creating the perfect reading nook

Author Stefanie London joins us to tell us how to be your most comfortable when reading! 

​I can read anywhere. On the subway or a bus, waiting in line at Starbucks, while I’m stirring a pot of pasta sauce on the stove. I read while I’m eating breakfast and when I’m killing time waiting at an airport. But where I truly love to read is in a cozy spot in my house with all of my favourite things.
 
In my apartment there isn’t room for a dedicated reading space, but when I settle in for a longer reading session, I pull all of my favourite things together to create the perfect reading nook. One thing that totally encapsulates how I like to be when I’m reading is the Danish word: Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga).
 
There’s no direct translation in English, but it essentially means a feeling of cozy contentment and well-being through enjoying the simple things in life. So if you’re wanting to create a hygge-inspired reading space in your home, or if you’re like me and living in a small place, you can use these tips to make your current reading spot a little cosier.
 
Step 1. Find a comfy spot to sit (or lay)
For me it’s the couch. But it might be your favourite chair or even your bed. Heck, it could be a bubble bath if that’s your jam.
 
Pro tip: if you don’t have a waterproof case for your ereader and you’re not a rebel (I drop way too many things to just take my Kindle into the bath) try using a Ziploc bag. Game changer!
 
Step 2. Dress for comfort.
Think leggings and a chunky sweater, or your favourite sweatpants and those socks with the avocados on them (everyone has avocado socks, right?) If you’re in the tub then strip down to your birthday suit…because wearing a sweater in your bath would be weird.
 
Step 3. Layers
I’m a big blanket person. They make me feel cosy and content – so I always have a few hanging around the house. Try something light like cotton in summer, and get a heavier one for the cold season. If you’re particularly crafty, you could even knit your own. I’m currently in the process of knitting this Wool and the Gang blanket in my favourite shades of navy, dusty blue and white.
 
Extra hygge tip: if it’s chilly outside, consider getting yourself a heat-pack to snuggle up with. Bonus points if it’s got lavender or some essential oils inside to infuse your area with a nice scent.
 
Step 4. Get that glow
Fairy lights or candles? It’s totally up to you. I’m #teamcandle all the way – my current one smells like wood smoke and maple syrup (aka the most Canadian candle on the planet) and the flickering light gives me all of the cozy cabin vibes. Not into either of those options, open a window or flick on your favourite pretty lamp.
 
Step 5. Beverages!
Hot chocolates with marshmallows are about as hygge as you can get, but I must confess I’m more of a coffee kinda gal. Pick whatever will warm you up—tea, mocha, cocoa, coffee, apple cider. The choice is yours. Bonus points for some wintery snacks like homemade spiced cookies or gingerbread. Yum!
 
Step 6. Ransack your TBR
Now you’ve got your cosy environment all set up, it’s time to find something to read. Romance is perfect for a cozy reading nook, because you can feel warm and fuzzy on the inside as well as the outside. Pick a book that’s been taking your fancy, and if you want an uplifting read try for one that will make you laugh as well as swoon. Rom coms are my total catnip right now, and if you haven’t tried the Bad Bachelors series now would be the perfect opportunity to try it out.
 
Happy reading fellow bookworms, and maybe your winters be full of hygge goodness.

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Stefanie London is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance and romantic comedy. BookPage called her most recent release, Bad Influence, “sophisticated and refreshing.” You can visit her online at stefanie-london.com.