As the days grow shorter and snow begins to settle on the ground, there is nothing that I love more than curling up and reading a good book. Here are five books of different genres to read as winter approaches.
During the winter months, I often gravitate toward books that are either set in winter or give off a winter vibe. There is just something so appealing about reading a book set in the same season as the one I am currently in!
Who doesn’t want to read about a couple falling in love in the snow while it’s actually snowing outside, or about a body discovered on a Christmas tree farm while your own tree sits a few feet from you?
Mood reading, or reading that is aligned with your emotional state or desired vibes, is a trend that is ever-increasing. I have come to enjoy picking my next read based on how I am feeling in the moment or the vibes that I want to cultivate.
For me, matching my winter read to the weather is essential. I have compiled a list of books across several genres so that any type of reader can find their next winter read.
Beartown by Fredrik Backman
“Another morning comes. It always does. Time always moves at the same rate, only feelings have different speeds. Every day can mark a whole lifetime or a single heartbeat, depending on who you spend it with.”
-Fredrik Backman, Beartown
Beartown by Fredrik Backman is the perfect winter read. Centering a junior ice hockey team, the novel explores how one violent act can irrevocably change a small town. Backman’s beautiful writing probes themes of community, family, and power.
As someone who does not read a lot of literary fiction, I was captivated by this book. Not only was the writing and storytelling fantastic, but the winter vibes were perfect for the weather outside!
When the Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker
“For those who feel small and quiet. Spread those wings and roar.”
-Sarah A. Parker, When the Moon Hatched
When the Moon Hatched is a must-read for anyone who enjoys the romantasy genre. Its strong protagonist and brooding MMC will sweep anyone off their feet, and the fantastical world filled with dragons and magic is sure to delight avid fantasy readers.
I fell in love with the novel’s characters, adventure, and romance. Moreover, the setting and the various fantasy elements encapsulated the winter vibes.
This book is ideal for anyone looking to embark on an adventure and explore a new world.
Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
“Your worst sin is that you have destroyed and betrayed yourself for nothing.”
-Fyodor Dostoevsky, Crime and Punishment
Crime and Punishment is a classic. For anyone who has yet to read it, I would strongly recommend adding it to your TBR list. The novel is set during the Russian winter, and its dark themes make for a great chilly read.
Following the main character after he commits an unspeakable crime, the novel dissects themes of guilt, morality, and spiritual crisis. It’s meant for anyone who appreciates complex questions and characters, as well as anyone craving a winter setting!
The Holiday Swap by Maggie Knox
“From now on she was going to take the time to pause in her pursuit of happiness and success and just be happy.”
-Maggie Knox, The Holiday Swap
A tale of two twins who swap lives for the holiday season, The Holiday Swap is written for fans of swoon-worthy romance. Because it is set during the weeks leading up to Christmas, it is the perfect holiday read.
This book gives readers not one but two heart-wrenching romance stories brimming with snow and cookies. I thoroughly enjoyed its feel-good atmosphere, especially with the holidays approaching!
Dark Places by Gillian Flynn
“The truly frightening flaw in humanity is our capacity for cruelty – we all have it.”
-Gillian Flynn, Dark Places
Dark Places follows the main character 25 years after the brutal murder of her family as she re-investigates what happened that fateful night.
It’s perfect for crime-obsessed readers, but its dark twists and turns are sure to keep anyone hooked!
I enjoyed its darker premise, and its winter setting mirrors the snowy vibe of the season. Flynn always promises a read where you never know what is going to happen!
Time to start reading!
You now have a complete list of winter reads of all genres!
I strongly encourage you to check out the books that piqued your interest, as their winter settings will grip your attention while also complementing the weather outside.
So turn on the perfect winter song and dive into these wintry reads!
