In literature, the term “cosy” typically refers to mysteries and romances devoid of explicit language, violence, or sexual themes. These stories often prioritize character development, feature charming or serene settings, and involve lower levels of tension.
If you have visited a bookstore recently, you may have encountered a display showcasing cosy books such as Joss Richard’s “It’s Different This Time” or Richard Osman’s “The Thursday Murder Club.” These cosy narratives are specifically promoted as perfect reads for the autumn and winter seasons and have gained significant popularity in recent times.
While cosy mysteries and romances are not new concepts, the term “cosy” is now being used to describe a wide range of genres beyond traditional boundaries. This includes cosy fantasy like Travis Baldree’s “Legends and Lattes,” a BookTok sensation, and even a seemingly contradictory genre, cosy horror exemplified by Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s “The Bewitching.”
In “Legends and Lattes,” an orc creature steps away from warfare to open a coffee shop in town. In contrast, “The Bewitching” portrays three generations of women grappling with alarming witchcraft in the serene settings of a New England college town and the Mexican countryside.
Lucy Mann, a producer at CBC Books, appreciates the diversification of “cosy” across various genres. Describing herself as a cosy book enthusiast, Mann highlights the allure of these books, emphasizing their ability to offer escapism and comfort.
The question arises: How can a murder-themed book be comforting? For some, the ambiance, tone, and setting of the narrative provide solace, while for others, the comfort stems from the reading environment itself.
Author Iona Whishaw, known for her popular Lane Winslow Mystery series, views cosy books as existing on a spectrum. She categorizes them from light, character-focused tales set in fictional locales with recipe inclusions to more intense literary works featuring atmospheric settings and true crime elements.
Whishaw’s novels occupy a middle ground, steering clear of explicit violence or graphic content while addressing crime and challenging topics with empathy. They are characterized by a strong sense of place, endearing characters, a lighter tone, and sprinklings of humor.
The rising trend of cosy books has not gone unnoticed. Rachel Law from Indigo notes a surge in the popularity of cosy books in recent years, with a significant increase in sales and online searches for cosy-themed literature. The trend initially emerged from Japanese and Korean cosy fiction and has since expanded to encompass mystery, romance, and fantasy genres.
Categorizing what constitutes a cosy book can spark debates, as some narratives deviate from traditional perceptions of the genre. While books like Laurie Gilmore’s “Pumpkin Spice Café” blend small-town romance with explicit scenes, the definition of cosy remains fluid and subject to interpretation within the literary community.
Ultimately, cosy books offer a respite from the overwhelming news cycle and serve as a reminder of the positivity in the world. They provide readers with a comforting escape, fostering a sense of connection and goodness amid challenging times.