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Original poster

Cosy reads

53 replies

RedLemonade · 11/08/2022 14:54

I’m looking for inspiration for a list of “cosy” books. You know the sort- old world sort of books with gentle story lines; mild peril, if any; descriptions of woodlands and lovely houses.

Books I’ve recently read and loved in this vein include the Cazalet chronicles, Wind in the Willows, Coming Home by Rosamunde Pilcher, The Herb of Grace/Eliot trilogy.

I’m also currently reading Goodnight Mister Tom to my daughter which I’ve always loved so I’m not at all averse to children’s books.

Many thanks for your suggestions oh wise mumsnetters!

OP posts:
MyCourageAlwaysRises · 11/08/2022 18:05

My go-to cozy authors are Miss Read, James Herriot, Elizabeth Cadell, D.E. Stevenson, Margery Sharp, Ellis Peters, Georgette Heyer and Gladys Taber.

Two authors whose family sagas I enjoy are R.F. Delderfield and John Galsworthy, I recommend both since you enjoy the Cazalet Chronicles and the Eliots of Damerosehay.

South Riding by Winifred Holtby is extremely good but I don't know if I would call it a cozy read, a fair amount of sad events (multiple deaths, illnesses, etc.) occur but it is a glimpse at a world gone by.

Cozy children's books that fit your requirements are Mary Norton's The Borrowers (and sequels) and anything by Elizabeth Enright, she may be hard to find in the UK since she was an American but everyone I know who has read her books returns to them again and again.

Original poster
RedLemonade · 11/08/2022 15:02

Ooh I’ve heard of the Seven Sisters. Might give that a go.

I read Circle of Friends which was great though I hear some of her stuff can be hit and miss? Haven’t tried Santa Montefiore so will have a look. Thank you!

I did try Penny Vincenzi also but found it a bit too “everyone is stunningly beautiful and having multiple organisms” for me😳

OP posts:
theveg · 11/08/2022 14:57

Have you tried anything by Lucinda Riley? You might like the seven sisters series.

I have enjoyed September and the Shellseekers also by Rosamund Pilcher.

What about Maeve Binchy? Santa Montefiore?