Tasnia Shahrin
We all need a pick-me-up when we are feeling blue—down in the dumps, maybe even dealing with sickness. That is the magic of books—they can take you to a whole new world and make you forget about the sadness for some time. And once you finish reading, you have a clear head to sort everything out on your own.
To abate the waves of sadness, or palpitations of dread, here is a list of books that can help lift you up in these less-than-desirable times.
1. What I Like About You by Marissa Kanter
This book is a gem of a YA contemporary romance. It’s a story of Halle, the main character who hides her true identity from her potential love interest in a virtual world. The way she approaches the consequences later will melt your heart and lift your mood up.
2. Verona Comics by Jennifer Dugan
This book starts off as a cute romance, but it then goes on to discuss some heavier topics, such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. It’s a really healthy portrayal of teen mental health and how to cope with it, which will make you feel confident after reading.
3. The Holiday Cottage by the Sea by Holly Martin
The Holiday Cottage by the Sea takes place in the wonderful setting of Sandcastle bay. Our main character Tori returns to Sandcastle Bay apprehensively, as it was where the man she loved died. There she meets a handsome and mysterious stranger, Aidan Jackson. The story continues between them creating a lovely plot that will make you feel cozy and light.
4. Secrets and Seashells at Rainbow Bay by Ali McNamara
The story is about a single mum called Amelia who has a son named Charlie. They are living in a sky rise flat tower, until she mysteriously inherits a castle in Northumberland and tries to fit in alongside some supernatural elements. This is a magical, spellbinding story that will definitely captivate you and fix your mood.
5. The Little Paris Patisserie by Julie Caplin
Utterly charming romance set in one of the most romantic cities – Paris. It’s about Nina who travels to Paris to help her best friend Sebastian, and amidst all that she falls in love with his elder brother. If you love your romantic comedy books, or ones featuring tantalising food, then definitely make sure to add this to your TBR pile today!
6. Summer on the Italian Lakes by Lucy Coleman
This gorgeous book has a little bit of everything—drama, heart ache, a glimpse into media bullying and body shaming, new beginnings, relationships, friendships, learning all about writers—all set in a stunning location. It’s the story of Brie who is recovering from a bad breakup and a writer’s slump. A plot so cozy will be like a hug when you’re feeling down.
7. One Last Greek Summer by Mandy Baggot
This story is exactly what you want to read to make you feel cheerful like a sunny day. It is a relaxing and heartwarming story set in wonderful Corfu. The stunning descriptions of the island, food, and local people will take you to the beautiful Greece as a much needed escape you were looking for.
8. The Little Cornish Kitchen by Jane Linfoot
This book is a scrumptious story of friendships, romance, and tummy rumbling foods—which are basically everything you want to read about when you’re feeling blue. It’ll make you laugh out loud with all the mishaps and mayhem that goes on in Clemmie and Charlie’s relationship, as well as the tummy rumbling with all the mouth watering bakes. Highly recommended!
9. Attachments by Rainbow Rowell
Epistolary novels are always fun to read for their unique storytelling technique. The novel is a mix between Lincoln’s third person POV and a delightful modern communication consisting of Jennifer and Beth’s increasingly personal emails to one another. Their conversations with one another are funny and warm and will make you laugh out loud!
10. It Only Happens in the Movies by Holly Bourne
This book challenges the representation of romance in most books and films and how it’s not always perfect and happy. There’s such a sense of realism to this book and it is so relatable that you will be amazed. We get to see the challenges Audrey faces when a relationship breaks down, both hers and her parents, and the after effect this causes. The ending is so incredible that you will feel really proud of Audrey, as well as yourself for being able to read about her inspiring story.
Happy reading!
The recommender, a proud Slytherin, is a part of TDA Editorial Team.