If you're looking for a book that captures that cozy feeling of a crisp autumn day, look no further than Falling Like Leaves. This charming YA romance is a delightfully cozy seasonal read, packing major Gilmore Girls vibes with its blend of love, laughs, and small-town charm.
Ellis, our heroine, gives off slight Rory-vibes, and she is laser-focused on her future—specifically, Columbia University—and living the fast-paced, cutthroat city life. But when unexpected circumstances force her into a sudden move, she lands smack in the middle of her mother's charming hometown, Bramble Falls. The stage is instantly set for conflict: big city hustle meeting idyllic small-town community, new school, new friends, new challenges. Naturally, this new life comes complete with a seriously swoon-worthy, second-chance romance involving her long-lost childhood friend, Cooper.
What takes this book above the typical high-school fare is the surprising depth woven into the lighthearted plot. The main character is undeniably messy, imperfect, and sometimes frustrating, as she grapples with intense perfectionism and the heavy burden of her father's expectations. The author handles these struggles with nuance, adding meaningful layers that make her journey of self-discovery genuinely compelling.
The true magic, however, is the setting. The book is an absolute aesthetic feast, bringing to life the cozy transition from autumn to early winter with atmospheric scenes and a heart-warming sense of found family. Go ahead, grab a blanket, and let yourself fall for Bramble Falls. This book is so nostalgic, it makes you want to watch Practical Magic and Speed, too!
It’s perfect if you love:
🍂 Cozy fall rom-coms
💛 Second-chance romance
✨️ Charming small towns
🥰 YA / Teen books like Lynn Painter’s Better than the Movies