A snowy winter day can call for three things—your favorite pair of pajamas, a big cup of hot chocolate and a nice book to settle down in bed with. With classes winding down and a long break ahead, you might finally be able to find time to read a book.
VALLEY has put together the ultimate book list, with titles ranging from classics to thrillers, these stories are sure to draw you in during the winter season.
One Day in December by Josie Silver
Josie Silver will sweep you off your feet and immerse you into a playful love at first sight story in One Day in December. When on the bus one snowy day, Laurie sees a man through the window and knows he is “the one.” Yet, their eyes only just meet and her bus passes by. Determined to find this man, Laurie does everything she can to trace him. Without giving too much away, One Day in December is a must-read romance story full of twists and turns that will be sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott is an all-time classic when it comes to comforting stories. Cozy up to the fire and read a tale set during the Civil War era that follows the March sisters and their stories, where together they navigate their childhood and womanhood. A heartwarming story full of laughter, happiness, love and sadness that depicts the journey of finding love, identity and purpose in life.
The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey
Set in 1920s, The Snow Child follows the story of a couple, Jack and Mabel, who move to the brutally cold Alpine, Alaska. Both struggle with their own inner issues, whether it be despair or great stress. After a snowfall, they decide to build a child out of snow. The next day, their snow child disappeared, but in turn, they find an actual child in the woods, Faina. This book tells the story of how they come to love Faina and how they eventually uncover the thrilling truth behind her.
The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
Set in medieval Russia, The Bear and the Nightingale is an excellent wintry tale to curl up and read this winter. This book dabbles into elements of Russian folklore in that it follows the main character, Vasya, and her coming of age story where she must call upon her special power of being able to communicate with mythological creatures. She grips with the power of her gift at a time where Orthodox Christianity in her community is trying to demolish the belief in such creatures. The Bear and the Nightingale is a beautiful yet dark fairytale that is worth the read in the upcoming winter months.
Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
Murder on the Orient Express is the perfect book to get sucked into on a cold winter day. This is a quintessential whodunit story of a murder that takes place on a train traveling through Europe. One of the passengers on the train committed the murder, so it is up to the readers to read this suspenseful mystery to find out exactly who did it. Murder on the Orient Express is the book for you if you want to get pulled into thrilling suspense.
Disappearing Earth by Julia Phillips
Last but certainly not least, Disappearing Earth by Julia Phillips is an emotional story that depicts the aftermath of the disappearance of two young sisters. It is certainly a compelling read as it dives into the lives of women and girls who are engulfed in the crime. Disappearing Earth illustrates the complexities of close-knit communities in this powerful story. If you are looking for a compelling book to read over the holiday break, this is it.
If you have any more books to add to this list or want to leave a review of the ones mentioned, make sure to tag @VALLEYmag on Instagram to share your thoughts!
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