From Zadie Smith to Stephen King: Our Top Picks for a Cozy and Spooky Season
It’s officially pumpkin spice latte season, and with the leaves beginning to fall, it’s the perfect time to slip into your coziest sweater and settle by the fire with an enchanting book in hand.
The literary world’s biggest season is here, and publishers are releasing their most anticipated books for us to enjoy.
So, bid farewell to your beach reads for now because new offerings from Zadie Smith, Stephen King, and Jesmyn Ward have been released. Not sure what to go for? Don’t worry. We have curated a selection of new fall reads along with some classic crowd favorites to help you get cozy (or delightfully spooky) this season.
Explore New Releases and Timeless Fall Favorites
The Fraud, by Zadie Smith
When does Zadie Smith ever disappoint? This book is Smith’s first historical novel, which takes inspiration from a real-life nineteenth-century imposture trial. While the setting is historical, this new release is still very much a typical Smith masterpiece.
It tells the story of a Scottish housekeeper who lives with a novelist cousin (William Ainsworth), who she suspects has no talent. She also believes her cousin’s friend, Mr. Charles Dickens, is a bully.
The Fraud is a dazzling novel about truth, fiction, and authenticity — a must-read.
Let Us Descend, by Jesmyn Ward
In the depths of a Carolina plantation, Annis, taught by her resilient mother and African warrior grandmother, faces the harrowing journey of American slavery. Sold south by her white enslaver father, she navigates the unforgiving landscapes, searching for solace in memories.
Let Us Descend reimagines this dark history with poignant beauty, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit amid darkness and offering a tale of love, rebirth, and reclamation.
Crook Manifesto, by Colson Whitehead
Whithead’s latest novel is a thrilling and inspiring sequel to Harlem Shuffle. Set in 1970s Harlem, this novel follows furniture store owner Ray Carnegie, who discovers that staying out of the game is more complicated than he imagined.
Crook Manifesto is a darkly comedic, family-focused saga set in a tumultuous era, capturing the essence of Harlem’s history.
Holly, by Stephen King
It wouldn’t be Halloween without Stephen King, who has treated us to a new release.
Holly brings the beloved Mr. Mercedes’ character, Holly Gibney, who is now a seasoned private detective. When Penny Dahl seeks help finding her missing daughter, Holly, despite personal challenges, takes the case.
The trail leads to Professors Rodney and Emily Harris, seemingly respectable but hiding a sinister secret. Holly faces a chilling showdown with these cunning adversaries in King’s latest masterpiece. 
You, Again by Kate Goldbeck
Did someone say Harry Met Sally? Yes, please.
Inspired by the famous rom-com, this novel follows the enemies-to-lovers narrative we often adore.
Aspiring comedian Arianna and ambitious chef Josh couldn’t be more different. Despite their initial dislike for each other, life’s challenges bring them closer, and friendship turns into romance.
Their journey is marked by witty banter and genuine vulnerability, making their connection feel authentic and heartwarming. Goldbeck skillfully crafts relatable characters with depth and history, creating a beautiful balance of humor and emotion in their evolving relationship.
The Bee Sting, by Paul Murray
As Dickie’s car business faces collapse, he’s building an apocalypse-proof bunker instead of confronting reality. Imelda sells her jewelry on eBay while avoiding advances from cattle farmer, Big Mike. Teenage daughter Cass descends into alcoholism, and 12-year-old PJ plans to escape from a local sociopath.
Irish writer Paul Murray explores the troubled Barnes family in a tragicomic saga, questioning where it all went wrong and if there’s still hope for a happy ending.
The Dutch House, by Ann Patchett
The Dutch House is a story about siblings Danny and Meave Conroy and their deep, almost obsessive bond with the iconic family home from their childhood.
Narrated by Danny across various non-linear timeframes, it explores the unfolding of their lives over the years.
There’s something about this dusty fairy tale that makes it the ideal read for a cozy night by the fire. [Bonus: If you enjoy audiobooks, this one is narrated by Tom Hanks.]
Coraline, by Neil Gaiman
For those unfamiliar, Coraline is a short novella that follows the story of nine-year-old Coraline Jones, who is dealing with a troubled household.
After moving homes, Coraline’s life takes a dark turn as she stumbles across a corridor that leads to a parallel universe with eerie versions of her parents.
As she navigates this twisted realm, she must find the courage to save herself and her real parents.
Charming, witty, and creepy, this book (and movie) is an absolute must for this time of year.
Whether you’re delving into the historical intrigue of Zadie Smith’s The Fraud, navigating the haunting depths of Jesmyn Ward’s Let Us Descend, or embarking on a darkly comedic journey through Harlem with Colson Whitehead’s Crook Manifesto, there’s a tale for every mood and moment this season.
As you journey through the pages of Stephen King’s Holly, experience the charm of enemies turned lovers in Kate Goldbeck’s You, Again, and join the troubled Barnes family in Paul Murray’s The Bee Sting, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of captivating storytelling.
And for those seeking timeless tales with a touch of the eerie, Neil Gaiman’s Coraline awaits, offering a perfect blend of charm, wit, and spookiness.
So, as the evenings darken and the air turns crisp, let these top-rated books be your companions into unforgettable literary adventures. Enjoy and happy reading!