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Books to Get Lost In
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items A collection of stories that pull you in and don’t let go, from haunting gothic halls and magical forests to warm coffee shop romances. These are the books that make you forget the world around you and fall right into another one.
Sections
8
Fantasy & Dark Magic Realms
Timeless Classics and Literary Gems
Cozy Reads for Autumn
Spooky and Goth Reads 🖤🐦⬛
Young Adult Fantasy
Whimsical Worlds for Kids
Fantasy & Dark Magic Realms
Step into worlds where magic hums beneath the surface, kingdoms rise and fall, and every choice carries the weight of fate. These stories are filled with fierce heroines, ancient secrets, and realms where shadows and power intertwine. Perfect for any...
This book had a few twists that were genuinely good… and then one massive twist that had me literally holding my hand over my mouth so I wouldn’t scream. I went in thinking it would be a casual, slower fantasy read and somehow ended up emotionally am...
Shield of Sparrows - by Devney Perry (Hardcover)
The Throne of Glass series completely stole my heart, it’s everything I love in fantasy.
Throne of Glass is book 1 of 7! 5 star read and my absolute favorite series.
A fierce heroine, rich world-building, magic, heartbreak, and characters you grow...
Throne of Glass - by Sarah J Maas (Hardcover)
1
I was hesitant to start this one since I loved ACOTAR and Throne of Glass and wasn’t sure I’d enjoy a more modern, urban fantasy setting, but I ended up loving it. Bryce Quinlin quickly became one of my favorite main female characters ever. Her stren...
House of Earth and Blood - (Crescent City) by Sarah J Maas (Hardcover)
This one took me a little longer to get into compared to the first book. I also wasn’t a huge fan of the new character that was introduced, I felt like that storyline didn’t matter as much to the overall plot. That said, it was still a decent read! I...
House of Sky and Breath (Crescent City, 2)
This ended up being one of my favorites of the series! Bryce is an absolute badass, and I loved seeing her character continue to grow. We also get more characters coming together, which made the story even more exciting, especially seeing different w...
House of Flame and Shadow (Crescent City, 3)
This book, well the entire series as well as the prequel series has me in a chokehold.
This book completely pulled me in. I went from curious to obsessed faster than I expected. The world-building is rich without being overwhelming, the tension is ...
From Blood and Ash Special Edition|Paperback
This one gave me major ACOTAR vibes, like ACOTAR and ACOMAF rolled into one. The story has that same blend of slow-burn romance, court intrigue, and rich magic. I really enjoyed the characters and the worldbuilding; it felt familiar in the best way b...
Quicksilver (Deluxe Limited Edition) Fae & Alchemy
A fairytale wrapped in shadow and sorrow.
Beautiful dark fairytale
•Morally gray love interest
•Monster within
• Found family
•Gothic atmosphere
•Slow burn
My rating: 4 stars
One Dark Window (Deluxe Limited Edition) - by Rachel Gillig (Hardcover)
What makes this book stand out:
• A bad-ass, independent MFC: Hyacinth is fierce, resilient, and impossible not to root for from the very first page.
•Themes of overcoming abuse: Her journey away from an abusive boyfriend is raw, emotional, and empow...
Okay, I’m going to be honest… Book 1 was NOT my favorite. I almost DNF’d it, but TikTok convinced me I had to keep reading and I am SO glad I did. Book 2 completely changed everything for me. I absolutely loved it, and my entire personality became Ve...
A Court of Thorns and Roses Paperback Box Set
This was definitely a more advanced fantasy read for me! The world-building is very complex, and there’s a lot to take in, so it took some time to really understand everything happening. Overall, I really enjoyed the story and the world the author cr...
When the Moon Hatched: Romantasy Novel
I LOVED Book 1! Book 2 was still really good, and I especially loved how two storylines eventually start to merge together. The ending gave us another cliffhanger, of course, and now I’m impatiently waiting for Book 3! Tropes: ✨ Dark fantasy • Enemie...
