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The Book of Autumn
For readers of Adrienne Young, Olivie Blake, Hazel Beck, and Leigh Bardugo’s Ninth House, a spellbinding debut about ambition, privilege, second chance romance, and ancient magic set at an enchanted school tucked among the red mesas of rural New Mexico, where a formidable pair of magicians are summoned to pursue an alleged killer.
Try as she might, anthropologist Marcella Gibbons can't escape the fact that she's a dimidium, one half of a formidable pair of Magicians, forever tied together to enable the other's powers. After a tumultuous final year at Seinford and Brown College of Agriculture (and Magic) in rural New Mexico, Cella felt more than a little uneasy about returning to the sun-drenched desert campus ever again. She'd cut ties with her other half—the charming and rugged rancher Max Middlemore—and sworn off Magic, academia, and heartache for good.
Until Max turns up at her door, grinning under his cowboy hat for one last favor. Something is shifting at her alma mater, something bigger than anyone understands. One student is dead. Another is floating midair in the infirmary, growling guttural nonsense and terrifying the staff. Their best, perhaps only, chance to intervene requires Cella and Max to work together. But the origins of the disturbances lie centuries ago. To unravel them, Cella will have to confront the truth about her past—and Max. Because she might be challenging a power she could never rival alone . . .
Try as she might, anthropologist Marcella Gibbons can't escape the fact that she's a dimidium, one half of a formidable pair of Magicians, forever tied together to enable the other's powers. After a tumultuous final year at Seinford and Brown College of Agriculture (and Magic) in rural New Mexico, Cella felt more than a little uneasy about returning to the sun-drenched desert campus ever again. She'd cut ties with her other half—the charming and rugged rancher Max Middlemore—and sworn off Magic, academia, and heartache for good.
Until Max turns up at her door, grinning under his cowboy hat for one last favor. Something is shifting at her alma mater, something bigger than anyone understands. One student is dead. Another is floating midair in the infirmary, growling guttural nonsense and terrifying the staff. Their best, perhaps only, chance to intervene requires Cella and Max to work together. But the origins of the disturbances lie centuries ago. To unravel them, Cella will have to confront the truth about her past—and Max. Because she might be challenging a power she could never rival alone . . .
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2025
153 people are currently reading
39888 people want to read
About the author
Molly O'Sullivan
2 books163 followersMolly O’Sullivan is a cybersecurity engineer turned speculative fiction writer with a love of tea, nature, and characters who, despite everything, still manage to hope. Originally from South Carolina, she has lived all over the country but now resides outside Seattle with her husband, two children, and curmudgeonly dog. Find her on Instagram at @mollyobooks, or at her website, mollyosullivan.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 502 reviews
April 3, 2025
A dark academia murder mystery? A magical university tucked away in the New Mexico desert? A fractured partnership between two powerful magicians forced to reunite? It all sounded like my perfect read. But in reality, the concept was much stronger than the execution.
Let’s start with the good: the format of this book is certainly unique. Written like an academic research paper, it blends diary entries, religious texts, ancient philosophy, and footnotes into the narrative. It's an interesting and immersive approach that will appeal to fans of The Atlas Six and Ninth House.
However, the mystery itself left much to be desired. The investigation felt like a frustrating series of dead ends rather than a puzzle to unravel. No one wanted to cooperate, and the book kept insisting that Cella and Max were the only ones who could solve the crime—without offering any real explanation why they were the most qualified. And while the tension between them had potential, their relationship never quite hooked me.
And then there's the magic—or rather, the lack of it. For a book that promises ancient magical forces, the first 75% of the story barely touches on any actual magic. When the magic finally kicks in toward the end, it feels rushed and jarring. The pacing throughout the book was painfully slow, and it dragged on for far too long, making it hard to stay engaged. The lack of balance and the slow build-up made the story harder to get through.
Bottom line? This book had a brilliant premise, but unfortunately, the execution didn’t match up. If you enjoy dense, slow-burn dark academia with a unique structure, this might work for you. But for me, it didn’t hit the mark.
Let’s start with the good: the format of this book is certainly unique. Written like an academic research paper, it blends diary entries, religious texts, ancient philosophy, and footnotes into the narrative. It's an interesting and immersive approach that will appeal to fans of The Atlas Six and Ninth House.
However, the mystery itself left much to be desired. The investigation felt like a frustrating series of dead ends rather than a puzzle to unravel. No one wanted to cooperate, and the book kept insisting that Cella and Max were the only ones who could solve the crime—without offering any real explanation why they were the most qualified. And while the tension between them had potential, their relationship never quite hooked me.
And then there's the magic—or rather, the lack of it. For a book that promises ancient magical forces, the first 75% of the story barely touches on any actual magic. When the magic finally kicks in toward the end, it feels rushed and jarring. The pacing throughout the book was painfully slow, and it dragged on for far too long, making it hard to stay engaged. The lack of balance and the slow build-up made the story harder to get through.
Bottom line? This book had a brilliant premise, but unfortunately, the execution didn’t match up. If you enjoy dense, slow-burn dark academia with a unique structure, this might work for you. But for me, it didn’t hit the mark.
May 9, 2025
*ੈ✩‧₊˚Rating*ੈ✩‧₊˚
4.75/5 Stars
˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗Tropes˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗
📖 Second Chance
🐎 Unique Magic System
📖 School For Magic
🐎 Fmc Forced To Return To A Past She Doesn’t Want To
📖 Slowwwww Burn
🐎 Mystery That Needs To Be Solved
𓂃🖊Notes and Highlights-
ˋ°•*⁀➷” Some places never let go of you. They slip inside your pores, cling to your neck like a leech. And though you fight like hell to break loose, there's no stopping it. The place is part of you now. It’s in your blood.”
ˋ°•*⁀➷” A lesson better learned sooner rather than later, I thought. Sometimes the most someone could give you wasn't enough, and you had a choice. Make yourself small to accept that love, pretend it was all you needed, or realize you were worth far more and leave to find it.”
ˋ°•*⁀➷” Maybe, if we could solve this case, if we could figure this out together, shed see that we weren't so gosh-awful together. Maybe this time, she’d stay.”
💭 Thoughts-
I loved this book, I thought it was so unique and fun and just an overall just a great read! It had everything I was looking for in a good fantasy mystery book (even if I don’t really know what to look for in a good fantasy mystery book…)
Now Playing:
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0:39 —❍───── 3:53
↻ ⊲ Ⅱ ⊳ ↺
Volume: ▁▂▃▄▅▆▇ 100%
4.75/5 Stars
˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗Tropes˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗
📖 Second Chance
🐎 Unique Magic System
📖 School For Magic
🐎 Fmc Forced To Return To A Past She Doesn’t Want To
📖 Slowwwww Burn
🐎 Mystery That Needs To Be Solved
𓂃🖊Notes and Highlights-
ˋ°•*⁀➷” Some places never let go of you. They slip inside your pores, cling to your neck like a leech. And though you fight like hell to break loose, there's no stopping it. The place is part of you now. It’s in your blood.”
ˋ°•*⁀➷” A lesson better learned sooner rather than later, I thought. Sometimes the most someone could give you wasn't enough, and you had a choice. Make yourself small to accept that love, pretend it was all you needed, or realize you were worth far more and leave to find it.”
ˋ°•*⁀➷” Maybe, if we could solve this case, if we could figure this out together, shed see that we weren't so gosh-awful together. Maybe this time, she’d stay.”
