Now that back-to-school season is upon us, that means fall is nearly here. And that also means that spooky season is in full effect. So what is more quintessentially fall and spooky than Salem, Massachusetts?
As any history buff can tell you, Salem is known for the witch trials that took place back in the late 1600s. And if you visit the town today, you will find yourself immersed in that history. But if you can't visit Salem, Ma. for yourself, that doesn't mean you can't take a little trip there via a good book (or book series).
While there are plenty of books set in Salem, Ma., for this bookcation, we are sticking to the romance genre. After all, this is all about a reading staycation, so why not enjoy something with a little romance to it?
Enjoy a bookcation with these romances set in Salem, Massachusetts
The Cold Case Psychic Series by Pandora Pine
If you love a good series with mystery, romance, and supernatural things, then this series (and its spin-off series) is for you. There are 28 books in the primary series alone, and that doesn't take into account the multiple spin-offs from the Cold Case Psychic Series.
This is a paranormal gay romance series that starts in Boston before shifting to Salem, although Salem does play a part in the first few books as well. With a detective and a psychic working together, there is plenty of tension in this series and as the world builds up and we meet more characters, it definitely becomes a fascinating look at community and family through the lens of a spooky mystery-style series.
Rebel Spell by Lisa Carlisle
Rebel Spell is the first book in a series called Salem Supernaturals, so it likely comes as no surprise that this book is set in Salem, Ma. Honestly, I was instantly drawn into this book just based on the blurb because it was fun. We are talking about a witch that apparently has no magic and a bunch of paranormal tenants, including a foodie werewolf and a vampire.
While the romance is between or witch and the vampire, the entire book is a fun introduction to some unique characters who we definitely meet again in the rest of the series. This was an engaging read with a lot of heart, humor, and even some mystery. And if nothing else, you get the magic of Salem as a backdrop to the story.
Improbable Magic for Cynical Witches by Kate Scelsa
Unlike the first two book recommendations, this is a bit on the younger side in terms of the characters. This time we have a lesbian romance, but one of the FMCs is 17, making this more of a new adult romance. Honestly, this one is a bit more of a coming-of-age story, but it still works as a romance.
There is a sensitivity to the writing in Improbable Magic for Cynical Witches that really adds to the overall story and I appreciate the fact that the book touches on the touristy nature of witchcraft in Salem. While the main female character still believes in witchcraft, she may be the only one (at least in her eyes). And that certainly helps to set the tone for her interactions with other people and the setting itself.
The Forest Witch Lies by Amber Nicole
If you are a fan of why choose/reverse harem romances, then you need to check out The Forest Witch Lies, which is the first book in the Alistar Academy series. The academy is in Salem, which was a main requirement for this list, and of course, it certainly helps that this was a spicy romance as well.
Overall, this first book was intriguing, with plenty of drama and mystery to draw you in and keep you turning the pages. There was definitely some trauma in our female character's history and the fact that she has to deal with a lot throughout the book really adds to the drama of the story. I do have to point out that this first book has a cliffhanger, so be prepared, but it is totally worth it!
These Witches Don't Burn by Isabel Sterling
An elemental witch in Salem, some suspense, and a lesbian romance all come together to give us a book that is actually a BookTok recommendation. (And since it was released in 2019, it is nice to see BookTok giving this one some love even with it not being a new release.)
This was equal parts suspense meets paranormal romance. And while it also has a contemporary setting, this one is perfect for readers looking for something that is on the fun side. The storytelling in These Witches Don't Burn was definitely vivid and detailed, while also doing justice to the idea of magic in the witch city.