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Dear Cozy Reader,

It’s March, which means I have a fresh list of fun new cozy releases for you!

Below, you’ll find:

• cozy publishing trends

• my most-anticipated releases

• notable titles

• a full list of all the cozies coming out this month

As always, I haven’t read these books yet, so I can’t vouch for quality or coziness level. Be sure to read full descriptions and check content warnings on StoryGraph if you’re a sensitive reader.

I hope this list is fun to scroll—and that it helps you find your next great read!

—Emma

P.S. All links will send you to Bookshop.org, a wonderful online bookseller that supports indie bookstores. These are affiliate links, which means I receive a small percentage when you purchase through them.

Cozy Publishing Trends

This month we have:

• 15 new cozy fantasies

• 2 charming science fiction titles

• 21 cozy mysteries

March brings twice as many cozy fantasies as last month, including new installments from a couple of favorites.

Though charming science fiction remains the least-published category, this month brings a book I’ve been anxiously awaiting. There are also a few fun genre mash-ups.

Quite a few titles from this list are going straight onto my TBR!

✨ My Most-Anticipated New Releases

After perusing March’s new releases here are the top choices for my TBR.

Puzzles & Perils: The Crystal Quest — Laura Jayne Ayres; Dr Gareth Moore
Publication Date: March 3, 2026

This one looks so fun. I will be playing this puzzle novel!

Two village orphans are sent on a dangerous quest to recover a stolen crystal and save their kingdom. Along the way, you must solve 100 fantasy-themed puzzles woven directly into the story. Crack codes, uncover secrets, and outwit dragons and sorcerers to determine the fate of the realm.

Nobody’s Baby — Olivia Waite
Publication Date: March 10, 2026
Dorothy Gentleman, Book 2

I loved Murder By Memory, the first book in this series, and I’ve been waiting anxiously for this next installment!

A baby mysteriously appears aboard a luxurious interstellar passenger ship where births are supposed to be impossible. Ship detective Dorothy Gentleman must uncover who the child belongs to—and why he was abandoned. A cozy mystery in space, full of clever sleuthing, shipboard intrigue, and a very inconvenient baby.

The Somewhat Wicked Witch of Brigandale — C. M. Waggoner
Publication Date: March 17, 2026

“The Somewhat Wicked Witch” might be my new tagline. I just love that phrase so much.

A practical witch raises an abandoned baby—who grows up to be the kingdom’s long-lost prince. When prophecies and scheming courtiers push him toward the throne, she realizes the kingdom would be better off if he never gets it. To save the realm, this devoted mother may have to sabotage her own son.

My Grandfather, the Master Detective — Masateru Konishi
Publication Date: March 17, 2026

I’m a big fan of Japanese healing fiction, and this one is blended with cozy mystery. Yes, please!

A young teacher who loves classic mysteries turns to her brilliant grandfather—once a famed detective—when puzzling cases arise. Despite living with dementia, his sharp mind helps them unravel locked rooms, disappearances, and strange crimes. Together, the grandfather-granddaughter duo solve mysteries while a shadow from her past slowly closes in.

Notables

Sequels, beloved authors, and books firmly in the cozy zeitgeist.

This Will Be Interesting — E. B. Asher
Publication Date: March 24, 2026

The author of the popular book, This Will Be Fun, has a new book!

A once-legendary hero is resurrected ten years after his sacrifice—only to discover someone wants him dead. An assassin, a curious reporter, a determined queen, and a band of unlikely allies join a chaotic quest to uncover the truth. Between magical adventures and dangerous intrigue, there’s just one rule: don’t fall in love with your questmates.

Everyone in This Bank Is a Thief — Benjamin Stevenson
Publication Date: March 17, 2026
Series: Ernest Cunningham, Book 4

Benhamin Stevenson wrote the popular mystery story, Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone, and this is the next installment in the series!

A bank robbery turns into a locked-room murder with ten suspects trapped inside. Amateur sleuth Ernest Cunningham must untangle the competing heists—and the killer among them. With the doors chained shut, the only way out is to solve the mystery first.

The Faraway Inn — Sarah Beth Durst
Publication Date: March 31, 2026

Sarah Beth Durst, author of The Spellshop and The Enchanted Greenhouse has a new novel! (Note, this one is not set in the world of The Spellshop.)

After a painful breakup, a teen escapes to Vermont to help her great-aunt run a struggling bed-and-breakfast. But the crumbling inn—and its unusual guests—seem to be hiding something magical. To save the place she’s grown to love, she must uncover the inn’s secret before it’s too late.

All the New Cozy Releases

The full list of cozy releases I found coming out in March.

Fantasy

I Was a Teenage Death God — M. J. Beasi
Publication Date: March 3, 2026

Puzzles & Perils: The Crystal Quest — Laura Jayne Ayres; Dr Gareth Moore
Publication Date: March 3, 2026

Murder on the Airship — Victoria Bergman
Publication Date: March 12, 2026

Everything Touches the Sun — C. M. Kuhtz
Publication Date: March 15, 2026
Sun & Flame, Volume 1 (Graphic Novel)

Caput Mundi, the Head of the World — B. R. Kang
Publication Date: March 17, 2026
Enarii, Book 1

The Somewhat Wicked Witch of Brigandale — C. M. Waggoner
Publication Date: March 17, 2026

Prodigal Tiger — Samantha Chong
Publication Date: March 17, 2026

Booked at Midnight — Emily W. Andersen
Publication Date: March 23, 2026
Midnights on the Square, Book 2

This Will Be Interesting — E. B. Asher
Publication Date: March 24, 2026

The Vanishing Cherry Blossom Bookshop — Takuya Asakura
Publication Date: March 24, 2026

Dragons, Heists and Other Retirement Plans — Meg Pennerson
Publication Date: March 26, 2026
Hornsboggle & Dodge, Book 1

The Governess’s Guide to Spells and Managing Misfit Marquesses — Amy Rose Bennett
Publication Date: March 31, 2026
The Parasol Academy, Book 2

The Quarter Queen — Kayla Hardy
Publication Date: March 31, 2026

The Faraway Inn — Sarah Beth Durst
Publication Date: March 31, 2026

The Geomagician — Jennifer Mandula
Publication Date: March 31, 2026

Science Fiction

Nobody’s Baby — Olivia Waite
Publication Date: March 10, 2026

The Girl Who Made a Mouse From Her Grandfather’s Whiskers — Kenneth Hunter Gordon
Publication Date: March 17, 2026

Mystery

The Primrose Murder Society — Stacy Hackney
Publication Date: March 3, 2026

A Game of Murder — M. R. G. Davies
Publication Date: March 6, 2026
Series: Cosy Crime Club Mystery, Book 2

Murder in a Cornish Teashop — Fliss Chester
Publication Date: March 11, 2026
Series: Maddie Penrose, Book 1

A Wretched Folly — Lynn Messina
Publication Date: March 13, 2026
Series: Beatrice Hyde-Clare Mysteries, Book 14

The Antique Hunter’s Murder at the Castle — C. L. Miller
Publication Date: March 17, 2026

Finlay Donovan Crosses the Line — Elle Cosimano
Publication Date: March 17, 2026
Series: Finlay Donovan, Book 6

Everyone in This Bank Is a Thief — Benjamin Stevenson
Publication Date: March 17, 2026
Series: Ernest Cunningham, Book 4

My Grandfather, the Master Detective — Masateru Konishi
Publication Date: March 17, 2026

Stakeouts and Strollers — Rob Phillips
Publication Date: March 17, 2026

Death in a Scottish Tower — Lydia Travers
Publication Date: March 19, 2026
Series: Lady Poppy Proudfoot, Book 3

A Country Meadow Murder — Katie Gayle
Publication Date: March 24, 2026
Series: Julia Bird Mysteries, Book 9

The Importance of Being Murdered — Debbie Young
Publication Date: March 26, 2026

Murder at Big Ben — Michelle Salter
Publication Date: March 30, 2026

A Blue Ribbon Murder — T. C. LoTempio
Publication Date: March 31, 2026
Series: Urban Tails Pet Shop Mysteries, Book 6

The Barn Identity — Diane Kelly
Publication Date: March 31, 2026
Series: House-Flipper Mystery, Book 8

The Most Mysterious Bookshop in Paris — Mark Pryor
Publication Date: March 31, 2026
Series: Paris Bookshop Mystery

Two Purloined Pillows — Allie Pleiter
Publication Date: March 31, 2026
Series: Nimble Needle Mystery, Book 2

If Books Could Kill — Karen Rose Smith
Publication Date: March 31, 2026
Series: Tomes & Tea Mystery Series, Book 3

Vengeance in Venice — Erica Ruth Neubauer
Publication Date: March 31, 2026
Series: Jane Wunderly Mystery, Book 7

A Crushing Walk in Cornwall — Nicholas George
Publication Date: March 31, 2026
Series: A Walk Through England Mystery, Book 3

Truffle Trouble — Amanda Flower
Publication Date: March 31, 2026
Series: Amish Candy Shop Mystery, Book 10

💬Which of these books are going on your TBR? Which ones are you most excited to read?

Hi there! I’m Emma Veritas, your cozy reading enthusiast. I delight in escaping to small towns filled with endearing characters—and a touch of mystery, dragons, or aliens. When I’m not sharing bookish musings here, you’ll find me reading at the beach, wandering the tiled alleys of my new hometown in Portugal, or sipping a delicious cup of hot chocolate.

Other places to find me:

📝Follow me on Substack Notes.

🔮Subscribe to my witchy, spiritual, and bookish newsletter, Dispatch from the Wondrous Liminal. Read the latest post: Why Stories Matter

Subscribe now

Dear Cozy Reader,

It’s February, which means I have a fresh list of fun new cozy releases for you!

Below, you’ll find:

• cozy publishing trends

• my most-anticipated releases

• notable titles

• and a full list of all the cozies coming out this month

As always, I haven’t read these books yet, so I can’t vouch for quality or coziness level. Be sure to read the full descriptions and check content warnings on StoryGraph if you’re a sensitive reader.

I hope this list is fun to scroll—and that it helps you find your next great read!

—Emma

P.S. All links will send you to each book’s Pagebound page. I’m not an affiliate. I just love this reading app. :)

Cozy Publishing Trends

This month we have:

• 7 new cozy fantasies

• 2 new charming science fiction titles

• 19 new cozy mysteries

February brings us the start of a few new cozy mystery series with fun premises, like The Bun Also Rises by Jane Elzey, which features culinary school, hexes, and ghosts!

