Autumn is the perfect time to try your first cosy fantasy – or find a new favourite (Image: Getty)
With the days becoming chillier, pumpkin spice everywhere and just a matter of weeks before the clocks fall back, we’re officially in cosy season. And with the evenings already growing ever darker, there’s nothing better than curling up on the sofa (preferably with candles lit and snacks on hand) and diving into a good book.
This time of year always brings about a resurgence of interest in the cosy fantasy genre, with search interest in ‘cosy romance’ and ‘cosy books’ now at an all-time high, according to Google Trends data. But Lucy Jane Wood, the author of Rewitched and Uncharmed, says it shouldn’t be limited to just one season.
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Lucy Jane Wood has shared her top cosy fantasy recommendations (Image: Lucy Jane Wood)
“The untrained cosiness seeker could be forgiven for thinking that the cosy spirit isn’t something that kicks in until autumn arrives,” she said. “Of course, the moment that September hits, it’s absolutely time to bring out the oversized knitwear and pumpkin spiced coffee, but for those of us who are serious about bookish magic, it’s a priority all year round.
“Usually in a fantasy book, you’ll find epic adventure and a lot of flames, but the cosy fantasy section of the bookshelf takes things a little slower. You’ll meet the same sorts of characters, like witches and warlocks and elves, but usually on their day off—perhaps enjoying a sweet treat and a cup of coffee instead of a perilous quest.
“If you’re keen to make sure that your whole year is one of whimsy, comfort and nostalgia, with that warm, fuzzy feeling that you can’t quite put your finger on, then these are the books that will help.
“Here’s your cosy fantasy starter pack, with book picks for every season.”
Spring
The Enchanted Greenhouse by Sarah Beth Durst
“The epitome of the gingham-covered, blossoming cottagecore cosiness that spring is all about. A sweet story of second chances involving a sentient spider plant, a charming librarian x gardener romance, and a spell that must be found to save precious enchanted greenhouses.”
Half A Soul by Olivia Atwater
“Described as Howl’s Moving Castle meets Bridgerton, this is a magical mixture of devious fae and regency romance. Dora was cursed to struggle with certain emotions, but unexpectedly finds a connection with the least-liked man in high society. The charm and hopeful feeling to the story makes for a perfect spring comfort read.”
Violet Thistlewhite Is Not A Villain by Emily Krempholtz
“You can accurately sum up this delightful book as ‘botany and banter’. Violet was a dark sorcerer’s right-hand-gal, but after his death, she’s determined to start again. Her second chance comes in the form of a flower shop, where she’ll strictly be avoiding dark magic at all costs. A truly delightful, very cosy time.”
Summer
The Very Secret Society for Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
“Set on the cusp of summer solstice, you can’t write a list of cosy fantasy recommendations without this favourite. Mika, a witch who knows the magic of a good cup of tea, is sent to teach three young witches, and unexpectedly discovers a new family in the process. Wonderfully loveable, and quietly romantic.”
The Bell Witches by Lindsey Kelk
“Maybe a little on the autumn side with its gothic fantasy vibes… but this one is wrapped in the heat and humidity of the Savannah, and is just right for the end of summer. After Emily’s father dies, she’s sent to live with an aunt and grandmother who are hiding a magical secret. A page-turner that’s full of self discovery and stepping into your power.”
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
“Alright, so I know this isn’t technically a fantasy book, but it feels illegal to not include the blueprint in cosy summer classics. It might be meant for children, but the whimsy and wonder of Anne’s adventures at Green Gables are timeless and heartwarming for any reader who appreciates the kind of everyday magic found in nostalgia.”
Lucy Jane Wood is the author of Rewitched and Uncharmed (Image: Talya Honebeek)
Autumn
Uncharmed by Lucy Jane Wood
“For the season of the witch, how better to celebrate than with the most perfect witch around? Annie’s magical life is truly glittering, with her dreamy bakery and impressive social circle. But her curated routine is soon thrown into chaos when she’s tasked with mentoring a troubled teenage witch at a woodland cottage. Throw in a cowboy warlock, some exploding pumpkins and a lot of cinnamon buns—ingredients for a sweet and cosy autumnal story.”
Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree
“On any respecting cosy fantasy list, you’ll be sure to find Travis Baldree. The first of this iconic series introduces retired orc Viv, who’s absolutely over the violent life and has decided to follow her dream of opening her own coffee shop instead. The combination of sweet treats, slow burn romance and strange creatures is as autumnal as it gets.”
The Late Night Witches by Auralee Wallace
“Cassie is already contending with a wild younger sister, three unruly kids and an absent husband, so she’s not best pleased when the vampires arrive on her doorstep. As the creatures sink their teeth into her small town life, she’s forced to face some long-neglected family secrets of the witchy kind. Full of fun nostalgia, a picturesque autumn setting, and loveable characters.”
Winter
Good Spirits by B.K. Borison
“A gift wrapped in a ribbon for anyone who appreciates the magic of a small town, festive romance. Antique shop owner Harriet is surprised to find the ghost of Christmas past hiding behind her tree, and even more surprised that he happens to be a hot Irish fisherman with a moustache. Hand in hand, they travel through time to uncover each other’s pasts.”
Emily Wilde’s Encyclopedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett
“The cover might look like spring, but this is a snowy, winter sunshine-drenched adventure. Mixing charming lightness with dark fantasy lore, scholar Emily Wilde arrives in the village of Hrafnsvik to study their faeries. But as she gets closer to uncovering the mysteries of the Hidden Ones, it seems as though her colleague Wendell may also be keeping his own secrets.”
Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea by Rebecca Thorne
“The bodyguard of an evil Queen has officially had enough and elopes with the love of her life—who also happens to be the most powerful wizard in the world. There’s nothing for it but to open a bookshop/tea shop in the snowy, secluded north. A cosy, mishap adventure that’s best read with a hot chocolate.”