The Last Chapter

For a long time, I was very against reading anything that felt “cozy.” Why read something that doesn’t get your heart racing and the pages turning? I gravitated toward sweeping romances and tales of heroism, but I quickly realized that just because a story doesn’t rely on extreme stakes or world-ending plots doesn’t mean it can’t be deeply emotional or intensely satisfying.

The cozy genre centers on found family, low-stakes storytelling, creature comforts, and the idea of building a new life. When the world feels overwhelming, I turn to these stories because they offer a sense of ease I don’t always find in high-stakes, plot-heavy books. Below are some cozy books and series I’ve read and loved, perfect for anyone looking to dip their toes into the genre.

Emily Wilde Series by Heather Fawcett

While I’m not fully finished with this series (I’m currently in the middle of the final book), it’s already one of my favorite series of all time. Although there are moments of higher stakes that may fall outside traditional “cozy” boundaries, much of the story follows Emily as she travels through faerie realms, carefully documenting magical species, portals, folklore, and flora. Alongside her are her loyal hound Shadow and Wendell, her academic rival and reluctant companion. By the third book, the series introduces a rich cast of memorable side characters who meaningfully shape Emily and Wendell’s journey, making it easy to grow deeply attached as they evolve over time. 

Assistant to the Villain by Nicole Maehrer

This book was a pleasant surprise. I went into it on a whim, picked up out of sheer boredom, and ended up having far more fun than I expected. Assistant to the Villain is delightfully goofy and self-aware, playfully poking fun at popular fantasy romance tropes. The story follows Evie as she navigates caring for her ailing father and young sister, all while taking on a very unconventional job as the assistant to a mysterious figure known only as “the Villain.” Unsurprisingly, he’s nothing like what she expects. As the two slowly open up to one another, the story blends humor, heart, and political intrigue into an easy, fast-paced read that will have you giggling to yourself. 

Paladin’s Grace by T. Kingfisher

I’ve read my fair share of T. Kingfisher books and can confidently say she’s one of my favorite authors. This was the first romance-heavy novel I’d read by her, and I was a little nervous going in after only having experienced her fantasy and horror work. Needless to say, there’s a reason it made this recommendation list. Paladin’s Grace follows Stephen, a troubled paladin who struggles to find purpose after the death of his god, and Grace, a skilled perfumer with a complicated past who owns her own shop. After a chance encounter brings them together, the two form a genuine connection that pulls them into a story of mystery, intrigue, and heartfelt romance.  

The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune

This beautiful story is widely loved for its unique cast of characters and the meaningful growth they experience. The novel follows Linus Baker, an employee of the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, who is sent to evaluate an orphanage located on a remote island. The home shelters children with powerful—often misunderstood—abilities, and Linus is tasked with overseeing their care under the guidance of the kind and enigmatic Arthur Parnassus. At its heart, the story is about relationships, belonging, and personal transformation, allowing readers to watch Linus grow into the person he was always meant to be. It’s a deeply touching, feel-good read I’d recommend to anyone looking for warmth and heart.

Honorable Mention: Deep Dish Mysteries Series by Mindy Quigley

I’ve only read the first book in this series so far and am currently making my way through the second, but it was an easy choice for an honorable mention. While there are no fantasy elements here, the cozy charm is undeniable. The series follows Delilah, her cat Butterball (featured on every cover), her best friend Sonya, her Aunt Biz, and the charming local detective Calvin Capone—yes, those Capones. Each installment centers on a small-town murder mystery, balanced with the comforting details of Delilah’s new restaurant, the recipes she’s experimenting with, and the rhythms of everyday life. The cast faces their fair share of turmoil, but each story wraps up with a satisfying, feel-good conclusion. It’s the perfect palate cleanser when you need a break from fantasy—and honestly, who doesn’t love pizza?