The Her Campus National Editors write about products we love and think you’ll love too. Her Campus has affiliate partnerships, so we get a share of the revenue from your purchase. All products are in stock and all prices are accurate as of publication.
As the autumn season begins, I want to switch gears and make it the coziest season possible. Fall is not only a mindset but also a shift in life that brings new memories, activities, and of course, a brand-new TBR list (to be read). These five books are on my personal list to curl up with as the weather begins to chill and the leaves start to turn.
the secret history by donna tart
This novel is a fall staple, one that so many people recommend for popularizing the subgenre of dark academia about 20 years ago. Since its publication, it has remained a recurring recommendation for those who want to dive into the dark academia aesthetic. It’s also described as a mystery thriller, which makes it perfect for October, the spookiest of the fall months! Last fall, I read If We Were Villains by M. L. Rio, which many say took inspiration from Tartt’s novel, and I loved it. Going from one to the next makes me all the more excited for the season.
the picture of dorian gray by oscar wilde
Sticking with the dark academia theme, fall is the perfect time to pick up a classic novel or two. As an English major, it’s kind of my goal to read as many classics as I can. This one has been on my TBR for the longest time, but I always find an excuse not to read it. But recently, fall aesthetic videos have resurfaced on my TikTok, and people always mention The Picture of Dorian Gray. If that’s not a sign to read it this season, I don’t know what is.
girl dinner by olivie blake
This novel is an upcoming fall release from one of my favorite authors! I read her books every fall and they hit the spot every time. She blends beautiful, poetic prose, magical realism, a hint of well-done satire, and in-depth character studies—exactly what I look for when I want to feel all the autumnal emotions. I think this one will be perfect for those who want a thriller in their rotation of books for the season. I’ll definitely be waiting outside the bookstores on October 21st for this book.
the pumpkin spice cafe by laurie gilmore
My vibe this fall leans heavily toward dark academia, but there’s always room for a cute, cozy romantic comedy—especially one said to give Gilmore Girls energy. This book blew up on BookTok last year, but I didn’t get my hands on it until after the season ended, so of course I had to wait for the perfect time to read it. Set in a small town reminiscent of Stars Hollow, the story follows a main character who runs a café for pumpkin spice lovers. I just know that reading this while sipping my own pumpkin spice latte on a cozy fall afternoon, wrapped in a warm blanket, will be a picture-perfect moment for the season.
hex appeal by kate johnson
Rounding off all the autumnal vibes is a short and sweet witchy rom-com. I always enjoy a bit of magic—especially in this season—and as a fan of shows like The Good Witch, I hope this book delivers the same fun and warm feelings. I mean, who doesn’t enjoy a house full of witches and their new landlord? I want to get the most out of fall this year and I know these books will play a big part in that seasonal joy.