With the advent of crisp, cool air and auburn-colored leaves upon us, we have finally arrived at autumn’s doorstep. As indoor hobbies come back into relevance, there is no better way to dive into the comfort of cozy fall activities than nestling into a book that matches that warm, snug atmosphere.
Get your blankets, sweaters and maybe even a fire going as you journey into these three autumnal books, ranging from rustic novels to melancholic tales, that capture the fall aesthetic.
“The Secret History” by Donna Tartt
Matching the feeling that came with the last few weeks of nonstop clouds and rain, the 1992 novel “The Secret History” perfectly encapsulates the dark, mysterious feel of higher education and gothic literary undertones. As a psychological thriller set in an elite liberal arts college in Vermont, the story follows Richard Papen who becomes captivated by an exclusive group of five eccentric, intellectual students studying Classics under the mysterious professor Julian Morrow. The group is obsessed with ancient Greek philosophy and aesthetics, reinforcing a hedonistic, elitist mindset among themselves that pushes them toward dangerous extremes in their pursuit of transcendence and beauty.
As Richard is drawn into their tightly-knit circle, he discovers a darker side to their intellectualism, one that eventually leads to murder. The novel begins with the confession of the crime, setting a haunting tone from the start. What follows is a gripping exploration of guilt, morality and the corrupting influence of privilege and intellectual isolation.
Tartt masterfully crafts an immersive world filled with lush descriptions of autumnal New England, creating a moody, atmospheric backdrop that enhances the novel’s foreboding nature. The characters, though flawed and often morally ambiguous, are compelling in their complexity, each driven by intellectual arrogance and personal insecurities.
At its core, “The Secret History” is a meditation on the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of living in a world divorced from reality. With its blend of academic intrigue, classical references, and a cozy yet haunting tone, the novel has become a defining work in the dark academia genre.
“The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches” by Sangu Mandanna
For a more uplifting story, "The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches" by Sangu Mandanna is a heartwarming, whimsical contemporary fantasy novel about witches, magic and found family. The story follows Mika Moon, a witch who has always lived a life of solitude, following the unwritten rule that witches must stay apart from one another to avoid drawing attention to themselves and maintain their secrecy in society. Despite her isolation, Mika defies this rule of concealment and leads a somewhat public life online, posting videos as a “pretend” witch for fun, which unexpectedly attracts the attention of a mysterious and desperate group of witches.
As the first outside witch they have encountered, Mika is invited to Nowhere House, a secluded mansion on the English coast, where she is asked by three young witches to help them learn to control their magic. Though initially hesitant, Mika forms deep bonds with this unconventional family as she navigates the challenges of raising witches in secret.
This book combines elements of cozy fantasy with themes of loneliness, belonging and self-acceptance. Mandanna’s writing has a warm, enchanting quality, and while magic plays a central role, the story’s emotional core is about love, trust and finding your place in the world. It makes for a perfect companion for the introspective — and somewhat magical — autumn season.
“A Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame
"The Wind in the Willows" by Kenneth Grahame is a classic children’s novel first published in 1908. It is a timeless tale of friendship, adventure and the beauty of nature, set along the idyllic English countryside and riverside. The story follows the adventures of four anthropomorphic animals — Mole, Ratty, Badger and Toad — who live in a pastoral world filled with charm and whimsy.
The novel begins when Mole, tired of his underground life, ventures above ground and meets Ratty, who introduces him to the delights of life along the river. Together, they experience many adventures, from leisurely picnics and boat rides to facing Toad’s reckless obsessions — particularly his disastrous fascination with motorcars, which leads to comic and chaotic consequences.
At its heart, “The Wind in the Willows” is a story about the bonds of friendship and the value of home and community, though it also explores deeper themes like loyalty, responsibility and the desire for adventure versus the comfort of home. The character of Toad, with his wild antics and eventual redemption, adds humor and excitement to the story, while Badger serves as the wise, steady influence in the group.
Grahame’s lyrical descriptions of nature and the changing seasons create an enchanting, cozy atmosphere, making the book feel both e and deeply nostalgic. It can be enjoyed by readers of all ages and remains a cornerstone of classic literature, embodying the rustic beauty of life and the joys of simple pleasures.
As the color of the leaves beautifully change and thick-knit sweaters emerge from wardrobes, there is no better time to curl up with a book that captures the cozy, magical essence of fall. Whether you are drawn to whimsical tales of magic, heartwarming stories of friendship, or hauntingly beautiful mysteries, consider picking up one of these books.
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