Fall always feels like the perfect season to curl up with a new book! Whether it’s a cozy romance, a twisty mystery, or a sweeping fantasy. This week’s lineup of releases delivers something for every kind of reader, and trust me, your TBR is about to grow fast!
Here are the books hitting shelves on September 16th that you won’t want to miss.
Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. I was given advance copies of some of these books but all opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting my book-loving habits!
Love at First Fright by Nadia El-Fassi
In this paranormal, spicy age-gap romance, Rosemary Shaw a bestselling horror author who can actually see ghosts clashes with Hollywood heartthrob Ellis Finch on the set of her book’s movie adaptation.
Hallowvale Manor, their filming location, is haunted, but it might be Rosemary and Ellis’s growing attraction that really raises the stakes. Expect banter, ghosts, spice (like SPICY spice), and a cozy-but-sexy autumn vibe.
Why you’ll love it: 👻 Paranormal romance, feuding-turned-flirty tension, cozy manor house setting.
If Looks Could Kill by Julie Berry
It’s autumn 1888, and Jack the Ripper has fled London for New York. But vengeance is waiting for him in the form of Medusa herself. With serpents for hair and a gaze that kills, she’s set on hunting Jack down. Julie Berry weaves together myth and history in this fierce, atmospheric reimagining.
Why you’ll love it: Myth retelling meets historical thriller, with Medusa as the ultimate avenger.
The Many Mothers of Dolores Moore by Anika Fajardo
After losing the last member of her family, Dorrie is left with a chorus of ghostly relatives who won’t stop giving her unsolicited advice.
As she wrestles with grief and the promise she made to return to Colombia, Dorrie must navigate identity, heritage, and family bonds that extend beyond the grave.
Why you’ll love it: A heartfelt mix of magical realism, family drama, and cultural rediscovery.
The Gingerbread Bakery by Laurie Gilmore
Laurie Gilmore is back with another sweet romance set in Dream Harbor. Mac Sullivan has everything he could want except Annie Andrews, the bakery owner he’s been pining for.
With an upcoming wedding bringing them closer together, their bickering might finally turn into something more!
Why you’ll love it: Cozy small-town romance, bakery setting, holiday vibes perfect for fall-to-winter reading.
Wicked Beasts by Shelley Leigh Crane
When Amara Rose takes a personal assistant job at Black Manor, she thinks she knows what to expect.
But between the charm of Mr. Black, the allure of his enigmatic brother Dr. Shadow, and the unsettling mysteries within the manor, she quickly realizes she may be in over her head.
Why you’ll love it: Gothic romance, mysterious brothers, dark secrets, and lushly atmospheric writing.
Hekate: The Witch by Nikita Gill
Nikita Gill turns her lyrical talent to the Titan goddess Hekate. Left behind with her mother during the war between Titans and Olympians, Hekate must survive betrayal, enslavement, and exile in the underworld. There, she discovers her divine strength and carves her place among the gods.
Why you’ll love it: Mythology, feminist retelling, and Gill’s signature poetic storytelling.
Boy from the North Country by Sam Sussman
Evan is called back to his childhood farmhouse to care for his dying mother.
As he faces her decline, he learns the truths she’s been holding back for years and comes to understand the legacy she’s leaving behind.
Tender, haunting, and deeply human.
Why you’ll love it: Literary fiction with themes of family, grief, and identity.
Honey and Heat by Aurora Palit
Cynthia Kumar has always been a winner until her father announces his successor won’t be her, but her one-night stand.
Determined not to be sidelined, Cynthia has to confront her rival in both business and love.
Why you’ll love it: Workplace rivals-to-lovers, sizzling chemistry, and sharp, witty banter.
What’s Your Fall Reader Vibe?
Its that time of year! Pumpkin spice in hand, leaves crunching underfoot… but what kind of fall reader are you? Take our quick Fall Reader Vibes Quiz to find out whether you’re a cozy witchy reader, a pumpkin-spice rom-com lover, or a moody dark-academia type. Plus, you’ll get perfectly matched book recs to fit your vibe! 👉 [Take the Quiz Here]
Final Thoughts
This week’s releases are full of variety! From spooky manor romances to mythology retellings and heartfelt family dramas. Whether you’re craving something cozy, thrilling, or heartfelt, there’s a book here for every mood!
Which September 16th release are you adding to your TBR first?
