7 Cozy Books to Curl Up with This Fall

There’s something magical about fall that makes you want to wrap yourself in a chunky knit sweater, sip on hot cocoa, and dive into a good book. These books will transport you and even sprinkle a bit of magic into your evenings. So light that pumpkin candle, grab your favorite blanket, and let's look at seven perfect reads for the season.

1. "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott

It’s impossible to talk about cozy, classic books without mentioning Little Women. The March sisters—Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy—will pull you right into their world of sibling love, personal growth, and the cozy domesticity of the 19th century. Set against a backdrop of crisp New England seasons, Little Women feels like stepping back into a simpler, yet profoundly moving world. If you haven’t read it yet, now is the time, and if you have, revisit it like an old friend. The one I linked is the Masterpiece Library Edition, which is beautiful, but there are many cover designs available.

As soon as the leaves begin to fall, I watch the 1994 film version, as well, and it always makes me cry. That cast makes my Gen X heart dance with joy.

2. "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern

This novel is pure magic. Literally. If you loved the mystical, enchanting vibes of Practical Magic, then The Night Circus will be your autumn soulmate. The story centers on a magical competition between two young illusionists, Celia and Marco, who are bound together by a mysterious circus that only opens at night. Think black-and-white tents, enchanting spells, and a sense of wonder that wraps around you like a brisk October evening.

I feel like I should issue a warning - this is not one of those books you can read a few pages of and then go about your day. It's a grab snacks, get comfy, put your phone on DND, and settle in for a long afternoon of reading.

3. "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows

This charming novel will transport you to post-WWII England, where Juliet Ashton begins corresponding with the members of a quirky book club on the island of Guernsey. Their letters bring warmth, humor, and a little bit of romance, making this the literary equivalent of a cozy blanket and a cup of tea. With its endearing characters and beautiful letters, it’s got that You've Got Mail vibe—letters, books, and unexpected love.

If a book isn't your thing, but this has you feeling intrigued, you can watch the film adaptation on Netflix. It's from 2018, stars Lily James, and delivers drama, romance, and heartbreak. That just so happens to be one of my favorite combinations!

4. "Practical Magic" by Alice Hoffman

If you love a little whimsy, small-town charm, and witchy autumn goodness, then Practical Magic is the book for you. The Owens sisters, raised by two eccentric aunts in a house filled with herbs and spells, are haunted by a family curse: every man they fall in love with is destined to die. This book is the perfect blend of romance, sisterhood, and that fall feeling of impending mystery. And if you haven’t watched the movie yet (starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, no less), make it a double feature!

Honestly, watching Practical Magic in October is like a rite of passage. Even better, make it a watch party with friends or family and get creative with the refreshments.

5. "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

For those of you who like your cozy autumn reads with a dash of dark academia, The Secret History is practically required reading. Donna Tartt weaves a hauntingly beautiful tale of a group of elite students at a small Vermont college who become entangled in murder, deception, and obsession. The rich, atmospheric descriptions will have you yearning for a stroll across a crisp, leaf-covered campus—minus the sinister undertones, of course. It’s perfect for the book lover who’s ready to sink into something a little more thought-provoking this fall.

I like to think that in an alternate universe, I'm a student in New England, single and childless, living in a perpetual autumn, with a closet full of 90s-style sweaters like I used to get at Limited back when malls were amazing and GAP jeans still fit me well.

6. "The Rules of Magic" by Alice Hoffman

Yes, we’re back with more magic—because really, what’s fall without a bit of it? This prequel to Practical Magic tells the story of the Owens siblings—Franny, Jet, and Vincent—before they became the eccentric aunts and uncle we love. You’ll get even more backstory about the Owens family curse, and it’s just as enchanting as you’d hope. You’ll find yourself caught up in their world of love, loss, and—of course—a little mischief. Perfect for those who want to linger in the world of witches a little longer this season.

7. "The Bookshop on the Corner" by Jenny Colgan

Autumn and bookstores are a match made in heaven, right? The Bookshop on the Corner is a heartwarming novel about Nina, a librarian who loses her job but finds a new lease on life when she buys a van and turns it into a mobile bookstore. Set in the scenic Scottish Highlands (hello, cozy), this book is all about chasing your dreams, finding your place, and the love of books. It’s light, feel-good, and will give you all the autumn feels, with a side of Scottish charm.

There you have it—seven books to curl up with this fall. Whether you're a fan of magic, letters, or a bit of mystery, there’s something on this list for every type of reader. So grab one (or all!) of these books, find a comfy corner, and let yourself get lost in the pages as the leaves fall outside.

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