Charming science fiction continues to be the hardest to find, but there are a couple promising new YA novels I’m interested in trying. Cozy fantasy is holding steady, with a blend of adorable, thoughtful, and adventurous novels.

✨ My Most-Anticipated New Releases

After perusing February’s new releases here are the top choices for my TBR.

The Library at the Edge of the Wood by Liz Delton
Publication Date: February 16, 2026
Book 2 in the Cozy Cottage Series

Born with the silver hair and pointed ears of a “cursed” faerun, Everson has spent his life hiding his identity—especially after his mother marries the lord of Wrestia. He leaves the palace at the first opportunity and discovers a magical cottage at the edge of the wood, which he transforms into the welcoming free library of his dreams. But when his stepbrother calls him back to court and a figure from his childhood threatens to expose his secret, Everson must decide whether he can protect both his hidden nature and the safe haven he’s created for himself and others.

Beyond the Crystal Sky by Glen C. Strathy
Publication Date: February 1, 2026
Book 1 of Tales of the Great Generation Ship

Seventeen-year-old Perdit was born aboard a failing generation ship where strict protocols and distant leadership keep citizens from facing a growing crisis. Marked by loss and exile yet gifted with enhanced abilities, Perdit realizes she may be the only one capable of confronting the ship’s deterioration. Battling self-doubt and impossible odds, she sets out to gather allies, reach the elusive Navcrew, and uncover the truth in a high-stakes mission to save her home and humanity itself.

The Bun Also Rises by Jane Elzey
Publication Date: February 2, 2026
A Snooty Foodie Mystery with a Pinch of Magic, Book 1

After enrolling in culinary school, Vivianna Marston finds herself cursed with kitchen fires and haunted by three gourmet ghosts determined to help her break the hex. When a murder in her new Florida town makes her the prime suspect, Viv reinvents herself as a food columnist to investigate while she’s banned from cooking. Surrounded by quirky locals, buried secrets, and a charming firefighter who may be more distraction than help, Viv must solve the case and lift her curse before she becomes the detective’s final arrest.

Notables

Sequels, beloved authors, and books firmly in the cozy zeitgeist.

Agnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat Shelter by Heather Fawcett
Publication Date: February 17, 2026

Heather Fawcett, beloved author of the Emily Wilde series has a new book coming out!

Widowed list-maker Agnes Aubert runs a struggling cat rescue filled with beloved strays, and her careful organization is the only thing keeping it afloat. When she’s forced to relocate the charity, she discovers her new shop conceals the lair of Havelock Renard—a chaotic, exasperatingly charming dark magician who represents everything she tries to avoid. As Agnes navigates magical mishaps, rescue cats, and unexpected partnership, she begins to see past Havelock’s legend and considers the possibility of adventure, healing, and even romance, in a warm fantasy about second chances for both people and pets.

All the New Cozy Releases

The full list of cozy releases I found coming out in February.

Fantasy

A Witch and Her Orc by Emberly Wyndham
Publication Date: February 3, 2026
Book 3 of Coven Crest Academy

Books & Bewitchment by Isla Jewell
Publication Date: February 3, 2026
Book 1 of Arcadia Falls

The Baby Dragon Bookshop by A. T. Qureshi
Publication Date: February 12, 2026
Book 3 of Baby Dragon series

The Library at the Edge of the Wood by Liz Delton
Publication Date: February 16, 2026
Cozy Cottage Series

Agnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat Shelter by Heather Fawcett
Publication Date: February 17, 2026

Teo and the Banyan Tree by Jacob C. Sadler
Publication Date: February 24, 2026

The Calico Cat at the Chibineko Kitchen by Yuta Takahashi
Publication Date: February 24, 2026
Book 2 of Meals to Remember at the Chibineko Kitchen Series

Science Fiction

Beyond the Crystal Sky by Glen C. Strathy
Publication Date: February 1, 2026
Book 1 of Tales of the Great Generation Ship

The People’s Library by Veronica G. Henry
Publication Date: February 1, 2026

Mystery

The Bun Also Rises by Jane Elzey
Publication Date: February 2, 2026
A Snooty Foodie Mystery with a Pinch of Magic, Book 1

Death of a Groom by M. C. Beaton
Publication Date: February 10, 2026

The Midnight Taxi by Yosha Gunasekera
Publication Date: February 10, 2026

The Antique Store Detective and the Riverside Murders by Clare Chase
Publication Date: February 11, 2026
A Bella Winter Mystery, Book 4

Poison at the Wild Haggis Bookshop by Jackie Baldwin
Publication Date: February 17, 2026
The Highland Bookshop Murders, Book 2

Death By The Dozen by D.B. Borton
Publication Date: February 17, 2026

Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson
Publication Date: February 17, 2026

A Country Manor Murder by Alice Castle
Publication Date: February 18, 2026
Sarah Vane Mysteries, Book 5

The Case of the Christie Curse by Kelly Oliver
Publication Date: February 21, 2026

Murder at Sea by Helena Dixon
Publication Date: February 23, 2026
A Miss Underhay Mystery, Book 23

The Witty Witches of Concord by Elizabeth Dunne
Publication Date: February 24, 2026
Concord Mystery Series, Book 2

The Whisking Hour by Ellie Alexander
Publication Date: February 24, 2026
A Bakeshop Mystery, Book 22

A Whiff of Murder by Angela M. Sanders
Publication Date: February 24, 2026

Easter Egg Murder by Leslie Meier, Lee Hollis, and Peggy Ehrhart
Publication Date: February 24, 2026

Murder by Moonrise by Patrice McDonough
Publication Date: February 24, 2026
A Dr. Julia Lewis Mystery, Book 3

Murder at an Irish Session by Carlene O’Connor
Publication Date: February 24, 2026
An Irish Village Mystery, Book 12

Booking for Trouble by Jenn McKinlay
Publication Date: February 24, 2026

Murder at the Homecoming by Merryn Allingham
Publication Date: February 27, 2026
A Flora Steele Mystery, Book 13

The Mysterious Death of Aunt Jane by S. E. Rayner
Publication Date: February 28, 2026

💬Which of these books are going on your TBR? Which ones are you most excited to read?

Hi there! I’m Emma Veritas, your cozy reading enthusiast. I delight in escaping to small towns filled with endearing characters—and just a touch of mystery, dragons, or aliens. When I’m not sharing bookish musings here, you’ll find me reading at the beach, wandering the tiled alleys of my new hometown in Portugal, or sipping a delicious cup of hot chocolate.

Other places to find me:

📝Follow me on Substack Notes for daily tarot to refill your well.

🔮Subscribe to my other bookish newsletter for book-loving witches and mystics—Reading by Starlight

Special New Year Discount

Dear Cozy Reader,

It’s January, which means I have a fresh list of fun new cozy releases for you!

Each month brings a new batch of cozy mysteries, gentle fantasies, and charming sci-fi tales, and I’ve gathered the books that caught my attention this time around. Think of this as a curated stroll through the cozy shelves.

Below, you’ll find:

• cozy publishing trends

• my most-anticipated releases

• notable titles

• and a full list of all the cozies coming out this month

As always, I haven’t read these books yet, so I can’t vouch for quality. Be sure to read full descriptions and check content warnings on StoryGraph if you’re a sensitive reader.

I hope this list is fun to scroll—and that you find your next great read.

—Emma

Cozy Publishing Trends

The beginning of the year brings us:

• 7 new gentle fantasies

• 1 new charming science fiction title

• 17 new cozy mysteries

As usual, cozy mysteries dominate the list, with many authors releasing sequels in long-running (and newly launched) series.

I’m especially excited about a potential standout cozy fantasy: How to Lose a Goblin in Ten Days by Jessie Sylva. I’m always happy to pick up a book that cites The Spellshop as a read-alike.

✨ My Most-Anticipated New Releases

After perusing January’s new releases, these are the books that went straight onto my to-read list.

How to Lose a Goblin in Ten Days by Jessie Sylva

Release Date: January 20, 2026
Genre: Cozy Fantasy

Why It Caught My Eye:
A cozy fantasy romance with The Spellshop energy and cottagecore charm. Opposites-attract romcom vibes, magical forests, home cooking, and just enough adventure to keep things lively.

Plot Summary:
When a halfling, Pansy, and a goblin, Ren, both believe they’ve inherited the same cottage, they agree to live together until one gives up their claim. Forced proximity and cultural misunderstandings slowly turn into affection—but when the cottage (and their communities) are threatened, they must work together to protect what matters.

The Starseekers: A Murder and Magic Novel by Nicole Glover

Release Date: January 6
Genre: Cozy Mystery / Fantasy / Science Fiction

Why It Caught My Eye:
I love a smart genre mash-up. Think Indiana Jones–style adventure meets Hidden Figures, with science, history, mystery, and magic all colliding in a stand-alone story set in the world of The Conductors.

Plot Summary:
In the 1960s, the race to space is fueled not just by science and math, but by magic. Cynthia Rhodes, an arcane engineer at NASA’s Ainsworth Research Labs, balances her work with hosting a magical educational program—and indulging her longtime talent for amateur sleuthing.

Artifact Space by Miles Cameron

Release Date: January 27, 2026
Genre: Science Fiction

Why It Caught My Eye:
There hasn’t been much new sci-fi grabbing my attention lately, but this one looks promising. I’m not sure how cozy it will be, but it feels like a solid pick for readers who enjoy big worlds and classic spacefaring stories.

Plot Summary:
The Greatships are the backbone of human space—massive cargo vessels hauling priceless goods between distant hubs and alien trading partners. When something begins hunting them, Marca Nbaro risks everything to earn a place aboard the Greatship Athens, only to find that survival in deep space demands more than ambition.

The Case of the Murdered Muckraker by Rob Osler

Release Date: January 27, 2026
Book 2 of Harriet Morrow

Why It Caught My Eye:
A bike-riding, independent, lesbian P.I. in turn-of-the-20th-century Chicago? I want to read more historical mysteries, and this pitch sealed it.

Plot Summary:
Chicago, 1898. Junior detective Harriet Morrow is determined to prove herself at the Prescott Agency, but her latest case—tied to political corruption—pushes her far beyond her comfort zone.

Murder by the Book by M. R. G. Davies

Release Date: January 23, 2026
Book 1 of A Cozy Crime Club

Why It Caught My Eye:
A bookish mystery centered on a tight-knit reading group at an independent bookshop. When one of their own is murdered, they decide to investigate. Enough said.

