As a lover of sunshine, I’m not particularly fond of the winter months, but even I can’t deny that it’s the perfect season for reading. There’s something so comforting about curling up with a good book when the days turn shorter. Snowfall, a warm crackling fire, a soft blanket, and a fresh hot drink–I’m partial to hot chocolate–are ideal, but winter doesn’t always look like that. I’ve been known to search for “winter ambience” videos on YouTube when Ohio weather or my surroundings just aren’t cooperating with my standards of coziness. Wherever you are, though, that warm and comforting atmosphere, which the Danish call hygge, is the best way to get through the winter months. What could be better for feeling cozy than books that just feel like winter? Nothing, of course–so enjoy any (or all) of these wintry books!
Historical Fiction
Even when it grapples with the darker parts of history, historical fiction often focuses on the lives of relatively ordinary people living through extraordinary events; for modern audiences, relating to this can create a sense of comfort. The atmospheric description required for successful portrayal of the historical period of interest creates the cozy feeling sought in winter reads.
The Fox Wife by Yangsze Choo
In winter of 1908 in Manchuria, Snow is a fox spirit of Chinese folklore, able to take the form of a fox or a human woman, depending on what serves her best at the time (it is, however, very difficult to switch back and forth, so she tends to remain in one form for a while). She’s seeking vengeance for the murder of her child, also a fox spirit, who was killed in fox cub form for her fur. Meanwhile, Bao–a (human) detective with the strange ability to tell when people are lying and an interest in fox spirits–is investigating a mysterious death. In this intricate story of love, grief, revenge, and superstition, the two eventually cross paths, with little going according to plan. The Fox Wife is an often amusing and unexpectedly touching book well-suited to a snowy day!
Quote: “A beginning is where you choose to plant your foot, and the ending is only the edge of one’s knowledge.”
Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys
It’s 1941 when young artist Lina is torn from her home in Lithuania by Soviet soldiers. Separated from her father, Lina is brought to a work camp in Siberia along with her mother and younger brother. There, Lina and the other prisoners must dig for beets, facing harsh winters and the Soviet military’s cruel oversight. Lina documents her experiences through drawings, hoping to some day show them to her father. It’s a poignant story of love, loss, survival, resilience, and hope. Between Shades of Gray offers a fascinating window into a lesser known part of World War II and postwar history.
Quote: “We’d been trying to touch the sky from the bottom of the ocean.”
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
It’s 1974, and 13-year-old Leni Albright is moving to an isolated Alaskan town with her parents, hoping for a fresh start. Her father was a POW in the Vietnam War, and his traumatic experiences (and lack of treatment) have left him a volatile man often violent towards her mother. The move initially appears to be helping, but as winter approaches, his mental state declines again. Beyond the hardships of surviving in a place they weren’t prepared for, Leni tries to hold her family together, all while coming of age in an isolated area. A story of survival and resilience, The Great Alone is excellent for winter!
Quote: “The darkness seemed to be rising rather than the sun falling. As if darkness were the natural order around here.”
The Red Palace by June Hur
It’s 1758, the height of the Joseon dynasty of Korea. Hyeon is the estranged illegitimate daughter of the Minister of Security, and has worked to earn his respect by becoming a palace nurse. Her plan to keep her head down is tossed aside when her beloved mentor is accused of murdering four women. Hyeon teams up with young investigator Eojin in an attempt to clear her mentor’s name, but the investigation becomes more and more dangerous the closer they get to the truth. Full of court intrigue and secrets, The Red Palace is a page-turning blend of historical fiction and murder mystery perfect for a cozy winter night in.
Quote: “Everyone must choose the paths they will walk on. And when you choose, remember to count the cost.”
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
It’s the 1950s in Washington, DC–the height of the McCarthy era and Second Red Scare. Unlikely friendships bloom in an all-female boardinghouse, growing mostly at weekly dinner parties hosted by Grace March, a mysterious new tenant admired by most of the other women. We get each of the tenant’s often intersecting stories from their own perspectives, as well as input from the house itself. The women’s secrets eventually culminate in a shocking 1954 murder with a dangerous aftermath brought forth by their deep, often complicated bonds. The Briar Club manages to be as cozy as it is thought-provoking, a wonderful mix of interpersonal drama and social commentary.
Quote: “A nation where you can’t ask questions is one that’s going downhill.”