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Want to curate the perfect reading list for spring? This book guide has you covered!
The best books to read in spring include ones covering themes such as nature, new beginnings, second chances and romance. My recommendations also include whimsical stories, cottage settings, and books that actually take place in the spring months. Happy reading!
Romance: My top 3 books to read in spring
Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams
Publisher: Headline Eternal
Release date: May 2, 2023
Book summary: After a date calls the introverted yet joyful florist Annie Walker “so unbelievably boring”, she seeks out her brothers tattooed bodyguard Will Griffin to help her work on her self-confidence… and teach her how to date!
What to expect: Practice Makes Perfect is the ideal small-town spring romance filled with undeniable chemistry, wit, and emotional moments. If you like tropes such as grumpy X sunshine and fake dating – or if you just simply want a sweet, tender love story to sink your teeth into – be sure to give this one a read!
You can buy Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams HERE.
The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston
Publisher: HQ
Release date: July 6, 2023
Book summary: Book publicist Clementine moves into an apartment in New York City, inherited from her aunt who recently passed away. Clementine remembers her aunts stories about her new home, specifically claims that the apartment has the magical ability to slip back in time. One day, Clementine finds the gorgeous Iwan inside her home and begins to fall for his charms – but how will their love survive if one lives exactly 7 years in the past?
What to expect: Though this magical realism romance novel takes place predominantly during the summertime, the core themes of fresh starts and embracing change make it the perfect spring-time read.
You can buy The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston HERE.
In The Weeds by B.K. Borison
Publisher: Macmillan
Release date: March 1, 2023
Book summary: Influencer Evelyn, wanting to take a break from her online life, returns to a place where she was once happy: the small town of Inglewild. Back on Lovelight Farm, Evelyn is reunited with the farmer she once had a one-night stand with. Though surprised to see Evelyn, Beckett offers her a place to stay and the two subsequently grow close whilst balancing their opposing lifestyles.
What to expect: This book is a cosy small-town romance with themes of relationship development, overcoming personal struggles, and enjoying the simple pleasures in life. With a charming farm setting complete with blooming flowers and plants, In The Weeds makes for a great seasonal read.
You can buy In The Weeds by B.K. Borison HERE.
Honourable mentions…
Fantasy: My top 3 books to read in spring
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
Release date: June 2, 2020
Book summary: When 19-year-old Feyre breaks a treaty by killing a fairie wolf in order to feed her starving family – she is banished to the magical fairie continent of Prythian. Feyre begins to not only fall in love with her new home but also her High Lord captor Tamlin, whom she must save from a menacing curse.
What to expect: ACOTAR is the perfect spring romantasy book due to its setting in the eternal Spring Court, a location made up of enchanting spring landscapes.
You can buy A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas HERE.
Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber
Publisher: Gollancz
Release date: August 28, 2025
Book summary: Evangeline Fox and the Prince of Hearts strike a deal – Evangeline has to give Jacks three kisses and Jack has to help stop the wedding between Evangeline’s true love and step-sister. But the deal goes wrong when Jacks transforms the wedding guests into stone, leading to a high-stakes game of magic, prophecies and curses.
What to expect: This whimsical series contains many common elements of the fairy-tale including wicked step-sisters, a prince, and the pursuit of a happily ever after. These features makes for a magical spring reading experience.
You can buy Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber HERE.
Uprooted by Naomi Novik
Publisher: Pan
Release date: May 5, 2016
Book summary: A wild and determined girl is chosen to serve in a wizards tower for 10 years. Together, Agnieszka and “The Dragon” hone the girls powerful magical abilities, and unite in a battle to save the village and kingdom.
What to expect: This high fantasy novel beautifully blends nature, folklore and earthly magic to create an enchanting spring-time read. Themes include femininity, power, community and belonging,
You can buy Uprooted by Naomi Novik HERE.
Honourable mentions…
Classics: My top 3 books to read in spring
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Publisher: Fingerprint! Publishing
Release date: August 23, 2023
Book summary: After losing both her parents and becoming an orphan, 10-year-old Mary Lennox is sent from India to live with her uncle in North Yorkshire. In her new home, Mary feels lonely and closed-off from others. Upon finding a mysterious key and door, Mary unlocks not only a secret garden, but a new world of hope, connection and healing.
What to expect: The Secret Garden is a true, quintessential spring classic. Expect spring-like themes such as new beginnings and transformation, as well as an overall celebration of nature.
You can buy The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett HERE.