Rites of the Starling: Shield of Sparrows, Book 2
maybe 3 stars! This wasn’t my absolute favorite, but I still thought it was a good story! I didn’t feel like there was quite as much world-building as I would have liked, especially compared to One Dark Window, which I enjoyed a little more. That sai...
The Knight and the Moth (Stonewater Kingdom 1)
Timeless Classics and Literary Gems
A collection of unforgettable stories that shaped literature and imagination- from Tolkien’s epic realms to the sweeping romance of Outlander and the depth of Dune. These are the books that stand the test of time and remind us why we fell in love wit...
Beautiful story of Theo who meets many strangers and learns of their stories while simultaneously showing us pieces of his own story 🥹
Theo of Golden - by Levi Allen (Paperback) - Target
Dark, obsessive, and haunting in a way that lingers long after the last page.
This isn’t a cozy romance. It’s a toxic love that incudes grief, class, and vengeance set against the wild Yorkshire moors.
Read this for gothic vibes, emotional intensi...
Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte (Hardcover)
If you want to get into classic literature and read Dostoevsky I highly recommend beginning with white nights. It’s a short story so a quick read but it helps you to understand his writing style and who he is. Then go on to crime and punishment!
White Nights
A classic that is definitely worth reading! I loved the dark, gothic atmosphere and the way the story explores beauty, vanity, temptation, and morality. It’s one of those books that feels simple on the surface but gives you a lot to think about under...
The Picture of Dorian Gray (Penguin Classics)
Cozy Reads for Autumn
I rated this one 2.5⭐️
it’s part of the Dream Harbor series, and while it wasn’t my favorite, book 2 definitely steps it up! Still, this one delivers cozy fall vibes, a small-town setting, and a bit of spice, perfect for a quick seasonal read with t...
The Pumpkin Spice Café (Deluxe Edition) - (Dream Harbor) by Laurie Gilmore (Hardcover)
I really enjoyed this one- the story and characters felt so much more relatable and down-to-earth. It has that comforting small-town charm and bookish coziness that’s perfect for fall. I’d give it a solid 3.5–4⭐️ for the heartwarming plot and sweet, ...
The Cinnamon Bun Book Store - by Laurie Gilmore (Paperback)
This was such a cute and easy read! Definitely a slow burn, but I really enjoyed watching the relationship develop. The main character was super relatable, and the whole story had a fun, cozy witchy vibe. Perfect if you’re looking for something light...
A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping
Small-town werewolves + fall vibes! This is like the perfect cozy paranormal romance for autumn. A little spooky, a little romantic, and full of monster boyfriends. 🐺🍂
Howl: Small Town Werewolf Romance (Book 1)
A witchy rom-com with curses, magic, and second-chance romance.
The Ex Hex: Spooky Paranormal Romance
A classic witchy read that has been on my radar forever. 🖤🔮 Witches, family, magic, and a little bit of darkness.
Practical Magic: 25th Anniversary Edition
September release, I can't wait! This one is giving soft, emotional romance. I love the cozy, intimate feel of the cover, and I’m expecting something sweet, heartfelt, and perfect for a quiet fall afternoon.
Love Felt Like This
A fun, quirky paranormal rom-com with a lighter take on vampires, perfect for spooky season but funny and cute.
My Roommate Is a Vampire (My Vampires)
I loved the story/plot! If you love this and haven’t read Good Spirits they are apart of the same series!
Grim Tidings (Target Exclusive) - by B.K. Borison (Paperback)
Spooky and Goth Reads 🖤🐦⬛
For the nights when the moon is full and the air feels enchanted- this collection blends gothic romance, candlelight reads, and cozy autumn chills. Think spooky, thriller, and witchy
4.5 stars!
I absolutely loved this story, it felt witchy in the most realistic and grounded way. The lives of the three women are woven together so beautifully across time, each one strong, resilient, and fiercely independent. The writing is lyrica...
Weyward - by Emilia Hart (Hardcover)
I loved that What Moves the Dead was inspired by Edgar Allan Poe, it perfectly captures that eerie, atmospheric tone while still feeling like its own story. It’s a cozy gothic read with haunting imagery, strange mysteries, and just the right amount o...