Notables

Sequels, beloved authors, and books firmly in the cozy zeitgeist.

A Very Novel Murder by Ellie Alexander

Release Date: January 20, 2026
Book 1 of Novel Detectives

Why It’s Notable:
A brand-new cozy mystery series from Ellie Alexander, author of several much-loved series—always worth paying attention to.

All the New Cozy Releases

Below is the full list of cozy releases I found coming out in January. I search for new releases using NetGalley, so I may miss a few. If there’s a cozy you’re excited about that didn’t make this list, feel free to share it in the comments!

Fantasy

• The Starseekers by Nicole Glover

  Publication Date: January 6

  Book 4 of Murder and Magic

• The Elsewhere Express by Samantha Sotto Yambao

  Publication Date: January 20, 2026

• How to Lose a Goblin in Ten Days by Jessie Sylva

  Publication Date: January 20, 2026

• Soul of a Gentleman Witch by David Ferarro

  Publication Date: January 20, 2026

• A Barista’s Guide to Love & Larceny by Caroline Bonin

  Publication Date: January 13, 2026

• A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes by Jack Halpern; Peter Kujawinski

  Publication Date: January 13, 2026

• A Midnight Pastry Shop Called Hwawoldang by Lee Onhwa

  Publication Date: January 13, 2026

  ✅Cozy Reading Challenge: a baked good is central to the story

Science Fiction

• Artifact Space by Miles Cameron

  Publication Date: January 27, 2026

Mystery

• Murder, Hijinks, and the Peridot Cufflinks by Lynn Rankin-Esquer

  Publication Date: January 2, 2026

  Book 2 of Order Out of Chaos Mystery

• Of Marriage and Murder by Phillipa Nefri Clark

  Publication Date: January 6, 2026

  Book 1 of A Travelling Celebrant Mystery

• Mayhem on the Marzipan Express by Rebecca Connolly

  Publication Date: January 6, 2026

  Book 2 of A Claire Walker Mystery

• You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ by Nicholas George

  Publication Date: January 6, 2026

  Book 2 of An Adam Parrall Mystery

• Jammed with Secrets by Selina Hill

  Publication Date: January 13

  Book 1 of a Festival Myster

• The Berlin Murders by Fiona Veitch Smith

  Publication Date: January 13

  Book 5 of Miss Clara Vale Mysteries

• The Chateau Murder by Greg Mosse

  Publication Date: January 15

  Book 2 of French Village Mystery

• A Very Novel Murder by Ellie Alexander

  Publication Date: January 20, 2026

  Book 1 of Novel Detectives

• A Bride’s Guide to Happiness and Homicide by Kristen Bird

  Publication Date; January 23, 2026

  Book 3 of A Dakota Green Mystery

• Murder by the Book by M. R. G. Davies

  Publication Date: January 23, 2026

  Book 1 of A Cozy Crime Club

• Tell-Tale Treats by Jennifer J. Chow

  Publication Date: January 27, 2026

  Book 3 of Magical Fortune Cookie

  ✅Cozy Reading Challenge - a baked good is central to the story

• Buried Lies by Kathleen Donnelly

  Publication Date: January 27, 2026

  Book 4 of National Forest K-9

  ✅Cozy Reading Challenge - the dog is the sleuth

• Smeg by Diane Wishart

  Publication Date: January 27, 2026

• Death by Irish Coffee by Alex Erickson

  Publication Date: January 27, 2026

  Book 15 of a Bookstore Cafe Mystery

  ✅Cozy Reading Challenge — a bookish cafe

• The Case of the Murdered Muckraker by Rob Osler

  Publication Date: January 27, 2026

  Book 2 of Harriet Morrow

• Murder from A to Z by V.M. Burns

  Publication Date: January 27, 2026

  Book 11 of Mystery Bookshop

• A Spirited Supper at Dundoon Castle by Darci Hannah

  Publication Date: January 27, 2026

  Book 2 of A Foods and Spirits Mystery

Hi there! I’m Emma Veritas, your cozy reading enthusiast. I delight in escaping to small towns filled with endearing characters—and just a touch of mystery, dragons, or aliens. When I’m not sharing bookish musings here, you’ll find me reading at the beach, wandering the tiled alleys of my new hometown in Portugal, or sipping a delicious cup of hot chocolate.

Other places to connect:

👉Don’t miss my other newsletter, Mystics Reading Society. Join us for weekly chapter-by-chapter read alongs of spiritual books. We start Mirrors in the Earth: Reflections on Self-Healing from the Living World by Asia Suler on January 11.

Subscribe now

Dear Cozy Reader,

It’s December, and that means I have a fresh list of fun new cozy releases for you. This month, I’m switching up how I do this post. There are simply so many cozies being released that writing long lists with rewritten synopses has started taking too much time—and honestly, it was beginning to lose its delightful writing joy!

So, instead of a full list with rewritten blurbs, here’s what you’ll find in this letter:

• Cozy publishing trends

• A superlatives list of the new cozies that caught my eye

• Notable sequels

• A title-only list of all of the cozies coming out this month

I hope you’ll find this new format fun to scroll through and that it helps you quickly spot the books you’re most excited about this month!

Emma

Each month brings a fresh batch of cozy mysteries, whimsical fantasies, and charming sci-fi tales. I’ve gathered the books that caught my attention this month. Think of this as a curated stroll through the cozy shelves: a little atmosphere, a little intrigue, and a handful of titles that might become your next comfort read.

As always, I have not read these books, so I can’t vouch for the quality, and make sure you read the full descriptions and check the content warnings on StoryGraph if you’re a sensitive reader!

Cozy Publishing Trends

We’re starting to see some clear patterns in the cozy landscape:

• September, October, and November brought a flood of cozy mysteries and cozy fantasies (often delightfully blended together).

• Charming sci-fi has been on the lighter side recently—none this month—but I spotted some delightful titles coming in January.

• If you’re craving festive reads, you’ll find a couple sprinkled into December’s releases, but the real holiday magic is still back in the September, October, and November titles. Those lists are well worth revisiting!

✨ Most Intriguing Cozy of the Month

My Fair Frauds by Lee Kelly & Jennifer Thorne
Release Date: December 2, 2025

Why It Caught My Eye: I love Gilded Age stories—like the show The Gilded Age and the historical mystery The Wharton Plot by Mariah Fredericks.

Plot Summary:
A glamorous con artist posing as a dethroned duchess and a sharp-witted magician’s assistant join forces to swindle Gilded Age New York—navigating glittering balls, dangerous power brokers, and their own shifting loyalties as their biggest heist threatens to unravel.

🔮 Witchy or Magical Cozy Pick

Secrets, Spells, and Chocolate by Marisa Churchill
Release Date: December 9, 2025

Why It Caught My Eye: I’m intrigued by the blend of a witchy storyline and a magical cooking competition!

Plot Summary:
A determined young witch-chef enters the world’s most prestigious magical cooking competition to clear her family’s name—only to uncover a simmering mystery that could make or break her future at the enchanted culinary school of her dreams.

📚 Bookish Cozy Pick

Crime Rangoon by Vivien Chien (Noodle Shop Mystery #12)
Release Date: December 30, 2025

Why It Caught My Eye: I love the idea of a murder playing out exactly like a book. It reminds me a bit of the movie Jewel of the Nile, which I adored when I was younger.

Plot Summary:
When a bestselling author is murdered in the exact manner described in her newest book, Lana Lee teams up with her detective boyfriend for the first time—racing through fictional clues brought to life before the killer can write their final chapter.

🕵️ Festive Mystery Pick

The Snow Lies Deep by Paula Munier (Mercy Carr Mystery #7)
Release Date: December 2, 2025

Why It Caught My Eye: I have a short list of holiday romances I’m reading this month, but I’ve been looking for a festive mystery—and this one might be the perfect pick!

Plot Summary:
When the town mayor is murdered during the Solstice Soirée—his body theatrically staged like a ritual offering—Mercy and Troy race to stop a Yuletide-themed killer targeting Northshire’s elite, before the next victim hits heartbreakingly close to home.

🍽️ All About Food Cozy Pick

May Contain Murder by Orlando Murrin (Chef Paul Delamare Mystery #2)
Release Date: December 16, 2025

Why It Caught My Eye: I love a punny title, and I’m intrigued by a “chef-turned-writer” sleuth!

Plot Summary:
When chef-turned-writer Paul Delamare is invited aboard a glamorous superyacht, luxury quickly curdles into danger as a missing necklace, a disastrous hired chef, and a grisly onboard murder trap him in a storm-lashed locked-room puzzle—one where the killer may be closer than the galley.

Notable Sequels

Crime Rangoon by Vivien Chien (Noodle Shop Mystery #12)
This series has been going strong since 2018, and we’re already at book twelve! I haven’t started it yet, but I think it’s probably time.

All the New Cozy Release

I search for new releases using NetGalley, which means I might miss a few along the way. If you’re excited about a cozy coming out this month that didn’t make it into this roundup, feel free to share it in the comments—and I’ll happily add it to the list!

Fantasy

• Secrets, Spells, and Chocolate — Marisa Churchill
  Release Date: December 9, 2025

• She Can Only Marry a Dragon: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales — Kristina Kamaeva
  Release Date: December 20, 2025

Mystery

• The Snow Lies Deep — Paula Munier (Mercy Carr Mystery #7)
  Release Date: December 2, 2025

• My Fair Frauds — Lee Kelly & Jennifer Thorne
  Release Date: December 2, 2025

• All My Bones — P. J. Nelson (An Old Juniper Bookshop Mystery)
  Release Date: December 2, 2025

• Missing in St Ives — Deborah Fowler (St Ives Mysteries #3)
  Release Date: December 5, 2025

• Murder on a Frosty Night — Verity Bright (Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery #24)
  Release Date: December 8, 2025

• The Cold Case and the Corpse — Debra Sennefelder (A Food Blogger Mystery #8)

  Release Date: December 9, 2025

• Murder at the Folly — Jane Adams
  Release Date: December 9, 2025

• An Ambush of Tigers — Sarah Yarwood-Lovett (Dr. Nell Ward Mystery #7)
  Release Date: December 9, 2025

• Murder in Manhattan — Julie Mulhern
  Release Date: December 9, 2025

• May Contain Murder — Orlando Murrin (Chef Paul Delamare Mystery #2)
  Release Date: December 16, 2025

• Crime Rangoon — Vivien Chien (Noodle Shop Mystery #12)
  Release Date: December 30, 2025

Hi there! I’m Emma Veritas, your cozy reading enthusiast. I delight in escaping to small towns filled with endearing characters—and just a touch of mystery, dragons, or aliens. When I’m not sharing bookish musings here, you’ll find me reading at the beach, wandering the tiled alleys of my new hometown in Portugal, or sipping a delicious cup of hot chocolate.

