In 2025, I discovered cozy fantasies and they’ve been a go-to favorite genre ever since. Cozy fantasy books typically offer lower stakes, character-driven stories, and worlds with a little extra whimsy. Instead of action-packed battles and heart wrenching emotional journeys, these stories focus on found family, gentle healing, whimsical magic, and small joys that feel deeply meaningful.
Cozy fantasies are like a warm hug while I read. When life around me feels stressful, overstimulating, or heavy, these books can be exactly what I need – they’re easy to read and make my heart happy. They’re perfect palate cleansers between epic fantasies, or simply comfort reads when I want something lighthearted but still thoughtful.
And if you ask me, I think a lot of readers would truly love a cozy fantasy read every now and then ☺️
So! I’ve put together a list of all the cozy fantasy books I’ve read to help you pick out your next read. Hope you enjoy!
(Kind of) Interconnected Standalones
Title: The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches
Author: Sangu Mandanna
Why I Love It: This is one of my favorite books because it balances whimsy with emotional depth so well. The FMC is relatable, the romance is oh so sweet (grumpy sunshine!), I love the potioneering magic, and its message hits me right in the heart. It’s my go-to recommendation for anyone curious about cozy fantasy.
Lexi’s Rating: 5⭐
Overall Rating: 5
Vibes Rating: 5
Story Development Rating: 5
Audiobook Narration Rating: 4.5
Spice: 1
Title: A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping
Author: Sangu Mandanna
Why I Love It: Another incredible cozy fantasy by Sangu Mandanna with its own unique story and beautiful themes of found family, healing, belonging, and rebuilding. Also, its representation of an autistic child made my heart full, as a mom who can relate.
Lexi’s Rating: 5⭐
Overall Rating: 5
Vibes Rating: 5
Story Development Rating: 5
Audiobook Narration Rating: 4.5
Spice: 1
Interconnected Standalones
Title: The Spellshop
Author: Sarah Beth Durst
Why I Love It: Aww, the definition of a warm hug and the book that started my cozy fantasy obsession! The whimsical magic and creatures, like cloud bears, unicorns, and merhorses. The talking plant sidekick and golden retriever MMC neighbor. The FMC’s love for books!
Lexi’s Rating: 5⭐
Overall Rating: 5
Vibes Rating: 4.5
Story Development Rating: 5
Audiobook Narration Rating: 4.5
Spice: .5
Title: The Enchanted Greenhouse
Author: Sarah Beth Durst
Why I Love It: I was so curious about this one character mentioned in The Spellshop – and she’s the FMC in this book! Same wonderful and whimsical vibes, with mystery and more talking plants.
Lexi’s Rating: 5⭐
Overall Rating: 5
Vibes Rating: 4.5
Story Development Rating: 5
Audiobook Narration Rating: 4.5
Spice: .5
Duology
Title: The House in the Cerulean Sea
Author: TJ Klune
Why I Love It: One of my all-time favorites and such an unexpected delight. I almost don’t want to tell you anything, so you can go in blind, too. Every character shines in their own special way and it has the most impactful and empowering message about choosing love over fear.
Lexi’s Rating: 5⭐
Overall Rating: 5
Vibes Rating: 5
Story Development Rating: 5
Audiobook Narration Rating: 4.5
Spice: .5
Title: Somewhere Beyond the Sea
Author: TJ Klune
Why I Love It: This sequel shifts POV to the other main character, which gives it a fresh angle within the same found-family setting.
Lexi’s Rating: 4⭐
Overall Rating: 4
Vibes Rating: 4
Story Development Rating: 4
Audiobook Narration Rating: 4.5
Spice: .5
3 released books for this 4(?) book series
Title: Assistant to the Villain
Author: Hannah Nicole Maehrer
Why I Love It: What a fun read! It’s got more action, blood, and dark humor than your typical cozy fantasy, but it is lighthearted and pure fun. Imagine if Shrek, the Princess Bride, and the Office were a book (trust me on this one)!
Lexi’s Rating: 5⭐
Overall Rating: 5
Vibes Rating: 5
Story Development Rating: 5
Audiobook Narration Rating: 2.5
Spice: .5
Title: Apprentice to the Villain
Author: Hannah Nicole Maehrer
Why I Love It: The characters really start to grow into their roles and we get lots more backstory! The world and magic is expanding, but the sequel keeps the same silly vibes.
Lexi’s Rating: 4.5⭐
Overall Rating: 4.5
Vibes Rating: 4.5
Story Development Rating: 4.5
Audiobook Narration Rating: 2.5
Spice: .5
Title: Accomplice to the Villain
Author: Hannah Nicole Maehrer
I haven’t read this yet!
Interconnected Standalones
Title: Legends & Lattes
Author: Travis Baldree
Why I Love It: A low stakes book all about choosing a softer, quieter life. Love the characters and the relationships they develop, how they come together to help the FMC live out her dream of owning a coffee shop.
Lexi’s Rating: 4⭐
Overall Rating: 4
Vibes Rating: 4
Story Development Rating: 4
Audiobook Narration Rating: 4
Spice: .5
Title: Bookshops & Bonedust
Author: Travis Baldree
Prequel to Legends & Lattes
I haven’t read this yet!
Title: Brigands & Breadknives
Author: Travis Baldree
I haven’t read this yet!
Interconnected Standalones
Title: Rewitched
Author: Lucy Jane Wood
Why I Love It: A sweet, witchy story about self-discovery. Great character dynamics with the mentor/mentee relationship.
Lexi’s Rating: 4.25⭐
Overall Rating: 4
Vibes Rating: 4
Story Development Rating: 4.5
Audiobook Narration Rating: 4
Spice: .5
Title: Uncharmed
Author: Lucy Jane Wood
I haven’t read this yet!
What does “Interconnected Standalones” mean?
A series of standalone books that can be read on their own, in any order, but are linked by a shared world. Sometimes shared timelines and cast of characters, too.