💭 Thoughts-
I loved this book, I thought it was so unique and fun and just an overall just a great read! It had everything I was looking for in a good fantasy mystery book (even if I don’t really know what to look for in a good fantasy mystery book…)
Now Playing:
⊹ ࣪ ˖Clarity By Zedd˖࣪ ⊹
0:39 —❍───── 3:53
↻ ⊲ Ⅱ ⊳ ↺
Volume: ▁▂▃▄▅▆▇ 100%
December 4, 2024
molly o'sullivan's ambitious, beautiful debut, the book of autumn, takes the format of an anthropological research paper, drawing on religious annotations, ancient philosophy, metaphysics, diary entries, and supplemental footnotes to tell the story of marcella gibbons and max middlemore—ex-lovers and two halves of a magical whole—as they're called together once again to investigate a brutal murder and suspected possession at their magical alma mater.
still reeling from the untimely death of her younger brother aaron, her complicated and unavoidable feelings for max, and her desire to keep her painful past far away, cella returns to the school to find an afflicted student who reminds her keenly of her brother and is someone she becomes desperate to help. but as she delves into the web of history, magic, deceit, and power that's begun to weave itself into the school since her departure, cella finds herself in the middle of a harrowing, centuries-old situation that she may not make it out of.
the book of autumn is one of the most refreshing dark academia books i've read in a long time. set in the canyons and ranches of new mexico and brimming with ancient greek philosophy, real historical grimoires, and an aching sense of found family, o'sullivan's debut is a thrilling and emotional tale of grief, ambition, power, magic, and what we're willing to do to our souls for love. fans of magic for liars, ninth house, and the atlas six won't want to miss this one, and i can't wait to see where o'sullivan takes us next!
still reeling from the untimely death of her younger brother aaron, her complicated and unavoidable feelings for max, and her desire to keep her painful past far away, cella returns to the school to find an afflicted student who reminds her keenly of her brother and is someone she becomes desperate to help. but as she delves into the web of history, magic, deceit, and power that's begun to weave itself into the school since her departure, cella finds herself in the middle of a harrowing, centuries-old situation that she may not make it out of.
the book of autumn is one of the most refreshing dark academia books i've read in a long time. set in the canyons and ranches of new mexico and brimming with ancient greek philosophy, real historical grimoires, and an aching sense of found family, o'sullivan's debut is a thrilling and emotional tale of grief, ambition, power, magic, and what we're willing to do to our souls for love. fans of magic for liars, ninth house, and the atlas six won't want to miss this one, and i can't wait to see where o'sullivan takes us next!
June 17, 2025
5 STAR READ!!! HOLY SHIT this book was amazing. I was NOT expecting it to be as good as it was but it completely sucked me in. This had a little bit of a scary vibe at some points, a really unique magic system, a snippet of romance, and a whole lot of emotion.
Two halves of a magic soul come together in an attempt to solve a magical mystery. How do they stop the attacks?! Ride along with Marcella and Max to find out.
Two halves of a magic soul come together in an attempt to solve a magical mystery. How do they stop the attacks?! Ride along with Marcella and Max to find out.
September 1, 2025
This book combines magic, second chance love, secret societies, tragic backstories and dark academia to tell this spellbinding story. If you’re a fan of “Ninth House” and magic in general this is a must read for you.
This book centers around Marcella “Cella” Gibbons and Maximilian “Max” Middlemore two bright students in their academic field whom reputation proceeds them are known in the magical community as “dimidiums”. They’re two halves of a magical soul. When combined together their magic is very powerful.
Cella left a little before graduation and moved away from her hometown and she has been gone for the last several years until she receives a letter requesting to come back as there has been an “accident”. This accident has to do with dark magic, someone is using hexes on people and no one hasn’t the slightest clue as to why. Begins a mystery into things unknown and discovering you can trust everyone.
I did like the pace of the book and how there was constant action. Reading the book felt like the answers were there but just out of reach. I did like the characters the author did a great job with writing believable characters. This is definitely a good book and I recommend it. You will not be dissatisfied.
Thank you Molly O'Sullivan, Kensington publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
.
This book centers around Marcella “Cella” Gibbons and Maximilian “Max” Middlemore two bright students in their academic field whom reputation proceeds them are known in the magical community as “dimidiums”. They’re two halves of a magical soul. When combined together their magic is very powerful.
Cella left a little before graduation and moved away from her hometown and she has been gone for the last several years until she receives a letter requesting to come back as there has been an “accident”. This accident has to do with dark magic, someone is using hexes on people and no one hasn’t the slightest clue as to why. Begins a mystery into things unknown and discovering you can trust everyone.
I did like the pace of the book and how there was constant action. Reading the book felt like the answers were there but just out of reach. I did like the characters the author did a great job with writing believable characters. This is definitely a good book and I recommend it. You will not be dissatisfied.
Thank you Molly O'Sullivan, Kensington publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
.
August 31, 2025
I loved every minute of this book.
I went in unaware that this would be as darkly academic as it is, and I was pleasantly surprised. I absolutely adored this book.
The magic system in this book is absolutely incredible. With the touch of romance between pages was perfect for a mystery, the setting of New Mexico, and a magical school? This book is incredible.
I mean, for all the academic fans that enjoyed Babel R.F. Kuang, or even Leigh Bardugo if you enjoyed Ninth House, this book is absolutely for you. There's real arcane texts that are referenced that I found myself googling.
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Kensington books for the ARC of this wonderful novel!
I went in unaware that this would be as darkly academic as it is, and I was pleasantly surprised. I absolutely adored this book.
The magic system in this book is absolutely incredible. With the touch of romance between pages was perfect for a mystery, the setting of New Mexico, and a magical school? This book is incredible.
I mean, for all the academic fans that enjoyed Babel R.F. Kuang, or even Leigh Bardugo if you enjoyed Ninth House, this book is absolutely for you. There's real arcane texts that are referenced that I found myself googling.
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Kensington books for the ARC of this wonderful novel!
October 28, 2025
The Book of Autumn
by Molly O'Sullivan
Fantasy Mystery
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Oct 28, 2025
Kensington
Ages: 16+
Hiding from her past, Marcella is a dimidium, a magic user who is connected to another, and they enable each other's powers. After an incident at college, she left, cutting ties with Max, her other half. But Max tracks her down, telling her that the college needs her help. A student had died, and another is floating, talking in tongues.
This is a magical mystery as Marcella and Max try to figure out what happened to the two girls, even though it seems as if it is obvious that one killed the other. But as Marcella questioned students and staff, she began to realize that something else was going on.
The reader is pulled from one possible solution to another, and then another, as most investigations do, but it did get kind of boring.
Something that was an irritation was the 'footnotes'. I get that they are suitable for some stories, but in print, so they can be at the bottom of the page. I don't think they work the best with ebooks... Maybe in the final version, the links work and they go to the footnote that is at the back of the book, and maybe there's a return link... But I am not going to waste my time, purposefully throw myself out of the story just to follow a link when that explanation could've been woven into the story.
It wasn't a bad story, but I didn't care much for it because there were things left out until the end, or in the footnotes, that would've added to the characters, setting, and plot. But worse, the magic was vague in explanation and when 'performed'.
The book cover is eye-catching, but the title, while intriguing for book lovers, doesn't make much sense until... spoiler...
There is violence and descriptions of the acts, but not too graphic, and the romance is semi-tame, so this is suitable for readers sixteen and older.
2 Stars
by Molly O'Sullivan
Fantasy Mystery
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Oct 28, 2025
Kensington
Ages: 16+
Hiding from her past, Marcella is a dimidium, a magic user who is connected to another, and they enable each other's powers. After an incident at college, she left, cutting ties with Max, her other half. But Max tracks her down, telling her that the college needs her help. A student had died, and another is floating, talking in tongues.
