#cozy reads

[bookishlyvintage]

stack challenge: Matching Sweaters & Books

#stack challenge #bookstack #sweaters #books #fantasy #we hunt the flame #we free the stars #belladonna #children of ragnarok #sweater weather #cozy #cozy reads #tbr #reading #bookblr #booklr #bookstagram

[thesweetnessofsalt]

The Sweetness of Salt

Chapter 3 - Page 37

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The Sweetness of Salt is a queer romance about a mermaid seeking to break her bond with the sea, and the lonely witch who tries to help her. Updates Mondays! Click here for more TSOS mirrors & links!

#webcomic #webcomic update #queer webcomics #queer comics #wlw #wlw art #wlw comics #glcomics #mermay #mermaid #mermaid comic #cozy reads #wlw reads #cottagecore #cozy fantasy #queer romance #the sweetness of salt #tapas community

[andreai04]

"Things don't have to stay as what they started out as."

#reading #books read in 2023 #bookblr #books #book photography #book blog #bibliophile #books reading #books and reading #legends and lattes #legends & lattes #travis baldree #high fantasy with low stakes #cozy reads #cozy fantasy #coffee shop #viv x tandri #tandri #orc x succubus #coffee lover #changing your path in life #setting out on a new adventure #really cute read #i had a great time #highly anticipated for me #been on my tbr forever #glad i finally read it #review #four stars #december reads

[mxstyskies]

☆ reading is hot

#books and reading #books & libraries #books #booklr #bookblr #aesthetic #x reader #reader aesthetic #female reader #bookworm #reading #currently reading #cozy reads #long reads #novels #readers #books aesthetic

[noahhawthorneauthor]

Gay and damaged. That's the vibe.

#aelina isaacs #queer books #phantom and rook #goodreads #cozy vibes #cozy reads #cozy fantasy #mental health matters #book recommendations #book recs #queer urban fantasy #urban fantasy books

[gryffinwrites]

I wrote a cozy fantasy as an ode to all the things that have every given me comfort.

Love At First Lance Is about a princess who volunteers for a tournament of games in disguise as a bandit, aiming to thwart the knights within and prevent anyone unsuited for her sister's hand from winning her as a prize. There is lots of humor, romance, found family, and whimsical tournament games designed by seasonal kingdoms.

Excerpt from the acknowledgements:

"When I sat down to write this cozy fantasy, I stewed a lot about what makes me feel cozy and safe, and poured that soup into my story. I would like to acknowledge that Love at First Lance pulls strong inspiration (or winks, nods, and nudges) to the following works:

Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Bridgerton, A Knight’s Tale, Thumbelina, The Princess Bride, Howl’s Moving Castle, Princess Diaries 2, New Girl, The Hobbit, Shrek 2, Twelfth Night, The Court Jester, Beatrix Potter, Strange Magic, The Hunger Games, A Court of Mist and Fury, Hades and Persephone, Anything by Author India Holton, RuPaul’s Drag Race, The Chronicles Of Narnia, Legends and Lattes, Harry Potter, Dungeons and Dragons, Pixar’s Brave, Over the Garden Wall, and many more…"

#gryffin murphy #over the garden wall #cozy fantasy #cozy fantasy romance #fantasy tournament #hunger games #a knights tale #booklr #cozy reads #booklover

[calming-chaos]

#book blog #bookaddict #bookaholic #bookshelves #bookstagram #booktok #bibliophile #booklovers #bookstack #bookworm #coffee and books #cozy books #cozy reads

[flowerfairyboi]

西の魔女が死んだ [Nishi no majo ga shinda] - The Witch of the West is Dead by Kaho Nashiki (1994)

Book recommendation: cottagecore, cozy, simple life, witchcore, nature, green witch, slice of life, heartwarming, Japanese literature

For plot and review scroll down :)

"To obtain the things that are most valuable to you, the things you desire most, you may have to overcome the most difficult trials."

Synopsis:

Mai is 13 years old and no longer wants to go to school. Her worried mother decides to send her to stay with her grandmother for a while, in a beautiful little house in the Japanese countryside on the edge of the mountains. The grandmother is a widowed English lady who came to Japan many years earlier and stayed there for love. Both Mai and her mother refer to her as the "Witch of the West," but the moment the grandmother reveals to her that she really possesses magical powers, Mai is incredulous and distrustful. However, when she proposes to her niece to take on the harsh witch training, Mai accepts without hesitation. Immersed in the unspoiled wilderness of remote Japan, grandmother and granddaughter spend wonderful weeks together in recollection, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, working in the garden, gathering wild herbs and cooking, as well as devoting themselves, of course, to the basic rudiments of witchcraft. Over the years, the author has added three short stories to this cathartic and revelatory story, which echo its character and setting.

