By Amy @inkwells_bookshelf
There’s something about autumn that feels tailor-made for reading. The darker evenings, the first hint of woodsmoke, crunchy leaves wellies, and an entirely justified excuse to add pumpkin syrup to your latte. It’s hibernation season, the perfect time to reach for books that comfort, surprise, and completely absorb you.
From twisty thrillers to slow-burn romance, here are a few titles on my Autumn Read TBR the perfect companions for dark evenings, cosy blankets, rainy mornings in bed, and endless cups of tea.
Psychological Fiction
One of Us by Elizabeth Day
Already dived into this one and it’s started strong. I love Elizabeth Day’s writing, she’s so good at capturing the messy, complicated edges of people. I’ve heard that if you liked Succession or Saltburn, this will be right up your street, so I can’t wait to get further in.
What happens when a decades-old friendship turns deadly? This novel takes a scalpel to the quiet resentments and hidden loyalties beneath long-term relationships. One of Us promises to be sharp, layered, and full of her trademark insight into human behaviour.
Romance
If It Makes You Happy by Julie Oliver
I can’t wait to read this! It’s set in 1997 in a small town, there’s a single dad baker in a flannel shirt and a city girl running the local B&B. The perfect grumpy–sunshine romance trope. Think Gilmore Girls vibes and all the 90s nostalgia (there are even Spotify playlists to match). The cover alone feels rich with autumnal romance!
My only gripe? Of which I’ve discussed at length with my cousin… The ‘heart throb’ is called Cliff - Can I take a romance seriously with a name like that! But still, this looks like one of those tender, funny, full-of-heart reads that feels like a warm hug, perfect for a grey day.
People Watching by Hannah Bonam-Young
This will be my first Hannah Bonam-Young read after SO many recommendations. From what I’ve heard, it’s beautiful, lyrical, and deeply emotional - with a touch of spice (okay, a lot of spice, apparently). The romance trope might not be for everyone, but I’m looking forward to figuring out Prudence and Milo’s chaotic, heartfelt love story.
An emotional, beautifully written romance that explores connection, vulnerability, and the courage of showing up as your truest self.
Mystery / Thriller
We’re All Guilty Here by Karin Slaughter
Few writers do tension like Karin Slaughter. I’ve been captivated by the few I’ve read, especially Pretty Girls! The TV adaptations have been brilliant too. Her new novel is set in a small town where everyone knows everyone, and no one is telling the truth.
This one’s set to be a dark, gripping mystery that’ll keep me up long past bedtime. Expect secrets, lies, and moral grey areas galore. I’m especially intrigued as it’s the start of a new series (#NorthFalls).
Note: If you’re new to Karin Slaughter, it’s worth checking trigger warnings - her books can be heavy and sometimes dark, but she’s such a master of pacing and suspense.
Witchy Vibes
The Lighthouse Witches by C.J. Cooke
Haunting, atmospheric, and just the right level of eerie - exactly what October calls for. When a mother and her daughters move to a remote Scottish island to renovate a lighthouse, they uncover a legacy of witch trials, strange symbols, and missing children.
I’m saving this one for a dark, rainy weekend, it feels like the perfect blend of folklore, family drama, and gothic suspense. A book to read by candlelight, wrapped in a blanket, with the wind howling outside.
Whether you love a twisty mystery, a heart-squeezing romance, or something that sends a little chill down your spine, autumn is the perfect season to slow down and fall into a good story.
So, light that autumnal candle, pour something warming, and let one of these books keep you company through the cosy months ahead. Let me know if you read one!
Written by
Amy @inkwells_bookshelf
A thirty-something, bookish, gingham-and-gaudy-mug-obsessed girly — and a firm believer that the best stories are read under a cosy duvet, with a strong coffee and a sleepy dog at your feet.
