Compiled by Madison Golden, Assistant Research Data Management Librarian

Looking for the perfect winter escape to curl up with on those chilly nights? These seven enchanting fantasy books are the perfect addition to any bookshelf, guaranteed to transport you to magical worlds and keep you entertained during the snowy days ahead.

The Bear and the Nightingale (Winternight Trilogy #1)
By Katherine Arden

The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden is an atmospheric fantasy novel set in medieval Russia, where Vasya, a young girl with the ability to see spirits, must defend her village from a sinister force awakened by fear and fading traditions. Blending folklore and coming-of-age themes, the story explored the clash between pagan traditions and encroaching Christianity, weaving magic and danger into a chilling tale.

The Snow Child
By Eowyn Ivey

The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey is a novel set in 1920s Alaska, where a childless couple builds a now girl who mysteriously comes to life. Blending stark wilderness with hints of magical realism, the story explores themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of hope.

Spinning Silver
By Naomi Novik

Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik is a reimagining of classic fairy tales, following Miryem, a determined moneylender who accidentally binds herself to a powerful fae king by turning silver into gold. As her fate intertwines with two other women, they confront magical and human threats in a richly woven tale of resilience, sacrifice, and transformation.

The Goblin Emperor (The Chronicles of Osreth #1)
By Katherine Addison

The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison is a heartfelt fantasy about Maia, a half-goblin outcast who unexpectedly ascends to the imperial throne after the sudden death of his family. Amid political intrigue and cultural tension, Maia must navigate the complexities of court life with kindness and courage, transforming both himself and the empire he rules.

The Left Hand of Darkness
By Ursula Le Guin

The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula Le Guin is a groundbreaking science fiction novel that follows Genly Ai, a diplomat sent to a frozen planet to forge an alliance with its androgynous inhabitants. As he navigates political intrigue and a perilous journey, the story explores themes of identity, gender, and the meaning of humanity.

The Golden Compass
By Philip Pullman

The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman follows Lyra Belacqua, a brave and curious girl who uncovers a sinister conspiracy involving a stolen child and a mysterious substance called Dust. As she journeys through a richly imagined world of parallel universes, armored bears, and magical devices, Lyra’s quest sets the stage for a battle between freedom and control.

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (The Chronicles of Narnia #1)
By C.S. Lewis

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis is a classic fantasy novel where four siblings discover a magical world called Narnia, ruled by the White Witch, who has cast a spell to create an eternal winter. With the help of Aslan, a noble lion, they embark on a quest to defeat the witch and bring peace and springtime to Narnia.