prioritizing beauty over everything else, making it a great classic to pick up during this fall.