Other places to connect:

👉If you love to read spiritual books don’t miss my other newsletter, Mystics Reading Society. Join us for weekly chapter-by-chapter read alongs. We’re currently reading When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron. Read the most recent post: Three Methods for Working With Chaos

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Dear Cozy Reader,

Welcome to another edition of Hot Off the Cozy Press! On the first Saturday of each month, I round up the latest cozy releases—spanning fantasy, mystery, and charming sci-fi—so we can keep an eye on what’s new in cozy lit together.

November brings a slowdown in witchy and paranormal mysteries, but plenty of festive whodunits to curl up with. Plus, there’s a delightful new cozy fantasy from Travis Baldree—the latest installment in the Legends & Lattes series!

A few quick notes before we dive in:

• I haven’t read these books myself (my TBR tower would crumble if I tried!), so I can’t personally vouch for the coziness level or overall quality.

• I’ve selected titles that seem like a great fit for the Sleuth Hero Alien community—but publishers sometimes call things “cozy” that…aren’t. So always trust your own instincts.

• Book summaries are taken directly from publisher descriptions.

When you’re done browsing, I’d love to hear which titles you’re most excited about!

Note: This month’s roundup is a long one—you may find it easier to click through and enjoy it on the webpage.

—Emma

Cozy Fantasy

The Midnight Book Club by Emily W. Andersen

Release Date: November 3

In a Nutshell: A struggling writer inherits a magical bookshop where literary characters come to life—and as she rewrites their stories, she just might find the courage to rewrite her own.

The Amberglow Candy Store by Hiyoko Kurisu

Release Date: November 11

In a Nutshell: A mysterious fox spirit runs a moonlit sweet shop where each magical confection heals the heart—but every wish granted comes with a tender, unexpected twist.

The Reluctant Reaper by MaryJanice Davidson

Release Date: November 11

In a Nutshell: Death’s daughter wants nothing to do with the family business—but when her father falls mysteriously ill, she must step into his role (temporarily!) and face fate and love with a darkly funny twist.

Brigands & Breadknives by Travis Baldree

Series: Legends & Lattes #2

Release Date: November 11

In a Nutshell: A weary bookseller seeks a fresh start beside an old friend’s café, only to tumble into a chaotic quest with unlikely companions—and rediscover that adventure (and self-renewal) can strike when you least expect it.

Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore by Emily Krempholtz

Release Date: November 18

In a Nutshell: A reformed dark witch and a grumpy alchemist must join forces to stop a magical plague—and in the process, discover that second chances (and love) can bloom even from the darkest roots.

Charming Science Fiction

The Story of Oog: Or, A New Thinker’s Guide to the Forest by Len Vlahos

Release Date: November 3

In a Nutshell: When a prehistoric teen has his very first thought—and promptly loses his village’s fire—he sets off on a hilarious, heartfelt quest that explores what it means to think, feel, and be human.

Stars Like Us by Stephen K. Stanford

Release Date: November 4

In a Nutshell: In this sequel to Jubilee, a space station security chief’s fight to save his family thrusts him into political intrigue, personal reckoning, and a perilous reunion with his ex-wife—set against the glittering chaos of a Vegas-in-space universe.

The Cordelia Solution by Chris M. Arnone

Series: Jayu City Chronicles #3

Release Date: November 11

In a Nutshell: A reformed thief goes undercover with only her apprentice and outlawed AI for backup—risking her life, her city, and her heart as her mission leads to unexpected danger and forbidden love.

Falling Through Space: A Novella by Michael L. Stevens

Release Date: November 11

In a Nutshell: A naïve astrophysics student joins a dubious deep-space mission aboard a mysterious ship—only to discover aliens, danger, and unexpected lessons in love and what it means to be human.

My Big Goblin Space Program: an Astronaut Reincarnation LitRPG by Scott Warren

Release Date: November 11

In a Nutshell: In the first book of this hilarious isekai series, a would-be astronaut wakes up as a goblin king on another world—and decides to lead his chaotic followers on an interstellar quest to reach the moon, no matter how absurd it gets.

Witchy or Paranormal Cozy Mysteries

All Spooked Up by E.J. Copperman

Series: Haunted Paint Story Mysteries #1

Release Date: November 4

In a Nutshell: In this first Haunted Paint Store Mystery, a small-town shop owner teams up with the ghost of her dead father to solve a murder in her newly inherited paint store—mixing cozy sleuthing with a splash of supernatural humor.

The Lady on Esplanade by Karen White

Series: Royal Street #3

Release Date: November 4

In a Nutshell: In the third Royal Street novel, Nola’s plans to flip a haunted New Orleans house spiral into spectral chaos when old flames, hidden secrets, and restless ghosts collide—threatening her fresh start in the Big Easy.

Festive Cozy Mysteries

Crescent City Christmas Chaos by Ellen Byron

Series: Vintage Cookbook Mysteries #4

Release Date: November 4

In a Nutshell: In the fourth Vintage Cookbook Mystery, a New Orleans Christmas turns deadly when Ricki’s mother is accused of murder—sending Ricki on a festive, food-filled hunt to clear her name before the holidays are ruined.

The Holly Village Murders by Benedict Brown

Series: Marius Quin Mysteries #6

Release Date: November 10

In a Nutshell: In this charming 1920s Christmas mystery, amateur sleuths Marius and Lady Bella trade quiet holidays for murder and missing art as they unravel secrets and scandals in a snow-covered English village.

Where the Bodies Are Berried by Peg Cochran

Series: Cranberry Cove Mysteries #10

Release Date: November 11

In a Nutshell: In this Cranberry Cove Mystery, a festive pet photo fundraiser turns deadly when a wealthy donor is found dead—sending cranberry farmer Monica sleuthing through secrets, greed, and winter storms to catch a killer before Christmas.

The Dog Sitter Detective’s Christmas Tail by Antony Johnston

Series: Dog Sitter Detective # 4

Release Date: November 20 11/20/2025

In a Nutshell: In this festive mystery, a snowed-in Somerset commune, a pack of retired spies, and one untimely murder turn Gwinny’s quiet Christmas plans into a delightfully twisty holiday whodunit.

Murder at Midwinter Farm by Helena Dixon.

Series: Miss Underhay Mystery #22

Release Date: November 24

In a Nutshell: In this wintry Miss Underhay Mystery, a vanished farmer, a buried body, and a string of chilling secrets lead Kitty and Matt into a tangled web of murder and mischief amid the snow-covered hills of 1930s Devon.

Murder at the Scottish Ball by Millicent Binks

Series: Opal Laplume Mystery #3

Release Date: November 28

In a Nutshell: In this festive Opal Laplume Mystery, a glamorous Christmas ball in a Scottish castle turns deadly when the host is electrocuted—sending Opal on a dazzling, twist-filled hunt through secrets, suspects, and snowy Highland danger.

Very British Mysteries

Murder Most British by Helen Dixon

Series: Secret Detective Agency #3

Release Date: November 6

In a Nutshell: In this Secret Detective Agency Mystery, wartime London turns deadly when a government typist is found murdered—prompting Jane Treen, her clever partner, and their cat Marmaduke to unravel a web of secrets, spies, and scandal before the killer strikes again.

Revenge, Served Royal by Celeste Connally

Series: Lady Petra Inquires #3

Release Date: November 11

In a Nutshell: In this delectable Lady Petra Forsyth Mystery, royal festivities at Windsor Castle turn deadly when a guest is murdered and a scandalous secret surfaces—forcing Petra to juggle pastries, politics, and peril to catch a killer before the celebration becomes her last.

The Body on the Roundabout by Faith Eckersall

Series: Piddlington Gazette Mystery #1

Release Date: November 18

In a Nutshell: In this witty Dorset mystery, a down-on-his-luck journalist trying to save a struggling local paper finds himself chasing headlines, town gossip, and a body on the roundabout—with only a misfit crew and a mangy dog to help crack the case.

From Cradle to Grave by Rhys Bowen

Series: Royal Spyness #19

Release Date: November 18

In a Nutshell: In the latest Royal Spyness Mystery, new mother and amateur sleuth Lady Georgie juggles royal duties, nanny troubles, and a string of suspicious deaths—racing to catch a killer before her own husband becomes the next victim.

Vows and Villainy by Elizabeth Penney

Series: Cambridge Bookshop Mystery #5

Release Date: November 24

In a Nutshell: In the fifth Cambridge Bookshop Mystery, wedding bells turn deadly when a scandalous actor is found floating in a moat—sending Molly and her friends racing to solve the Shakespearean murder before the bride walks down the aisle.

Murder at the Scottish Games by Traci Hall

Series: Scottish Shire Mystery #7

Release Date: November 25

In a Nutshell: In this Scottish Shire Mystery, sweater shop owner Paislee Shaw trades her knitting needles for detective work when a Highland Games scandal turns deadly—forcing her to unravel a murder amid cabers, kilts, and small-town secrets.

The Austen Intrigue by Julia Golding

Series: Regency Secrets #4

Release Date: November 28

In a Nutshell: In this witty historical mystery set in 1812 London, Jane Austen teams up with a daring detective duo to unravel a double murder steeped in espionage, scandal, and romance worthy of her own novels.

On Vacation Cozy Mysteries

Murder in Venice by T A Williams

Series: Dan and Oscar Mysteries #13

Release Date: November 3

In a Nutshell: In this Dan and Oscar Mystery, a glitzy murder mystery party in Venice turns all too real when an evening of Hollywood glamour descends into chaos—leaving Dan and his trusty Labrador to unmask a killer among the stars.

The High Tide Murder by Emylia Hall

Series: Shell House Detective Mysteries #6

Release Date: November 4

In a Nutshell: In this Shell House Detectives Mystery, a storm traps guests inside a seaside hotel where a disgraced detective is found dead—forcing Ally and Jayden to unmask a killer among them before the tide (and the murderer) closes in.

