When the leaves turn orange and the air grows crisp, there's nothing comparable to settling in with a good book. But with so many bestsellers and classics vying for our attention, it's easy to forget that there are countless hidden gems out there waiting to be discovered. In this article, we'll take a journey through some of the lesser-known works of literature that make the perfect reading list for chilly fall evenings. From forgotten classics to underappreciated modern novels, we've got you covered. So grab a mug of tea, light a pumpkin spice-scented candle, and join us on a journey through the pages of some truly special books.
The Fall Reading List: 5 Must-Read Literary Works
1. Mexican Gothic
Mexican Gothic is a remarkable example of post-colonial Gothic literature. Instead of following the conventional Gothic tropes, Moreno-Garcia introduces a unique approach by portraying a house on top of a hill shrouded in mist, a proprietor who is both malevolent and beautiful, a woman trapped and losing her vitality, and a sense of looming danger that threatens to crush everything and everyone. However, the author also skillfully addresses and challenges the limitations of the genre and explores the underlying forces that shape it, resulting in a refreshing and vividly new perspective that captivates the reader.
2. The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires
Grady Hendrix's latest novel, The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires, unexpectedly merges the genres of cozy mystery and gruesome horror. It is a touching tale of the unshakable commitment of mothers to their loved ones, intertwined with violence and fear. While the writing style is light and easy to read, the depictions of the horrid spectacles throughout the novel add a touch of horror to the story. Hendrix has managed to create a book that is addictive but also can shock readers and keep them on the edge of their seats.
3. We Spread by Iain Reid
In his short novel, We Spread, Iain Reid masterfully crafts a story that leaves a deep emotional and thought-provoking impact on the reader. The protagonist, Penny, is a woman whose age is not explicitly mentioned but is implied to be very old. She has been living alone in her house for many decades, surrounded by memories of her late partner, an artist. When she is moved to an assisted living facility after a fall, she is informed that her partner had made the arrangements long ago with her consent, but she has no recollection of it. The novel hints at the possibility of other unfortunate incidents that Penny cannot remember, adding to the mystery and intrigue of the plot.
4. Motherthing by Ainslie Hogarth
When we delve into the pages of a horror novel, we anticipate being taken by surprise, particularly during autumn when jump scares offer exhilarating entertainment with ghosts, killers, demons, and other creatures lurking in the shadows. However, Ainslie Hogarth's Motherthing shatters our preconceptions by presenting a refreshingly different narrative. It is a domestic horror novel infused with dark humor that centers around a woman's desperate attempts to protect herself and her husband from the wrath of her vengeful mother-in-law's ghost. The story is gripping, spine-tingling, and brimming with unexpected twists.
5. Summer Sons by Lee Mandelo
Lee Mandelo's debut, Summer Sons, is a sultry Southern Gothic masterpiece intertwining Appalachian street racing with academic enigma, all under the watchful gaze of a voracious specter. As Andrew and Eddie, inseparable as brothers, face a heart-wrenching parting, tragedy strikes. Eddie's untimely demise bequeaths Andrew an unsettling legacy, unraveling a tapestry of dark family secrets. Andrew's fortifications crumble amid the treacherous academic world and a hedonistic nightlife, inviting an ominous presence. Summer Sons weaves a haunting narrative where loyalty, betrayal, and the supernatural converge in a tale of profound depth and resonance.
Autumn, with its crisp air and vibrant foliage, provides the perfect backdrop for immersing oneself in the world of books. As the leaves gently cascade from their branches, creating a mosaic of warm hues on the ground, there's an undeniable charm that beckons bibliophiles to cosy up with a good read. So what are you waiting for? Grab a book and start reading. You will eventually find out, In the midst of this autumnal embrace, reading becomes not just an activity, but a treasured experience, a journey through the crisp pages of a book and the rustling leaves outside.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nadelina Agopoglu, American Armenian, is a lifelong literature lover. Nadelina firmly believes in unconditionally supporting creatives in their production, evident through her work at Wingless Dreamer Publisher, a company dedicated to empowering and promoting creative individuals. With a profound love and fondness of Armenian and Women’s Literature, Nadelina explores the intricacies of these distinguished literary domains. Among her favorite literary pieces are In the Dreamhouse by Carmen Maria Macchado and The Fool by Raffi. Nadelina Agopoglu has been preparing her debut in the literary world, having written multiple short stories and a poetry collection over the span of a few years. During her time writing, she has undertaken many opportunities in order to bring her works to their highest potential by working with other creatives and by constantly consuming various pieces of literary work. She advocates for the accessibility of creative production, and strongly believes that everyone should be able to follow their passions and have their work recognized.
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