This is a magical mystery as Marcella and Max try to figure out what happened to the two girls, even though it seems as if it is obvious that one killed the other. But as Marcella questioned students and staff, she began to realize that something else was going on.
The reader is pulled from one possible solution to another, and then another, as most investigations do, but it did get kind of boring.
Something that was an irritation was the 'footnotes'. I get that they are suitable for some stories, but in print, so they can be at the bottom of the page. I don't think they work the best with ebooks... Maybe in the final version, the links work and they go to the footnote that is at the back of the book, and maybe there's a return link... But I am not going to waste my time, purposefully throw myself out of the story just to follow a link when that explanation could've been woven into the story.
It wasn't a bad story, but I didn't care much for it because there were things left out until the end, or in the footnotes, that would've added to the characters, setting, and plot. But worse, the magic was vague in explanation and when 'performed'.
The book cover is eye-catching, but the title, while intriguing for book lovers, doesn't make much sense until... spoiler...
There is violence and descriptions of the acts, but not too graphic, and the romance is semi-tame, so this is suitable for readers sixteen and older.
2 Stars
April 21, 2025
Thank you so much to NetGalley for allowing me to read in advance this fantasy dark academia murder mystery! It is a gripping story full of plot twists, magic, and complex characters, and I couldn't rip myself away from it until I finished the whole thing. It reads like a very long academic paper turned narrative whilst still retaining the dark academia and fantasy vibes that we love, as well as the thrill of a mystery. Would definitely recommend.
August 2, 2025
I think this book will be popular with readers who enjoy dark academia, desert settings, and second chance romances. I also have to give this book credit for its stunning cover. It's one of the most beautiful books I've read this year!
My favorite thing about this book is its setting. The Book of Autumn features an academy for magic hidden away in the New Mexico desert. I loved reading about the red-dusted mesas, the caves tucked among the cliffs, and the horse ranches that dot the landscape. I haven't read many contemporary fantasy books that take place in a desert, which made this book feel refreshing!
I also like that this book has roots in dark academia. It's written in a journal-like format, with footnotes sprinkled across the bottom of its pages. Picture something like Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries and Piranesi. I think The Book of Autumn's journalistic style fits well with its academic setting. Plus, The Book of Autumn references real arcane texts and historical figures. I can tell the author did her research!
I think the main reason I'm not rating this book higher is because the pacing seemed a bit slow. It's crazy to say that, as the story follows a murder investigation at a magical academy! There are creepy fraternities, levitating students, and weird symbols appearing across campus. It sounds intriguing, right? How could a story with that plot go wrong?
Ultimately, I feel like The Book of Autumn's plot lacks direction. There weren't many clues for the characters to follow, and things didn't come together until the last 20% of the book. Even then, the ending felt incomplete. I'm not sure if the author was trying to set things up for a sequel, but I finished the book and was left wanting more. More action, more explanation, and more consequences for the antagonist. But, even though I didn't love the story arc, I still think readers who enjoy atmospheric, dark academia books that build over time may enjoy this!
Overall, The Book of Autumn is a 3 star read for me. I liked its academy setting, desert backdrop, and journalistic writing style. I've also seen soooo many glowing reviews. I think this book is a great fit for fans of Olive Blake, R. F. Kuang, and Adrienne Young. If that sounds like your kind of story, make sure to preorder your copy or head to your nearest bookstore on October 28th!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publicity team. All opinions are my own.
My favorite thing about this book is its setting. The Book of Autumn features an academy for magic hidden away in the New Mexico desert. I loved reading about the red-dusted mesas, the caves tucked among the cliffs, and the horse ranches that dot the landscape. I haven't read many contemporary fantasy books that take place in a desert, which made this book feel refreshing!
I also like that this book has roots in dark academia. It's written in a journal-like format, with footnotes sprinkled across the bottom of its pages. Picture something like Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries and Piranesi. I think The Book of Autumn's journalistic style fits well with its academic setting. Plus, The Book of Autumn references real arcane texts and historical figures. I can tell the author did her research!
I think the main reason I'm not rating this book higher is because the pacing seemed a bit slow. It's crazy to say that, as the story follows a murder investigation at a magical academy! There are creepy fraternities, levitating students, and weird symbols appearing across campus. It sounds intriguing, right? How could a story with that plot go wrong?
Ultimately, I feel like The Book of Autumn's plot lacks direction. There weren't many clues for the characters to follow, and things didn't come together until the last 20% of the book. Even then, the ending felt incomplete. I'm not sure if the author was trying to set things up for a sequel, but I finished the book and was left wanting more. More action, more explanation, and more consequences for the antagonist. But, even though I didn't love the story arc, I still think readers who enjoy atmospheric, dark academia books that build over time may enjoy this!
Overall, The Book of Autumn is a 3 star read for me. I liked its academy setting, desert backdrop, and journalistic writing style. I've also seen soooo many glowing reviews. I think this book is a great fit for fans of Olive Blake, R. F. Kuang, and Adrienne Young. If that sounds like your kind of story, make sure to preorder your copy or head to your nearest bookstore on October 28th!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publicity team. All opinions are my own.
April 18, 2025
As beautifully written as its cover! Worth the read — captivating and engaging!
October 30, 2025
**𝔄ℜℭ ℜ𝔢𝔳𝔦𝔢𝔴** 𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝔅𝔬𝔬𝔨 𝔬𝔣 𝔄𝔲𝔱𝔲𝔪𝔫 𝔟𝔶 𝔐𝔬𝔩𝔩𝔶 𝔒'𝔖𝔲𝔩𝔩𝔦𝔳𝔞𝔫
Release Date: October 28, 2025
4⭐️3🌶
Ludlow House/Ranch built in 1883 next to the Sangre De Cristo Mountains in Marble County in New Mexico, and bought in 2000 by Dr. Robetresse who turned it into Seinford and Brown College. Five years after abandoning her PhD program.
Cella Gibbons and Max Middlemore are a magical pair or dimidiums. They were studying Magical Object Theory when the unthinkable happened and one of their closest friends died. This death was the impetus for Cella leaving, and without his magical partner Max was forced to stop using magic. He also left Seinford and Brown to become a horse trainer somewhere else in New Mexico.
However, when a young women at Seinford and Brown is cursed and her bestfriend/lover is horrifically killed, Max and Cella are called back to the school to evaluated the cursed student and see if they can reverse her horrific curse.
This is was a very spooky verging on horror and demon possession read. This magic school is definately haunted and has moving doors and corridors due to the magic that has been cast upon it to hide certain elements of the existing ranch/house.
I highly recommend this read for all fans of haunted houses and magic schools. It was a very enthralling read.
Themes/Tropes:
🍁Magic College
🍁Murder Mystery/Investigation
🍁Demonic Possession/Cursed Soul
🍁Haunted House/Ranch
🍁Second Chance Romance
🍁Magical duo
🍁Grieving a sibling
🍁Repairing a relationshipo
TW:
✨Death of a sibling
✨Suicide
✨Cursed/Demonic Possession
✨Violence via magic
✨Graphic murder
✨Murderer on the loose
Thank you to @netgalley for this arc copy for review!
Release Date: October 28, 2025
4⭐️3🌶
Ludlow House/Ranch built in 1883 next to the Sangre De Cristo Mountains in Marble County in New Mexico, and bought in 2000 by Dr. Robetresse who turned it into Seinford and Brown College. Five years after abandoning her PhD program.
Cella Gibbons and Max Middlemore are a magical pair or dimidiums. They were studying Magical Object Theory when the unthinkable happened and one of their closest friends died. This death was the impetus for Cella leaving, and without his magical partner Max was forced to stop using magic. He also left Seinford and Brown to become a horse trainer somewhere else in New Mexico.