[source]

Review:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is a great short slice-of-life story. The vibes are immaculate: it's peaceful, tender, spiritual, witchy, and very nature-centred. As someone who had a strong bond with my grandmother, I loved this book and it was great reading about a loving and nurturing grandmother-grandchild relationship. I love Mai's character arc: even if it isn't something drastic, you can feel her development throughout the story as she absorbs her grandmother's teaching and makes them hers. To be honest, I needed to hear some of the things that the grandmother tells Mai and I think I learnt some life lessons from this book, too. I don't think the author wanted to do that per se, but I did learn from it. The focus on nature and the descriptions of it are also very well executed and I almost had the impression of being there at times.

All in all, I think this is a great cozy book for when you feel down, or when you want to unwind, or simply if you like nostalgic and heartwarming stories.

I'll finish with one last quote:

"The right desires, those that are in line with the course of things, will guide you and turn into reality."

PS: At the moment there is no version in English(?), So I would like to either do one myself or find something on the internet. If I do and you're interested, I will post the link here. There are currently versions in Italian, French, and Japanese (maybe more but I'm not sure). The book was adapted into a movie though (if you watch it tell me what you think).

#cottagecore #fairycore #naturecore #Witchcore #forest witch #green witch #witchcraft #cozy books #cozycore #witchblr #witchcore #bookblr #booklover #cozy reads #西の魔女が死んだ #kaho nashiki #nishi no majo ga shinda #books

[red-dipped-feathers]

Moon of the Crusted Snow

(picture taken by me)

I am starting off the year with this amazing book written by an indigenous author. Not gonna lie, what attracted me to this book was the beautiful book cover and title with its wintery desolated landscape and mysterious name. Usually, the apocalypse or post-apocalypse genre isn’t something I would read but I was very interested in seeing this genre being explored from an indigenous perspective and boy was I not disappointed! This book was captivating from start to end and it’s definitely going in my recommendations. So here is my review of it. Hope you like it and that I convince you to give this book a shot 😊

Title: Moon of The Crusted Snow

Author: Waubgeshig Rice

Genre: Novel, Apocalypse, post-apocalypse

Publication Date: 2 Octobre 2018

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Introduction:

In Waubgeshig Rice's "Moon of the Crusted Snow," the tranquil existence of a remote Anishinaabe community in Northern Ontario is shattered by an unexplained societal collapse. As winter blankets the land, the novel explores the community's struggle for survival amid diminishing resources and isolation. Rice skillfully blends traditional Anishinaabe storytelling with a stark portrayal of the post-apocalyptic landscape, offering a poignant reflection on culture, community, and the resilience of the human spirit against an unforgiving backdrop of crusted snow and encroaching darkness.

Plot:

The overarching plot of the narrative proves to be a compelling and intriguing aspect of "Moon of the Crusted Snow." Waubgeshig Rice skillfully introduces a palpable sense of anxiety that permeates the characters' experiences as they grapple with the impending end of the world, all while remaining oblivious to its occurrence. Although the story begins at a deliberate pace, it progressively gains momentum, ensuring a smooth and well-paced development without feeling rushed.

What sets Rice's storytelling apart is his ability to sustain a high level of suspense throughout, even when readers are privy to the impending apocalypse. The narrative skillfully keeps readers on the edge of their seats, evoking a genuine sense of unease for the characters and their uncertain fate. Remarkably, despite the limited action, the storyline remains engaging, avoiding any dull or stagnant moments. The brevity of the chapters contributes to the overall dynamism, allowing the narrative to maintain its momentum and ensuring that the reader remains captivated by the unfolding events.

Plot rating : 4/5

Characters:

The narrative predominantly unfolds through the lens of the central character, Evan, serving as the focal point through which the actions of the other characters come into view. While it's worth noting that the book doesn't delve into extensive character development, I find it to be fitting for the genre. In the context of this apocalyptic tale, the emphasis on character evolution might be secondary.

Evan, as the protagonist, provides readers with a vivid portrayal of life in a secluded community during the apocalypse. The narrative encapsulates the prevalent mistrust and paranoia that takes root within the community, creating a palpable atmosphere of impending doom. This thematic focus, coupled with Evan's perspective, adds a layer of intensity to the storyline, making it a captivating read.

Notably, the narrative occasionally shifts its lens to Nicole, Evan's wife, offering a valuable alternative perspective. This additional point of view provides a nuanced exploration of the unfolding events, enriching the reader's understanding of the characters and the dire situation they find themselves in.

Character rating : 3.25/5

Themes and Messages:

"Moon of the Crusted Snow" by Waubgeshig Rice delves into the themes of survival, resilience, and cultural identity within an Anishinaabe community facing an apocalyptic scenario. The narrative underscores the importance of preserving traditional knowledge, emphasizes community bonds, and explores the fear of the unknown. The novel subtly addresses the impact of modernity on indigenous communities and reflects on power dynamics within the community during times of crisis. Against a backdrop of a harsh winter landscape, the story intertwines environmental resonance with human experiences, prompting reflection on the interconnectedness between nature and humanity. Overall, Rice weaves a compelling narrative that goes beyond the typical post-apocalyptic tale, inviting readers to ponder cultural preservation, collective strength, and the profound effects of societal collapse on a community deeply rooted in its traditions.

