Whether you prefer lighthearted romances or multi-book fantasy series, there’s nothing better than settling in with a fuzzy blanket, your favorite tea, and a new cozy read. If you’re searching for your next literary fix for fall, you’re in luck! We’ve gathered a list of a few popular titles to pick up on your next trip to the bookstore.
Define Cozy Reads
Cozy reads are less of an official genre and more of a vibe. When we describe a book as a cozy read, it likely features comforting characters, warm and fuzzy themes, low-stakes plots, and, almost always, a happy ending. Cozy books can be found in every type of genre, from cozy mystery novels to romance titles and more.
Best Micro-Genres for Cozy Reads:
- Hallmark-style romances (think Emily Henry books!)
- Lighthearted cozy mysteries
- Spooky classics
- Dark academia
- Low-stakes fantasy
Popular Cozy Reads That Are Perfect for Fall
As the leaves turn to brilliant hues of orange and red, consider buying a trusty paperback or listening to the audiobooks of these top-selling titles for yourself:
1. Weyward by Emelia Hart
If witchcraft, strong female characters, and historical fiction sound right up your alley, this novel was made for you! With revolving POVs in each chapter, you'll soon find yourself completely immersed in the spellbinding way these women are connected.
2. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
With a heartwarming, found-family trope, a hint of romance, and a quirky main character, The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is sure to win you over as your new favorite cozy read. Mika Moon is one of the only witches in Britain, but growing up an orphan and raised by strangers, she’s learned how to keep her head down and hide her secret from others—with one exception: an online presence where she posts “pretending” to be a witch, thinking no one would ever take it seriously. That is, until an unexpected message arrives, begging her to come to the Nowhere House to teach three young witches how to control their powers. But when you add an archaeologist, a retired actor, two caretakers, and a handsome, albeit prickly librarian, Jamie, into the mix, Mika realizes she may have bitten off more than she can chew—especially when peril finds its way to their doorstep!
This title has everything you could want in a cozy book—charming characters, a whimsical plot, witty and bright dialogue, and a lighthearted throughline about self-discovery and finding where you belong. What’s not to love about that?
3. Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
When searching for cozy reads, BookTok knows best. Before the Coffee Gets Cold is the first novel in Toshikazu Kawaguchi’s captivating magical realism series. In a small café in the back alleys of Tokyo stands a legendary coffee shop that serves more than fresh drip brews—locals say that the café offers the chance to travel back in time. Throughout a single summer, join four customers as they attempt to make the time travel journey. But there are rules to follow—the most important being that the trip can only last as long as it takes before the coffee gets cold.
Filled with elements of magical realism, science fiction, and contemporary fantasy, this beloved novel begs the question: if you could go back in time, who would you want to meet? Cozy, mysterious, and delightfully unique, this bestselling novel is a bookshelf essential.
4. The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore
The Pumpkin Spice Café has it all: cozy fall vibes, small-town living, and a loveable yet realistic cast of characters. When Jeanie inherits her aunt’s old Pumpkin Spice Café, she doesn’t hesitate for a second to pack up and leave her dull desk job behind for a new life in Dream Harbor. Logan, a notoriously grumpy yet gorgeous local farmer, is set in his ways and wants nothing to do with this horribly upbeat new girl—so why does he find himself drawn to her? Will Jeanie’s happy-go-lucky city-girl attitude win him over? Or has she just found the one person in this town who can’t be charmed by her… or her delicious lattes?
If you love the type of romance novel that has you kicking your feet and giggling with delight at every quick-witted exchange, this is the book for you. With a Gilmore Girls-esque setting and grumpy x sunshine character dynamic, celebrate autumn with this spicy and endearing rom-com.
5. Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder by Joanne Fluke
A charming bakery, an intriguing murder, and a suddenly scandalous recipe—Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder is the very definition of a cozy mystery. Hannah Swenson, the proud owner of Lake Eden’s most popular bakery, The Cookie Jar, has her hands full dodging her mother’s attempts at marrying her off. But when Ron LaSalle, a locally beloved delivery milkman, is found murdered behind her shop with her famous Chocolate Chip Crunchies found at the scene of the crime, her life takes a turn for the worse. Determined to save her reputation, she decides to track down the killer—even if it’s the last thing she does!
This page-turner cozy mystery was a smash hit, inspiring 30 more books in the Hannah Swenson series for you to enjoy. There’s something for everyone in this cozy mystery, from the loveable yet fiery red-headed heroine to the delicious recipes included in special editions.
More Hannah Swenson Books
If you enjoyed the first of the Hannah Swenson cozy mysteries, you’re in for a treat (no pun intended)! Buy the next few cozy mystery sequels to continue the obsession:
- Strawberry Shortcake Murder
- Blueberry Muffin Murder
- Lemon Meringue Pie Murder
- …. and many more cozy mysteries!
What Are the Best Ways to Enjoy a Cozy Read?
For some people, there’s nothing better than snuggling up under the blankets with a physical copy of a cozy mystery. Others prefer popping in headphones and listening to a professional bring the story to life with their favorite audiobook service. Depending on your style, you can support Novel by swinging by our sidewalk sales or signing up for our Libro.fm—there’s no wrong way to read!
From cozy mysteries to small-town romances and everything in between, there’s something for everyone at the bookstore. Stop by and see for yourself!
