Cozy Supernatural Mysteries to Curl Up With This Halloween
When Halloween season rolls around, some readers love to dive into the spookiest, most chilling tales they can find while others (myself included) prefer something a bit cozier. If you’re looking for supernatural mysteries with just the right amount of ghostly fun without the nightmares, this list is for you. Grab your favorite blanket, pumpkin spice latte, and let’s explore some delightful cozy mysteries perfect for Halloween!
1. Say I Boo by Morgan Spellman
The Abby Spector Ghost Mysteries, Book 1
If you love a good mystery but want your ghost stories served with a side of warmth and humor, Say I Boo is the perfect read. Abby Spector, a lesbian sleuth with a talent for connecting with spirits, finds herself solving ghostly mysteries alongside an eclectic cast of friends. It’s heartwarming, funny, and filled with just the right amount of supernatural sleuthing to keep you hooked without getting too spooky.
Why you’ll love it: The cozy setting, queer representation, and charming mystery make this the ultimate feel-good ghost story.
2. Secondhand Spirits by Juliet Blackwell
The Witchcraft Mystery Series, Book 1
In this enchanting mystery, Lily Ivory is a vintage clothing shop owner—and a witch. She’s moved to San Francisco hoping to lead a quieter life, but soon finds herself involved in a murder mystery that only magic can solve. With a dash of romance, plenty of supernatural intrigue, and a lovable cast of characters, this series is perfect for Halloween when you want a mystery with charm and a bit of witchy magic.
Why you’ll love it: Witchy vibes, vintage fashion, and a cozy San Francisco setting make it an irresistible October read.
3. Practical Potions and Premeditated Murder by Wren Jones
Sella might have a cozy shop and a snarky feline familiar, but life as a kitchen witch isn't easy when your magical abilities are known more for causing trouble than solving problems. When a murder strikes her town and her best friend is the prime suspect, Sella must rely on her magical potions, her friends, and an unexpected ghostly ally to clear her friend's name. With a bit of help from the ghost of the murdered woman herself, Sella’s quest for justice—and her own redemption—begins.
Why you’ll love it: Charming small-town setting, grumpy talking cat, and a delightful ghostly sidekick—what more could you ask for? This cozy mystery blends witchcraft and sleuthing in a way that’s perfect for readers who love magic and charm in their spooky reads.
4. Murder in G Major by Alexia Gordon
The Gethsemane Brown Mysteries, Book 1
If you’re in the mood for a supernatural mystery with a musical twist, look no further. Gethsemane Brown, a classical musician, finds herself in Ireland, where she’s haunted by the ghost of a famous composer. Together, they set out to solve his murder, which is the only way to clear his name. With its atmospheric Irish setting and witty heroine, this series offers the perfect mix of mystery, music, and ghosts.
Why you’ll love it: Cozy Irish vibes, a strong heroine, and a ghostly partner make this a Halloween treat without the tricks.
5. The Ghost of Granny Apples by Sue Ann Jaffarian
The Ghost of Granny Apples Mysteries, Book 1
Emma Whitecastle never imagined her life would take a supernatural turn, but when the ghost of her great-great-great-grandmother, Ish Reynolds—affectionately known as Granny Apples—appears, things get spooky in a lighthearted way. Granny Apples has unfinished business and enlists Emma’s help to solve a century-old murder. Together, this quirky duo investigates the past while navigating present-day mysteries, mixing humor with heart as they tackle ghosts, family secrets, and long-buried crimes.
Why you’ll love it: The mix of family bonds, humor, and a ghostly sidekick with a lot of personality makes this a perfect read for fans of cozy supernatural mysteries with a dash of historical intrigue.
6. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
In Cemetery Boys, Yadriel is a young trans brujo determined to prove his true identity to his traditional Latinx family. When he accidentally summons the wrong ghost—a mischievous spirit named Julian—Yadriel finds himself caught up in a thrilling mystery with a supernatural twist. As they work together to uncover the truth behind Julian’s death, their unlikely partnership grows into something more, offering a blend of magic, mystery, and heartwarming moments.
Why you’ll love it: Cemetery Boys weaves together themes of identity, family, and love with a beautifully written, ghostly mystery, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys heartfelt supernatural stories with queer representation.