Newlyweds Can Be Knocked Off by Amanda Flower

Series: Amish Matchmaker Mysteries #6

Release Date: November 25

In a Nutshell: In this sunny Amish Matchmaker Mystery, newlywed sleuth Millie Fisher swaps Ohio snow for Florida sunshine—only to find murder on the beach and a killer lurking among the Amish snowbirds.

Trouble in the Alps by Vivian Conroy

Series: Miss Ashford Investigates #6

Release Date: November 30

In a Nutshell: In this Miss Ashford Mystery, a trip to the snowy Alps turns perilous when Atalanta’s amnesiac friend becomes entangled in murder—forcing her to uncover deadly secrets before the mountain claims another victim.

Food & Dining Cozy Mysteries

Fowl Play by Tamar Myers

Series: Pennsylvania-Dutch Mysteries #25

Release Date: November 4

In a Nutshell: In this hilarious Pennsylvania-Dutch Mystery, newly retired innkeeper Magdalena Yoder’s dinner party takes a deadly turn when a Scrabble rival is poisoned—pitting the sharp-tongued Mennonite sleuth against a killer with a taste for revenge.

Death and Dinuguan by Mia P. Manansala

Series: Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mysteries #6

Release Date: November 25

In a Nutshell: In this Tita Rosie’s Kitchen Mystery, Valentine’s Day turns deadly when a beloved chocolatier is attacked and a local business owner murdered—pushing Lila and the Brew-ha crew to hunt down a killer threatening Shady Palms’s women entrepreneurs.

And Everything Else

Eleven Hours To Murder by D.B. Borton

Release Date: November 4

In a Nutshell: In this sharp and funny mystery, a newly minted senior sleuth dives into a cold case from Woodstock’s wild summer—uncovering long-buried secrets, counterculture cover-ups, and proof that it’s never too late to start over.

Death and the Final Cut by G.M. Malliet

Series: St. Just Mysteries #7

Release Date: November 4

In a Nutshell: In this witty Arthur St. Just Mystery, a chaotic film shoot in Cambridge turns deadly when its fading star is stabbed with a “prop” knife—leaving the inspector to sift through egos, secrets, and showbiz rivalries to find the killer.

Murder on the Clock by Lucy Connelly

Series: Mercy McCarthy Mysteries #4

Release Date: November 14

In a Nutshell: In this Shamrock Cove Mystery, a summer festival turns sinister when a clockmaker is murdered—sending Mercy, her sister, and their clever pup Mr. Poe racing against time to uncover family feuds, hidden secrets, and a ticking trail of clues.

When Sleuthing Spells Trouble by T. C. LoTempio

Series: Nick and Nora Mysteries #8

Release Date: November 18

In a Nutshell: In this Nick and Nora Mystery, a woman claiming amnesia hires sleuth Nora Charles to prove her innocence in her husband’s murder—leading Nora and her feline partner into a perilous investigation filled with secrets, scandals, and one very determined killer.

The Botanist’s Assistant by Peggy Townsend

Release Date: November 18

In a Nutshell: When a suspicious death rocks her quiet university, a meticulous research assistant turns amateur sleuth—using her sharp eye for detail (and help from a mysterious custodian) to uncover dark secrets in The Botanist’s Assistant.

And that’s a wrap on November’s cozy new releases!

✨ Which ones are you most excited to curl up with? Did I miss a favorite?

Share your picks—or any cozy gems I overlooked—in the comments. I’d love to hear what’s on your radar!

—Emma

Hi there! I’m Emma Veritas, your cozy reading enthusiast. I delight in escaping to small towns filled with endearing characters—and just a touch of mystery, dragons, or aliens. When I’m not sharing bookish musings here, you’ll find me reading at the beach, wandering the tiled alleys of my new hometown in Portugal, or sipping a delicious cup of hot chocolate.

Other places to connect:

👉Follow Sleuth Hero Alien on Instagram—@sleuthheroalien

👉If you love to read spiritual books don’t miss my other newsletter, Mystics Reading Society. Join us for weekly chapter-by-chapter read alongs. We’re currently reading When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron. Read the most recent post: Going Against the Grain.

Subscribe now

Dear Cozy Reader,

Welcome to this autumnal edition of Hot Off the Cozy Press! On the first Saturday of every month, I round up the upcoming cozy releases—spanning fantasy, mystery, and the occasional charming sci-fi—so we can keep an eye on what’s new in cozy lit together.

October is overflowing with witchy tales and Halloween-inspired mysteries. If fall reading is your favorite, this list is brimming with treats.

A few quick notes before we dive in:

• I haven’t read these books yet (my TBR tower would topple if I tried!), so I can’t personally vouch for the coziness level or overall quality.

• I’ve chosen titles that look like a great fit for the Sleuth Hero Alien community. That said, publishers sometimes label books “cozy” when they…aren’t, so always trust your own instincts.

• Quotes and summaries come straight from publisher descriptions.

• When you see this emoji 💖, it means I’m especially excited for that one!

Let’s see what’s fresh on the shelves this October. When you’re done browsing, I’d love to hear which books you’re most excited to read!

Note: This roundup is a long one—you may find it easiest to click through and enjoy it on the webpage.

New Cozy Fantasies in October

🔔 Jingle Spells by Emily Grimoire — Release Date: October 1, 2025

“The perfect cozy Christmas romance with a sprinkle of magic, where Gilmore Girls meets Charmed.”

In a Nutshell: A witch and a human—who both hate Christmas—must join forces to save Oak Haven, a festive magical town thrown into holiday chaos.

🦸 Upton Arms: A Retirement Home for Supernaturals by Scott Craven — Release Date: October 7, 2025

“What We Do in the Shadows meets The Golden Girls—a laugh-out-loud paranormal comedy with heart. Packed with dark humor, supernatural drama, and unforgettable characters, Upton Arms is a must-read for fans of quirky paranormal fiction.”

In a Nutshell: Aging supernaturals living in a retirement home face foreclosure—and a hilarious, heartfelt fight for survival.

🧚 How to Survive a Fairy Bargain by Laura J. Mayo — Release Date: October 7, 2025

Book 2 in the Fairies and Familiars series

“Theodosia’s already survived being the evil stepsister in one fairy tale, but surviving fae bargains, fairy rings, and being turned into a hedgehog will be a whole new challenge in this hilarious sequel to How to Summon a Fairy Godmother.”

In a Nutshell: Picking up where book one left off, Theodosia must navigate life as a fairy’s familiar while unraveling a thousand-year-old mystery.

🌙 The Witching Moon Manor by Stacey Sivinski — Release Date: October 7, 2025

Sequel to The Crescent Moon Cafe

“The magical Quigley sisters return to bargain with fate once more in this follow-up to the ‘charming, uplifting, and utterly enchanting’ (Lana Harper, New York Times bestselling author) national bestseller The Crescent Moon Tearoom.”

In a Nutshell: The Quigley sisters reunite at The Crescent Moon Tearoom, balancing the struggles of their chosen life paths while fighting to save the city.

💖🐉 For Want of a Dragon by Wendy Day—Release Date: October 14, 2025

“Pride & Prejudice-but with dragons.”

In a Nutshell: Livvy, a small-town dragon groomer, finds her world turned upside down when the annual dragon jousting tournament brings an influx of snobby dragon riders—and one grumpy stranger she can’t seem to shake.

Note: This indie-published gem is currently available only on Amazon or through the author’s Kickstarter.

🔮The Keeper of Magical Things by Julie Leong — Release Date: October 14, 2025

“An almost-mage discovers friendship—and maybe something more—in the unlikeliest of places in this delightfully charming novel from the USA Today bestselling author of The Teller of Small Fortunes.”

In a Nutshell: Certainty Bulrush and her infuriatingly brilliant partner are sent to the least magical village around, where gossipy teapots, a fiery catdragon, and unexpected attraction turn their “simple” assignment into anything but.

Note: From the author of the beloved Teller of Small Fortunes!

🌙 Best Wishes from the Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki — Release Date: October 28, 2025

Sequel to The Full Moon Coffee Shop

“From the bestselling author of the Japanese sensation The Full Moon Coffee Shop, this charming and heartfelt novel showcases the magic of Christmas as lost souls find themselves—with a little help from an enchanted café run by cats.”

In a Nutshell: Four women, each at a crossroads, turn to the feline divinations at the Full Moon Coffee Shop for guidance this holiday season.

🪄 Witches of Dubious Origin by Jenn McKinlay — Release Date: October 28, 2025

“When a librarian discovers she’s descended from a long line of powerful witches, she’ll need all of her bookish knowledge to harness her family’s magic, in this enchanting cozy fantasy from New York Times bestselling author Jenn McKinlay.”

In a Nutshell: When librarian Zoe Ziakas discovers a mysterious grimoire, she unravels a family secret that lures magical creatures her way—and demands solving before it’s too late.

🧙‍♀️ An Unlikely Coven by AM Kvita — Release Date: October 28, 2025

“The outcast daughter of a powerful family of witches returns home to New York City and is immediately embroiled in a supernatural power struggle in this wickedly funny fantasy debut from AM Kvita.”

In a Nutshell: Joan Greenwood returns to New York only to face a rising threat that destabilizes the magical world, pulling her deeper into her power—and into an uneasy alliance with a family rival.

Note: Already getting rave reviews on Goodreads.

💖🐉 Dreki: My Icelandic Dragon — Release Date: October 28, 2025

“A boy, his grandfather, and a baby dragon set off on an international adventure that takes them from the Midwest to Iceland in this children’s fantasy novel perfect for fans of When You Trap a Tiger and How to Train Your Dragon.”

In a Nutshell: Johan and his grandfather set out on a journey to return their dragon, Dreki, to Iceland—discovering family secrets, folklore, and the meaning of home along the way.

Note: Middle Grade Fantasy

New Charming Sci-Fi in October

🚀 Rulers of a Dead Planet by Ryan Wolf — Release Date: October 1, 2025

In a Nutshell: Royal siblings Nulara and Narvu must decide whether to protect the last surviving humans on a ruined Earth—or risk watching their species be erased forever.

Note: Middle Grade Science Fiction, written in verse

💖🛸 The Planet, The Portal, and a Pizza by Wendy Mass & Nora Raleigh Baskin — Release Date: October 7, 2025

“Mystery and adventure collide in this humorous and heartfelt multiverse adventure from beloved, award-winning authors Wendy Mass and Nora Raleigh Baskin.”

In a Nutshell: When twelve-year-old Piper teams up with Raisa and Lev—visitors from another universe—they must unlock a mysterious book of equations, save Piper’s parents, and navigate the multiverse…with plenty of humor (and pizza) along the way.

