No matter what your sign is, there’s a novel in your future. If you’re looking for an excuse to curl up a pumpkin spice latte, a pair of fuzzy socks and an autumn-themed book—this is it. Your October horoscope says all you need to know to find the perfect read this spooky season.
- Aries: Rebecca
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It looks like you’re falling in love in October, Aries. This month brings a critical moment in your closest relationships. That said, the timeless gothic novel Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier is your ideal read this month. Brimming with romance, tragedy and mystery, it’ll have you both on your toes and in your feels. For a brief synopsis, the novel follows a young woman who falls in love with a wealthy widower. After moving in with him, she realizes his late wife (and the secrets of her death) both haunt her husband and his household.
Film Alternative: Rebecca
- CANCER: TWILIGHT
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This October is all about getting cozy for you, Cancer. What better way to snuggle up in bed than with the ultimate autumn comfort read: Twilight by Stephanie Meyer. Fall in love with Edward all over again (and yes, Team Edward is the correct team, unless you’re counting Charlie and Carlisle). You are the sign of emotion, and this classic romance will satisfy all your sensitive needs.
Film Alternative: Twilight
- CAPRICORN: THE WITCHES OF NEW YORK
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It’s a career month for you, Capricorn! Much like the witches in The Witches of New York by Ami McKay, you’re getting down to business, and you will certainly receive recognition for your efforts. In this period-meets-fantasy piece, three sisters combat discrimination with magic.
- libra: the shining
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Libra! It’s your season! Though things may start off a little rough this month, your relationships are due to improve, and you’re up for some professional and financial opportunities. With that in mind, The Shining is your spooky season book prescription. Acclaimed yet unpredictable, this Steven King thriller is sure to get you in the October mood.
Film Alternative: The Shining
- AQUARIUS: FRANKENSTEIN
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Aquarius, October means adventure for you. This isn’t exactly surprising, as new experiences and innovations aren’t things you often shy away from. That said, you’re sure to appreciate the raw creativity and timeless novelty of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. It’s time for you to, once again, explore the unorthodox and this OG sci-fi is the perfect way to do so.
Film Alternative: Frankenstein
- LEO: DRACULA
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It’s a month of discussion and open communication for you, Leo. You’re carving new connections and networking (like usual). The classic epistolary novel, Dracula, by Bram Stoker, is in your future. Much like you this month, Dracula leans on open discourse and is fraught with conflict. You’ll definitely relate to the domestic drama this October.
Film Alternative: Dracula
- SCORPIO: THE THIRTEENTH TALE
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It’s time to get things sorted, Scorpio. October is your opportunity to relax, recharge, and reorient. Read The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield for a riveting mystery that will certainly refresh your mindset. This haunting story about the hidden life of an acclaimed author features fascinating characters and plot twists.
Film Alternative: The Thirteenth Tale
- TAURUS: PRACTICAL MAGIC
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It’s time for self-care, Taurus! Your work life is at the forefront this month, and you’re due for a renewal in your professional or personal life. Much like witchy sisters Sara and Gillian in Alice Hoffman’s Practical Magic, this month is your opportunity to embrace who you are to rid yourself of your demons.
Film Alternative: Practical Magic
- GEMINI: THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY
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This month is all romance and creativity, Gemini. Much like the young hedonist Dorian Gray, your October will be rich with passion. To quote the masterpiece, “I don’t want to be at the mercy of my emotions. I want to use them, to enjoy them, and to dominate them.” Seize your emotions this month, Gemini. Indulge in Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray!
Film Alternative: Dorian Gray
- PISCES: THE HAUNTING OF HILL HOUSE
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It’s time for change and transformation, Pisces. Let’s just hope your change isn’t so daunting as moving your family into a haunted house. Complex, emotional and chilling The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson might be just what you need to inspire you to overhaul what’s haunting you.
Film Alternative: The Haunting of Hill House
- SAGITTARIUS: INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE
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Socialize and share this month, Sagittarius. Anne Rice’s Interview With the Vampire is a relationship-driven classic vampire story, featuring a world in which vampires live in a society parallel to humanity. It emphasizes the family dynamic of three vampires and the inevitable dysfunction of their family unit.
Film Alternative: Interview With The Vampire
- virgo: the secret history
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It’s a grind month for you, Virgo. But let’s be real, when is it not? You’re working hard, and even feeling a little paranoid. The Secret History by Donna Tartt will mirror your ambitious mindset, and the murder mystery will match your on-edge energy. Not to mention, dark academia is your aesthetic, and not just because sweaters suit you.
There’s a spooky story for every sign this Halloween season. Take advantage of the turning weather and get yourself in the autumn mood with one of these tried-and-true reads!