9 Wintry Books to Add to Your Reading List
Discover nine captivating books perfect for the season, from magical adventures to chilling mysteries.
Weekend Edition: Start your weekend with curated book lists, reading tips, and lifestyle inspiration delivered every Friday.
The Weekend Edition: Wintry Books to Add to Your Reading List
Hi Bookish Besties,
Happy Friday—and a very special one at that! Today marks the 5th anniversary of the BiblioLifestyle newsletter. On Friday, January 10th, 2020, I sent my first official Friday newsletter after years of sharing informal bookish updates via email. It’s incredible to look back on how this journey has evolved, and I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this new stage of the newsletter here on Substack.
Next week, I’ll be sharing more about this milestone, including celebratory moments over the years, behind-the-scenes content, and links to some of my favorite newsletter issues. But for now, let’s get into this week’s roundup of wintry-themed books!
With winter in full swing, there’s no better time to curl up with a book that perfectly captures the season’s charm, magic, or chill. This week, I’ve curated a list of nine winter-inspired reads—from magical tales to heartwarming romances—that are perfect for your TBR.
These stories are sure to keep you company on cold evenings, and I hope you’ll find one (or a few!) that speaks to you.
Before diving into the wintry books, I want to acknowledge the devastation caused by the fires in California. It’s heartbreaking to see the impact on communities. I’ve been keeping those affected in my prayers and hope they receive the resources they need for their immediate safety and well-being and for rebuilding and recovering in the months ahead.
Now, let’s dive in!
9 Wintery Books to Add to Your Reading List
Once Upon a River by Diane Setterfield
Set along the River Thames, this atmospheric tale begins with the miraculous recovery of a girl presumed dead. With lush prose and a cast of unforgettable characters, Setterfield explores themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of storytelling. It is a perfect pick for fans of mystery and folklore.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
Transport yourself to a mystical medieval Russia, where young Vasya must navigate old-world magic and the arrival of Christianity in her village. Arden’s tale of bravery, family, and ancient traditions is both a love letter to folklore and a thrilling adventure.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
This enchanting story, set in 1920s Alaska, follows a childless couple who encounter a mysterious girl in the snowy wilderness. Blending magical realism with raw emotion, Ivey crafts a poignant exploration of love, resilience, and the healing power of nature.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Winter Sister by Megan Collins
Sylvie returns to her hometown to confront long-buried family secrets and uncover the truth about her sister’s murder. This gripping thriller is a masterful blend of suspense, family drama, and the redemptive power of facing the past.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Inspired by the true story of Martha Ballard, a midwife and healer in 1789 Maine, this historical novel follows her journey to uncover the truth behind a shocking murder. Lawhon’s vivid storytelling captures the complexities of justice, loyalty, and survival in a close-knit community.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Bones of the Story by Carol Goodman
When a group of former classmates is stranded on their old college campus during a winter storm, tensions rise as one of them is murdered. Goodman weaves an atmospheric, Agatha Christie-style mystery full of twists and secrets.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop.
A Wild Winter Swan by Gregory Maguire
Set in 1960s Manhattan, this coming-of-age story is inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale The Wild Swans. Maguire explores themes of grief, family, and hope as a teen befriends a magical swan boy in her grandparents’ brownstone.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop.
Misery by Stephen King
This chilling psychological thriller follows an author held captive by his “number one fan.” Tense and unforgettable, King’s classic will keep you on the edge of your seat during long winter nights.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop.
A Winter in New York by Josie Silver
This heartwarming romance follows Iris as she uncovers family secrets and finds love in Little Italy’s snowy streets. Full of charm, gelato, and heartfelt moments, it’s a perfect pick for fans of sweet, cozy tales.
You can get a copy on Amazon or Bookshop.
What’s On Your List?
Which of these books will you pick up first? Let me know in the comments, and feel free to share your favorite winter-themed reads!
Also, if you enjoyed this list, please share it with a fellow book lover or post about it on social media. Sharing helps keep the Weekend Edition free, and you get rewarded when someone subscribes using the link you shared.
Until next time, slow down and savor the little things.
Happy reading!
Victoria
P.S. Join us for January’s BYOB Club meeting on January 25th, 2025 at 1 pm ET or at 7 pm ET, and bring a book you've read during the past month and share it with us:
