There’s something magical about the start of the ’ber months—those four ending in September, October, November, and December. The light changes, the air grows crisp, and suddenly we crave pumpkin spice, soft blankets, and the kind of books that make you want to stay curled up long after the tea has gone cold.
I was recently scrolling TikTok when I stumbled across a video of a woman who had turned her entire home into a pumpkin paradise. Every corner—every table, every shelf—was covered in gourds of every size and color. At the end, she placed a cake on her marble counter with the words “Welcome to the ’Ber Months” written in cheerful orange icing. That phrase stuck with me, because it perfectly sums up this time of year: cozy, whimsical, and just a little bit magical.
And since cozy vibes call for cozy books, I’ve rounded up six wonderful reads by BIPOC authors. These novels are warm, witty, and full of heart—perfect for Task 18 of the 2025 Read Harder Challenge: “Read a cozy book by a BIPOC author.” Whether you’re after a magical romance, a gentle mystery, or something that blends both, these picks will carry you through autumn in the most comforting way.
Deja Brew by Celestine Martin
Few books capture the spirit of fall as well as this one. Former celebrity chef Sirena Carawy is having a truly disastrous October. Her cooking is off, her career is stalling, and she can’t stop cringing about that one Halloween party. In desperation, she makes a wish—and suddenly finds herself reliving the month on repeat. Think Groundhog Day with a pumpkin-spice twist.
When Sirena crosses paths with Gus, a reality TV star who has come to the seaside town of Freya Grove to mend both his image and his broken heart, sparks fly. Between magical mishaps, second chances, and the healing pull of romance, this book delivers exactly the kind of cozy escapism the season calls for.
Witchy Roots by Zoraida Delgado
Sage Flores has lost her job, lost her sister, and returned to her hometown in search of a fresh start. She rejoins the quirky Cranberry Rose Company, where her unusual gift for communicating with plants proves invaluable. But Sage isn’t alone in her new-old world—she’s forced to work alongside Tennesse Reyes, the high school crush who once broke her heart.
As if juggling grief and romance weren’t enough, her other sister can control the weather in fits and starts, while the ghost of her late sister insists on dropping in with coffee deliveries. Magical realism, second chances, and lush plant magic make this a delightful, layered story about resilience and growth.
The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
This one is pure cozy fantasy gold. In a Britain where witches tend to keep to themselves, Mika Moon—an orphaned witch—feels achingly lonely. She secretly posts YouTube videos about her magic, never expecting anyone to take her seriously. But when three young witches stumble upon her channel, their guardians invite her to teach them.
Mika agrees, moving into their chaotic household, and soon finds herself drawn to Jamie, the prickly but kindhearted librarian helping raise the girls. What follows is a tender, enchanting tale about found family, belonging, and the way love—platonic and romantic—can transform even the loneliest of lives.
The Widow Detects by Ayesha Mirza
Described as “Miss Marple, but make it Desi,” this cozy mystery follows Kausar Khan, a widowed mother who receives a frantic phone call: her daughter Sana has been arrested for murder in Toronto. Though their relationship is strained, Kausar travels across the country to help.
What she finds is a tangle of inconsistencies—both in the case and in her daughter’s life. As Kausar digs deeper, she’s pulled into a web of secrets that only she can unravel. Intelligent, compassionate, and with a sharp eye for detail, Kausar is the kind of amateur sleuth readers will instantly root for.
The Curious Case of Miss Hortense by Marcia Blake
Miss Hortense emigrated from Jamaica to Birmingham decades ago, where she built a quiet, fulfilling life filled with gardening, baking, and community work. Now retired, she prefers to stay out of the spotlight—until a member of a community investment group she once founded turns up dead.
Drawn back into old relationships and unfinished business, Miss Hortense dusts off her long-dormant investigative instincts. Warm, witty, and full of sharp observations, this cozy mystery celebrates both community ties and the idea that it’s never too late to step into the role of a heroine.
The House Always Wins by Claire Kann
Looking for something seasonal and atmospheric without veering into horror? This romantic paranormal tale fits the bill. Lucky, a dedicated parapsychologist, joins a TV crew to investigate a supposedly haunted house. There, she meets Maverick, and the two share an unexpected spark. Unfortunately, the jealous house has other plans.
What follows is part romance, part supernatural intrigue, and part meditation on belonging. With its autumnal setting, quirky characters, and slow-burn relationship, it’s the perfect read for those who want just a touch of spooky flavor alongside plenty of heart.
Wrapping Up the Coziness
The ’ber months invite us to slow down, get comfortable, and reach for books that soothe and delight. These six titles by BIPOC authors prove that cozy doesn’t have to mean predictable—they bring fresh perspectives, magical twists, and diverse voices to a genre that’s all about warmth and connection.
So brew a cup of tea, light that pumpkin-scented candle, and settle in. Cozy season is officially here—and your TBR just got a whole lot richer.