However, when a young women at Seinford and Brown is cursed and her bestfriend/lover is horrifically killed, Max and Cella are called back to the school to evaluated the cursed student and see if they can reverse her horrific curse.
This is was a very spooky verging on horror and demon possession read. This magic school is definately haunted and has moving doors and corridors due to the magic that has been cast upon it to hide certain elements of the existing ranch/house.
I highly recommend this read for all fans of haunted houses and magic schools. It was a very enthralling read.
Themes/Tropes:
🍁Magic College
🍁Murder Mystery/Investigation
🍁Demonic Possession/Cursed Soul
🍁Haunted House/Ranch
🍁Second Chance Romance
🍁Magical duo
🍁Grieving a sibling
🍁Repairing a relationshipo
TW:
✨Death of a sibling
✨Suicide
✨Cursed/Demonic Possession
✨Violence via magic
✨Graphic murder
✨Murderer on the loose
Thank you to @netgalley for this arc copy for review!
October 24, 2025
1.5 ⭐️
This was so so so incredibly boring! To address the elephant in the room, there is no autumn in this book. The title refers to a book inside the story that doesn’t show up until 60% through at least.
This book tried to build a world, characters, a mystery, and schemes and plots, but none of it was fleshed out enough to be interesting. What do they use magic for in this world? How is it perceived by the public? Does everyone have it? I don’t know! I hated all the characters passionately, Cella and Max were so boring and self centered and clearly don’t work well together (which isn’t going to stop the halfhearted romance that’s thrown in there).
The pacing was also really poorly done, it felt like we were just jumping from event to event and timeline to timeline with no flow at all. Whenever the reader needed to know something, a flashback would interrupt the flow and just infodump the necessary details. And a lot of the details were so random and then not really ever addressed again. We took a detour in the plot to try and address cyberbullying on social media? And then dropped that entirely.
Also, as a resident of New Mexico, it is clear to me that the author has never been here. Maybe not even done more than a brief google image search. 125 degrees before noon?? Seriously?? The state record is 122 and that’s in the very southern part. This is supposed to take place near Colorado! All this dry mesa description but like, that part of the state has mountains?? And what season is this supposed to be, spring? Where’s all the wind? Summer/Autumn? Where’s all the thunderstorms?? I was so excited to read a book taking place in my state, but it didn’t do it justice at all. If you’re going to namedrop a state in your blurb, the setting should come through strongly in the whole book, but I feel like the author forgot where this was supposed to be half the time and then occasionally threw in a “mesa” or “it was so hot” to try and tie it back in.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this eARC, but unfortunately I was extremely disappointed in this one.
This was so so so incredibly boring! To address the elephant in the room, there is no autumn in this book. The title refers to a book inside the story that doesn’t show up until 60% through at least.
This book tried to build a world, characters, a mystery, and schemes and plots, but none of it was fleshed out enough to be interesting. What do they use magic for in this world? How is it perceived by the public? Does everyone have it? I don’t know! I hated all the characters passionately, Cella and Max were so boring and self centered and clearly don’t work well together (which isn’t going to stop the halfhearted romance that’s thrown in there).
The pacing was also really poorly done, it felt like we were just jumping from event to event and timeline to timeline with no flow at all. Whenever the reader needed to know something, a flashback would interrupt the flow and just infodump the necessary details. And a lot of the details were so random and then not really ever addressed again. We took a detour in the plot to try and address cyberbullying on social media? And then dropped that entirely.
Also, as a resident of New Mexico, it is clear to me that the author has never been here. Maybe not even done more than a brief google image search. 125 degrees before noon?? Seriously?? The state record is 122 and that’s in the very southern part. This is supposed to take place near Colorado! All this dry mesa description but like, that part of the state has mountains?? And what season is this supposed to be, spring? Where’s all the wind? Summer/Autumn? Where’s all the thunderstorms?? I was so excited to read a book taking place in my state, but it didn’t do it justice at all. If you’re going to namedrop a state in your blurb, the setting should come through strongly in the whole book, but I feel like the author forgot where this was supposed to be half the time and then occasionally threw in a “mesa” or “it was so hot” to try and tie it back in.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this eARC, but unfortunately I was extremely disappointed in this one.
May 30, 2025
Thank you Net Galley and Kensington Publishing for sending me (my very first ever) advanced copy of this debut novel!!
Modern day dark academia, magic, mystery, ancient sorcery and a little romance? Count me in!
I really enjoyed the beautiful imagery written throughout the book as I felt it broke up how it was written almost like a narrative academic research paper with the journal entries and foot notes citing personal inputs, religious texts, ancient philosophers and texts! I did however, also enjoy the foot notes because some of that information went right over my head initially!
I do wish there would have been a little more to the romance story between Max & Cella (past and present) and some more chapters with them actually practicing their magic together!
Overall, I enjoyed this book and am so happy to have received an advanced reader copy! 📚✨
Modern day dark academia, magic, mystery, ancient sorcery and a little romance? Count me in!
I really enjoyed the beautiful imagery written throughout the book as I felt it broke up how it was written almost like a narrative academic research paper with the journal entries and foot notes citing personal inputs, religious texts, ancient philosophers and texts! I did however, also enjoy the foot notes because some of that information went right over my head initially!
I do wish there would have been a little more to the romance story between Max & Cella (past and present) and some more chapters with them actually practicing their magic together!
Overall, I enjoyed this book and am so happy to have received an advanced reader copy! 📚✨
November 7, 2025
Murder and a levitating student brings Marcella Gibbons back to Seinford and Brown College of Agriculture (and Magic) in rural New Mexico. She had promised to never come back after severing ties with her other magical half, Max Middlemore, but with the promise of getting paid (and some sweettalking from Max) she drove back with her pup.
The council was looking to both Cella and Max to use their magic to figure out why the student is levitating and what is happening around the college grounds.
I really enjoyed the way this book was written, especially in paperback I am uncertain what it looks like on an e-reader, because you will have little icons to indicate when another character in the book is thinking something, as footnote-almost like they were reading this book with you. It also mixed in diary entries from students, religious texts & ancient philosophy. I can see if it is being read on an e-reader the footnotes might not be as pleasing to read.
The murder mystery keep me GLUED, I wanted Cella to figure out what was going on and there were times I really wished we had more of Max's thoughts around the 75% mark.
The ending was so satisfying. I was almost in tears.. I also had to stop myself from highlighting too much.
----
Review to come tomorrow.
Let’s just say, I’m smiling
The council was looking to both Cella and Max to use their magic to figure out why the student is levitating and what is happening around the college grounds.
I really enjoyed the way this book was written, especially in paperback I am uncertain what it looks like on an e-reader, because you will have little icons to indicate when another character in the book is thinking something, as footnote-almost like they were reading this book with you. It also mixed in diary entries from students, religious texts & ancient philosophy. I can see if it is being read on an e-reader the footnotes might not be as pleasing to read.
The murder mystery keep me GLUED, I wanted Cella to figure out what was going on and there were times I really wished we had more of Max's thoughts around the 75% mark.
The ending was so satisfying. I was almost in tears.. I also had to stop myself from highlighting too much.
----
Review to come tomorrow.
Let’s just say, I’m smiling
September 23, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I would first like to bring attention to the cover. Absolutely gorgeous! I was drawn in by the cover and the promise of dark academia. But unfortunately it didn’t deliver. I didn’t connect with the characters and the romance between them didn’t feel right. I just expected more from the story. I will say I did like the unique writing style. I just wish I enjoyed it more.