Theme rating : 5/5

Strengths:

Brings a different perspective to the end of the world

Well written story line

High level of suspense, you can feel your anxiety building with each chapter

Weaknesses:

Does start off at a slow pace

Not a lot of action (personally, I don’t feel it was needed for this story but I know some of you might find the story a bit lacking or even boring)

So here you go, the first review of the year and the first review on this blog! let me know if you liked it and if it made you want to read the book.

Also, if you already read this book let me know if you enjoyed it and if you agree or disagree with my review 😊

See you next time !

Red dipped feathers

P.S. I’m def going to read the second book to this story called “Moon of the Turning Leaves”, so make sure to stick around for that review!

#book review #indigenous #indigenous authors #apocalypse #post apocalypse #novel #book #reading #bookish #bookworm #bookblr #reading community #cozy reads

[bookishlyvintage]

are you team long or short chapters?

#books #reading #currently reading #a fragile enchantment #new books #arc #fantasy #ya fantasy #romance #romantasy #bookblr #booklr #stack challenge #sweater weather #flat lay #cozy reads #cozy

[lacysbookshelf]

🌿 Books & Plants

#books #my books #bookshelf #bookshelfie #air plant #air plants #plants and books #books and plants #nature book #nature books #book aesthetics #light academia #academia aesthetic #my bookshelf #reading #my favorite books #reading aesthetic #book aesthetic #cozy reads #readers #reading books #all my books

[lou-wilham]

You should get caught up on Witches of Moondale because of reasons. . . these are some of those reasons 👀 👀 👀

What's a little necromancy between family?

For the Crow Witch, Icarus "Rus" Ashthorne, Moondale seemed the perfect hiding place. But like they always say, you can't go home again, and Rus finds out quickly that nothing is how she remembered, while at the same time very little has changed. Then she comes face to face with the only woman she's ever loved, Az Elwood, and... well, things get messier than she thought they ever could.

The Elwoods are a staple of Moondale, respected, feared, powerful, and Azure Elwood was always happy with her place amongst them. Happy to play the part of the good little witch, until Rus Ashthorne. Eleven years ago, Rus got on a bus and left Azure behind, but she's back, with two little girls trailing her like ducklings, and enough unspoken things between them to drown the town.

Now witch hunters are knocking at their proverbial door, the council of magic is being a real pain in the ass, and Rus wonders how much magic it'll take to protect the people she loves from herself and the danger following her.

A LGBTQ+ cozy urban fantasy novel for fans of The Ex Hex, and October Daye.

GoodReads | Purchase Link

#indie books #indie author #indie writer #lgbt author #lgbt writers #lgbt books #lgbtqia books #lgbt reads #queer booklr #queer writers #sapphic reads #sapphic books #sapphic fiction #wlwbookshelf #wlw reads #wlw books #wlw fiction #wlw yearning #witches of moondale #witchy reads #witchy vibes #witch books #witchblr #cozy urban fantasy #cozy fiction #cozy books #cozy reads #cozy paranormal fantasy #bay of the dead verse

[mimisreadingnook]

current read: the very secret society of irregular witches 🔮

so far its a bit boring to be honest, but the atmosphere is cozy and the stakes are low! im gonna keep reading and hopefully it'll get more interesting later on.

#mine #books #reading #book recommendations #cozy reads #the very secret society of irregular witches #sangu mandanna

[cozycoffeewitch]

Late spooky early christmas season. Still loving everything pumpkin 🎃

#spooky #pumpkin #pumpkin house #candles #witchtok #booklr #books #bookworm #bookish #books and reading #spooktacular #spook season #jack o lantern #reading #cozy autumn #cozy reads #books & libraries #bookblr #book quotes #currently reading #my library

[pagesandpixelsamy]

Ready for Spring 🌸🧡💐🌻

#my photos #collage #march #spring #neon lights #flowers #photography #instagram #hobbies #anime #hi #hello #gaming #booklr #cozy aesthetic #nintendo #bookstagram #animal crosing new horizons #studio ghibli #studyblr #tumblr friends #art #travel #cozy gaming #gaming setup #rom com books #cozy reads #coffee lover #console gaming #coffee shop

[mothandnessieread]

I know we’re not that far into 2023 but this might already be one of my favorite books for the year! Legends & Lattes was the heartwarming read I didn’t know I needed and, even though I finished it about a week ago now, I still think about it all the time. And to find out there’s a prequel for it coming out this year? You guys better bet I’m going to get my hands on it ASAP.

What have you all been reading lately? Find any favorites for the year already?

#studyblr #sonjastudies #studyspo #study aesthetic #bookblr #sonjareads #amreading #legends & lattes #fantasy #romance #cozy #cozy reads