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5 favorite non-fantasy books

By Eli on June 26, 2025June 26, 2025

I do sometimes stray away from dragons, magic, and epic quests. And today I’m sharing five favorite non-fantasy books. Its a good mix of historical fiction, mystery, romance, and cozy holiday vibes ( a bit early for christmas yet – but I aboslutley love that book).


The book of lost names by Kristin Harmel

A moving historical fiction novel set during World War II, following a young woman who helps forge documents for Jewish children fleeing the Nazis. Emotional, brave, and beautifully written.


A Not So Meet Cute by Meghan Quinn

A hilarious and heartwarming rom-com about a woman in a bind and a billionaire with a plan. If you like fake dating, unexpected chemistry, and laugh-out-loud moments this book is for you. Perfect when you need something light, sassy, and swoony (and with a bit of spice).


The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield

A haunting, gothic mystery steeped in family secrets, old mansions, and literary intrigue. A quiet bookseller is invited to write the biography of a reclusive author, and uncovers more than just a story. Atmospheric and mesmerizing.


The lake house by Kate Morton

A beautifully written dual-timeline mystery centered around a grand estate in Cornwall and a decades-old disappearance. When a detective stumbles upon the abandoned house years later, long-buried family secrets begin to surface.


Snowed In for Christmas by Sarah Morgan

A cozy and heartwarming holiday novel that combines family drama, unexpected romance, and festive charm. When a PR executive gets stranded with her client’s family in the Scottish Highlands, sparks and secrets fly. I’ve been reading this book every december for the last couple of years – its just so cozy, and also funny and heartwarming.


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Disclaimer: These are just my personal thoughts – totally okay if you feel differently! I’m a mood reader, so timing and vibes definitely affect how much I enjoy a book. I read for entertainment, not to analyze every line like a literature professor. So take this as a casual opinion from one booklover to another. ❤️

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Blend by Eli

I'm a full-time coding nerd and part-time book dragon. 🐉
By day I work as a front-end developer, and by night you’ll likely find me curled up with a book, or creating bookish illustrations.

I love reading book reviews and seeing how stories hit differently for different people. So I’m adding my voice to the mix, and hopefully one of my posts will be the one that makes sense of a story for you - or helps you find your next favorite read.📚

This blog is a blend of book reviews, reading suggestions, and artsy creations.

You can learn more about me here.

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