The EastCoaster

By: Christina Silvestri

As a Scorpio, I truly believe myself to be an expert on all things autumnal and cozy. As a reader, I pride myself on knowing a good book when I see it. Here, I have compiled a list of my fall must-reads that are are sure to please anyone wanting something spooky, dramatic, or cozy. 

Frankenstein (1818) – Mary Shelley

I recently read this classic for the first time and was pleasantly surprised to find out that I loved it. Though the text was written over two hundred years ago, I found it to be fast-paced and the language feels fairly relatable. I recommend the 1818 edition specifically because it is how Mary Shelley truly intended it. The most popular edition of Frankenstein was published in 1931 and features revisions she was forced to make to appeal to Regency Era England. 

Ninth House – Leigh Bardugo

This title has been on my TBR (to be read) for a while now, and it finally feels like the perfect time to pick it up. Ninth House follows Alex as she gets a full-ride to Yale following traumatic tragedies in her hometown of Los Angeles. Though once she starts at the Ivy, more secrets and spirits come to life. Though I have not read this novel yet, Ninth House seems like the perfect dark academia read for those who favor the occult. 

The Ex Hex – Erin Sterling

If you are in the market for a fluffier cozy fall read, I highly recommend The Ex Hex. This rom-com centers around a modern day witch, post-break up. She puts what she believes to be a harmless curse on her ex, but it causes more mayhem than she ever thought possible. I may have to pick this one up again before Halloween. 

Dead Poets Society – N.H. Kleinbaum

I am sure everyone is familiar with the 1989 classic film and I think we can agree there is only one additional way to elevate this autumnal academia – adapt it into a book. Picture yourself bundled up in your warmest tweed and suede, clutching this paperback on a park bench that faces a pond where leaves are falling and ducks are swimming. Sometimes we need to romanticize reading to get out of a slump.

Find some time to sit back, relax, and get started on your next fall read!