5 Cosy Book Recommendations for Autumn and Winter

Whether you’re a book-lover with double-stacked shelves and limited space, or you’re a casual reader who relishes the turn of a page in fleeting moments, we can all agree that reading feels more compelling during the cold months of Autumn and Winter. Engaging in a few chapters on the bus to university or returning home after a long day to a cosy room with a book feels ritualistic and provides solace from the stress of everyday life. I have compiled a list of five of my favourite ‘Cosy Book Recommendations’ to cosy up with and read in the upcoming Autumn and Winter months.

Gallant | V.E.Schwab

I am a huge fan of Schwab’s eloquent and whimsical writing, as she creates an eerie atmospheric world in Gallant. In Gallant, we follow Olivia who has lived in Merilance School for Girls her whole life. One day she receives a letter inviting her to come home – to Gallant. When she arrives at Gallant, she realises the manor holds a lot of secrets. She takes it upon herself to unravel her family’s mysterious history. The perfect read for the spooky season, Gallant captivates with ghouls and ghosts, lies, and secrecy.

Rebecca | Daphne Du Maurier. 

Rebecca holds a special place in my heart as my all-time favourite book. I first purchased Rebecca on my 18th birthday, and since then, I have treated myself to a new copy each year on my birthday. For those interested in delving into the classics, Rebecca is the perfect read. It maintains a sophisticated feel without being overly complex. The story unfolds in the country estate of Manderley, adorned with extravagant rose gardens, beautiful rooms, and the lingering secrets of its past affairs. Our anonymous main character, newly wedded to the wealthy and handsome Maxim de Winter, moves to Manderley with visions of an exquisite life filled with afternoon teas and evening strolls on the coast. However, she soon finds herself haunted by the shadow of Maxim’s late ex-wife, Rebecca, who died under suspicious circumstances.  

The Haunting of Aveline Jones | Phil Hickes.

This is for those seeking a quick and easy read, as it is a middle-grade book. I adore reading children’s books because they are so magical and exciting. Aveline Jones discovers a mysterious old book that belonged to Primrose Penberthy, who disappeared and sets out to find out where she went.

To Drink Coffee with a Ghost & To Make Monsters out of Girls | Amanda Lovelace.

Before delving into these poetry books, I would strongly recommend reading the trigger warnings, as they discuss topics that may be sensitive to some.

These two poetry books are part of a collection called “things that h(a)unt.” Beautifully illustrated, Lovelace explores toxic relationships and poses the question: Can you heal once you’ve been marked by a monster? In part two, “To Drink Coffee with a Ghost,” Lovelace delves into challenging parental relationships. Lovelace writes in a meaningful and sensitive manner, bringing comfort to readers.

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches | Sangu Mandanna. 

This book is the ultimate cosy book! In this book, we follow Mika Moon, a witch who independently learned to control her powers, as she teaches three young witches how to control theirs too. The book features fantastic world-building, and tropes such as grumpy sunshine and found family. Mandanna’s writing is hilarious and heartwarming, and reading this book lifted my spirits! Bonus points for Liverpool also making an appearance!  

All of these fantastic books can be found on the Waterstones website. To read more reviews head to the Liverpool Guild Student Media Website.

Featured Image credit: Photo by Eleanor Murphy.