Fall Into a Cozy Mystery: Reading Tips + Death on Dickens Island

Autumn has always been my favorite season. As a kid, I looked forward to back-to-school shopping (I loved picking out a new school bag!) and the excitement of a brand-new TV lineup—remember when shows only had one season a year? As I got older, I started anticipating cozy fall fashion (bring on the sweaters!) and later, as a baker, I spent summer counting down the days until I could dive into all things pumpkin spice. But through every stage of life, one constant has remained: my love of reading. And there’s something especially magical about reading in the fall—cooler weather, shorter days, and the perfect excuse to curl up with a good book.

This year, I’m craving fictional escapes more than ever, and leading my fall reading list is DEATH ON DICKE NS ISLAND by Alison Brook. I had the chance to read it early thanks to an advance reader copy from Crooked Lane Books, and I’m excited to share it with you.

A divorced sleuth in her thirties must bring peace back to her small town after a murder tears neighbors and family members apart in this series debut from Agatha Award nominee Allison Brook, perfect for fans of Cynthia Riggs and Eva Gates.

Delia Dickens has come home to Dickens Island, a small island in the Long Island Sound, after a twelve-year stint in Manhattan. She’s looking forward to helping her father revitalize the general store that the family owns as well as curating a small book nook. Most importantly, she wants to reunite with her fifteen-year-old son. But Dickens Island isn’t the peaceful town Delia remembers–and she might be in more danger here than she ever was in the big city.

Delia’s Aunt Reenie and Uncle Brad, both prominent community leaders, are at odds over the sale of a farm and its future use. This has created friction, not only in their marriage, but amongst the citizens of the town. When a young woman, new to the town council and friendly with Brad, is found murdered, everything escalates and reaches a new boiling point.

With Reenie and Brad both suspects in the case and at each other’s throats, the townspeople start to take sides. When the ghost of her grandmother visits her, Delia learns how past events have impacted the present, and it is up to her to expose the farm’s sordid secrets in order to catch a murderer and restore peace to her beloved island.

Now, doesn’t that sound like a perfect fallish, cozy read? A small coastal town brimming with secrets, a touch of the supernatural, and a community in turmoil—it has all the makings of an atmospheric autumn mystery. And since the story takes place on a blustery island with a general store book nook, I’d recommend a blanket, a steaming mug of cider, and maybe even a flickering candle while you read. Just a thought. Here are a few more ideas for enjoying your reading time this fall:

Take it outside.

The crisp days are perfect for us to take our reading outdoors. I love the sound of crunching leaves as squirrels scamper throughout the yard with their nuts. Sure, they’re a little distracting—but it’s okay.

Curl up with a cozy in a comfy chair.

When the weather is too stormy or you can’t get to your reading until later in the night, a perfect spot to curl up with a book is in a comfortable chair. Because of the shift in dynamics within my household, I’ve rediscovered my beloved wingback chair with ottoman in the family room. Before this month, I honestly can’t recall the last time I settled there to read. Now, you’ll find me there in the evenings after dinner.

Books and sweaters.

Nothing says cozy like a big, chunky sweater and a good book in my hands. When I take my reading outside to the patio, I’ll have on a warm sweater. Whether it’s a pullover or my Aran cardigan, I’ll be toasty and entertained. A perfect combo.

Reading in bed.

Once the weather starts turning cold, I find myself wanting to read more in bed before I go to sleep. Snuggled under my covers and my head resting against fluffy pillows is so appealing on cooler nights.

Books and snacks.

As fall sweeps in, I’m excited that I can leisurely sip a hot cup of tea as I read. I also love knowing that I can bake a treat—like cookies or brownies or pies. Not only will I have a snack while I read, my home smells so amazing!

Light a candle or turn on a twinkle light.

Autumn is all about ambiance. Whether it’s the soft glow of a fall-scented candle (hello, pumpkin spice and apple cinnamon!) or the cozy sparkle of a string of lights, these small touches can turn your reading corner into a warm, welcoming escape.

Create a seasonal TBR stack.

If you love a little intention with your reading, try building a fall-themed TBR (To Be Read) stack. Include books with autumn settings, mysteries set during Halloween or Thanksgiving, or stories that just feel like fall. It’s a fun way to savor the season—one page at a time.

I hope you found some inspiration here today for your fall reading. I’d love to know where your favorite spot is to read—or what book you’re cozying up with right now.

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