I would first like to bring attention to the cover. Absolutely gorgeous! I was drawn in by the cover and the promise of dark academia. But unfortunately it didn’t deliver. I didn’t connect with the characters and the romance between them didn’t feel right. I just expected more from the story. I will say I did like the unique writing style. I just wish I enjoyed it more.
April 18, 2025
I really loved this book!
September 29, 2025
ty to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for a copy of an eArc in exchange for a review :)
3.75/5 stars rounded up
🄿🅁🄴🄼🄸🅂🄴 🪄
Cella used to attend a university, Seinford and Brown College of Agriculture, where she studied magic pertaining object theory with her dimidium (a person who you share your magic with) Max. A tragic event caused her to leave campus and magic behind, until a mysterious murder and suspicious suspects arise and she returns to help with the investigation. Not only is she returning to solve the murder, but also must confront her past and the people she left behind.
🄲🄷🄰🅁🄰🄲🅃🄴🅁🅂 🍁
➺Cella 🌊. I LOVED Cella. She is so relatable and her feelings/thoughts are expressed super well through her actions. Character development was top notch, felt like I watched her grow.
➺Max🐎. I feel like Max as a person would annoy me, but he was perfect for Cella. The way he refused to let her go and was by her side the entire time letting her do her thing spoke volumes.
➺Basile🍂. My opinions on this guy changed literally every chapter I could not make up my mind. At the end, I do really like his character but he could've been so much moreee.
🄿🄻🄾🅃 🔖
➺The plot was the best part. I was hooked from the very beginning with the suspense, rush, and magic keeping everything moving. The mystery was very well written and I am super satisfied (and kinda proud) that I was able to guess what was going on before it was revealed.
➺The ending was... rough. There are still so many loose ends and as far as I know there isn't a next book :( It did feel very rushed and a little too perfect which was very unsatisfying since considering what we went through during the book, I think we deserve a more well thought-out end.
🄵🄴🄴🄻🄸🄽🄶🅂 💞
➺It was a good book and I would totally recommend to anyone that likes fantasy, academia settings, mysteries, with a side of romance.
➺It was a LOT packed into one book but Molly O'Sullivan somehow made it work :)
expected release date: oct 28, 2025
3.75/5 stars rounded up
🄿🅁🄴🄼🄸🅂🄴 🪄
Cella used to attend a university, Seinford and Brown College of Agriculture, where she studied magic pertaining object theory with her dimidium (a person who you share your magic with) Max. A tragic event caused her to leave campus and magic behind, until a mysterious murder and suspicious suspects arise and she returns to help with the investigation. Not only is she returning to solve the murder, but also must confront her past and the people she left behind.
🄲🄷🄰🅁🄰🄲🅃🄴🅁🅂 🍁
➺Cella 🌊. I LOVED Cella. She is so relatable and her feelings/thoughts are expressed super well through her actions. Character development was top notch, felt like I watched her grow.
➺Max🐎. I feel like Max as a person would annoy me, but he was perfect for Cella. The way he refused to let her go and was by her side the entire time letting her do her thing spoke volumes.
➺Basile🍂. My opinions on this guy changed literally every chapter I could not make up my mind. At the end, I do really like his character but he could've been so much moreee.
🄿🄻🄾🅃 🔖
➺The plot was the best part. I was hooked from the very beginning with the suspense, rush, and magic keeping everything moving. The mystery was very well written and I am super satisfied (and kinda proud) that I was able to guess what was going on before it was revealed.
➺The ending was... rough. There are still so many loose ends and as far as I know there isn't a next book :( It did feel very rushed and a little too perfect which was very unsatisfying since considering what we went through during the book, I think we deserve a more well thought-out end.
🄵🄴🄴🄻🄸🄽🄶🅂 💞
➺It was a good book and I would totally recommend to anyone that likes fantasy, academia settings, mysteries, with a side of romance.
➺It was a LOT packed into one book but Molly O'Sullivan somehow made it work :)
expected release date: oct 28, 2025
May 14, 2025
1⭐️ A dark academia murder mystery set in a school for magic. The book is compared to The atlas six and Ninth house which got me really excited, but unfortunately this wasn’t really for me.
It’s definitely unique the way it’s written. A research paper with footnotes and everything. Personally I’m not a big fan of footnotes in books, but it did make it more unique.
The magic aspect didn’t feel as special as I’d like it to be. There’s no distinct difference between people who are able to use magic and who cannot. That made it way less impressive, seclusive and interesting to me.
This also didn’t feel as much like a dark academia book as I expected and wanted it to be. Sure, it takes place in a school, but the whole dark academia vibe didn’t really come through for me.
It’s also mostly a mystery book if anything (and the mystery didn’t do it for me). I wasn’t invested, if anything I was just frustrated most of the time. There was so much dialogue and so little happening. It felt like I was watching all the boring parts of a mystery unfold and it wasn’t satisfying me. Because of this I really struggled to get through it.
What I did like is that Max, the main guy, was literally Role Model with a cowboy hat in my head. That made it a little more fun.
All in all this just wasn’t it for me. It didn’t match my expectations in the slightest. Maybe that’s on me but I expected so much more from this.
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher, for the arc.
It’s definitely unique the way it’s written. A research paper with footnotes and everything. Personally I’m not a big fan of footnotes in books, but it did make it more unique.
The magic aspect didn’t feel as special as I’d like it to be. There’s no distinct difference between people who are able to use magic and who cannot. That made it way less impressive, seclusive and interesting to me.
This also didn’t feel as much like a dark academia book as I expected and wanted it to be. Sure, it takes place in a school, but the whole dark academia vibe didn’t really come through for me.
It’s also mostly a mystery book if anything (and the mystery didn’t do it for me). I wasn’t invested, if anything I was just frustrated most of the time. There was so much dialogue and so little happening. It felt like I was watching all the boring parts of a mystery unfold and it wasn’t satisfying me. Because of this I really struggled to get through it.
What I did like is that Max, the main guy, was literally Role Model with a cowboy hat in my head. That made it a little more fun.
All in all this just wasn’t it for me. It didn’t match my expectations in the slightest. Maybe that’s on me but I expected so much more from this.
Thank you, NetGalley and the publisher, for the arc.
April 8, 2025
I recently had the opportunity to read an advance reader copy (ARC) of The Book of Autumn by Molly O’Sullivan, and it was an enthralling experience. This debut novel masterfully intertwines themes of ambition, privilege, second-chance romance, and ancient magic within a richly constructed world.
The story follows Marcella “Cella” Gibbons, an anthropologist and dimidium—one half of a formidable pair of magicians whose powers are interdependent. After a tumultuous final year at Seinford and Brown College of Agriculture (and Magic) in rural New Mexico, Cella had distanced herself from magic, academia, and her other half, the charming rancher Max Middlemore. However, when mysterious and dangerous events unfold at their alma mater, Cella and Max are compelled to reunite and confront their shared past to unravel a centuries-old mystery.
O’Sullivan’s portrayal of Cella is compelling, capturing her internal struggles and resilience with depth and authenticity. Max is depicted as a complex character—both a rugged rancher and a man grappling with unresolved feelings and responsibilities. Their chemistry is palpable, their interactions filled with tension and allure.
The novel’s pacing is well-balanced, seamlessly blending action-packed sequences with moments of introspection. O’Sullivan’s prose is evocative, painting vivid images of the New Mexico desert and the enchanted school. The plot twists are unpredictable, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover what lies ahead.
In summary, The Book of Autumn is a standout debut that delves into complex relationships and moral dilemmas against a backdrop of magic and academia. Its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and richly imagined world make it a must-read. I wholeheartedly recommend it to fans of dark academia and those seeking a story that will linger in their thoughts long after the final page.
