As the chill of January settles in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a cosy winter book that mirrors the beauty (and occasional harshness) of winter.
Whether you’re by the fireplace or nestled under blankets, these stories capture the magic of the season and offer a perfect companion for snowy days. Here are some cosy books to read this January to warm your winter heart.
- 1. The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
- 2. Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May
- 3. A Winter’s Tale by Trisha Ashley
- 4. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
- 5. Snow Falling on Cedars by David Guterson
- 6. Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik
- 7. Wintersmith by Terry Pratchett
- 8. Light on Snow by Anita Shreve
- 9. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
- More Cosy Winter Books
I’ve included Amazon links to each book, but you can also read where to get e-books and audiobooks for free for alternatives. (Check out how to gift Kindle books and how to gift Audible for digital versions.)
Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links. This means I earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase using this link, but at no cost to you.
1. The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
Inspired by a Russian fairy tale, The Snow Child is set in the icy wilderness of Alaska during the 1920s. This poignant novel follows a couple, Jack and Mabel, as they build a new life in the unforgiving frontier. They craft a snow child, who miraculously comes to life and changes their world. The wintry setting, infused with a touch of magic, makes this a perfect read for January evenings.
“The snow and the child came in together, making a kind of peace that allowed them to sleep. At last, the snow had come.”
Although it’s not truly holiday-related, I also included this book on my list of the best Christmas books for adults to read in December.
2. Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May
Part memoir, part exploration of the quiet power of winter, Wintering reflects on how we can embrace the colder, darker months as a time for rest, renewal, and reflection. Katherine May shares her personal experiences of difficult winters, both literal and metaphorical, and offers wisdom on how to “winter well.” This book is perfect for anyone seeking solace or a reset after the busy holiday season.
“Winter is not the death of the life cycle, but its crucible.”
3. A Winter’s Tale by Trisha Ashley
Set in a charming, snow-covered village, A Winter’s Tale is a delightful romantic comedy with plenty of warmth and heart. When Sophie inherits a large, old manor house in the English countryside, she’s determined to restore it. Along the way, she discovers secrets, makes new friends, and perhaps even finds love. With its cosy small-town setting, this book is as comforting as a cup of hot cocoa.
“The snow was a soft, thick layer of magic draped over everything, transforming the ordinary into something otherworldly.”
4. The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
If you’re in the mood for a magical, wintry escape, The Bear and the Nightingale is an excellent choice. This atmospheric novel, set in medieval Russia, draws from folklore to tell the story of Vasya, a young girl who can see the spirits that protect her village from the harsh winter. As a battle between ancient powers looms, Vasya must navigate her growing abilities in a world steeped in tradition and superstition.
“The storms of winter had long since swept the snow from the forests, and the trees stood as bare as bones.”
5. Snow Falling on Cedars by David Guterson
For readers who enjoy historical fiction with a wintry backdrop, Snow Falling on Cedars offers a gripping narrative set on a small island in the Pacific Northwest. A murder trial, simmering racial tensions, and a snowstorm converge in this beautifully written novel. The cold, moody atmosphere complements the intricate plot and richly drawn characters, making it an engrossing winter read.
“Snow fell that night. It covered the island as softly as a moth’s wing might cover a pebble.”
6. Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik
Spinning Silver is a fantasy novel rooted in fairy tales, blending a retelling of “Rumpelstiltskin” with elements of Russian folklore. The story follows Miryem, the daughter of a moneylender, who takes over her family’s failing business and begins turning silver into gold—catching the attention of the Staryk, creatures of frost and ice. Novik’s richly detailed world, full of snow and magic, will transport you to a wintery wonderland.
“The cold was relentless, a brute force that clung to you, dragged you down, and wrapped you in layers of silence.”
7. Wintersmith by Terry Pratchett
Part of the Discworld series, Wintersmith is a whimsical and humorous tale perfect for both young readers and adults. The story follows Tiffany Aching, a young witch-in-training who accidentally dances with the embodiment of winter, the Wintersmith. Now, she must figure out how to set things right before winter takes over for good. Pratchett’s wit and imagination make this a delightful, lighthearted read for cold winter nights.
“Snow was falling, so much like stars filling the dark trees that one could easily imagine its reason for being was nothing more than prettiness.”
8. Light on Snow by Anita Shreve
This novel tells the story of a father and daughter who, while walking in the snowy woods, discover an abandoned baby. As they grapple with the implications of their discovery, they also confront their own grief and healing. Set against a wintry New England backdrop, Light on Snow is a tender and emotional novel about family, loss, and new beginnings.
“And the snow falls, covering up the world like a comforting blankness.”
9. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
For a nostalgic trip back to childhood winters, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is an enduring classic. In the land of Narnia, where it is “always winter but never Christmas,” four siblings step through a magical wardrobe and into an epic adventure. Whether you’re reading it for the first time or the fiftieth, this timeless story offers a comforting escape into a world filled with snow, magic, and hope.
“This is Narnia… and you—have come at the very darkest hour. It is winter in Narnia, and has been for ever so long.”
More Cosy Winter Books
These cosy winter books offer the perfect escape from the chill outside, whether you’re looking for heartwarming tales, magical adventures, or reflective reads.
So grab your favorite blanket, a cup of something warm, and let these stories send you into hibernate mode.
Looking for something festive? Read my lists of cosy Christmas mysteries, spicy Christmas romances, or nostalgic kids Christmas books that adults still love to read too.
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