There’s just something about a rainy day that calls for a cozy reading session. Whether it’s the soft patter of raindrops against the window, the occasional rumble of thunder, or the way everything feels a little more peaceful, it’s the perfect excuse to curl up with a warm drink and a good book. If you’re looking for the perfect reads to enjoy on a gloomy day, here are ten books from various genres that will wrap you in their worlds like a warm blanket.
1. Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree
This delightful slice-of-life fantasy follows Viv, an orc warrior who decides to hang up her sword and open a coffee shop. As she builds a new life in a city that has never heard of coffee, she forms unexpected friendships and navigates the challenges of running a business. With its warm, cozy atmosphere and charming characters, this book is perfect for a rainy day escape.
Listen/read my full review here.
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2. Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
For those who love a touch of gothic mystery, Rebecca is an absolute must. This classic novel follows an unnamed protagonist who marries the wealthy Maxim de Winter and moves to his grand estate, Manderley. However, she soon realizes that the shadow of his late wife, Rebecca, still lingers over the house and its inhabitants. The moody, atmospheric writing and eerie twists make it a perfect companion for stormy weather.
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3. The Little Shop of Found Things by Paula Brackston
This enchanting novel blends historical fiction with a touch of magic. It follows Xanthe, an antique dealer with the unique ability to sense the history of objects. When she finds an old chatelaine and is transported back to the 1600s, she must uncover its secrets to save someone in the past. The cozy yet adventurous story makes it a great rainy-day read.
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4. The Enchanted April by Elizabeth von Arnim
If you’re in the mood for a charming escape, The Enchanted April is a delightful classic. Four women, each longing for a change, rent a castle in Italy for the month of April. As the beauty of their surroundings works its magic, they undergo personal transformations. This novel is like a warm hug, perfect for a quiet afternoon indoors.
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5. 84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff
A book about book lovers, 84, Charing Cross Road is a collection of real letters between Helene Hanff, a writer in New York, and a London bookseller. Their charming and witty correspondence spans decades, forming a friendship filled with humor, warmth, and a shared love of literature. It’s a short but utterly cozy read.
Listen/Read my full review here.
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6. Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie
There’s nothing like a good mystery to keep you engaged on a dreary day. Murder on the Orient Express is one of Agatha Christie’s most famous novels, featuring the brilliant detective Hercule Poirot as he investigates a murder aboard a luxurious train stranded in the snow. With its closed-circle mystery and elegant 1930s setting, it’s an engrossing read that pairs perfectly with a rainy afternoon.
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7. The City Baker’s Guide to Country Living by Louise Miller
If you’re in the mood for a feel-good story with a touch of romance and delicious descriptions of baked goods, this book is for you. The City Baker’s Guide to Country Living follows Olivia, a pastry chef who flees Boston after a career mishap and takes a job at a small-town inn in Vermont. The cozy setting, charming characters, and mouthwatering food descriptions make this book as comforting as a homemade pie.
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8. The Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery
While Anne of Green Gables is Montgomery’s most well-known work, The Blue Castle is an underrated gem that deserves more love. It follows Valancy Stirling, a woman who has spent her life being timid and obedient, until she receives life-changing news that pushes her to finally start living for herself. This is a beautifully written story of love, independence, and self-discovery—perfect for a slow, rainy day.
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9. A Fall of Marigolds by Susan Meissner
For those who enjoy historical fiction with a dual timeline, A Fall of Marigolds is a touching and thought-provoking novel. The story weaves together the lives of two women—one in 1911 and the other in 2011—connected by a beautiful scarf. With themes of loss, resilience, and hope, this book offers an immersive and emotionally satisfying experience for a cozy reading session.
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10. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
If you love epistolary novels, this charming and heartwarming book is a wonderful choice. Set in the aftermath of World War II, it follows a writer who begins corresponding with the residents of Guernsey, a small island that was occupied during the war. Through their letters, she learns about their hardships, resilience, and love for books. The cozy storytelling and lovable characters make it an ideal pick for a rainy day.
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Final Thoughts
A rainy day is the perfect opportunity to slow down, grab a cozy blanket, and lose yourself in a great book. Whether you’re in the mood for a magical adventure, a historical tale, or a heartwarming story, these books offer the perfect escape. So brew yourself a cup of tea, listen to the rain tapping against your window, and enjoy a cozy reading session!
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