Winter is here, and most of us want to find a cozy spot and dive into some fantastic books. Right now, there are all kinds of stories out there. From exciting mysteries that make it hard to stop reading to touching tales, you have many books to gorge upon. This season, we’ve got a list of 20 books that deserve praise and attention. They’re not just stories; they’re like portals to new worlds. Whether you’re looking for an adventure, a heartfelt story, or a philosophical read, these books will keep you company through these cold days.
1. The Women by Kristin Hannah
Kristin Hannah, renowned for her masterful storytelling, delivers another emotionally charged narrative set against the backdrop of war. In “The Women,” nursing student Frankie’s life takes a tumultuous turn when her brother is deployed to Vietnam. This compels her to join the Army Nurse Corps. With its gripping portrayal of love and loss, this novel will linger in your thoughts even after you turn the final page.
2. The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson by Ellen Baker
Ellen Baker weaves a tale of secrets and redemption spanning decades in “The Hidden Life of Cecily Larson.” When an unexpected DNA test unravels Cecily’s carefully guarded past, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery. This challenges everything she thought she knew about her family. The sweeping saga that comes next is sure to tug at your heartstrings.
3. The Fury by Alex Michaelides
Prepare to be captivated by Alex Michaelides’ latest thriller, “The Fury.” Set against the idyllic backdrop of a private Greek island, this tale of old resentments and dark secrets leads to a shocking act of violence. Michaelides’ storytelling and razor-sharp suspense make this a must-read for mystery fans.
4. The Heiress by Rachel Hawkins
Rachel Hawkins delivers a gripping tale of family intrigue and buried secrets in “The Heiress.” When Cam returns to claim his inheritance, he and his wife, Jules, are drawn into a web of deception and betrayal that threatens to tear them apart. With its complex characters and twisty plot, this novel will keep you guessing until the end.
5. The Phoenix Crown by Kate Quinn and Janie Chang
Transport yourself to the glamour of 1906 California and the luxury of Versailles in this historical novel by Kate Quinn and Janie Chang. “The Phoenix Crown” follows two women as they solve the mystery surrounding a legendary relic. Rich in historical detail and brimming with intrigue, this story will enchant you from beginning to end.
6. Random in Death by J. D. Robb
D. Robb returns with another installment in the bestselling In Death series. In “Random in Death,” Lieutenant Eve Dallas is faced with a baffling murder case with seemingly no motive. As she digs deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a web of lies and deception that threatens to consume her. Robb’s trademark style of suspense and romance makes this a must-read for fans of the series.
7. The American Queen by Vanessa Miller
Step back to 1869 and experience the aftermath of the Civil War in Vanessa Miller’s sweeping historical epic, “The American Queen.” Louella and William strive to build a better future for themselves and their community, defying convention and challenging the status quo. Miller’s vivid prose and compelling characters bring this forgotten American history chapter to life.
8. The Year of the Locust by Terry Hayes
Terry Hayes delivers a thriller that spans continents and centuries in “The Year of the Locust.” When CIA agent Kane is tasked with extracting a vital informant from the borderlands of Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, he finds himself drawn into a deadly game of cat and mouse. With its heart-pounding action and intricate plotting, this novel will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
9. Come and Get It by Kiley Reid
Kiley Reid, author of the critically acclaimed “Such a Fun Age,” returns with another tale of race, class, and privilege in “Come and Get It.” As a college senior, Millie is drawn into a complex relationship with her enigmatic professor, and she finds herself grappling with questions of identity. Reid’s biting wit and keen insight make this a compelling read.
10. A Love Song for Ricki Wilde by Tia Williams
Tia Williams transports readers to the vibrant streets of Harlem in this romance that will steal your heart. When Ricki Wilde embarks on a journey after a family tragedy, she finds herself drawn to a mysterious stranger. With its prose and unforgettable characters, this is a love story for the ages.
11. Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange
Tommy Orange, author of the Pulitzer Prize finalist “There There,” returns with another book on identity and belonging in “Wandering Stars.” Spanning generations and continents, this family saga follows the descendants of survivors of the Sand Creek Massacre as they grapple with their past. With its lyrical prose, this novel will resonate with you.
12. The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown
Gareth Brown takes readers on a magical journey through the streets of New York City in “The Book of Doors.” Bookstore clerk Cassie Andrews stumbles upon a mysterious relic that can turn any door into a portal to another world. She is drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse with forces beyond her comprehension. With its combination of fantasy and adventure, this novel will appeal to readers of all ages.
13. One Wrong Word by Hank Phillippi Ryan
Hank Phillippi Ryan crafts a riveting tale of deception and betrayal in “One Wrong Word.” When crisis management expert Arden is accused of a crime she didn’t commit, she must race against time to clear her name. With its twisty plot and relentless suspense, this novel will keep you awake at night.
14. Familia by Lauren E. Rico
Lauren E. Rico weaves a tale of family and reconciliation in “Familia.” When Gabby DiMarco discovers she has a long-lost sister, she embarks on a journey to uncover the truth. With its richly drawn characters, this novel will tug at your heartstrings.
15. The Last Days of Lilah Goodluck by Kylie Scott
Kylie Scott delivers a thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the end. When Lilah Goodluck receives a series of ominous predictions about her future, she must race against time to uncover the truth before it’s too late. With its plotting and suspense, this novel will leave you breathless.
16. The Fox Wife by Yangsze Choo
Yangsze Choo spins a s tale of love and betrayal in “The Fox Wife.” Set against the backdrop of 1908 China, this historical epic follows a cunning detective and a determined mother as they unravel the mystery surrounding a courtesan’s death. With its prose and richly drawn characters, this novel will transport you to another time and place.
17. Wolves of Winter by Dan Jones
Dan Jones returns with another tale of war and betrayal in “Wolves of Winter.” It is set against the Hundred Years’ War backdrop and follows the Essex Dogs as they embark on a dangerous mission to capture a fortress for King Edward. With its well-researched historical detail and gripping action scenes, this novel will appeal to fans of the genre.
18. Moon of the Turning Leaves by Waubgeshig Rice
Waubgeshig Rice paints a haunting portrait of a post-apocalyptic world in “Moon of the Turning Leaves.” As Evan Whitesky leads his community on a journey through the Dead Land in search of a new home, he must confront the dark secrets of his past. With its vivid imagery, this novel will leave you spellbound.
19. Prophet Song by Paul Lynch
Paul Lynch crafts a tale of survival and resilience in “Prophet Song.” Set in a near-future Ireland on the brink of collapse, this Booker Prize-winning novel follows Eilish Stack as she fights to protect her family in a world full of tyranny and oppression. The book comes with powerful storytelling, resonating with you and making you think deeply.
20. The Queen of Sugar Hill by ReShonda Tate Billingsley
ReShonda Tate Billingsley brings to life the remarkable story of Hattie McDaniel in “The Queen of Sugar Hill.” As the first Black person to win an Academy Award, Hattie’s journey is triumph and tragedy. The book is set in a segregated society that sought to diminish her achievements. With its rich historical detail and vibrant characters, this novel celebrates the legacy of a true trailblazer.
Summing Up
Whether you want to read a thriller, a historical epic, or a tale of love and redemption, this winter’s lineup of new releases has something for everyone. So bundle up, pour yourself a cup of tea, and start binging. Because the next season would surely have some more gripping reads to jump into. Let’s go…..
Looking for your next literary escape? Find your perfect match in our book recommendations.
Garima Bais, a content creator since 2015, delivers unmatched quality with a personal touch. She is an expert in niches like beauty, fashion, digital marketing, health, parenting, travel, and home improvement. An Extremely positive person, she wishes to extend a helping hand to people dealing with problems who have no one to share them with.