Note: Middle Grade Science Fiction

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New Cozy Mysteries in October

There are so many cozy mysteries releasing this month that I’ve divided them into categories to make browsing easier! Here’s what you’ll find:

• Halloween, Witchy & Paranormal

• Festive

• Very British Mysteries

• Pets on the Cover

• Bookish

• The Joy of Food

• And Everything Else

Halloween, Witchy, and Paranormal

🌲 Death in the Haunted Wood by Kim Griswell — Release Date: October 2, 2025

Book 2 of A Pacific Northwest Cozy Mystery

“Death in the Haunted Wood is the second in the captivating Pacific Northwest Cozy Mystery series. Perfect for fans of Lauren Elliott, Merryn Allingham, Debbie Macomber—and readers who love their cozy mysteries served with breathtaking scenery, quirky characters, and just enough romance to warm a chilly autumn night.”

In a Nutshell: On a road trip stop at a Halloween-themed event, Saffi Graywood finds herself entangled in threats against an aging horror star—and a murder in the Haunted Wood.

👻 A Ghost Hunter’s Guide to Solving Murder by F.H. Petford — Release Date: October 2, 2025

“Cozy crime meets historical fiction in this brand-new quirky and gripping paranormal murder mystery.”

In a Nutshell: When Alma Timperley unexpectedly inherits her family’s spiritualist hotel on the Cornish coast, she doesn’t expect murder—but when the maid turns up dead, Alma finds herself caught in an investigation that may involve more than one ghost…or even a German spy.

🗿 A Gargoyle’s Guide to Murder by Gigi Pandian — Release Date: October 7, 2025

Book 9 in the Accidental Alchemist Mysteries

“A vanished body. A deadly bookshop. A country house party full of suspects. Can a living gargoyle and an alchemist decipher the clues before poisoned pages claim another victim?”

In a Nutshell: Living gargoyle Dorian Robert-Houdin joins forces with his alchemist companion, Zoe Faust, to unravel a murder and the mystery of an ancient magical book.

🔥 The Hearth Witch’s Guide to Magic & Murder by Kiri Callaghan — Release Date: October 7, 2025

Book 1 of the Hemlock Saga

“For all intents and purposes, we are still blissfully separated from the mortals, but there have been…complications.”

In a Nutshell: When supernatural crime in London threatens to expose the Fey, changeling Avery Hemlock—recently freed after centuries of punishment—teams up with hearth witch Saga Trygg, a heartbroken mortal trying to rediscover magic, to solve a case that turns unexpectedly personal.

🎃 Sisters Before Misters by Amelia Diane Coombs — Release Date: October 7, 2025

Book 2 of The Finch Sisters

“A missing husband, a sister acting sus, and a tantalizing tangle of lies—well, there goes Remi’s plan for a chill Halloween.”

In a Nutshell: When Eliana’s estranged husband disappears on Halloween—and a severed finger turns up in his house—Remi Finch must decide how far she’s willing to go to prove her sister’s innocence, even as the bloody evidence says otherwise.

✒️ Spelled in Ink by Lina Hansen — Release Date: October 11, 2025

“Spelled in Ink, the first book in this suspenseful series of paranormal cozy murder mystery and fantasy novels, will keep you laughing—and guessing—right to the very end.”

In a Nutshell: Dark witch Cyn, cursed by the goddess Kali, reluctantly teams up with Dan, a magic-hating art thief, to track down Da Vinci’s missing formula—only to stumble into murder, mayhem, and a slow-burn romance.

🦇 Dead & Breakfast by Kat Hillis — Release Date: October 14, 2025

“The new vampires in town are sinking their teeth into solving a murder…”

In a Nutshell: Arthur and Sal—perfectly normal vampires running a quaint new bed-and-breakfast—find themselves dragged into danger when the mayor turns up dead in their garden, sporting two suspicious puncture wounds.

🎃 Bidding for Murder by E.C. Bateman — Release Date: October 24, 2025

Book 3 of the Stamford Mysteries

“A brilliant new Halloween whodunnit, perfect for fans of M.C. Beaton and Richard Osman!”

In a Nutshell: Auctioneer Felicia Grant attends a glamorous Halloween party at the exclusive Aquitaine club—only for the festivities to turn deadly, leaving her racing against midnight to unmask a clever killer.

💖📚Witch and Tell by Angela M. Sanders — Release Date: October 28, 2025

Book 7 of the Witch Way Librarian Mysteries

“Small-town Wilfred, Oregon, is poised to step into the limelight, and the citizens behind the renovation of the old movie palace—into a brew pub—certainly want that to continue. Until librarian and apprentice witch Josie Way discovers a dead body . . .”

In a Nutshell: With her magic faltering and her love life on the fritz, librarian Josie Way becomes the prime suspect when a knock at her door leads to a dead body.

Note: I recently featured the first book in this series, Bait and Witch, in my Sleuth Hero Alien article The Cozy Power of Witches.

📚 The Tattered Cover by Ellery Adams — Release Date: October 28, 2025

Book 8 of the Secret, Book, and Scone Society Novels

“It was a dark, rainy night at Nora Pennington’s Miracle Books when a mysterious death brings the Secret, Book, and Scone Society into the Halloween season on the trail of a murderer . . .”

In a Nutshell: When a famed medium dies suddenly during a stormy bookstore event, Nora Pennington and her friends in the Secret, Book, and Scone Society must decode a cryptic journal and unravel the secrets of a haunted reading group before a killer strikes again.

🍫 Sugar and Spite by Carol J. Perry — Release Date: October 28, 2025

Book 15 of A Witch City Mystery

“There’s no place like Salem, Massachusetts—aka ‘the witch city’—for Halloween. As residents embrace their historic heritage to celebrate the season, WICH-TV program director Lee Barrett is assigned the decadent task of highlighting the village’s delectable sweet shops—only to learn that some revelers prefer deadly tricks over delicious treats . . .”

In a Nutshell: When Lee Barrett profiles Salem’s Casa del Chocolate, she uncovers not just a family tradition of making magical sweets for Halloween, but also a murdered estranged husband—and with her paranormal friends, it’s time to solve another case.

Festive

🎄 Murder at Holly House by Denzil Meyrick — Release Date: October 7, 2025

“A festive mystery perfect for fans of Murder on the Christmas Express and Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot’s Christmas.”

In a Nutshell: Inspector Frank Grasby is called to Elderby when a body turns up in a chimney, but when the local doctor’s husband is also murdered, he realizes every villager is hiding something—and uncovering the truth may be the only way to prevent a much darker threat.

🔪 Miss Winter in the Library With a Knife by Martin Edwards — Release Date: October 7, 2025

“Six contestants. One chance at a new life. Who wouldn’t be tempted to cheat? Award-winning, renowned master of mysteries and editor of the British Library of Crime Classics, Martin Edwards turns up the heat for the most seasoned fair-play mystery connoisseurs and puzzle aficionados—just in time for a gleefully wicked holiday read.”

In a Nutshell: Six struggling people tied to the crime-writing world are invited to a Yorkshire village at Christmas to solve a fictional murder for a life-changing prize—but as a snowstorm cuts them off, the line between game and reality grows dangerously thin.

💖 📚 The Secret Christmas Library by Jenny Colgan — Release Date: October 14, 2025

“A new holiday story set in the Scottish Highlands to warm booklovers’ hearts by Jenny Colgan, New York Times bestselling author of Midnight at the Christmas Bookshop.”

In a Nutshell: Antiquarian book hunter Mirren Sutherland heads to the Scottish Highlands in search of a literary treasure, but when a rival joins the hunt and a snowstorm traps them with Highland laird Jamie McKinnon, sparks begin to fly.

💒 Five Golden Wings by Donna Andrews — Release Date: October 14, 2025

Book 38 in the Meg Langslow Series

“Readers will flock to NYT bestselling author Donna Andrews’ latest installment in the award-winning Meg Langslow series.”

In a Nutshell: When two feuding cousins plan dueling Christmas weddings on the same day in Caerphilly, Meg Langslow steps in to keep the peace—only to stumble across the murdered wedding photographer, whose long list of enemies includes nearly everyone in attendance.

🐕 And to All a Good Bite by David Rosenfelt — Release Date: October 14, 2025

Book 32 in the Andy Carpenter Series

“Reluctant lawyer Andy Carpenter investigates a murder that left a dog stranded in And to All a Good Bite, the latest Christmas mystery in David Rosenfelt’s bestselling series.”

In a Nutshell: Andy Carpenter is ready to spend Christmas watching football—until a man he once admired for heroism is arrested for murder. With Jeff Wheeler’s loyal dog Rufus caught in the middle, Andy must uncover the truth and save both man and pup before the holidays are ruined.

🧁 Thanks for Muffin by Victoria Hamilton — Release Date: October 14, 2025

Book 8 of A Merry Muffin Mystery

“When Merry Wynter’s festive gala takes a fatal turn, she’ll have to grill her guests to catch a killer . . .”

In a Nutshell: Merry Wynter’s gala at Wynter Castle goes from grand opening to crime scene when a nasty journalist is found dead on the grounds, and with all the guests still snowed in, Merry must uncover which of them had murder on the menu.

🔔 Not Another Bloody Christmas by Jo Middleton — Release Date: October 23, 2025

Book 2 of the Happy Bloody Christmas series

“A hilarious whodunnit that will keep you guessing this Christmas, perfect for fans of Gill Sims, Ian Moore and Richard Osman.”

In a Nutshell: All Anna wants for Christmas is a quiet glass of wine—but instead, she gets unexpected guests and a dead body.

🎭 The Cornish Christmas Pantomime Murder by Fiona Leitch — Release Date: October 31, 2025

Book 9 of the Nosey Parker Cozy Mystery series

“It’s Christmas in Penstowan, and local amateur dramatics group the Penstowan Players are putting on their annual pantomime.”

In a Nutshell: When the mayor’s husband trips over a corpse backstage at the town pantomime, caterer-sleuth Jodie Parker and DCI Nathan Withers must uncover which member of the Penstowan Players is hiding a deadly secret.

Very British Mysteries

🛋️ The Armchair Detectives by Matt Dunn — Release Date: October 1, 2025

“They might be over the hill but they’re far from six feet under—and now there’s a murder to solve!”