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy M. Montgomery
Publisher: Read & Co. Children’s
Release date: June 5, 2014
Book summary: In the idyllic, close-knit town of Avonlea, siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert are set on adopting a boy who can help them on their farm. Instead, a feisty, red-headed 11-year-old girl named Anne Shirley arrives. Soon enough, Anne’s bold spirit wins over her new family and they decide to keep her. The rest of the story follows Anne’s adventures in her new town, including attending school and navigating new friendships.
What to expect: A timeless classic bursting with spring flowers and vivid landscapes, Anne of Green Gables is a wholesome story exploring themes such as imagination, belonging and life’s possibilities.
You can buy Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery HERE.
Emma by Jane Austen
Publisher: Wordsworth Editions
Release date: Jan 1, 2000
Book summary: Emma Woodhouse is a clever and privileged young woman living in Highbury, a large village in Surrey, England. The novel follows Emma’s matchmaking attempts, her relationship with Mr Knightley and most importantly – her own personal transformation.
What to expect: The countryside setting, light and refreshing feel, and themes of marriage, renewal, and personal growth all combine to make Emma a great reading option for the spring months.
You can buy Emma by Jane Austen HERE.
Honourable mentions…
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Historical Fiction: My top 3 books to read in spring
The Botanist’s Daughter by Kayte Nunn
Publisher: Orion
Release date: April 18, 2019
Book summary: In 1886, Elizabeth fulfils her dying fathers request and travels to South America to find ” The Devil’s Trumpet”, a rare plant with both poisonous and healing properties. In present day Australia, horticulturist Anna finds a box containing a notebook, a photograph, a pressed flower and some seeds. It is this discovery that leads her on a journey through her families past.
What to expect: With an abundance of gardening, plants and flowers, The Botanist’s Daughter is a fresh, lush and fragrant read for spring. This atmospheric blend of mystery and historical fiction explores personal discovery, female strength, and the healing power of nature.
You can buy The Botanist’s Daughter by Kayte Nunn HERE.
The Garden of Lost and Found by Harriet Evans
Publisher: Review
Publication date: April 18, 2019
Book summary: In 1918 England, acclaimed British artist Sir Edward “Ned” Horner destroys his famous artwork depicting his children in the garden of their home, Nightingale House. Shortly afterwards, Ned passes away, leaving his wife Liddy behind to find answers to the biggest mystery of all. Why did Ned burn a painting portraying the so called ‘perfect family’?
What to expect: The picturesque manor in which the Horner family lives, alongside their gorgeous sprawling garden, makes The Garden of Lost and Found a fitting read for spring. The novel explores themes such as art, tragedy, intergenerational bonds and family secrets.
You can buy the Garden of Lost and Found by Harriet Evans HERE.
The Secret Service of Tea and Treason by India Holton
Publisher: Penguin
Release date: April 18, 2023
Book summary: In Victorian London, spies and rivals Alice and Daniel must pretend to be a married couple in order to successfully oppose an assassination plot against Queen Victoria.
What to expect: With an interesting mix of adventure, magic and comedy – The Secret Service of Tea and Treason has a bit of everything to delight readers. Additionally, this enemies-to-lovers historical fiction book is perfect for spring due to its whimsical and charming setting.
You can buy The Secret Service of Tea and Treason by India Holton HERE.
Honourable mentions…
Nature Books: My top 3 books to read in spring
The Overstory by Richard Powers
Publisher: Penguin
Release Date: August 29, 2024
Book summary: Across generations and locations throughout the US, 9 peoples lives are shaped and interconnected by trees. Together they confront the destruction of forests, venture into environmental activism, and explore the world’s relationship with the natural world.
What to expect: Described as a revolutionary story, this novel explores the devastating impact humans have not only on trees, but on nature as a whole. If you want to gain a newfound appreciation for planet Earth, this is a great book to read not just in the spring months but all year round.
You can buy The Overstory by Richard Powers HERE.
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Publisher: Penguin
Release date: April 23, 2020
Book summary: In Braiding Sweetgrass, botanist author Robin Wall Kimmerer shares her insights into Indigenous philosophy and culture, and highlights how Native American wisdom can be used to address the modern climate crisis.
What to expect: The perfect spring read for nature and non-fiction lovers, described by readers as spiritual and deeply moving.
You can buy Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer HERE.
Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver
Publisher: Faber & Faber
Release date: April 11, 2013
Book summary: Following three main storylines that are all connected, Prodigal Summer critiques human behaviour and its effect on the environment, whilst simultaneously celebrating the beautiful natural wonders all around us.
What to expect: A highly observant novel suited to every season, but particularly great in spring when Mother Nature is in full bloom.
