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October often feels like the ideal time to dive into a cozy or spine-chilling mystery. However, authors have lined up an array of spooky-themed books that will keep readers on edge throughout the year and even into early 2026.
Reese Witherspoon teamed up with the master of suspense, Harlan Coben, to create Gone Before Goodbye. This collaboration catapulted her onto the New York Times Bestseller list in October 2025.
Coben shared insights on their surprising collaboration in an exclusive interview with Us Weekly. “When Reese visited my apartment, I was a bit apprehensive,” Coben admitted. “While I’m accustomed to working on TV shows, co-authoring a novel was uncharted territory for me. That’s usually someone else’s domain.”
Witherspoon, however, is known for her persuasive charm, a quality Coben humorously acknowledged. “This is a bit of a boastful story,” he quipped, recounting the origins of their partnership. “Whenever I’m with Reese, I prefer her to narrate it.” He humorously remarked that Witherspoon was the one to approach him first, and together, they formed a dynamic duo, especially after she suggested a “pretty damn good” idea.
He joked that it’s a “such a braggy story” with Witherspoon having reached out to him first. But they ended up making the perfect pair — especially after she presented a “pretty damn good” idea.
“I start taking out my yellow legal pad and we start writing down notes, talking back and forth. We’re spitballing right away,” Coben continued. “At the end of the meeting, we said, ‘Well, why don’t we try writing this as a novel together?’”
The October 2025 book has taken the book community by storm, but it’s not the only book that will make you feel all the fall vibes. Keep scrolling for more spooky titles:
‘Gone Before Goodbye’ by Reese Witherspoon and Harlan Coben
The iconic collaboration follows the story of Army combat surgeon Maggie McCabe. The novel’s official description reveals that she finds herself “trapped in a conspiracy she helped create but can’t understand.” (out now)
‘The Intruder’ by Freida McFadden
It wouldn’t be a spooky season without a McFadden book. This novel absolutely slays the cabin in the woods trope as a mysterious young shows up on Casey’s doorstep in the middle of a hurricane — and she’s covered in blood. (out now)
‘We Love You, Bunny’ by Mona Awad
A sequel to the 2019 book, Bunny, this novel still follows main character Sam, who has just published her first novel. After the Bunnies read how they were portrayed in the book, they attempt to get some revenge. (out now)
‘Blind Date with a Werewolf’ by Patricia Briggs
This romantasy is told in five linked stories as a werewolf is gifted five blind dates — and his life totally changes. (out now)
‘The Bone Thief’ by Vanessa Lillie
Bringing together two crimes, the thriller tells the story of archaeologist Syd Walker who is investigating the case of stolen remains and a missing girl. But the big question is, are they related? (out October 28)
Are you shivering with anticipation for the next big thriller? If you’re desperate for a suspenseful new movie to obsess over, you’re in luck. With both Hulu and Netflix dropping twist-laden premieres this month, October 2025 is shaping up to be a fantastic season for thriller fans. The Watch With Us team is especially excited […]
‘The Trespassers’ by Jennifer Lynn Alvarez
Set in Alaska, a group of four teens must cover up their biggest secret. But once the media catches hold of their story, there’s no telling what might come to light. (out October 28)
‘Watch Us Fall’ by Christina Kovac
There is nothing better than a suspenseful thriller to round out the year. Lucy and her three best friends live in Georgetown but when one of the foursome’s ex-boyfriends goes missing, questions about the group arise. (out December 2)
‘The First Time I Saw Him’ by Laura Dave
The highly anticipated follow up to Dave’s 2021 novel The Last Thing He Told Me will continue to tell Hannah Hall’s story. Set five years after the first book, Hannah and her stepdaughter Bailey’s life gets turned upside down when Hannah’s husband, Owen comes back into their life.