In a Nutshell: At Twilight Lodge on the English coast, retired spy Martin Maxwell suspects foul play after a fellow resident dies unexpectedly, and with his ex-nemesis turned sidekick, Albie, he sets out to unmask a killer.

💖 🦶 Death of the Eleven-Toed Man by Gaynor Torrance — Release Date: October 7, 2025

“They say curiosity killed the cat, but in the sleepy village of Monksworthy, it’s about to unearth a body.”

In a Nutshell: When the local aristocrat stumbles upon a body with eleven toes, gossip fingers him for the crime—leaving Sylvie, Liz, and Harriet to sleuth their way through secrets, pastries, and village drama before the killer strikes again.

💒 Murder in Matrimony by Mary Winters — Release Date: October 7, 2025

Book 4 of A Lady of Letters Mystery

“Countess-turned-advice columnist Amelia Amesbury has a wedding to plan alongside a new murder in this charmingly deadly historical mystery.”

In a Nutshell: Between wedding planning, a blackmailer threatening her secret identity, and the shocking murder of her dear friend the vicar, Amelia Amesbury must juggle society’s demands with sleuthing—before she loses more than just her reputation.

🕵️ Mrs. Pargeter’s Past by Simon Brett — Release Date: October 7, 2025

Book 10 of A Mrs. Pargeter Mystery

“A gambler on the run. A widow with deep pockets. A pair of criminal brothers with a secret agenda. The new installment of the quirky, inventive, and charming mystery series featuring widow Mrs. Pargeter—whose late husband was absolutely NOT one of the most notorious villains in Essex (the very idea).”

In a Nutshell: When one of her late husband’s old associates lands in trouble with dangerous criminals, Mrs. Pargeter must use her charm, wits, and her little black book of contacts to dismantle a criminal empire, without ever admitting what her husband may have been up to.

🦆 Sugar and Spite by M.C. Beaton — Release Date: October 14, 2025

Book 36 of the Agatha Raisin Mysteries

“Beloved New York Times bestseller M. C. Beaton’s cranky, crafty Agatha Raisin—the star of her own hit T.V. series—is back on the case again.”

In a Nutshell: When a string of suspicious deaths shakes the local birdwatching community, Agatha Raisin must untangle decades of secrets and simmering rivalries—while juggling her own messy love life—before she becomes the next target.

Note: Don’t confuse this with Sugar and Spite by Carol J. Perry (Book 15 of the Witch City Mysteries)—yes, two cozy mysteries with the same title this October!

💒 Murder at the Wedding by Anita Davison — Release Date: October 26, 2025

Book 5 of the Miss Merrill and Aunt Violet Mysteries

“The brand-new installment in Anita Davison’s page-turning cozy mystery series set in Golden Age London, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Helena Dixon, and T.E. Kinsey!”

In a Nutshell: Hannah Merrill’s wedding day is upended when the vicar goes missing—only to be found poisoned in the church crypt. With Aunt Violet at her side, Hannah must unmask a killer before her happily-ever-after turns deadly.

🕵️ Two Truths and a Murder by Colleen Cambridge — Release Date: October 28, 2025

Book 5 of A Phyllida Bright Mystery

“Agatha Christie’s trusted housekeeper, Phyllida Bright, has become an amateur sleuth in her own right, using her little grey cells to solve crimes. When a party game leads to murder, she decides to crash the investigation in this latest sparkling mystery from Colleen Cambridge.”

In a Nutshell: When a party game ends with one guest run down in the road, Phyllida Bright suspects the real target was Genevra Blastwick—the woman who boldly claimed to have once witnessed a murder. Now it’s up to Phyllida to sift through lies, secrets, and suspects before the killer strikes again.

Pets on the Cover

🐾 Poison and Pooches by Sandra Balzo — Release Date: October 7, 2025

Book 1 of A Dog-Sitting Mystery

“Introducing Arial Kingston—dog-sitter, amateur sleuth, and owner of a guest house with a body under the floorboards.”

In a Nutshell: When new homeowner and dog-sitter Arial Kingston discovers a body under her Monterey guest house, she and her first canine client, Monty, must sniff out the truth behind neighborhood tensions and mysterious disappearances before the killer strikes again.

🐈 Book ’Em, Eddie by Laurie Cass — Release Date: October 7, 2025

Book 13 of the Bookmobile Cat Mysteries

“When cat-astrophe strikes, Minnie and her trusty rescue cat, Eddie, will have to read between the lines to solve a murder in the newest Bookmobile Cat Mysteries.”

In a Nutshell: When Eddie bolts from the bookmobile and discovers a fatally wounded woman in the woods, Minnie suspects more than a hunting accident—and she and her feline sleuth must paw through a tangle of suspects to uncover the truth.

🐕 Die Another Dane by Laurien Berenson — Release Date: October 28, 2025

Book 31 of A Melanie Travis Canine Mystery

“In the latest Melanie Travis Canine Mystery from Laurien Berenson, Melanie has her hands full with her family and her Standard Poodles, but when a breeder and exhibitor of Great Danes dies under suspicious circumstances, she also has a big mystery to solve . . .”

In a Nutshell: When Great Dane breeder Audrey Kane is found dead, Melanie Travis takes on one of her dogs and digs into a web of suspects—from dog club leaders to family rivals—before the killer strikes again.

Bookish

💖📚 Murder at the Wild Haggis Bookshop by Jackie Baldwin — Release Date: October 8, 2025

Book 1 of The Highland Bookshop Murders

“At The Wild Haggis Bookshop, the murder mysteries aren’t just on the shelves!”

In a Nutshell: Beth Cunningham’s new Scottish bookshop is meant to be a fresh start—until her first book club ends in murder, making her the prime suspect and forcing her to uncover the secrets her new community would rather keep buried.

📚Murder by the Millions by Daryl Wood Gerber — Release Date: October 28, 2025

Book 2 of A Literary Dining Mystery

“In a beautiful mountain community near Asheville, North Carolina, caterer and personal chef Allie Catt serves up mouthwatering, literary-themed dinner parties inspired by her clients’ favorite books. Her next event is sure to be a roaring success—if a murderer isn’t a killjoy . . .”

In a Nutshell: Allie Catt’s latest gig—a glittering Gatsby-themed book club soiree—turns deadly when a local developer is found murdered and evidence points her way. With tuxedo cat Darcy at her side, Allie must clear her name before someone writes her out for good.

The Joys of Food

💖🍕 At Death’s Dough by Mindy Quigley — Release Date: October 28, 2025

Book 5 of Deep Dish Mysteries

“The next book in the delectable Deep Dish Mystery series by Mindy Quigley, set in a Wisconsin pizzeria.”

In a Nutshell: Delilah O’Leary and Detective Calvin Capone’s Valentine’s plans fizzle when a shocking discovery ties a new crime to Capone’s infamous ancestor—and uncovers secrets that could leave them both in hot water.

☕ Death by Java by Alex Erickson — Release Date: October 28, 2025

Book 14 of A Bookstore Café Mystery

“Krissy Hancock is a little nervous leaving her bookstore-café in Pine Hills, Ohio, in someone else’s hands while she visits family in California. But when a killer strikes during her week out west, it’s a good thing she packed her sleuthing skills . . .”

In a Nutshell: Visiting California, Krissy discovers a copycat café run by her high school rival—and when a health inspector is found dead on the premises, she has to brew up clues fast.

And Everything Else

🦊📖Mockingbird Court by Juneau Black — Release Date: October 7, 2025

Book 6 of A Shady Hollow Mystery

“In the latest installment in the beloved Shady Hollow series, everyone’s favorite vulpine investigator Vera Vixen must contend with a cold-hearted killer—and the ghost of her own past.”

In a Nutshell: When a famous wolf author goes on the run after a body turns up in his city apartment, Vera Vixen must uncover the truth—especially when the victim turns out to be someone from her own past.

🍽️ A Curiously Convenient Demise by Hannah Hendy—Release Date: October 16, 2025

Book 7 of The Dinner Lady Detectives

“The higher the bid, the heavier the price.”

In a Nutshell: When a museum owner is murdered at Summerview’s charity auction and Clementine’s sister becomes the prime suspect, Margery and Clementine must dig into grudges, secrets, and old rivalries before the killer strikes again.

🔎 The Mumbai School for Murder by Meeti Shroff-Shah — Release Date: October 21, 2025

“Discover a wonderfully witty new whodunnit from CWA Dagger-shortlisted author Meeti Shroff-Shah — a dazzling new voice and India’s answer to Agatha Christie!”

In a Nutshell: When a fiery teacher at Mumbai’s elite North Star High is found dead, mystery novelist-turned-teacher Radhi Zaveri suspects foul play—and must uncover the truth before the killer marks her next.

💖⌨️The Dysfunctional Family’s Guide to Murder by Kate Emery — Release Date: October 21, 2025

“In this hilarious, contemporary YA whodunit, a mystery-loving teen finally gets a chance to solve a real-life crime. But solving a murder is complicated when all the prime suspects are related to you…”

In a Nutshell: Fourteen-year-old Ruth gets her dream case when her step-grandmother is killed—by typewriter, no less—but with every family member a suspect, solving the murder might prove deadlier than she imagined.

🧵 Contesting the Wool by Diane Vallere — Release Date: October 28, 2025

Book 6 of A Material Witness Mysteries

“It’s curtains for somebody at the reading of the will…”

In a Nutshell: Fabric shop owner Poly Monroe finds herself unexpectedly named in a millionaire’s thirty-year-old will—only for the reading to end in murder. Now, with rumors, rival claims, and long-hidden secrets unraveling around San Ladron, she must stitch together the truth before she becomes the next victim.

🌱 Planted 4 Murder by J.C. Eaton — Release Date: October 28, 2025

Book 15 of A Sophie Kimball Mystery

“When the seniors of Sun City West take over a garden plot, they have no idea they’ll unearth a plot for murder . . .”

In a Nutshell: A community garden project goes sideways when a skeletal hand is dug up, and Phee Kimball must sift through sabotaged crops, garden gossip, and her mother’s wild schemes to root out a killer.

🦊 Fox and Furious by Rita Mae Brown — Release Date: October 28, 2025

“Two brothers fight over the inheritance of five acres and a hunting beagle kennel—until one of them is murdered. It’s up to ‘Sister’ Jane Arnold to hunt down the truth, with a little help from her four-legged friends, in this delightful new mystery from New York Times bestselling author Rita Mae Brown.”

