While we live in Florida and do not have a fall unlike some other states, we can still make the most out of our few cold (ish) months to come! So bear with me to know your next three go to books for this cozy season!
(1) If he had been with me, (2) Frankenstein, and (3) If It Makes You Happy.
If you are looking for a bittersweet, heartbreaking, and nostalgic romance where they found each other a moment too late, then If he had been with me should be your book of choice to read during this season. It is a romance novel written by Laura Nowlin, who introduces us to characters Autumn and Finny; they are childhood friends who ultimately become strangers as they grow, but inevitably become lovers again. And if you have a love for poetic writing and descriptions as I do, then this is definitely a great choice of reading for you! What I loved most about this book was how it encapsulated growing up; the thoughts that go through our heads and all the questions we ask ourselves when figuring out our next decisions towards our future. Just keep in mind that reading this book might lead you to shed a few tears — or in my case many ! I’m still not over this story, and catch myself from time to time thinking about it.
The next book is for a more spooky and gloomy, yet reflective reading. If you want to explore the whys and hows of nature, good and evil, and the brain behind the monster Frankenstein, we so commonly see in Hollywood, the novel Frankenstein (1831) written by Mary Shelley, is the choice for you! This book explores Victor Frankenstein’s journey to his so-called misery. How he came to create a monster and what followed. We also get the monster’s journey after he was brought to life by Victor. The book reflects on how we should not play God, and put ourselves in places that were not made for us; like Victor who tried to bring to life, a lifeless bundle of muscles and joints, his morals that crumble down as the consequences of his actions resurface, or the monster turning ‘’evil’’ because of the hardships of the life of misery he has been faced with. My favorite part of this book was how it made me reflect on various aspects of life. Victor talked about his journey, fate, grief, and failures. While the monster talked about how the world made him bad, when he just wanted to be heard. And to me the deeper meanings between the lines of this book are beautiful.
The last book is for a more romantic, funny banter, and Gilmore Girls vibes read. If this description makes you happy, then If it makes you happy by Julie Olivia is your go to choice; a cozy small town read. It reminded me in many ways of the show “Gilmore Girls”. With the inn keeper aka Lorelai Gilmore, a small bakery owner aka Lukes with his diner, a small town giving Stars Hallow energy, and friends to lovers which well… reminds us all of Lorelai & Luke. But in this case we meet Michelle and Cliff’s love story. What I liked most about this book was that it really brought the charms of a small town during the holiday season. It took place during autumn & winter so it was such a cozy read to picture fallen leaves and a small town community during this time of year.
So pick your poison of choice, grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy!