The story follows Marcella “Cella” Gibbons, an anthropologist and dimidium—one half of a formidable pair of magicians whose powers are interdependent. After a tumultuous final year at Seinford and Brown College of Agriculture (and Magic) in rural New Mexico, Cella had distanced herself from magic, academia, and her other half, the charming rancher Max Middlemore. However, when mysterious and dangerous events unfold at their alma mater, Cella and Max are compelled to reunite and confront their shared past to unravel a centuries-old mystery.
O’Sullivan’s portrayal of Cella is compelling, capturing her internal struggles and resilience with depth and authenticity. Max is depicted as a complex character—both a rugged rancher and a man grappling with unresolved feelings and responsibilities. Their chemistry is palpable, their interactions filled with tension and allure.
The novel’s pacing is well-balanced, seamlessly blending action-packed sequences with moments of introspection. O’Sullivan’s prose is evocative, painting vivid images of the New Mexico desert and the enchanted school. The plot twists are unpredictable, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover what lies ahead.
In summary, The Book of Autumn is a standout debut that delves into complex relationships and moral dilemmas against a backdrop of magic and academia. Its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and richly imagined world make it a must-read. I wholeheartedly recommend it to fans of dark academia and those seeking a story that will linger in their thoughts long after the final page.
August 30, 2025
Thank you to Molly O'Sullivan, Between the Chapters Facebook Book Club and Kensington Books for an ARC of The Book of Autumn. I don't give away spoilers in my reviews.
I have slowly become a fantasty reader and I especially love when history is mixed in with the storyline. I loved the cover, the title and it was the perfect New England weather to start this book.
Cella and Max are current council members and former students of magic at their alma mater. They also share a soul and draw magic from one another.
After a current student is "ill", Cella and Max are asked to come back to the school to help investigate. Cella has mixed feelings on returning to the life she left far behind - and the man she left far behind, Max.
I loved the format of this book with its many definitions in footnotes, the history explained thoroughout and the descriptive settings of the school. I also really enjoyed other characters that play a big part in the storyline. I won't list names because it would give too much away.
I admittedly didn't figure out the result of the investigation and was sure it would be a different person responsible. I love when that happens. As a reader, I don't want to be able to guess.
As a new reader of fantasy, I very much enjoyed the book. I especially loved the ending. I hope to read additional books by Ms. O'Sullivan soon. She writes fantasy so well and I would find myself starting to turn the page before I finished reading the current page because I just had to know what happens next!
I have slowly become a fantasty reader and I especially love when history is mixed in with the storyline. I loved the cover, the title and it was the perfect New England weather to start this book.
Cella and Max are current council members and former students of magic at their alma mater. They also share a soul and draw magic from one another.
After a current student is "ill", Cella and Max are asked to come back to the school to help investigate. Cella has mixed feelings on returning to the life she left far behind - and the man she left far behind, Max.
I loved the format of this book with its many definitions in footnotes, the history explained thoroughout and the descriptive settings of the school. I also really enjoyed other characters that play a big part in the storyline. I won't list names because it would give too much away.
I admittedly didn't figure out the result of the investigation and was sure it would be a different person responsible. I love when that happens. As a reader, I don't want to be able to guess.
As a new reader of fantasy, I very much enjoyed the book. I especially loved the ending. I hope to read additional books by Ms. O'Sullivan soon. She writes fantasy so well and I would find myself starting to turn the page before I finished reading the current page because I just had to know what happens next!
April 13, 2025
Marcella and Max, dimidiums - two Magicians who's magic is bound to each other - return to their former college of Magic to solve the murder of a student, and the possible hex of another, while facing a past Marcella would rather leave behind.
I'm not usually a huge fan of fantasy set in the modern day, but in The Book of Autumn, it is not so overpowering as in other modern-day fantasies, and it is just as important as the past. I really enjoyed how fleshed out the lore and history is in this story, and I can appreciate how much went into getting it right.
I enjoyed the mystery element in this, and I was forming my own guesses and theories throughout. I do wish there was more magic involved however. I can understand the reason behind there not being much, due to the related trauma and past of certain characters, but I think for me it would have been that bit more interesting to see more of.
The characters were likeable, and it was easy for opinions to change ad evidence came to light, or more suspects were brought into the fold.
Thank you so much to Kensington Publishing for allowing me to read this ARC through netgalley!
I'm not usually a huge fan of fantasy set in the modern day, but in The Book of Autumn, it is not so overpowering as in other modern-day fantasies, and it is just as important as the past. I really enjoyed how fleshed out the lore and history is in this story, and I can appreciate how much went into getting it right.
I enjoyed the mystery element in this, and I was forming my own guesses and theories throughout. I do wish there was more magic involved however. I can understand the reason behind there not being much, due to the related trauma and past of certain characters, but I think for me it would have been that bit more interesting to see more of.
The characters were likeable, and it was easy for opinions to change ad evidence came to light, or more suspects were brought into the fold.
Thank you so much to Kensington Publishing for allowing me to read this ARC through netgalley!
July 14, 2025
4.5 ⭐
The novel was really captivating; it had a compelling plotline and enough mystery and intrigue to keep you engaged. However, the magic aspect of the felt almost nonexistent because it is only ever mentioned in passing and rarely ever demonstrated, but that does not impact the story too much in my opinion.
The romance was the only qualm I had about the book. There was no chemistry between the characters, and from an outsider's perspective, you would not even be able to tell that they were exes. I think the story could have been much more impactful had they been platonic soulmates or best friends, given their history.
But all in all, fantastic read and something to look forward to in the fall.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for providing an early proof in exchange for an honest review.
The novel was really captivating; it had a compelling plotline and enough mystery and intrigue to keep you engaged. However, the magic aspect of the felt almost nonexistent because it is only ever mentioned in passing and rarely ever demonstrated, but that does not impact the story too much in my opinion.
The romance was the only qualm I had about the book. There was no chemistry between the characters, and from an outsider's perspective, you would not even be able to tell that they were exes. I think the story could have been much more impactful had they been platonic soulmates or best friends, given their history.
But all in all, fantastic read and something to look forward to in the fall.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for providing an early proof in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2025
I received this eARC from NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. I regret to say I didn’t like it.
The title is a misnomer. The book is set in the spring in the American southwest. There is nothing particularly autumnal about it. The title doesn’t even make sense until the ~75% mark.
The history of Cella and Max is murky and isn’t plainly spelled out until the book is almost over. I shouldn’t have to spend so much time guessing at critical backstory. We all know how their conflict is going to end so resolve that nonsense in the middle. There’s plenty of other drama to propel the plot.
Speaking of the rest of the plot, it’s not great. Dangerous magical foolery happens resulting in one student dead and another incapacitated. Instead of proper investigation and oversight, let’s call in some random alumni with minimal background in this and give them free rein. Cella and Max ignore several important leads, never push for answers, and overall suck at the job. I lost count of how many stupid decisions and risks they took.
I liked the magic system. The academia, channeling through objects, the history. It was interesting and different. The big pieces of the magical mystery were compelling. The personal relationships, character development, and other things holding the plot together were not. 2.5/5
The title is a misnomer. The book is set in the spring in the American southwest. There is nothing particularly autumnal about it. The title doesn’t even make sense until the ~75% mark.
The history of Cella and Max is murky and isn’t plainly spelled out until the book is almost over. I shouldn’t have to spend so much time guessing at critical backstory. We all know how their conflict is going to end so resolve that nonsense in the middle. There’s plenty of other drama to propel the plot.
