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Well, friends, we are in the midst of hard times and, as we all know…it is a truth universally acknowledged that hard times call for a healthy dose of escapism! And, when you can’t exactly leave your house, what better way to escape than through a good old fashioned book? So, today I’ve gathered up my books and selected five that I find oh-so-relaxing to share with you, dear friends!

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RELAXING READS

Your Soul Is A River by Nikita Gill

Evocative and emotional, Nikita Gill’s debut poetry collection is a stunning, must-have addition to any library. Centering on the theme of emotional healing, Gill uses nature and celestial imagery to paint vivid messages about self love and healing with her poetry. With its gentle imagery and soothing messages, Gill’s poetry is a great option if you are in need of a piece of literature which will leave you feeling safe, loved, and empowered all at once.

Mooncakes by Wendy Xu and Suzanne Walker

If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat of a literary experience, look no further than Mooncakes! This free webcomic (which is also available in graphic novel form) is, in the words of its creators, “A (queer, Chinese-American) paranormal romance,” but in, like, the cutest, coziest way ever? *squeals with delight* Like, usually, paranormal romances are all dark and ominous in terms of atmosphere, but Mooncakes is like a crisp and cozy autumn day all wrapped up into one adorable webcomic! If you’re in need of a cute pick-me-up, definitely give Mooncakes a look!

Nimona by Noelle Stevenson

Looking for something hilariously fun and quirky? Check out Nimona! Nimona is the tale of the “evil” (*cough* Actual Big Softy™ *cough*) scientist, Ballister Blackheart, and his overzealous assistant, Nimona, and their quest to “thwart” Ballister’s “nemesis,” Sir Goldenloin. Eagle-eyed readers may recognize the art style in Nimona and that’s because Noelle Stevenson also is the writer and artist for the Netflix reboot of She-Ra. Stevenson brings that same energetic flair to Nimona, creating a comic which manages to be both humorous and heartwarming at the same time. Nimona is a must read for all!

Wicked Fox by Kat Cho

When I think of “fluffy fantasy,” there’s one book that instantly pops into my mind: Wicked Fox by Kat Cho! Oftentimes described as “a K-drama in literary form,” Wicked Fox is set in Seoul and tells the story of two Korean teens, Miyoung and Jihoon, but here’s the catch: Miyoung is a gumiho—a nine-tailed fox shape-shifter from Korean mythology who devours the souls of men. Wicked Fox is the story of Miyoung and Jihoon’s budding romance and magical encounters—and it’s so freakin’ cute!!! This is the perfect piece of fluff fantasy to settle your soul with a dose of adorableness!

Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Graceling is an OG YA book, but it’s also one that’s maintained its status as A Really Good Read™ through the years. It follows Katsa, a young woman in a world where some are gifted with magical “graces.” Katsa is gifted with the grace of killing and thus is tasked with being an assassin. Graceling is a little slower in pace than most current YA fantasies, but I’d argue that’s what makes it so comforting. It takes its time letting readers get to know the characters and the world, and it works. If you’re looking for a more measured fantasy, Graceling is it.

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So, that is all for today, my dear friends! I hope this post was able to help you find a good ol’ relaxing read to snuggle up with or, at the least, brought a little extra cheer to your day.

As a side note, you can purchase these books and more through my Bookshop affiliate store to help support this blog, indie bookstores, and the publishing industry, all simply by treating yo shelf and yo’self! If you’re specifically interested in comfort reads, take a look at my specific, Corona Comfort book list! If you’re into audiobooks, instead, check out my referral link to Libro.fm (which supports indie bookshops) and get your first audiobook free! I’m gonna sign off for now, so until next time friends…

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SPILL THE BEANS, FRIENDS!

• Do you read to relax?
• What are some of your favorite comforting reads?