This blog post is all about winter books to read this Christmas.
There’s something about Christmas that makes curling up with some good winter books feel even more magical.
When the temperatures drop, and the evenings get longer, there’s a special kind of comfort in grabbing a warm blanket, a steaming mug of hot chocolate, and getting lost in a story.
For me, winter is the perfect season to slow down and dive into winter books that I’ve been meaning to read all year. These are also great books if you’re planning a winter reading challenge!
This blog post is all about winter books to read this Christmas.
How to Get Cozy with These Winter Books
First, grab your softest blanket—the kind that feels like a warm hug—and settle into your favourite reading spot. Whether it’s a corner of your couch, an armchair by the window, or even a pile of pillows on the floor, the key is comfort.
If you have a fireplace, light it up, but if not, a few candles or a string of fairy lights will do wonders to set the mood.
Now, let’s talk beverages—because no cozy reading session is complete without one.
Brew a cup of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, or maybe some mulled wine if you’re feeling extra festive. The warmth in your hands as you sip between chapters just makes the whole experience sweeter.
Don’t forget about the little touches: put on some soft instrumental Christmas music or the crackling sounds of a Yule log video in the background.
It’s all about building that atmosphere, where you can fully escape into the world of your book. And before you know it, you’ll be lost in the pages, snow falling softly outside, with nothing but time to enjoy every cozy moment.
The Best 15 Winter Books to Get Cozy With
To help you find your next great read, I’ve put together a list of 15 winter books that you won’t be able to put down.
This list includes a mix of timeless classics, heartwarming tales, thrilling mysteries, and even some current bestsellers that everyone’s talking about right now.
So, whether you’re snowed in or just looking for an excuse to stay cozy indoors, these books are the perfect companions for the season.
1. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
Fantasy
In a remote Russian village, a young girl named Vasya discovers that the fairy tales her nurse told her as a child are all too real.
A captivating blend of folklore, fantasy, and history that will transport you to a winter wonderland.
RELATED blog post to read: 11 of the Best Fantasy Books to Read This Summer
2. The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
Fiction
Set in the Alaskan wilderness, this enchanting tale follows a childless couple who build a snow child, only to find a real girl living in the woods the next morning.
A magical and beautifully written story that perfectly captures the winter season.
Plus, nothing says ‘winter book’ than books with snow on the cover.
3. The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
Fantasy/Fiction
One of the most talked-about books in recent years, this story follows a young woman who makes a deal to live forever but is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets.
An unforgettable and haunting tale that’s perfect if you’re looking for some winter fantasy novels.
4. Winter’s Tale by Mark Helprin
Fantasy
Set in a fantastical New York City during the late 19th century, this epic love story is filled with magical realism, romance, and adventure.
A beautifully written novel that will warm your heart during the coldest of nights.
RELATED blog pos to read: 15 New York Books for Those Who Love New York
5. One Day in December by Josie Silver
Romance
Winter is the perfect time to read some cozy romance novels.
A chance encounter changes everything when Laurie locks eyes with a stranger through a bus window.
A feel-good romantic read that’s perfect for anyone looking for a bit of love and winter romance books during the cold season.
RELATED blog post to read: 10 Romance Books to Get You in the Mood for Christmas
6. The Hunting Party by Lucy Foley
Mystery/Thriller
A group of old friends gathers at a remote lodge in the Scottish Highlands for New Year’s Eve, but not everyone will make it out alive.
A gripping thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. Perfect if you’re looking for winter mystery books!
7. Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah
Historical Fiction
A gripping story about two sisters who unravel their mother’s hidden past, leading them on a journey to 1941 war-torn Leningrad.
It’s a powerful and emotional read that will keep you turning the pages.
8. The Secret History by Donna Tartt
Mystery/Thriller
A dark and compelling mystery set on a college campus in New England, this novel follows a group of eccentric students who get involved in something sinister.
The snowy, atmospheric setting makes it an ideal winter read.
RELATED blog post to read: 15 Books To Get You In The Mood For Autumn
9. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Classic Fiction
A timeless classic that follows the lives of the four March sisters as they grow up during the Civil War.
It’s the perfect heartwarming read to cozy up with, especially during the holiday season.
10. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Fantasy
One of the most popular winter books for kids and a beloved classic. This transports readers to the magical land of Narnia, where it’s always winter but never Christmas.
It’s a nostalgic read that’s perfect for both adults and children looking to escape into a magical winter world.
11. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Fiction/Fantasy
This bestseller takes readers on a journey through an infinite library where each book represents a different path in life.
Thought-provoking and inspiring, it’s a perfect winter read for anyone who loves to reflect on life’s choices.
12. The Shining by Stephen King
Horror
One of the best winter thriller books is of course Stephen King’s The Shining. Set in the eerie, isolated Overlook Hotel, this classic horror novel follows the Torrance family as they spend a winter snowed in, completely cut off from the outside world.
Jack Torrance, the father, slowly descends into madness, while his son, Danny, experiences terrifying supernatural visions.
The creeping tension, the haunted hotel setting, and King’s masterful suspense will have you on the edge of your seat. If you’re in the mood for something that’ll give you goosebumps on a cold winter night, this is the one to read.
Just maybe keep the lights on!
13. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Fantasy
The Night Circus is pure magic. It’s about a mysterious, traveling circus that only opens after dark, filled with mesmerizing performances and illusions. But behind the enchanting façade, two illusionists, Celia and Marco, are caught in a high-stakes competition, bound by forces beyond their control.
The writing is so vivid and atmospheric, it’s like you’re stepping right into the circus tents yourself. Perfect for a cold winter night when you just want to escape into a world of wonder and get lost in its dreamy, magical atmosphere.
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14. Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro
Science Fiction
In this mesmerizing and thought-provoking novel, Kazuo Ishiguro invites us into a future where Artificial Friends—advanced robots—are bought to serve as companions for lonely children.
Klara, an observant and sensitive Artificial Friend, spends her days watching the world pass by from a store window, hoping to be chosen by a family.
When she is finally selected, she embarks on a journey of discovery, grappling with the complexities of love, human emotions, and what it means to truly connect with others.
15. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Historical Fiction
Set in Nazi Germany, The Book Thief follows Liesel, a young girl who finds solace in stealing books during one of history’s darkest times.
As the war unfolds, Liesel forms an unlikely friendship with Max, a Jewish man hiding in her foster family’s basement. Narrated by Death, the story offers a unique and haunting perspective that’s both beautiful and heartbreaking.
The writing is stunning, and the emotional depth will stay with you long after you’ve finished. It’s perfect for a winter evening when you want to be fully immersed in a poignant, unforgettable story.
RELATED blog post to read: Best 100 Books of the 21st Century: How Many Have You Read?
Add These Winter Books to Your TBR!
Whether you’re looking for something heartwarming, thrilling, or thought-provoking, winter is the ideal time to indulge in a bit of escapism.
And let’s be honest, there’s nothing better than finding a book that you just can’t put down, one that keeps you up late into the night because you simply have to know what happens next.
If you’re struggling to meet your reading goal for the year, take a look at these 15 short books to help you reach your goal faster!
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