Recommended Reading: Fall

People talk about summer reading a lot, but I'd argue that fall reading is just as enjoyable. Especially now that the sun has started setting earlier and the temperature has begun dipping below freezing on a regular basis, curling up on the couch with a blanket, a mug of hot chocolate, and a good book seems even more appealing.

Fall is a great time to read thrillers (thanks Halloween), but since I don't do anything that makes me frightened when it's dark outside, I tend to stick to cozy mysteries for fall. This time of year also brings out my nesting tendencies, probably because I don't like going outside in the cold (AKA any weather below 60 degrees), so books about HGTV stars made their way onto this list as well.

The Books

Cocaine Blues - Kerry Greenwood

If you haven't already watched all of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries on Netflix, then you absolutely need to. The books that the TV series is based on it just as delightful as you would expect. Strong, interesting female characters are the absolute best. Spending a few evenings following the story of a lady detective in Australia during the 1920s is a great way to relax.


Murder on the Orient Express - Agatha Christie

Everyone knows that Agatha Christie wrote mysteries, but until I read And Then There Were None, I didn't understand why they were such a big deal. I kind of assumed that I would not enjoy her writing. Turns out I was completely wrong. There's a reason she is the best selling novelist of all time (according to Guinness World Records). Describing a book as page-turning is cliche, but it's true in this case. While I don't plan to try all 66 of her novels, Murder on the Orient Express is well worth the read.


The Magnolia Story - Chip and Joanna Gaines

Like the rest of America, I was slightly obsessed with Fixer Upper. Part of the appeal came from loving Joanna's style, but the other part came from the interactions between the couple. Reading their story made me love them even more. Chip and Joanna have almost opposite personalities, but they work together so well. If you like the show even a little bit, then you'll love this book.


Make Something Good Today - Erin and Ben Napier

Although I'm probably biased, I think that Home Town makes me even happier than Fixer Upper. Watching Erin and Ben restore houses because they are passionate about preserving and enhancing their community is so inspiring. Getting to read their story about how things started off for them makes me think about what I want to do with my life. I loved that I felt like I was able to celebrate along with them during the happy parts of their journey, but I also liked how realistic they were about the times that were difficult. Even if you don't watch their show (which you should), then you still need to read this book. (They also went to Ole Miss, so that should be reason enough.)


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