I went on a mission to load my e-reader (and bedside table) with books for spooky season. Here’s the spoils (but no spoilers)

But first, your weekly trip to The Grimoire Cafe…

Your arms are full of books as you shoulder open the blue door and step into The Grimoire Cafe. It’s your first true day off in a long time—no work, no obligations—and you intend to spend the day sipping whatever special Tini (a.k.a. Barista Extraordinaire) has dreamed up this week while reading all the books you’ve been neglecting in the hustle of summer as it collapses into fall.
You’re over the threshold, past the risk of tripping over the transition when you raise your eyes, and pause to take it all in.
The lights are low, tea lights illuminating tabletops in a soft glow, gooseneck lamps over the shoulders of the many upholstered chairs tucked into corners. A garland of dried oranges hangs across the front of the massive, antique coffee bar where Tini works her magic. Steam hisses and billows like the steam from a witches cauldron, ceasing a mere moment before the barista appears. She’s updated her hair, now a warm brunette that fades to true orange at the ends. Her smile spreads when she sees you.
“Hey! Good to see you. Happy Fall.”
“Happy Fall,” you reply. “It feels so different in here.” Like the air sparkles, but not in a way you can see. It’s a feeling.
Tini shrugs and smiles. “What can I say? New season, new energy.”
That gives you pause. New Season, New Energy… You like the sound of that.
“I’ll have today’s special,” you say, feeling some tension you weren’t aware of release in your shoulders as you take it all in. The candlelight, the garland, the cinnamon broom hung near the bar…
“Do you want to know what it is?” Tini replies with a smile. “I haven’t put the sign out yet.”
“Oh, right. Sure.” You hadn’t even noticed. Is that a real pumpkin on the shelf behind her? It’s stem is so elegantly twisted.
“It’s a brown sugar matcha latte. Your choice of milk, but I recommend oat. Sound good?”
Your attention comes back to Tini and her knowing smile. “Sounds perfect.” You knew it would…

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It’s officially FALL! Maybe it’s basic of me, but this is my favorite time of year. I’ll be (more or less) my best self from now through the New Year and I AM SO STOKED!

There are some things I must do every fall. Picking pumpkins, spreading wildflower seeds, planting bulbs. Drinking hot beverages, going for walks, and READING! I’m done streaming my entertainment for a while. From here on out my (very limited) veg-out time will be spent reading other people’s books. So of course I went on a mission to load my TBR for the months ahead. First up, fall books for spooky season. Once Thanksgiving is over, we’ll transition to winter-themed stories, but for now I want all the heebie-jeebies and fall vibes. Here’s the list I came up with (along with a shameless self-plug in case you’re looking to add to your TBR too!) Steal this list, and/or tell me what I’m missing!

Will I manage to read all of these before Thanksgiving? Probably not, but…

1. Such Sharp Teeth by Rachel Harrison
2. Mate by Alli Hazelwood (releases Oct 7, 2025)
3. In The Ravenous Dark by A.M. Strickland
4. Roadtrip with a Vampire by Jenna Levine (releases Oct 14, 2025)
5. Dating After The End of The World by Jeneva Rose
6. (non-fiction) Tarot for Self-Care by Minerva Seigel

Shameless Self-Plug

If you’re looking to add more spirits, demons, or vampires to your reading list, my Cloaked Series, and Bloodline Saga series are both on sale for fall. However you spooky season, you really can’t go wrong with these series.

If you’re a paperback reader (like me), know that you’ll always find the lowest price on my paperbacks through my personal online store, Elle Beauregard Books. And right now, I’m running a super sale when you buy a whole series.

Whether you buy a single book or a complete series, I sign them and mail them with a little something extra because I am grateful for you. (Plus, signed books make great holiday gifts, just saying…)

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Brown Sugar Macha Latte

This one’s a little more involved of a recipe this week, folks. It requires making a simple brown sugar syrup first, which isn’t hard, just an extra step. But it makes a rich a creamy Brown Sugar Macha lattee, which is often served iced but is just as delicious hot—perfect for the unpredictable weather of fall. As always, let me know if you give it a try!

For the Brown Sugar Syrup

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4​ cup water

For the Latte

• 1 1/2 -2 teaspoons matcha powder (ceremonial grade is best for flavor)
• 1/4 cup hot water (hot, but not boiling)
• 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar syrup (to taste)
• 1/2 to 1 cup milk of your choice (Tini recommends oat milk, but any will do!)
• Ice (if desired)

Instructions

1. Make the Brown Sugar Syrup:

• In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar and water.
• Heat over medium-low heat, stirring gently until the sugar is completely dissolved.
• Bring to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup slightly thickens.
• Remove from heat and let cool completely. (This recipe makes extra syrup which can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 weeks).

2. Prepare the Matcha:

• Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl or a matcha bowl (chawan) using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any clumps. This step is key for a smooth drink.
• Add the hot (but not boiling) water to the bowl.
• Whisk vigorously using a bamboo whisk in a quick “M” or “W” motion until the matcha is fully dissolved and a layer of fine foam forms on top (about 30 seconds), or use an electric hand frother to create the same effect. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Latte:

• Spoon or pour 1-2 tablespoons of the cooled brown sugar syrup into the bottom of a tall serving glass. For a layered effect, you can drizzle some syrup along the sides of the glass.
• Fill the glass with ice cubes (if making this iced)
• Slowly pour in your milk of choice.
  • For a hot beverage, heat and/or froth your milk before adding.
  • For an iced drink, use an electric hand frother prior to adding for an ultra-creamy texture.
• Gently pour the prepared matcha over the milk (and ice, if applicable.)

4. Serve:

• Stir well to combine the layers. Enjoy!