What Moves the Dead - (Sworn Soldier) by T Kingfisher (Hardcover)
What Feasts at Night is the perfect follow-up to What Moves the Dead, still steeped in gothic atmosphere but with a slightly different kind of dread. It feels like a dark winter tale whispered by candlelight, with eerie folklore and that same hauntin...
What Feasts At Night - by T. Kingfisher (Hardcover)
Hidden Pictures surprised me, I went in expecting horror, but it’s more of a twisty, psychological thriller with a haunting edge. The childlike drawings woven through the story add the perfect creepy touch, especially if you’re reading late at night....
Hidden Pictures - by Jason Rekulak (Paperback)
We Used to Live Here is a chilling, fast-paced psychological thriller that blurs the line between reality and haunting. It’s one of those books you finish in a day because you need to know what’s really going on. The eerie domestic setting and creepi...
We Used to Live Here - by Marcus Kliewer (Paperback)
This one had me hooked from the beginning! It’s a psychological thriller that keeps you guessing and constantly trying to figure out what really happened. The story is easy to get into, and the twists definitely kept me turning the pages. If you like...
The Silent Patient
This story started out spooky and ended up becoming a paganism/witchy tale!
Slewfoot - by Brom (Hardcover)
Young Adult Fantasy
Dark academia with feminist themes and haunting Inferno references. The writing was so beautiful and I was able to relate to the story as a recent graduate student.
Katabasis (Deluxe Limited Edition): A Novel by R. F. Kuang, Hardcover
This one definitely had some drama surrounding it, with readers pointing out similarities between the series and Red Queen. That aside, I thought it was a fun, easy YA fantasy read! It has romance, powers, competition, and plenty of tension to keep y...
Powerless (The Powerless Trilogy)
Whimsical Worlds for Kids
Enchanting tales that spark imagination and wonder- from magical adventures to heartwarming bedtime stories. Perfect for little dreamers (and nostalgic adults) who love to escape into worlds where anything feels possible.
My all-time favorite children’s book series! These were the stories that first sparked my love for reading- the magical world of fairies, goblins, and hidden realms had me completely enchanted as a kid.
I read a few chapters a night to my kids and ...
The Complete Spiderwick Chronicles Boxed Set
This one is such a beautiful, whimsical fantasy! It has witches, magic, dragons, enchanted forests, and a little bit of mystery woven throughout the story. The writing feels almost like a fairy tale, but there’s plenty of heart and adventure too. 🧙...
The Girl Who Drank the Moon (2017 Newbery Medal)
his was such a fun, whimsical adventure! It’s perfect for kids who love magical creatures and discovering hidden worlds. The story takes you to a place filled with impossible creatures, mystery, and adventure, and it has that wonderful feeling of ste...
Impossible Creatures
Such a fun and charming fantasy read! This one has dragons, adventure, humor, and a really lovable cast of characters. It’s a lighter take on fantasy, making it a great choice if you want something magical without being too dark or complicated. Perfe...
I'm Afraid You've Got Dragons
A classic childhood series that I think every kid should experience at least once! The Boxcar Children are independent, resourceful, and always finding themselves in little adventures. I love how the books encourage problem-solving, independence, fam...
The Boxcar Children Mysteries Boxed Set 1-4
A timeless classic that feels like stepping into a little hidden world. I love the mystery, nature, and magic woven throughout the story, especially watching the garden, and the characters, come back to life. 🌱✨ Such a sweet book for kids who love s...
The Secret Garden (HarperClassics)
Christmas Cheer & Winter Romance
Stories that feel like a warm mug of cocoa on a snowy night. From cozy small-town romances to tales wrapped in holiday wonder, these reads capture the spirit of Christmas- love, hope, and a little bit of magic in every page.
Absolutely obsessed with this book almost instantly! 5 star read 🎄✨
It’s the Christmas carol with a twist! All the cozy feels, peppermint mochas and love interest sent from Christmas past 🎄🥹
Good Spirits - Target Exclusive Edition - By B.K. Borison (Paperback)
5⭐️
This book felt like stepping into a Christmas postcard from the Scottish Highlands. The small town is pure magic, the mother–daughter moments are heartfelt, and the aunts bring the perfect witchy, herbal-healing charm. The MFC is super relatable...
