Books to Read to Get in the Mood for Fall
Books to Read to Get in the Mood for Fall
By: Abby Fulmar
Between crisp leaves, campfires, and cooler weather, there is no better time to cozy up on the couch with a good book. If you are an avid reader of thrillers, classics, or anything in between, here are five5 book recommendations that are perfect for getting in the fall spirit and fully embracing spooky season.
House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig
A grim take on the tale of the 12 dancing princesses, House of Salt and Sorrows follows 12 sisters who live in a castle by the sea. Unfortunately, the 12 sisters seem to have become victims of a horrifying curse. With four of the sisters’ lives already taken in seemingly unconnected, but equally gruesome accidents, the remaining eight are looking for an escape from their crippling grief. When they begin attending lavish, beautiful balls every night, they seem to forget all of their troubles. But one sister, Annaleigh, starts having terrifying, ghostly visions which she believes has something to do with their mysterious rendezvous. The girls soon realize that their seemingly harmless method of escape might not be what it seems, and that they could be the next to meet their demise if they do not put a stop to the curse. If you are a frequent reader of fantasy and are looking to add a little spookiness for this season, this is the perfect book for you.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Jane Austen’s renowned novel, set in the countryside of regency-era England, follows the fierce protagonist Elizabeth Bennett as she figures out how to maintain her independence while falling in love on her own terms. The novel focuses mainly on the relationship between Elizabeth and aristocrat Mr. Darcy as they overcome their pride and learn to accept their feelings for each other. Even though Pride and Prejudice was written in 1813, the trials in which the characters must persevere are still just as relevant today. While it might not be the first book that comes to mind when you think of fall, there is no denying that it is a classic love story with the perfect mix of humor, melancholy, and dark academia aesthetic to make it a great read for a cozy day in.
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
For those of you looking for a ghost story this spooky season, look no further than The Haunting of Hill House. While you might recognize the novel from the Netflix original series of the same name, the plots differ significantly. The book surrounds four main characters: Dr. John Montague, a supernatural investigator; Eleanor Vance, a young woman who devotes her life to taking care of her disabled mother; Theodora, a bohemian artist; and Luke Sanderson, the young heir to Hill House. Dr. Montague hopes to find evidence of the supernatural, so he and the three others, accompanied by Hill House’s strange staff, move into the house for the summer. They soon find out the terrifying secrets that Hill House, its residents, and even themselves hold. While this novel has elements of a classic ghost story, the unique storytelling makes the reader feel as if they are slowly descending into madness along with the characters, making the novel not just scary but psychologically thrilling as well.
Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco
Stalking Jack the Ripper is quite unique due to Kerri Maniscalco’s brilliant fusing of many different genres—fantasy, romance, historical fiction, and mystery to name a few. Audrey Rose Wadsworth, an aspiring mortician, gets more than she bargains for when her mentor takes on the cases of the many women assumed to be killed by Jack the Ripper. With her brilliant deduction skills and aggressive attitude, Audrey Rose will soon come face to face with the infamous serial killer and have to end the mystery of his identity once and for all. With the backdrop of gloomy Victorian London and a clever mix of historically accurate and fictional details, this book is the perfect creepy addition to your fall book list.
An Unwanted Guest by Shari Lapena
There is nothing that screams fall more than a cozy lodge and a little mystery, which are two of the main components of An Unwanted Guest. While vacationing in a luxurious, secluded mountain lodge, guests become trapped by an intense snowstorm. Unfortunately, their tranquility soon turns to chaos when two guests are found murdered. The guests realize that they have to uncover the killer's identity if they want to survive, because with nowhere to run, any of them could be next. Like many of the other recommendations, this is a classic take on the book's respective genre. With the almost nostalgic cozy cabin setting and a combination of both thriller and mystery, this book is a major page turner that you will not want to put down.
In a time of year surrounded by fantasy and enchantment, it is the perfect time to spook yourself with a good book. For more fall inspired fashion, lifestyle, and beauty contenttips, keep reading on umsquaremagazine.com and follow us on Instagram @um.squaremagazine.
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