By Sherri Puzey

It’s time for our round up of some of the hottest titles readers are buzzing about this month. As can be expected for October, there are plenty of offerings for spooky season, whether you’re into gothic stories, haunted houses, or true crime thrillers. If you’re looking to evoke an emotion other than fear, the list also includes love stories, a moving memoir, and several family sagas.

How to Say Babylon is this month’s Read with Jenna selection, but it’s also been nominated for the Kirkus Prize. The winner will be announced on October 13! If you watched and enjoyed Luckiest Girl Alive, Netflix’s adaptation of Jessica Knoll’s debut novel (listen to a podcast interview about that book here), don’t miss her newest thriller. What type of reading vibe are you looking to add to your TBR this month?

Read with Jenna: How to Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair

A stunning memoir of the author’s struggle to break away from her strict father and his repressive Rastafarian upbringing.

Reese’s Book Club: Starling House by Alix E. Harrow

A small town, dark rumors about the mysterious disappearance of an author, and a haunted house—if you’re looking for your next read for spooky season, look no further!

GMA Book Club: The List by Yomi Adegoke

A fast-paced novel that explores the dark side of social media when a high-profile journalist discovers her fiancé’s name listed on an anonymous account posting allegations on social media.

Indie Next: Death Valley by Melissa Broder

Darkly funny and wise, Broder’s new novel follows one woman’s remarkable survival of both the desert and her grief.

Barnes & Noble: The Prospectors by Ariel Djanikian

A sweeping family saga that begins during the Klondike Gold Rush and traces its effects over the decades.

Library Reads: Wildfire by Hannah Grace
In the newest book from the series that’s blown up on TikTok, two Maple Hills students enjoy a steamy night together and are surprised to discover they’re both serving as camp counselors for the summer. Will they be able to abide by the “no staff fraternizing” rule the camp enforces?

Good Housekeeping: Land of Milk and Honey by C. Pam Zhang

A sensuous novel that questions how we can enjoy the beauty and decadence of a world that’s dying around us.

Sarah Selects: Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll

A dual timeline narrative that follows two women on a quest for answers about the man whose violent acts have altered their lives. Check out our Q&A with Jessica here!

Target Book Club: The Hacienda by Isabel Cañas
A debut gothic novel set in the aftermath of the Mexican War of Independence.

Zibby’s Book Club: The Whispers by Ashley Audrain

A twisty story about motherhood, desires, and impulse after a shocking incident occurs in a small neighborhood. Listen to the interview with Ashley on Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books here!