AVJennings

Great winter reads for rainy days.

24 July 2024

Who doesn’t love to curl up with a good book on a chilly day with a warm cuppa at your side? We asked around the office and here are top five winter reads:

1. Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens

"Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens" invites readers into the heart of Sri Lanka's bustling streets and the tranquil haven of Cinnamon Gardens, where generations collide, and secrets simmer over cups of steaming chai. In this enchanting tale, Nisha, a spirited young woman with dreams as big as the Indian Ocean, navigates the complexities of family, love, and tradition in a rapidly changing world. As she grapples with the pressures of modernity and her desire to honour her heritage, Nisha finds solace and strength in the rich flavours of cinnamon-spiced tea and the wisdom of her grandmother, whose stories weave together the past and present.

2. The Glass Hotel by Emily St. John Mandel

In "The Glass Hotel" by Emily St. John Mandel, readers are transported into a world of luxury and intrigue, where the lives of seemingly disparate characters intersect in unexpected ways. At the heart of the story is Vincent, a young woman who finds herself entangled in the glamorous world of the ultrawealthy when she becomes the wife of billionaire Jonathan Alkaitis. But when Jonathan's financial empire collapses in the wake of a Ponzi scheme, Vincent's life is upended, and she disappears without a trace. As the narrative unfolds, Mandel weaves together multiple perspectives, including Vincent's troubled brother, a shipping executive, and a bartender haunted by his past, creating a mosaic of interconnected lives and fates.

3. The Country of the Blind by Andrew Leland

In "The Country of the Blind" by Andrew Leland, readers are transported to a remote village hidden deep in the mountains, where an ancient legend holds sway over its inhabitants. When journalist Alex arrives in the village to investigate a mysterious disappearance, he uncovers a community steeped in superstition and secrecy. As he delves deeper into the village's history and the enigmatic legend of the "Country of the Blind," Alex finds himself drawn into a web of intrigue, danger, and forbidden knowledge that threatens to unravel the fabric of reality itself.

4. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

In "Lessons in Chemistry" by Bonnie Garmus, readers are immersed in the fascinating world of science and societal norms of the 1960s. Protagonist Elizabeth Zott is a whip-smart chemist who dreams of making her mark in the male-dominated field but finds herself relegated to the role of a television presenter for a cooking show. Undeterred by the limitations placed upon her, Elizabeth uses her platform to educate viewers about the wonders of chemistry, all while navigating the challenges of love, ambition, and societal expectations.

Garmus's novel is a delightful blend of humour, heart, and scientific curiosity, as Elizabeth's unconventional journey challenges stereotypes and confronts the status quo. With its sharp wit, endearing characters, and insightful commentary on gender roles and scientific progress, "Lessons in Chemistry" is a captivating read that will leave readers both entertained and enlightened. This charming debut is a testament to the power of resilience and intellect in the face of adversity, making it a must-read for anyone who has ever dared to dream beyond the confines of convention.

5. Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty

In "Apples Never Fall" by Liane Moriarty, readers are drawn into the intricacies of family dynamics and the secrets that bind them together. The story revolves around the Delaney family, whose lives are thrown into turmoil when Joy Delaney goes missing. As suspicion falls on her husband, Stan, and their grown children grapple with their own personal crises, the family is forced to confront long-buried resentments, betrayals, and hidden truths. With Moriarty's trademark blend of wit, suspense, and astute observation, "Apples Never Fall" explores the complexities of marriage, sibling relationships, and the enduring bonds of family.

Happy reading!