Some authors are best discovered slowly—one cozy step at a time. Jenny Colgan is very much one of those writers. Known for her comforting settings, gentle romance, and stories that feel like a warm drink on a cold day, Colgan is a go-to choice for winter reading. If you’ve been curious but aren’t sure where to start, here are three great entry points, depending on what kind of reader you are right now.
☕ Entry Point #1: Christmas at the Cupcake Cafe

Best for: Holiday cheer lovers and anyone craving sweetness with a sprinkle of chaos
This book is pure cozy joy: festive treats, community spirit, and all the ups and downs of running a beloved café during the busiest season of the year. The holiday setting bursts with gingerbread smells and snow-dusted streets — perfect if you want a feel-good story that’s glittery with festive cheer.
Why start here:
- Holiday-centric & delightfully light
- Sweet romance + bakery shenanigans
- Great for readers who want escapism and comfort
🎄 Entry Point #2: The Christmas Bookshop

Best for: Holiday readers, book lovers, and anyone who adores festive settings
If you want to lean fully into the season, The Christmas Bookshop is an excellent place to begin. Set in Edinburgh during the holidays, this story blends family tension, self-discovery, and—of course—books, all wrapped in twinkly lights and winter charm.
Why start here:
- A love letter to bookstores and readers
- Cozy Christmas atmosphere without being overly saccharine
- Themes of burnout, belonging, and finding your place
This is the kind of book you read under a blanket while pretending the world can wait until January.
❄️ Entry Point #3: Midnight at the Christmas Bookshop

Best for: Readers who want holiday warmth with a contemporary twist
If you loved The Christmas Bookshop or want something with just a bit more depth and a fresh take, dive into its sequel. The festive fun continues when a movie crew descends on the shop for a cheesy Christmas film, pushing characters out of their comfort zones and into new emotional territory.
Why start here:
- More personal growth alongside cozy charm
- Holiday magic with a dash of real-world stakes
- Perfect for winter evenings with a mug of something rich
Final Bite
Jenny Colgan’s books are ideal for winter reading—soft, immersive, and reassuring without being forgettable. Whether you’re chasing holiday cheer, a change of scenery, or a gentle emotional reset, there’s an entry point here waiting for you.
If you’ve read Jenny Colgan before, which book was your first? And if you haven’t—where would you start?
Happy cozy reading, —Literary Gluttony
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