10 Fall Books To Read In 2025

As the crisp fall air rolls in and the leaves turn into a vibrant show of red, orange and gold, there's no better time to embrace yourself with a great book. I made a list of ten must-read books that will captivate your imagination, warm your soul and entertain you on chilly evenings. From thrilling mysteries to poignant contemporary fiction, these books are the perfect companions for the season.

1. The September House by Carissa Orlando

A hauntingly beautiful novel, The September House is a chilling tale about a woman who refuses to leave her dream home—even though it is haunted. As ghostly apparitions become more menacing, she must uncover the house’s dark past before it consumes her. With eerie settings, supernatural encounters, and psychological twists, Orlando crafts a truly immersive horror experience. Perfect for fans of gothic horror and those who love a slow-burning mystery, this book keeps readers on edge, unraveling secrets that are as terrifying as they are compelling.

2. The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters

Set in the 1960s, The Berry Pickers tells the story of a young girl who vanishes from a blueberry field and the ripple effects her disappearance has on multiple families. Rich in emotional depth and intricate storytelling, this novel is a powerful examination of loss, love, and resilience. Peters beautifully captures the aching void left by missing loved ones and the haunting impact of unresolved grief. The narrative alternates perspectives, providing an intimate look into the lives of those touched by the tragedy. Readers will find themselves deeply invested in this moving, heartfelt journey of hope, guilt, and redemption.

3. North Woods by Daniel Mason

Spanning centuries, North Woods follows the lives of those who have lived in a single house in the New England wilderness. This lyrical, evocative novel explores history, nature, and the human spirit in a deeply moving narrative. Mason’s prose brings the changing seasons to life, making this a particularly fitting read for autumn. The novel intertwines stories of settlers, lovers, and loners, revealing how past and present coexist within the walls of a single home.

4. The Vaster Wilds by Lauren Groff

A gripping survival story, The Vaster Wilds follows a young servant girl who flees a colonial settlement and embarks on a treacherous journey through the untamed American wilderness. Lauren Groff’s masterful storytelling creates a tense, immersive experience that will keep you glued to the pages. As the girl braves the elements, hunger, and the unknown, Groff explores themes of resilience, freedom, and self-discovery. Her writing is vivid, crafting an intense atmosphere where every rustling leaf and shifting shadow carries weight.

5. The Manor House by Gilly Macmillan

A suspenseful psychological thriller, The Manor House tells the story of a woman who moves into a grand estate only to discover its sinister secrets. As she uncovers disturbing truths hidden within the estate’s walls, she becomes entangled in a web of deception and danger. Macmillan masterfully builds tension and intrigue, delivering an unforgettable page-turner perfect for fall.

6. Let Us Descend by Jesmyn Ward

From the National Book Award-winning author Jesmyn Ward, Let Us Descend is a powerful and poetic novel that reimagines the life of an enslaved woman navigating hardship and finding resilience. Ward’s writing is both breathtaking and profound, making this book an essential fall read. The novel is infused with elements of magical realism, where visions and dreams intertwine with reality, offering a deeply emotional and haunting reading experience. Through rich language and deeply human characters,

7. The Fraud by Zadie Smith

Zadie Smith’s latest novel, The Fraud, is a historical literary masterpiece set in 19th-century London. Blending fiction with real historical events, Smith explores themes of deception, identity, and societal change. This intellectually stimulating novel is perfect for those who appreciate thought-provoking historical fiction. With sharp wit and compelling character studies, Smith delves into issues of race, class, and authenticity.

8. Starling House by Alix E. Harrow

A gothic fantasy novel filled with eerie charm, Starling House follows a woman drawn to a mysterious house with a dark history. As she uncovers its secrets, she must confront forces beyond her understanding. This haunting, atmospheric tale is a must-read for fans of gothic fiction and magical realism. Harrow weaves a story of forgotten legends, family curses, and the longing for belonging, creating a world that is both sinister and enchantingly beautiful. The novel is a spellbinding escape into the unknown, where every turn of the page brings new chills and surprises.

9. Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll

Inspired by real-life events, Bright Young Women offers a fresh take on the true crime genre by focusing on the victims’ perspectives rather than glorifying the criminal. This feminist thriller is both gripping and deeply moving, making it a standout book for fall. Knoll masterfully crafts a narrative that reclaims the stories of the women affected, portraying them with depth and dignity.

10. The Invisible Hour by Alice Hoffman

A mesmerizing blend of historical fiction and magical realism, The Invisible Hour follows a young woman who discovers a connection to a famous author that changes her life. As she unravels the mystery of her own past, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery that challenges fate and destiny. Hoffman’s signature lyrical prose and deep emotional resonance make this a compelling, enchanting read for the season.

Final Thoughts

Fall is the ideal time to immerse yourself in compelling stories that transport you to different times, places, and emotional landscapes. Whether you prefer gothic horror, historical fiction, literary mysteries, or contemporary novels, this list has something for everyone. Grab a warm blanket, pour a cup of tea, and dive into one of these mesmerizing books to make the most of the autumn season.