8 Cottagecore Books To Read In 2025

Cottagecore literature embodies the essence of beauty, simplicity, and nostalgia, transporting readers to enchanting worlds filled with rustic charm, floral meadows, and heartfelt connections. Whether you seek escapism, romance, or inspiration, these 8 best cottagecore books will immerse you in cozy, dreamy atmospheres that capture the spirit of slow living.

1. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

One of the quintessential cottagecore classics, The Secret Garden follows the transformation of Mary Lennox, a spoiled and lonely girl sent to live with her uncle in a gloomy Yorkshire manor. As she explores the vast estate, she uncovers a long-abandoned garden hidden behind ivy-covered walls. With the help of her new friends, Dickon and Colin, Mary nurtures the neglected garden back to life, mirroring her own personal growth. The novel beautifully weaves themes of healing, renewal, and the restorative power of nature, making it a perfect read for those who long for the serenity of a life connected to the earth.

2. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

Set in the picturesque landscape of Prince Edward Island, Anne of Green Gables follows the adventures of Anne Shirley, an imaginative, red-haired orphan mistakenly adopted by elderly siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert. Anne's boundless enthusiasm, poetic musings about nature, and knack for finding beauty in the mundane make this book a cottagecore dream. Through trials and triumphs, Anne learns the value of hard work, community, and self-acceptance. The novel's rich descriptions of rolling meadows, cherry blossoms, and quaint village life make it an essential read for those who adore pastoral settings and heartwarming stories.

3. The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

"The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern is the perfect blend of whimsy, fantasy, and tranquility, making it one of the best cottagecore books for those who love an atmospheric setting. Set in the late 19th century, the novel follows a mysterious, magical circus that only appears at night. The story revolves around two young illusionists, Celia and Marco, who are bound by a magical competition within the circus. With its lush descriptions, magical landscapes, and an underlying theme of enchantment, "The Night Circus" offers readers a glimpse into a world where time slows down, and nature intertwines with the extraordinary. The charm of the circus itself, filled with strange and beautiful acts, mirrors the peaceful allure of a cottagecore life.

4. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

Few books embody the warmth and coziness of cottagecore fiction like Little Women. This beloved novel follows the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they grow up in Civil War-era New England. With its emphasis on domestic life, homemade crafts, and heartfelt family moments, the story captures the charm of a simpler time. Alcott’s rich descriptions of home life, from baking bread to knitting by the fire, paint a picture of warmth and resilience. Themes of love, sisterhood, and finding joy in everyday moments make this a comforting and nostalgic read for cottagecore enthusiasts.

5. The Enchanted April by Elizabeth von Arnim

"The Enchanted April" by Elizabeth von Arnim is an uplifting and whimsical novel set in the beautiful Italian countryside. The story revolves around four women who, dissatisfied with their lives, decide to spend a month at an old castle overlooking the sea. In this idyllic setting, they find not only solace and relaxation but also a deep transformation within themselves. The book is a celebration of nature, renewal, and the restorative power of travel. As the women embark on this journey, they reconnect with their true selves, shedding the burdens of their past lives. The setting, bathed in sun-drenched landscapes and quaint rustic charm, serves as the perfect backdrop for this heartwarming story of self-discovery.

6. The Wilder Women by Ruth Emmie Lang

In "The Wilder Women", Ruth Emmie Lang brings to life a poignant story about family bonds, personal growth, and the quiet magic that lives in nature. The novel follows the lives of the Wilder sisters, who, for generations, have struggled with a strange family curse — their mothers disappear when they reach a certain age. As they embark on a journey to uncover the truth about their inheritance, the sisters find healing, reconnection, and a deeper understanding of themselves amidst the wild landscapes they encounter. This book captures the essence of cottagecore through its lush, nature-filled settings and its exploration of life's simple joys — love, home, and belonging. The characters' connection to the land and the sense of nostalgia for a simpler time create a cozy atmosphere that perfectly aligns with the ethos of cottagecore.

7. Under the Greenwood Tree by Thomas Hardy

A lesser-known cottagecore gem, Under the Greenwood Tree is a lyrical novel set in the idyllic English countryside. Hardy’s writing paints an exquisite portrait of rural traditions, from harvest celebrations to local fairs, immersing readers in the slow, rhythmic life of a quaint village. The novel’s gentle pace, poetic descriptions, and themes of love and simplicity make it a perfect choice for those drawn to the cottagecore way of life.

8. The Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery

L.M. Montgomery returns to the list with The Blue Castle, a novel that follows Valancy Stirling, a woman trapped in a stifling and oppressive life. When she receives a devastating medical diagnosis, she decides to embrace true freedom, leaving behind societal expectations for a life of adventure and love in a secluded woodland cabin. The novel’s breathtaking descriptions of wild forests, moonlit lakes, and untouched nature create a dreamlike cottagecore escape. With themes of self-discovery, independence, and the beauty of an untamed life, The Blue Castle is a must-read for those seeking an inspiring and enchanting journey.

Conclusion

These cottagecore books capture the essence of slow living, nature’s beauty, and the warmth of simple pleasures. Whether you prefer classic tales or modern stories with a nostalgic touch, each of these books will transport you to a world where meadows bloom and life unfolds at a gentle, comforting pace.