There is nothing I love more during chilly winter nights than fresh sheets, a cup of tea, and a good book. The trouble is that I often struggle with checking out just one book when my Goodreads list is way too long for my own good.
If you’re struggling with what to read next – or need some inspiration for your next read – let me help.
Here are some of my favorite books to read during the winter months (even some Christmas-themed ones) and a few of my favorite read-alouds for families.
Books for Mom
For the Hallmark Mom
In Home Sweet Christmas, two friends, living in a town named “Wishing Tree”, find the person and the place in which they belong this Christmas. Warning: This really is a feel-good story that will leave you feeling like Christmas time is pure magic.
For the Baker (or Mystery-Loving) Mom
In Christmas Cupcake Murder, you’ll find both mystery and some really great recipes to try. As December turns Lake Eden into the North Pole, the heat is on in Hannah Swensen’s kitchen to honor two Christmas promises: baking irresistible holiday cupcakes and preventing a person who attempted murder from succeeding the second time around.
For the Royal-Loving Mom
In Royal Holiday, Vivian accompanies her daughter on a work trip to style a royal duchess in England and she meets the private secretary of the Queen and is offered a very personal tour. As Christmas approaches, their flirty friendship turns into a mistletoe kiss, and later a fling to ring in the New Year.
For the Mom Who Needs a Cry
In Always in December, Josie mails a yearly letter to her parents who died on Christmas many years ago, writing: Missing you, always. This year, however, has a bike collision with a handsome man named Max, which changes her tradition and changes her life. Warning: YOU WILL CRY. A LOT.
Books for the Family
For the Mother/Daughter Duo
In Sugar and Ice, seventh grader Clare’s talent for skating is spotted at a local show and she quickly becomes enmeshed in the world of skating, with its pressures and rivalries. A fun story of a girl who discovers her strengths and navigates relationships while pursuing her dreams. Ages 9 and up.
For the Entire Family
In Top Elf, Santa is looking for a successor and he’s opening the position to anyone who wants to apply. But the contest is NOT for the weak of heart! Ages 8 and up.
For Harry Potters Fans
While The Christmas Pig may not be about Harry, it is written by J.K. Rowling. Jack loves his beloved stuffed pig, DP, and when DP is lost, he’ll do whatever it takes to get him back, including going to the Land of the Lost, which can only happen for a human boy on Christmas Eve.
I hope this list of winter books helps encourage some quiet time during one of the busiest times of the year. Happy reading!
Be sure to add these holiday romance reads to your list too!
 and a few of my favorite read-alouds for families.){kind=link}