Cozy Up

image via Vogue.com / Columbia Pictures / AJ Pics / Alamy Stock Photo

Winter is upon us, and I don't feel all that ready. I just this week swapped out our pumpkins for a wreath. I haven't blasted oldies Christmas music in the house yet. And I haven't watched my favorite holiday flicks. (Although Liv and I did choose Family Switch for a mommy daughter date last Friday and we loved it. We laughed, I cried. But I digress..)

Whether I am ready or not, it's time to get cozy, and of course curl up with a good book. I need a new light, engrossing novel. Who has a recommendation?

My last three reads were flops. Not bad, just not exactly riveting. None hold a candle to Everything's Fine. But these novels are popular, so if you're feeling generous and not all that picky, check out The Connellys of County Down, It Ends with Us and Maybe Next Time...

The Connellys of County Down centers on three adult siblings, one just released from prison. There's family dysfunction, lots of secrets and a love story. Author Tracey Lange is a super talented writer, I just didn't care all that much for this particular storyline. Nonetheless I am inspired by Lange's writing career. In her "About the Author" she says she completed an online novel-writing program while writing her first book We Are the Brennans. Now I'm motivated to do the same :)

It Ends with Us is a well-known novel by bestselling author Colleen Hoover. I'm sure you've seen her books displayed at every airport shop and bookstore you've ever been to. (And please do keep visiting bookstores!) It Ends with Us was slow in the beginning for me but did pick up. Similar to Connellys, it became a page-turner, full of intrigue; I just didn't love the content. Disturbing relationships, tough home lives; It didn't feel like the escape I was hoping for. But again, like Connellys, the ending was clever and I'm glad I stuck it out.

Maybe Next Time is basically Groundhog Day but more depressing. That being said there are details I can relate to: the constant battle for balance while working and raising young children, dealing with distraction in our digital world. Taking place in London and centered on a (mostly) loving couple, this novel has its moments and wise messaging (savor those you hold near & dear). But overall: eh. Not terrible, but not a winner.

Here's to getting cozy with the best books of winter xoxo
AES