Cosy Fiction: The Latest Reading Craze
Cosy season is almost upon us – with roaring fires, lattes, blankets, and snacks just around the corner. If you’re not quite living your full autumnal fantasy just yet, then we may have just the thing for you: cosy fiction.
Cosy fiction (or cozy fiction, depending on where you’re based) refers to a genre of books that offer comforting, heartwarming storylines that allow readers to escape from the real world. Generally focused on low-stress vibes, these books avoid intense drama, violence, or heavy themes, focusing instead on positive, uplifting elements – with friendships, community, beautiful locations and nostalgia often taking a leading role.
The aim of cosy fiction? To create a relaxing and enjoyable reading experience, offering an escape from the pressures or intensity of daily life in the modern world. A spa for the mind, or a mental retreat – even if you’re only able to snatch a few moments out of your day.
What makes a cosy fiction novel?
The cosy genre offers up some familiar elements that readers can look out for, from the tone to the characters. Generally, books within this genre, often known as cosies, have a smaller list of characters than other novels, and might be set in a smaller town. The tone is often optimistic and upbeat. Oh, and a happy ending is absolutely guaranteed.
These books are designed to offer comfort to their readers; a safe escape from reality. Keep in mind that there are always exceptions to a rule, and not every book will follow these specifications exactly. If you’re not quite sure whether you’ve stumbled across a cosy, keep an eye out for some of these elements:
- Warm, gentle atmosphere: Cosy fiction has a welcoming tone, often set in small towns or close-knit communities.
- Low-stakes conflict: While there may be challenges or obstacles, they tend to be small in scale or easily resolvable, allowing the story to stay light and positive.
- Relatable, likeable characters: The protagonists are often ordinary people with kind hearts, facing everyday problems or adventures in a feel-good way.
- Minimal violence or aggression: These stories typically avoid graphic content, focusing on personal growth, connection, or simple pleasures.
- Comforting themes: Family, friendship, home, tradition, and personal discovery often play central roles, making the reading experience soothing.
Within the cosy theme, you’ll find a whole layer of subgenres – from cosy mysteries to the classic cosy romance. Cosy mysteries have really taken off in recent years, particularly with people who like a little crime thriller storyline, but still want to be able to sleep at night.
Cosy and romance go hand in hand, although they typically avoid the enemies to friends to lovers plot; everyone’s friends in a great cosy! Cosy fantasies are another option for those looking to explore, with the cosy themes allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the joy and wonder that can come from a fantasy setting. Glorious escapism at its cosy best.
Our top cosy reads this autumn
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
One from the archives, Donna Tartt’s The Secret History was published long before the cosy fiction world emerged, but it perfectly encapsulates the theme. The book draws you into its snowy Vermont university campus backdrop and keeps you hooked from the very first line – bringing a dark undercurrent to the cosiness. Classic yet old-fashioned in all the right ways, dubbed “timeless, compelling and brilliant” by The Times, The Secret History is a must read.
The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune
The House in the Cerulean Sea is a truly gorgeous read, telling a fantastical tale of a man who works for the Department of Magical Youth and an orphanage full of magical children. Beautifully and intelligently told by Klune, this novel covers themes of personal discovery, family, and finding oneself – all against an enchanting backdrop. With reviews saying the book will “restore your faith in humanity”, and dubbing it “very close to perfect”, you need to get yourself a copy ASAP.
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
A peaceful, wealthy retirement village in the sleepy Kent countryside provides the perfect setting for this heart-warming cosy mystery. The Thursday Murder Club is the debut novel by presenter Richard Osman, who manages some of the best character development seen in a long time. With a whole host of award wins under its belt, The Thursday Murder Club has been called “pure escapism”, “a beacon of pleasure” and “one of the most enjoyable books of the year” – making readers laugh, cry, relate, think, and disappear into the world of Coopers Chase. If you haven’t read it, you’re missing out.
The Pumpkin Spice Cafe by Laurie Gilmore
A Sunday Times bestseller, and winner of TikTok shop Book of the Year 2024, The Pumpkin Spice Cafe is everywhere right now – and with good reason. Laurie Gilmore’s novel is everything a great cosy fiction read should be, with a grumpy x sunshine dynamic, the classic small-town setting, and the essential happily ever after! With readers praising the novel’s ‘compelling, cosy and delightful narrative’ and saying reading “made their heart happy”, The Pumpkin Spice Cafe is the perfect kind of cosy romance. If you’re a pumpkin spice fiend, then have this novel in hand when you order your first PSL of the season.
What’s the next big book trend?
From the trends that take TikTok by storm to the latest seasonal reads that you simply can’t live without (trust us), you can rely on Victoria Freudenheim to deliver all the book-based content you could ever need. Keep up with our blog and be sure to visit our latest reviews page if you’re in need of some inspiration.