In a Nutshell: When inheritance squabbles turn deadly in Virginia’s hunt country, Sister Jane Arnold and her loyal hounds must sniff out the truth before the killer strikes again.

And that’s a wrap on October’s cozy new releases!

✨ Which ones are you most excited to curl up with? Did I miss a favorite?

Share your picks—or any cozy gems I overlooked—in the comments. I’d love to hear what’s on your radar!

—Emma

Hi there! I’m Emma Veritas, your cozy reading enthusiast. I delight in escaping to small towns filled with endearing characters—and a touch of mystery, dragons, or aliens. When I’m not sharing bookish musings here, you’ll find me reading at the beach, wandering the tiled alleys of my new hometown in Portugal, or sipping a delicious cup of hot chocolate.

👉📸📚Follow me on Instagram for more nerdy bookish conversation at ReadingInPortugal.

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Dear Cozy Reader,

Welcome to the very first edition of Hot Off the Cozy Press! On the first Saturday of each month, I’ll round up newly released cozy books—from fantasy to mysteries to the occasional charming sci-fi—so we can keep an eye on the latest in cozy lit together.

This month brings us a handful of whimsical cozy fantasies, a couple of delightfully nerdy sci-fi picks, and a whole stack of mysteries. The balance will likely shift with the seasons, which I think will be fun to watch as the year unfolds.

Think of this post as both a resource for you and a reminder for me—not to miss the big sequels to the series we love, and to stay tuned in to the cozy and charming corners of the publishing world.

A quick note before we dive in: I haven’t read these yet (my TBR tower would collapse if I tried!), so I can’t personally vouch for the coziness, content warnings, or spice levels in romance plots. I’ve pulled these from publisher descriptions and chosen the ones that look like a good fit for the Sleuth Hero Alien community. Sometimes publishers also label a book “cozy” when it’s…not, so read with care and trust your own cozy instincts.

With that said—let’s see what’s fresh on the shelves this September. And when you’re done browsing, I’d love to hear which books you’re most excited to read!

New Cozy Fantasies in September

The Cat Dragon by Samantha Birch
Release Date: September 2, 2025
In Tangleroot Valley, every witch has her cat dragon—except Aloysia Papplewick. With her pumpkin patch in chaos, an annoying (but intriguing) companion, and a quest ahead, Aloysia faces magic, mischief, and maybe romance. Perfect for fans of Studio Ghibli and cottagecore.

The Most Unusual Haunting of Edgar Lovejoy
Release Date: September 9, 2025
Haunted house designer Jamie doesn’t believe in ghosts—until they meet Edgar, who’s very much haunted. A spooky-sweet LGBTQIA+ romance about love, vulnerability, and finding your bookish family.

A Fellowship of Games & Fables
Release Date: September 9, 2025
Grumpy fennex Jez gets roped into the winter games (and fake-dating her cheerful friend Taenya). Between ice sculpting, scavenger hunts, and cozy corners, their reluctant partnership begins to thaw into something deeper.

Uncharmed by Lucy Jane Edward
Release Date: September 16, 2025
Annie Wildwood is the “perfect” witch—until mentoring a headstrong teen and sharing a cabin with a grumpy warlock turns her world upside down. A cozy story of magic, imperfection, and found family.

A Spell for Midwinter’s Heart
Release Date: September 23, 2025
Magic-averse witch Rowan returns home to save her small town’s Yule festival. With an estranged coven, holiday sparks, and a handsome rival, she must face her magic—and her heart.

New Charming Sci-Fi in September

The Ten Riddles of Eartha Quicksmith by Loris Owen
Middle Grade Sci-Fi — Release Date: September 2, 2025
When Kip Bramley receives a cryptic invitation from a beetle-shaped drone, he’s drawn into the strange world of Quicksmiths. With friends (and furry sidekicks), he must solve centuries-old riddles to uncover the Ark of Ideas—while dark forces close in.

Star Trek: Lower Decks — Second Contact by Ryan North
Release Date: September 16, 2025
The crew of the U.S.S. Cerritos is back in comic form! From ghost ships to vanishing star systems to time-traveling chaos, Mariner, Boimler, Tendi, and Rutherford face classic Star Trek shenanigans—with all the humor and heart of Lower Decks.

The Shocking Experiments of Miss Mary Bennet by Melinda Taub
Release Date: September 30, 2025
In this queer mashup of Pride and Prejudice and Frankenstein, overlooked Mary Bennet takes to the attic to reanimate the dead and make a life of her own. But her creations unleash more than she bargained for—leading her to an unexpected (and passionate) friendship.

New Cozy Mysteries in September

There are so many cozy mysteries this month that I’ve divided them into categories for easier browsing!

🕵️‍♀️Big Sequels

Murder on the Marlow Belle by Robert Thorogood
Marlow Murder Club #4 — Release Date: September 16, 2025
When Verity’s husband turns up dead on the Thames, Judith, Suzie, and Becks dive into the world of amateur dramatics. But in this club, egos and grudges run deep—and the killer may be closer than they think.

The Impossible Fortune by Richard Osman
Thursday Murder Club #5 — Release Date: September 30, 2025
The gang is back—this time balancing weddings, grief, and family troubles with another puzzling case. When a guest disappears and whispers of a mysterious code emerge, Joyce, Elizabeth, Ron, and Ibrahim must solve a fortune worth killing for.

In the Time of Five Pumpkins by Alexander McCall Smith
No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency #26 — Release Date: September 30, 2025
Mma Ramotswe and Grace take on a sensitive case that unravels into something far more complicated. With wisdom, humor, and a good cup of bush tea, Botswana’s most beloved detective once again shows that compassion is the best detective tool of all.

🔮A New Witch Mystery Series

Hexes and Hush Money by Hazel Caraway
Cat Café Witch Mystery #1 — Release Date: September 9, 2025
When a developer is murdered and her cat familiar is kidnapped, café witch Ivy Rowan must solve the case. With cursed coins, hexed cappuccinos, and seaside secrets, this new series blends paranormal peril with cozy charm.

📚Bookish Mysteries

A Very Bookish Murder by Dee MacDonald
Release Date: September 19, 2025
A famous novelist is strangled during a writers’ retreat in the Scottish Highlands, and guesthouse owner Ally McKinley stumbles into her next case. Between rivalries, missing diary pages, and another shocking death, Ally and her puppy Flora must sniff out a killer.

The French Bookshop Murder by Greg Mosse
French Bookshop Murder #1 — Release Date: September 19, 2025
Zoe Pascal opens her dream bookshop in a quiet French village—until a tourist is murdered and she’s the prime suspect. To clear her name, Zoe must uncover the truth behind her charming new town’s darker secrets.

A Perilous Plot by Lorna Barrett
Booktown Mystery #18 — Release Date: September 23, 2025
Tricia Miles’s estranged mother returns with an urn—filled with kitty litter and a stolen Rolex. When Sheila vanishes, Tricia and her sister must unravel family secrets and financial troubles before murder strikes close to home.

🎄Christmas Mysteries Are Here!

Mistletoe and Mayhem by Janice Thompson
Red Truck Mysteries #3 — Release Date: September 1, 2025
Just days before a Christmas wedding, a wildfire threatens Hadley Ranch. As RaeLyn and Mason search for its cause, they uncover more than smoke behind the flames.

The Mistletoe Murder Club by Katie Marsh
Bad Girls Detective Agency #4 — Release Date: September 5, 2025
When the Christmas pantomime director is murdered, Clio and her friends sneak undercover (in a cow costume, no less). Hilarious hijinks and festive sleuthing follow.

Epilogue to a Christmas Murder by Lauren Elliott
Beyond the Page Bookstore Mystery #11 — Release Date: September 30, 2025
When a priceless Gift of the Magi edition is stolen—and a body turns up by the lighthouse—Addie Greyborne must solve a holiday whodunnit before Christmas cheer turns deadly.

Mrs. Claus and the Very Vicious Valentine by Liz Ireland
Mrs. Claus Mystery #6 — Release Date: September 30, 2025
April Claus juggles bridesmaid duties in Santaland with investigating a poisoned corsage. Love may be in the air, but so is murder—and Mrs. Claus has to sleigh the case.

☕The Rest of the Cozy Stack

Murder at the Royal Palace by Verity Bright
Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery #23 — Release Date: September 30, 2025
When a royal guard dies at Buckingham Palace, Eleanor and Hugh go undercover at the Tower of London. Gossip, affairs, and hidden treasure soon make this case royally complicated.

Lady Darling Inquires After a Killer by Colleen Gleason
Lady Darling Mysteries #1 — Release Date: September 16, 2025
Wealthy widow Lady Darling wants a quiet life of books and gardens—until a dinner party turns deadly. A witty, Victorian-set series debut perfect for fans of Bridgerton and The Thursday Murder Club.

Murder on a Scottish Island by Lydia Travers
Lady Poppy Proudfoot #2 — Release Date: September 8, 2025
On holiday in Skye, Lady Poppy discovers a strangled widow and a trail of lies among hotel guests. To catch the killer, she may have to risk becoming the next target.

Murder in Trafalgar Square by Michelle Salter
New Series! — Release Date: September 25, 2025
In 1910 London, suffragette Coral Fairbanks and Inspector Guy Flynn team up after a young activist is murdered and a painting stolen. A gripping new historical cozy with a dynamic detective duo.

First Comes Marriage Then Comes Murder by Donna Mumma
Women of Wynton’s Mystery — Release Date: September 1, 2025
Bridal designer Vivien Sheffield is horrified when brides wearing her gowns turn up dead. With her friends at Wynton’s Department Store, she must stop the killer before her business—and reputation—are destroyed.

And that’s our big round-up of September’s new releases! Which ones are you most excited to read? Did I miss a favorite? Share your picks (or any cozy gems not on the list!) in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s on your radar.

—Emma

Hi there! I’m Emma Veritas, your cozy reading enthusiast. I delight in escaping to small towns filled with endearing characters—and just a touch of mystery, dragons, or aliens. When I’m not sharing bookish musings here, you’ll find me reading at the beach, wandering the tiled alleys of my new hometown in Portugal, or sipping a delicious cup of hot chocolate.

You might enjoy my other bookish newsletters:

🔮Mystics Reading Society—a welcoming space where books, personal growth, and magic intertwine, nurturing your soul one chapter at a time. Read the most recent post: Eight Worldly Dharmas

🌊Reading in Portugal —Curious about life abroad? Join me as I share my reading life and adventures. Read the most recent post: 3 Weeks in Portugal