10 books to read this cosy season for all the cute and spooky readers

Grab a blanket, make yourself a hot drink, and get ready to dive into the perfect reads for the cosiest time of the year! As the days get shorter and the weather gets chillier, there's nothing better than curling up with a good book. In this blog post, we’re sharing 10 must-read books that will warm your heart, spark your imagination, and make this cosy season even better. From magical adventures to heartwarming tales, spicy, gothic stories to creepy, atmospheric books - there's something for every reader to enjoy!

1. This time of year is perfect for some low-stakes fantasy where you want a bit of adventure that is whimsical and charming. Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones is the perfect low-stakes, cosy read, filled with whimsical magic, charming characters, and light-hearted adventures that warm the heart without the intensity of epic conflicts.

2. Dark gothic retellings with a touch of spice blend eerie atmospheres, brooding characters, and twisted romances, adding a tantalising edge to classic tales for those who crave both mystery and heat. If you're after some Pumpkin SPICE this season, Hollow by Karina Halle made us hot under the collar. A sleepy Hollow retelling with a MMF why-choose at the centre.

3. If you're after a quirky fantasy trilogy to immerse yourself in during this chilly season, this slow burn, grumpy/sunshine will steal your heart. Throne in the Dark by A.K Caggiano have left us obsessed and is the perfect read for Autumn. A quest-style narrative, a bickering pair, magical creatures and the funniest dialogue is the greatest treat this season.

4. Paranormal romance is perfect for the autumn season, blending supernatural intrigue with swoon-worthy love stories that are just the right mix of spooky and heartwarming, making it ideal for cozying up on those crisp, chilly nights. Bride by Ali Hazelwood reminded us of the 2010's influx of this genre in the best way! We've missed a vampire/werewolf feud and this silly, spicy book scratched that itch. It is knot for readers who dislike cringy dialogue and *interesting* sex scenes!

5. We love reading more Historical reads when the weather starts to turn colder and nothing has haunted us more than The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab. A hauntingly beautiful tale about a woman who makes a Faustian bargain to live forever but is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. Spanning centuries, Addie’s story is filled with heartache, resilience, and the desire to leave a mark on the world. With its lush writing and introspective themes, this novel is perfect for those who love thought-provoking, emotional reads that linger long after the last page is turned.

6. Nothing says 'October' like Horror, get in to the Halloween spirit by reading Salem's Lot by Stephen King. We have never been more frightened reading a book than this creepy, small town vampire novel by the master of Horror himself. With its atmospheric setting and haunting characters, Salem’s Lot is a gripping tale of terror that examines the struggle between good and evil, making it a perfect read for those who relish spine-tingling suspense and the supernatural this spooky season.

7. Psychological Fiction takes over our TBR this season filled with deep, thought-provoking reads that match the introspective feel of autumn. The Last Tale of the Flower Bride by Roshani Chokshi was a twisting gothic tale about friendship and secrets that can easily be read on a rainy afternoon. With lush prose and haunting imagery, Chokshi explores the complexities of relationships and the weight of unspoken truths. This novel is perfect for those who appreciate atmospheric narratives filled with enchantment and a touch of darkness, making it an ideal cosy read for autumn.

8. We couldn't not include a witchy read for the cosy season and one of our favourites is The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna. It is a whimsical and heartwarming tale that blends magic with the exploration of identity and belonging. With its delightful blend of humour and heart, this enchanting read is perfect for autumn, inviting readers to revel in the magic of connection and the beauty of embracing one’s true self. We also loved the found family and the grumpy librarian!

9. Some cosy Romance is perfect for every season but The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston is one of our favourites and while it doesn't take place in Autumn, it embodies the warmth that comes with the season. This enchanting tale blends humor and heartfelt moments, exploring themes of healing, the power of love, and the ways in which we hold onto those we've lost. Perfect for the cozy season, The Dead Romantics invites readers to embrace both the light and dark sides of love, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a whimsical yet poignant story.

10. New Releases are everywhere but Phantasma by Kaylie Smith has stolen our hearts. This supernatural tale filled with ghosts, a haunted mansion, deadly trials and demons all set in New Orleans, was creepy and heart pounding. This book kept us on our toes throughout with its detailed trials that kept us turning the page. Occasionally graphic in its horror, we were scared by some of the residents of Phantasma and in love with some others; this book was an easy 5 star that everyone at The Next Chapter obsessed over for weeks after.

Let us know what books you have loved reading in Autumn and don't forget to check the trigger warnings before reading any of our recommendations. We have lots of cosy products in the shop to accompany your reading over the colder months - Happy Reading this cosy and spooky season!