Happy solstice, friends. While the weather is less than wintry in New York, where 60 degrees is tee shirt weather, there are some books out there which make you want to cozy up with a mug of tea in front of a fire (or Fireplace for Your Home). Here are five of my favorites.

Wintersong by S. Jae-Jones
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Atmospheric and haunting. If you watched Labyrinth as a child and wanted a read that felt so gothic and romantic, look no further. A family saga full of love, music, and romance, read this one for brisk nights. All the scenes between Liesl and the Goblin King are absolutely swoon-worthy.

Wolf Winter by Cecilia Eckback
Genre: Adult Thriller/ Historical fiction

There is something about Sweden and making the perfect setting for thrillers. This book was so atmospheric, I remember how chilled I felt upon reading, with the sneaking suspicion that once the snow melts, secrets will come tumbling out, making for a thrilling ending.

The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
Genre: Adult Fantasy

Taking place in a Russian village on the border between reality and mystical fantasy, you won’t find anything more wintry than this read here. A story about a family grappling with religion and folklore, there is something here for both people who love mythology and those who want compelling family dynamics. The relationship between faith and magic is particularly enthralling.

Even the Darkest Stars by Heather Fawcett
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy

Instead of looking after her family, Kamzin goes on a quest to save hers. This mountain adventure features fire demons, frost wraiths, and so much detail when it comes to outdoor survival, it feels like you’re right there beside her as she embarks on her mission to save the Empire and prove herself to her village.

The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Genre: Adult Mystery

This book starts off in the winter with a boy having falling down a ravine. Why did he die? Where are we here? Who are these kids? What’s going on? This book gives you all the answers and presents many, many questions you didn’t even think to ask in this twisty collegiate tale.

What are some of your favorite reads for winter?

Happy reading,
Jo