This is the first in an ongoing series called “A book for every season” where Technician’s staff gives their book recommendations according to the season. 

If you’re looking for a new read this fall, we’ve got you covered. Here’s the ultimate guide to fall reading — including a diverse range of genres from nonfiction to thrillers — that will set the cozy and eerie ambience of the season. 

“The Secret History” by Donna Tartt 

Goodreads rating: 4.18 stars

This modern classic dives into obsession, morality and mortality, and an air of dark academia envelops the whole story. If you consider yourself a “Dead Poets Society” lover, this should be next on your list. 

Protagonist Richard Papen transfers to a prestigious college in New England and befriends a mysterious clique of classics students. He wants to become part of the crew, but they are a part of a different world — one where they defy the rules of morality and the existence of those around them.  

“Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott 

Goodreads rating: 4.14 stars

Although you’ve likely seen the 2019 movie adaptation of “Little Women,” I strongly recommend you pick up the book and give it a read. We follow the March sisters as they grow into young women, experiencing the trials and tribulations of life along with them. Any historical fiction novel is delightful, but this book takes cozy and comforting to a new level. 

“Twilight” by Stephanie Meyer

Goodreads rating: 3.64 stars

If you haven’t read or watched “Twilight” already, where the heck have you been, loca? While the movies have a melancholy fall feel all of their own, the books are better written than they get credit for. What seems kitschy and awkward on screen is deeply emotional on the page; soon, you’ll wonder why you ever questioned the validity of a vampire-human-werewolf love triangle in the first place.

“Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley 

Goodreads rating: 3.86 stars 

Ah yes, the classic and captivating gothic novel about a scientist whose abandoned creation turns horribly wrong and becomes a monster. How could we not put this on the list? Reading this generationally-loved book will make the Frankenstein halloween costumes pop out at you and make you look mysterious in a cafe this season. 

“The Library at Mount Char” by Scott Hawkins 

Goodreads rating: 4.09 stars

Admittedly, I didn’t actually finish this book. Not because it was bad — it was just that scary. 

Technically classified as horror-fantasy, this read was bizarre but brilliant. It follows six children of “God” who must solve his murder before his enemies steal the secrets of creation. If you want to read something that you have absolutely never read before, this is the book for you.

“The Guest” by Emma Cline 

Goodreads rating: 3.38 stars 

This new thriller is an exceptional pick for fall. Set at summer’s end, it follows Alex, who is displaced in Long Island and desperate for someone to grasp onto for protection. The pace and stress of this book is enough to take your mind off your own tensions during this time of year. 

“The October Country,” by Ray Bradbury 

Goodreads rating: 4.13 stars

Its opening line, “The October Country … that country where it is always turning late in the year. That country where the hills are fog and the rivers are mist; where noons go quickly, dusks and twilight linger, and midnights stay,” was enough to get me hooked. 

An exquisite collection of 19 imaginative, macabre and psychological short stories, a great choice to crack open at the start of the new season. Put down “Something Wicked This Way Comes”and pick up this underrated read. 

“Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion,” by Jia Tolentino 

Goodreads rating: 4.06 stars 

A collection of absorbing memoir-esque essays that dive into self-delusion that shapes our lives and culture around us. This book is full of relevant topics and cultural criticism and will leave you thinking about it for days after finishing. 

Tolentino is sharp and intellectual, a breath of fresh air perfect for someone looking for a non-fiction read this fall. 

“A Deadly Education (The Scholomance #1),” by Naomi Novik 

Goodreads rating: 3.99 stars

“A Deadly Education”is what “The Atlas Six”wanted to be, but couldn’t. Galadriel, the sufficiently feisty female protagonist, studies arcane magic in a school that tries to kill her every step of the way. It includes plenty of monsters, magic and dark academia atmosphere to tide you over with spooky vibes until Halloween night.  

“An Enchantment of Ravens” by Margaret Rogerson 

Goodreads rating: 3.65 stars 

For those who want a fall fantasy book without the nightmares, “An Enchantment of Ravens” follows Isobel, a painter with talent so extraordinary it attracts the attention of the Autumn Fey prince. This book takes you on a journey through dreamy fall landscapes, majestic fairy lands and perilous fights that are so captivating you’ll forget all about your impending midterms.