Whether you’re in the mood for witches, ghosts, or talking cats, these cozy supernatural mysteries offer the perfect blend of eerie and heartwarming. So, as the nights grow longer and the air grows crisper, grab one of these books, settle in, and let yourself be whisked away into the supernatural—without losing any sleep!
For more cozy supernatural recommendations, be sure to check out my books and follow along on my newsletter.
Happy Halloween!
Top LGBTQ+ Halloween Reads 2024
As Halloween approaches, it’s the perfect time to dive into books that capture the spirit of the season. For readers who love a mix of chills, heartwarming moments, and LGBTQ+ representation, I've curated a list of some of my favorite Halloween reads that I hope you’ll enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for a spooky ghost story, a magical mystery, or a cozy paranormal romance, these books will make your Halloween reading unforgettable.
1. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
A standout in LGBTQ+ paranormal fiction, Cemetery Boys follows Yadriel, a transgender brujo who accidentally summons the ghost of a recently deceased bad boy, Julian Diaz. As Yadriel helps Julian uncover the truth about his death, they form a deep connection that’s both heartwarming and heartbreaking. With its blend of magic, mystery, and romance, this book is a must-read for Halloween.
2. Tuesday Mooney Talks to Ghosts by Kate Racculia
This quirky and heartwarming mystery centers on Tuesday Mooney, a woman who loves puzzles and secrets. After an eccentric billionaire dies and leaves behind a treasure hunt, Tuesday, along with the ghost of her best friend, dives into a mystery full of twists, turns, and supernatural elements. The book’s diverse cast of characters and its balance of spookiness and charm make it a delightful read for Halloween.
3. Say I Boo by Morgan Spellman
This cozy paranormal mystery introduces us to a sapphic part-time magician and her bookish best friend as they get snowed in a haunted estate. Alongside a stressed-out wedding party, our newfound sleuths must determine which ghosts are friendly and which are out for vengeance. With Scooby-Doo meets Dead Boy Detective vibes, this is a fun cozy read packed with queer characters and a sweet sapphic romance.
4. Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
For those who prefer their Halloween reads on the cozier side, Legends & Lattes offers a low-stakes, high-comfort story set in a world where an orc barbarian retires from adventuring to open a coffee shop. While not spooky, this fantasy sapphic romance is a heartwarming escape that’s perfect for a cozy evening by the fire.
5. Spell Bound by F.T. Lukens
If you’re looking for a fun refreshing blend of magic, rivalry, and romance, look no further than this young adult adventure. The story follows Rook, a magicless apprentice who lands a job with a powerful sorceress and finds himself entangled in a web of magical politics. When his Spell Binder device attracts the attention of the Magical Consortium, Rook must team up with Sun, the grumpy but endearing apprentice of a rival sorcerer, to save their mentors and protect their world. With its lively pace, charming characters, and rivals-to-friends-to-lovers romance, Spell Bound is a heartwarming and enchanting tale that’s perfect for readers looking for a cozy, magical escape this season.
6. The Bone Spindle by Leslie Vedder
If fairy tale retellings are your thing, The Bone Spindle by Leslie Vedder is a spellbinding adventure that combines fairy tale elements with a thrilling, gender-swapped twist on Sleeping Beauty. The story follows Fi, a treasure hunter who accidentally pricks her finger on a cursed spindle, binding her to the spirit of Prince Briar Rose. Alongside Shane, a fierce warrior with her own secrets, Fi must navigate a world of ancient curses, dark magic, and sinister forces to break the spell. With a central sapphic romance and an enchanting world-building The Bone Spindle is a great read for those who love a mix of fantasy, mystery, and heartwarming adventure.
7. Ghost Wood Song by Erica Waters
In this Southern Gothic tale, Shady Grove can call ghosts with her fiddle. When her brother is accused of murder, she must use her inherited ability to summon spirits and uncover the truth. The book blends mystery, magic, and music, creating a hauntingly beautiful story that’s perfect for a Halloween night.
These LGBTQ+ Halloween reads offer a perfect blend of spookiness, heart, and representation, making them the ideal picks for this season. Whether you’re in the mood for a chilling ghost story, a cozy mystery, or a magical adventure, these books will ensure your Halloween is full of memorable reads. Happy haunting!