I'll Be Home for Christmas - by Jenny Bayliss (Paperback)
⭐️4.5 stars +++
This book surprised me in the best way. The twists, the heartbreak, and the way the story explores love and friendship were completely unexpected. A quick but powerful read.
In Five Years: Deluxe Edition (Target Prop) - Rebecca Serle (Hardcover)
4.5⭐️
A heartfelt, faith-centered Christmas story filled with healing, hope, and family. Beautiful use of scripture and prayer woven through tropes like military life, mother–daughter relationships, grief, and a widowed wife finding her way toward a...
The Christmas Ring - by Karen Kingsbury (Hardcover)
A heartwarming three-book bundle filled with cozy winter vibes, tender romance, and stories that complement each other beautifully. I enjoyed every book in this series, perfect for anyone wanting a full, feel-good Christmas read.
I’d also purchase th...
A Mountain Springs Christmas: 3-Book Romance
🎄5 Stars
A cozy Christmas mystery with the same warm wit and lovable chaos that made me fall in love with The Thursday Murder Club.
If you like crime-solving that feels clever rather than grim, quirky characters who become instant favorites, and a ...
The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year: A Novel
4 star read! A heartwarming and cozy read that perfectly captures the magic of the holiday season. I loved the charming bookshop setting, family dynamics, and the gentle reminder that it’s never too late to start fresh. Perfect to curl up with by the...
The Christmas Bookshop - by Jenny Colgan (Paperback)
3.8- 4 ⭐️ read
The sequel to The Christmas Bookshop and such a cute surprise. The ending of book 1 had me thinking Carmen’s story was finished…but this one proves it wasn’t! Cozy, charming, and perfect for Christmas.
There’s a happy ending and it’s ...
Midnight at the Christmas Bookshop - by Jenny Colgan (Paperback)
3.5⭐️ The MFC didn’t fully click for me, but the overall story is sweet, festive, and perfect if you’re looking for a quick holiday romance with spice!
The Christmas Tree Farm (Deluxe Edition) - (Dream Harbor) by Laurie Gilmore (Hardcover)
Maybe 3 Stars???
Set in the Scottish highlands, this book was a cute seasonal book that had me wishing I lived in an old castle in Scotland. To be honest the entire book practically took place in this old castle that needed a lot of work. This wasn’t...
The Secret Christmas Library - by Jenny Colgan (Paperback)
4++ star read. Such a cute story that had me wishing I owned a tree farm and cute cottage. Tropes: fake relationship, best friends to lovers, small town charm
Lovelight Farms - by B.K. Borison (Paperback)
This is Book 1, the sequel is listed next “merry Christmas you filthy animal”
How My Neighbor Stole Christmas - by Meghan Quinn (Paperback)
Merry Christmas, You Filthy Animal (Deluxe Edition) - by Meghan Quinn (Paperback)
A cozy, small-town holiday romance and Book 1 of a heartfelt series. This one hit me especially hard because of the emotional subplot involving the MMC’s sister, who is battling cancer. It’s sweet, tender, and full of that Hallmark-movie warmth with ...
The Christmas Pact: A Sweet Holiday Romance
I loved this book, it was a good groundhog day themed holiday book!
In a Holidaze - by Christina Lauren (Paperback)
True Tales & Hidden Histories
For the curious minds who crave truth over fiction — this section dives into the real stories that shaped our world. From the People’s History of America to a cardio thoracic surgeon’s experiences with patients, these books reveal the lessons, strugg...
This book had me in tears- beautifully written, raw, and deeply human. It resonated with me on a personal level, as my late son also had a rare heart defect. Westaby’s honesty and compassion in telling these stories reminded me so much of the courage...
Open Heart: A Cardiac Surgeon's Stories
Chilling and eye-opening accounts of what really happened during the founding of America. I read this as a home educator to teach my children the true story of our history — and to satisfy my own curiosity about the parts that are often left untold. ...
A People's History of the United States