As the days shorten and temperatures drop, author Kate Mosse expresses a deep appreciation for the arrival of autumn, describing it as her favorite season. Mosse, known primarily for her bestselling historical novel *Labyrinth*, finds particular joy in October, which she regards as the most enchanting month of the year.

Drawing inspiration from her longtime home in Sussex—where she has lived for nearly all of her 65 years—Mosse often takes walks through the countryside to shape the early drafts of her novels. Her affinity for the season is closely tied to the natural changes she observes, such as the shifting colors of leaves and the crunch of twigs beneath her feet. These sensory experiences complement the ghostly and gothic themes prevalent in much of her work.

In addition to her love for the autumnal landscape, Mosse finds cultural significance in traditional seasonal events. She reflects on Halloween not as the contemporary commercial celebration but as an ancient practice dating back to Celtic times, when it was believed that natural laws were temporarily suspended and spirits roamed freely. This folklore, she says, continues to remind people of deeper mysteries beyond human understanding.

Another event Mosse highlights is Bonfire Night, particularly the celebrations held in Lewes, East Sussex. Since the 1820s, this town has hosted what has grown into the world’s largest Guy Fawkes event, drawing crowds of up to 40,000 spectators. Mosse recalls attending the event for the first time and describes it as distinctly and curiously English in character.

Mosse’s reflections appear as part of a series of short seasonal essays by notable authors, including Michael Morpurgo and Val McDermid. In her contribution, she encourages readers to fully engage with autumn’s unique atmosphere and to take time to "marvel at the world around us."