Speaking of the rest of the plot, it’s not great. Dangerous magical foolery happens resulting in one student dead and another incapacitated. Instead of proper investigation and oversight, let’s call in some random alumni with minimal background in this and give them free rein. Cella and Max ignore several important leads, never push for answers, and overall suck at the job. I lost count of how many stupid decisions and risks they took.
I liked the magic system. The academia, channeling through objects, the history. It was interesting and different. The big pieces of the magical mystery were compelling. The personal relationships, character development, and other things holding the plot together were not. 2.5/5
September 7, 2025
Starting September with secret societies, cults, and a dash of dark academia? Yes please. This book is basically magic detectives meet The Exorcist—and I devoured it like my first pumpkin spice latte of the season.
I loved the little POV notes scattered throughout (who knew book notes could spill so much tea?). It gave the whole story an extra clever edge. Between the eerie atmosphere, the cult-y secrets, and the gothic campus vibes, it had me hooked.
If you’re a fan of Ninth House and you’re in the mood to haunt libraries instead of actually studying in them, this one belongs on your autumn TBR. Honestly? Unexpectedly one of my favorite reads of the year. 🍁🔮
I loved the little POV notes scattered throughout (who knew book notes could spill so much tea?). It gave the whole story an extra clever edge. Between the eerie atmosphere, the cult-y secrets, and the gothic campus vibes, it had me hooked.
If you’re a fan of Ninth House and you’re in the mood to haunt libraries instead of actually studying in them, this one belongs on your autumn TBR. Honestly? Unexpectedly one of my favorite reads of the year. 🍁🔮
November 3, 2025
Review originally on JamReads
The Book of Autumn is a romantic dark academia novel written by Molly O'Sullivan, published by Kensington Books. An ambitious and beautiful debut that shapes a murder mystery with a narrative form that mimics an anthropological research paper, adding plenty of footnotes, diary entries and extra information that helps to compose the story of Cella and Max, ex-lovers and the two halves of a magical whole, who return to their magical alma mater to investigate a brutal murder.
Cella left college a little before graduation, moving away from the other half of her magical soul, Max, after a difficult last year that included the death of her younger brother Aaron; however, she returns after receiving a letter demanding her to investigate as there has been an "accident". Someone is using hexes, and the afflicted student reminds her of Aaron, so Cella is desperate to help; she will submerge together with Max in the complicated web of history, magic and deceit that has been weaved into the school since her departure, while also having to confront her complicated feelings towards Max and the ghosts from her past.
The reader quickly empathizes with Cella, who will act as our narrator and as one of the main characters: a person with incredible potential but scarred by the past; we can quickly advert how she puts everything out of her to help the afflicted student, even at the cost of her own health/sleep. She might be too perfectionist, asks too much of herself, but here's where Max, the other half of the dimdium, enters.
I recognise that I have conflicted feelings about Max: I can totally see how he tries to be protective of Cella, but that doesn't mean I wouldn't slap him a few times during the book. He's a great complement to Cella, making the perfect pair, but results a bit too agressive. The slow-burn romance between these two totally suited the plot, and it is quite enjoyable to see how they finally acknowledge their feelings towards the other, even if almost needs a catastrophe.
The rest of the cast is not as developed as our pair, but O'Sullivan manages to flesh them enough to make them interesting, almost fascinating at moments (especially when talking about the villain).
The setting is also part of what makes this a refreshing proposal: while we still have some of the classical dark academia elements, shifting the location towards New Mexico and the Sangre de Cristo Sierra contributes to a really distinctive imagery. The fact that many of the texts referenced during this book are real also shows how O'Sullivan has put the necessary research to give more authenticity to her novel.
The atypical way of narrating this story, including the footnotes and other texts entries, makes the pacing a bit weird, but overall, I found myself enthralled in the novel, so I guess it worked perfectly.
The Book of Autumn is an excellent debut novel, a romantic dark academia proposal perfect if you are looking for a shift in the narrative style and in the settings, bringing a fresh take to the genre. Molly O'Sullivan is a voice to continue watching in the future!
The Book of Autumn is a romantic dark academia novel written by Molly O'Sullivan, published by Kensington Books. An ambitious and beautiful debut that shapes a murder mystery with a narrative form that mimics an anthropological research paper, adding plenty of footnotes, diary entries and extra information that helps to compose the story of Cella and Max, ex-lovers and the two halves of a magical whole, who return to their magical alma mater to investigate a brutal murder.
Cella left college a little before graduation, moving away from the other half of her magical soul, Max, after a difficult last year that included the death of her younger brother Aaron; however, she returns after receiving a letter demanding her to investigate as there has been an "accident". Someone is using hexes, and the afflicted student reminds her of Aaron, so Cella is desperate to help; she will submerge together with Max in the complicated web of history, magic and deceit that has been weaved into the school since her departure, while also having to confront her complicated feelings towards Max and the ghosts from her past.
The reader quickly empathizes with Cella, who will act as our narrator and as one of the main characters: a person with incredible potential but scarred by the past; we can quickly advert how she puts everything out of her to help the afflicted student, even at the cost of her own health/sleep. She might be too perfectionist, asks too much of herself, but here's where Max, the other half of the dimdium, enters.
I recognise that I have conflicted feelings about Max: I can totally see how he tries to be protective of Cella, but that doesn't mean I wouldn't slap him a few times during the book. He's a great complement to Cella, making the perfect pair, but results a bit too agressive. The slow-burn romance between these two totally suited the plot, and it is quite enjoyable to see how they finally acknowledge their feelings towards the other, even if almost needs a catastrophe.
The rest of the cast is not as developed as our pair, but O'Sullivan manages to flesh them enough to make them interesting, almost fascinating at moments (especially when talking about the villain).
The setting is also part of what makes this a refreshing proposal: while we still have some of the classical dark academia elements, shifting the location towards New Mexico and the Sangre de Cristo Sierra contributes to a really distinctive imagery. The fact that many of the texts referenced during this book are real also shows how O'Sullivan has put the necessary research to give more authenticity to her novel.
The atypical way of narrating this story, including the footnotes and other texts entries, makes the pacing a bit weird, but overall, I found myself enthralled in the novel, so I guess it worked perfectly.
The Book of Autumn is an excellent debut novel, a romantic dark academia proposal perfect if you are looking for a shift in the narrative style and in the settings, bringing a fresh take to the genre. Molly O'Sullivan is a voice to continue watching in the future!
October 30, 2025
The Book of Autumn was a stunning debut novel that blended dark academia, magic, mystery, and a touch of romance in a contemporary setting. I couldn’t put it down, eager to find out what would happen next. The story was filled with mystical intrigue and crime investigations. I really enjoyed the world-building and character development. I just wish there had been a little more romance.
I want to thank NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
September 12, 2025
The Book of Autumn is unsurprisingly a perfect book for fall with its academic setting, witches, possession/ haunting(?) and unsettling events.
I am a sucker for books with footnotes. The footnotes add to the academic setting and lend an air of scholarly work to the book. Most of the footnotes in The Book of Autumn just added extra details or context to events or items but some added thoughts of side characters.
A lot of this book centered around the themes of loneliness and belonging. This can first be seen with Cella and Max being Dimidiums (people who are stronger at magic when they cast together). Cella’s self imposed isolation as well as her not being an outgoing people person leave her feeling alone. She sympathises a lot with the “murderer” in the book especially after interviewing the dorms and finding out no one really knew the girl.
This theme is further progressed by how the book talks about social media. There is throughline on the cesspool that is social media reflecting in the parasocial relationship to the victim by the one associate professor going so far as mirroring her look, The type of hexes people put on each other, The social media influencers being treated in a similar fashion to ancient heroes. I did like that the investigation looked into social media to understand the landscape of relationships at the school. Much of this social media is driving wedges between people and creating unhealthy and obsessive relationships.
