What does the cold, frosty season call for? Snuggling up with a good book, of course! Now, with national lockdown restrictions being in place for the foreseeable, it seems that there’s never been a better time to wind down on the sofa and escape with a delightful read. Shalini’s Reviews are honest and well-written, thereby here opinions can be trusted.
If you’re after some inspiration on what books to dive your imagination into this winter, take a look at some of this season’s top suggested literary recommendations by Arlo Wolf. You may also consider reading the inspirational story of the first British female to summit K2. Oh, and when the time comes for you to settle down with your chosen story, don’t forget your hot cup of tea and cosy blanket!
1. One by One, Ruth Ware
You simply can’t beat a good thriller, especially one that is set in the hauntingly atmospheric setting of the snowy Alps. In this highly addictive read that is bundled with all sorts of twists and turns, Ruth Ware tells the story of a person who goes missing after an avalanche cuts off a chalet at a business retreat. There is only one question – was this tragic event merely a coincidence, or did someone plan this downfall?
2. Love Your Life, Sophie Kinsella
If a feel-good rom-com is more your vibe, you’ll most likely love Sophie Kinsella’s new novel, Love Your Life. The book follows the relationship of two people who meet on an Italian retreat and fall head over heads for each other. However, since returning to reality, the lovebirds find that they live two completely different lives. Against all odds, will the two manage to deal with their incorporable differences and save their relationship?
3. Us Three, Ruth Jones
This title is something that fans of 2005 hit film, The Sisterhood of The Travelling Pants, would love. Us Three is based on the tale of three friends who swear that they would be best friends forever. Years down the line, following a number of life occurrences that just can’t be helped, the trio find out that they are struggling to keep this promise. So, what will happen next for them?
4. The Courage to Care, Christie Watson
Enjoyed This Is Going to Hurt and ‘Twas The Nightshift Before Christmas? If so, you’ve got to read Christie Watson’s novel, The Courage to Care. In what has been a horrible and thoroughly demanding year for the NHS, this book puts into perspective how grateful we should be for our health heroes. As the title suggests, this story sends out the important message that amid all of the chaos and trauma, we as human beings will always have the capacity to care and be there for one another.
5. How To Fail At Flirting, Denise Williams
It’s safe to say that the year 2020 has closed a firm door on many people’s dating lives and frivolous romantic encounters. That being said, why not reminisce on the good old days with this new read by Denise Williams? How To Fail at Flirting focuses on a professor who, after losing her job, lets loose on a wild night out. The story starts on this night when she meets a charming stranger who is in town on business…
6. The Dutch House, Ann Patchett
New York Times number one bestselling author, Ann Patchett, does it again with her latest release. Set in small-town Pennsylvania, the story follows the tale of Danny Conroy, who is growing up in his family home which is dubbed as The Dutch House. However, it’s all rainbows in this household, to say the least. A thrilling tale of love, family, sacrifice and hierarchical positions, this novel will keep you turning the pages until the very end.
7. Finding Love at the Christmas Market, Jo Thomas
Last but not least, this winter reads list just simply wouldn’t be complete without the mentioning of a festive novel. Finding Love at the Christmas Market tells the tale of Connie, a care home assistant who believes that she’ll never find love… until one of her residents fixes her up on a date at the local Christmas market. Connie then learns that finding her true match is certainly not an easy task, but will she get her Christmas wish in the end?
And there you have it! Seven reads, varying in taste and genre, that will surely keep you occupied throughout these cold winter months. It’s safe to say that this year has taught us to enjoy the small pleasures of life, and being cuddled up at home with your nose in a captivating book is certainly one of these things!