Book lovers all over can probably agree that there is no better time for reading than the fall. You can cozy up next to a fireplace with a sweater or blanket with your favorite books. Chances are, you’ve got a nice, steaming mug of coffee or tea with you as well.

Pumpkin spice isn’t the only thing that can spice up your fall. Here are five books to read this fall too.

“Mexican Gothic” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Genre(s): Horror, gothic, historical fiction

Taking place in 1950s Mexico, the protagonist of this book is young socialite Noemí Taboada.

After receiving an ominous letter from her cousin, she takes a trip to the mysterious gothic mansion where her cousin lives with her husband. She quickly realizes that something is amiss.

Her cousin has fallen deeply ill and seems to be slowly slipping into insanity. Despite being told to leave, Noemí is determined to save her cousin and uncover the mysteries behind the enigmatic family she has married into.

“Mexican Gothic” delves into themes of colonialism and racism, as Noemí is often subject to racist comments from her in-laws, who are the white descendants of colonizers. There are also themes of sexism as Noemí goes against the gender roles of her time in her determination to solve the mysteries of the house.

Note: If you weren’t creeped out by mushrooms before, chances are, this book could change that.

Content Warnings: Descriptions of violence, attempted sexual assault, body horror, racism

“These Violent Delights” by Chloe Gong

Genre(s): Historical fiction, fantasy, romance

Does Romeo and Juliet set in 1920s Shanghai sound interesting to you? This book is right up your alley, then.

“These Violent Delights” takes place in Shanghai, China, in 1926 and centers around two protagonists: Juliette Cai and Roma Montagov. Both are heirs to rival gangs trying to assert dominance over the city, but when a supernatural monster emerges, the two heirs must form an unsteady alliance to destroy this monster.

However, Juliette holds a firm hatred of Roma for betraying her in the past and guards her heart against him. A Romeo and Juliet story with some twists and turns.

Note: If you like ruthless female protagonists, Juliette Cai is the woman for you. This is also the first book in a duology.

Content Warnings: Graphic descriptions of violence

“The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches” by Sangu Mandanna

Genre(s): Cozy fantasy, contemporary fantasy, romance

A nice book to cuddle up next to the fireplace with, this book takes place in the modern-day U.K. in a universe where witches blend in with society. Witches must keep their magic secret, or else they risk death, and they must also never stay around other witches for too long, lest their magic goes out of control.

Mika Moon is a young witch in her 30s who makes internet videos about her witchcraft, confident that no one will discover she is actually a witch. One day, someone does, and she is requested to move out to a secluded house on the coast to tutor three young witches in controlling their magic.

However, with four witches living under the same roof, Mika is sure it’s only a matter of time before the powder keg explodes. A funny, cozy joyride that tugs at your heartstrings at times.

Note: A great book if you like a classic sunshine x grumpy romance and found family tropes.

“Frankenstein” by Mary Shelley

Genre(s): Gothic, horror, sci-fi

A classic that surely most have read at some point, whether it was for a book club, on your own or for a school assignment.

“Frankenstein” tells the tale of Victor Frankenstein as he uses his scientific prowess to create life itself and how it becomes his downfall. As Victor’s friends and family become victims of the consequences of his creation, he has to ask himself if he is willing to summon the courage to confront the monster he made.

This book will make you consider a lot of questions, such as: Does Frankenstein have a responsibility to the creature he created? Is the creature worthy of having a mate just like itself?

A good book to read if you love classic literature and pondering difficult questions.

“All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr

Genre(s): Historical fiction

A bit different from the other books on this list, this one is being recommended due to the Netflix adaptation scheduled for release on Nov. 2.

This book is an emotional rollercoaster that takes you between two different timelines, one starting in 1939 and slowly moving forward and one that takes place on a single day in 1944.

Like “These Violent Delights,” this also story centers around two main protagonists: Marie-Laure Leblanc, a blind French girl who must flee to the city of Saint-Malo when the Nazis invade Paris, and Werner Pfennig, a young German orphan who gets inducted into the Nazi ranks and begins moving his way up due to his proficiency with radios.

This story will have you reading on and on to see what happens next, as Marie-Laure and her family get involved in dangerous secret operations against their oppressors, and Werner must consistently face decisions that challenge his morality.

Recommended for those who like historical fiction and World War II fiction and for those who want a story that will absolutely rip your heart out.

Note: You may have to take a brain break after reading this one.

Content Warnings: Descriptions of violence, Nazism, sexual assault, bullying

If any of these books sound interesting to you, consider picking one up from a library or bookstore and giving it a read this fall.