The juxtaposition of loneliness and community is further exemplified by a cult like frat. The members will do a lot to fit in including sleep deprivation. They also have an obsession with connecting to other dimensions.
The setting also gives off a sense of isolation in that the school is in the middle of nowhere but there is a huge community to support each other there.
Slight issues with the book:
I found Cella and Max’s detective work to sometimes be laughable clumsy. When cella steals a book and hides it under her shirt then immediately runs out of a room which makes it obvious she did something. So like why even hid the book under her shirt if she isn’t going to play it off for even one minute.
I was a little confused on the timeline exactly how many days were there council meeting when Luce was poisoned to graduation. Cella says she has the book nonstop with her and doesn’t sleep for a couple days but I thought they only had a couple days to graduation. I would appreciate a clearer timeline.
More commentary:
The most attractive thing about Max is that he says he has had enough of Elon musk fanboys.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I am a sucker for books with footnotes. The footnotes add to the academic setting and lend an air of scholarly work to the book. Most of the footnotes in The Book of Autumn just added extra details or context to events or items but some added thoughts of side characters.
A lot of this book centered around the themes of loneliness and belonging. This can first be seen with Cella and Max being Dimidiums (people who are stronger at magic when they cast together). Cella’s self imposed isolation as well as her not being an outgoing people person leave her feeling alone. She sympathises a lot with the “murderer” in the book especially after interviewing the dorms and finding out no one really knew the girl.
This theme is further progressed by how the book talks about social media. There is throughline on the cesspool that is social media reflecting in the parasocial relationship to the victim by the one associate professor going so far as mirroring her look, The type of hexes people put on each other, The social media influencers being treated in a similar fashion to ancient heroes. I did like that the investigation looked into social media to understand the landscape of relationships at the school. Much of this social media is driving wedges between people and creating unhealthy and obsessive relationships.
The juxtaposition of loneliness and community is further exemplified by a cult like frat. The members will do a lot to fit in including sleep deprivation. They also have an obsession with connecting to other dimensions.
The setting also gives off a sense of isolation in that the school is in the middle of nowhere but there is a huge community to support each other there.
Slight issues with the book:
I found Cella and Max’s detective work to sometimes be laughable clumsy. When cella steals a book and hides it under her shirt then immediately runs out of a room which makes it obvious she did something. So like why even hid the book under her shirt if she isn’t going to play it off for even one minute.
I was a little confused on the timeline exactly how many days were there council meeting when Luce was poisoned to graduation. Cella says she has the book nonstop with her and doesn’t sleep for a couple days but I thought they only had a couple days to graduation. I would appreciate a clearer timeline.
More commentary:
The most attractive thing about Max is that he says he has had enough of Elon musk fanboys.
Overall I really enjoyed this book. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
September 24, 2025
Wow. Just, wow. I’ll come back and write a real review once I’m done digesting.
Updated review:
I was completely consumed by The Book of Autumn by Molly O’Sullivan. This story is simply phenomenal — I can’t imagine the mind power it took to craft such a unique and intricate plot.
Marcella stole my heart as a protagonist — a deeply relatable, introverted academic who finds herself paired with Max, her dimidium (magical other half), while investigating a possible murder-hexing on university grounds. The dark academia vibes are strong, but what really stood out to me was how human all of the characters felt. At several points, I thought I had solved the mystery, only to be completely wrong — and I loved that!
The ending was so satisfying, giving Marcella and Max room to explore both their magic and their relationship — learning how to work together again after a falling out that happened before the events of the book. It was emotional, layered, and ultimately rewarding.
This is the perfect dark academic fantasy. If you loved the eerie, romantic atmosphere of Ninth House but wished it was a bit more approachable, or if you enjoyed the academic depth of Babel but wanted something slightly faster-paced, this is absolutely your book.
I honestly can’t believe this is Molly O’Sullivan’s debut novel — it’s so well-written, immersive, and clever. I highly, highly recommend it and cannot wait to read more from this author.
Updated review:
I was completely consumed by The Book of Autumn by Molly O’Sullivan. This story is simply phenomenal — I can’t imagine the mind power it took to craft such a unique and intricate plot.
Marcella stole my heart as a protagonist — a deeply relatable, introverted academic who finds herself paired with Max, her dimidium (magical other half), while investigating a possible murder-hexing on university grounds. The dark academia vibes are strong, but what really stood out to me was how human all of the characters felt. At several points, I thought I had solved the mystery, only to be completely wrong — and I loved that!
The ending was so satisfying, giving Marcella and Max room to explore both their magic and their relationship — learning how to work together again after a falling out that happened before the events of the book. It was emotional, layered, and ultimately rewarding.
This is the perfect dark academic fantasy. If you loved the eerie, romantic atmosphere of Ninth House but wished it was a bit more approachable, or if you enjoyed the academic depth of Babel but wanted something slightly faster-paced, this is absolutely your book.
I honestly can’t believe this is Molly O’Sullivan’s debut novel — it’s so well-written, immersive, and clever. I highly, highly recommend it and cannot wait to read more from this author.
April 30, 2025
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
The Book of Autumn by Molly O’Sullivan is a richly imagined fantasy that stands out for its unique take on magic and a world that feels both fresh and lived-in. One of the strongest aspects of the novel is its intricate world-building, which immediately draws you in and keeps expanding in fascinating ways.
At the heart of the story are characters who struggle deeply with the bonds that tie them together—both magical and emotional. Their journey to find their own identities while trying to stay connected adds a powerful emotional layer. I really appreciated how the book explored the tension between personal growth and shared destiny, without offering easy answers.
The mystery driving the plot is also well-executed. It kept me turning the pages, eager to unravel the truth alongside the characters. Even when things got difficult for them, their determination to work together and solve the central crime was compelling and inspiring.
Overall, I give The Book of Autumn 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a thoughtful, engaging read with strong emotional stakes and a world you’ll want to revisit.
The Book of Autumn by Molly O’Sullivan is a richly imagined fantasy that stands out for its unique take on magic and a world that feels both fresh and lived-in. One of the strongest aspects of the novel is its intricate world-building, which immediately draws you in and keeps expanding in fascinating ways.
At the heart of the story are characters who struggle deeply with the bonds that tie them together—both magical and emotional. Their journey to find their own identities while trying to stay connected adds a powerful emotional layer. I really appreciated how the book explored the tension between personal growth and shared destiny, without offering easy answers.
The mystery driving the plot is also well-executed. It kept me turning the pages, eager to unravel the truth alongside the characters. Even when things got difficult for them, their determination to work together and solve the central crime was compelling and inspiring.
Overall, I give The Book of Autumn 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a thoughtful, engaging read with strong emotional stakes and a world you’ll want to revisit.
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July 30, 2025Thank you, Goodreads, for the copy of this book.
Sadly, at a little over 25% I'm going to have to DNF it. 💔
I loved the synopsis but found myself reading what felt like a slow-paced Western mixed with exorcisms and summer camp?
If the pacing had been faster I could have gotten on board with the strange mash-up of genres and lack of real magic but I was so bored dispite a floating possessed child being introduced by page 10.
Sadly, at a little over 25% I'm going to have to DNF it. 💔
I loved the synopsis but found myself reading what felt like a slow-paced Western mixed with exorcisms and summer camp?
If the pacing had been faster I could have gotten on board with the strange mash-up of genres and lack of real magic but I was so bored dispite a floating possessed child being introduced by page 10.
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