On the shelf: Fun and frightening books to cozy up with this fall

By Courtney Warren

As autumn leaves begin to fall and the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a book that embraces the spirit of the season. Whether you’re in the mood for a spine-tingling thriller, a light-hearted romp with a spooky twist, or a heartfelt tale that weaves together romance and the supernatural, this fall has a fantastic selection of books that cater to all tastes. Here are three must-reads to add to your fall reading list.

Cackle by Rachel Harrison
I was surprised when I found that Cakcle was Harrison’s debut, but she has now become an “auto buy” author for me. This book took me by surprise because of the fresh take it has on friends, relationships, and a little magic. 

The story centers on Annie, a young woman grappling with her recent breakup and seeking a new start in the small, eerie town of Cape May. There, she meets the enigmatic Sophie, a local who is charming yet cloaked in mystery. As their friendship deepens, Annie uncovers secrets about Sophie’s magical past and the dark history of the town.

Annie and Sophie have a chemistry that immediately gripped me, because it wasn’t a friendship that could truly make sense or be completely trusted. As odd as it may be, the book was both uplifting and unsettling, as Harrison spun a light-hearted and spooky tale. 

The Sundown Motel by Simone St. James
For those craving a chilling mystery, look no further than The Sundown Motel by Simone St. James. This story literally kept me awake—I was so scared! It reminded me of the late nights of elementary school where I’d hide under the covers to finish a Goosebumps book. This novel alternates between the perspectives of two women: Viv, who in 1982 takes a job at a mysterious motel in upstate New York, and her niece, Carly, who in the present day is determined to uncover the truth about her aunt’s disappearance and the dark secrets of the Sundown Motel.

I love this book because the setting itself was a character.  A once-thriving motel that harbors dark memories plays a pivotal role in the narrative and immediately drew me in. I can still picture the creepy swimming pool and empty parking lot. As Carly delves deeper into the motel’s past, she confronts ghostly apparitions and long-buried secrets, all while piecing together the mystery of what happened to Viv.

If you want something that is really going to make you a scaredy cat, this is the book. The novel expertly explores themes of memory, family ties, and the shadows that linger long after the lights go out. This haunting tale is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat, making it an ideal read for those dark fall nights.

The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston
The Dead Romantics is next on my life after reading so many great reviews. According to the publisher, Poston delivers a heartwarming narrative that proves love can transcend even the boundaries of life and death. The protagonist, Florence, is a ghostwriter for a popular romance novelist who has lost her belief in love after a family tragedy. When she returns to her hometown to bury her estranged father, she finds herself haunted—not just by memories, but by the charming ghost of her father’s best friend, who has unfinished business.

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, these three books offer a delightful mix of fun and spooky narratives to enjoy during this magical season. Whether you’re drawn to the enchanting tale of friendship in Cackle, the eerie mystery of The Sundown Motel, or the heartfelt romance of The Dead Romantics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your favorite cozy blanket, a warm drink, and get ready to laugh or be spooked! Happy reading!