We've teamed up with the Sunday Times bestselling author Veronica Henry to bring you a seasonal book club. You'll find inspiration on different themes with books to delight and inspire throughout the months ahead, perfect for making a cup of tea in your favourite mug, popping your feet up, and diving into a book.
Veronica Henry's top picks for autumn
I love autumn – the light is so syrupy and golden, and the smell of woodsmoke starts to fill the air. All I want to do is make jams and chutneys and fill the larder with gorgeous things to see us through winter. Entertaining moves inside too, which means candlelight and long lingering Sunday lunches with red wine. I love drawing the curtains at dusk and snapping on a lamp and curling up with a book – so here are my autumn recommendations.
Cooking Simply and Well, for One or Many, Jeremy Lee
I love Quo Vadis, where Jeremy is head chef, and have long awaited this gorgeous book full of recipes from his early childhood to his current reign as culinary king of Dean Street in Soho. It’s beautifully illustrated, peppered with anecdotes and tall tales, and each chapter is inspired by a different ingredient. Jeremy is a great cook and a wonderful raconteur, so this is perfect to curl up with for inspiration.
The Crown In Vogue, Robin Muir, Josephine Ross et al.
If you want a memento of the Queen and her 70-year reign, this is perfect for the coffee table. A celebration of the Crown by Vogue plunders its rich archive of the Royal family, with photographers from Cecil Beaton to Patrick Lichfield to David Bailey. It’s fascinating and ideal for reminiscing and includes the young royals as well as Diana. A beautiful keepsake.
THE SECRET HISTORY, Donna Tartt
Autumn for me is all about a little indulgence to offset the drop-in temperature, so when I spotted this 30th anniversary special edition of one of my favourite books, I couldn’t resist. It’s a spellbinding tale of six young students, the murder of one of their friends, and the effect it has on them. It’s deep and clever and twisty and beautifully written. A modern classic.
The Christie Affair, Nina de Gramont
This is the perfect weekend read, for when you’ve done all your chores and just want to sit by the fire. Dive into the world of Agatha Christie, only the twist is this is a fictionalised imagining of what happened during her eleven day disappearance, from the point of view of her husband’s mistress who has a motive - and plenty of secrets. Intriguing and atmospheric, it’s a fascinating exploration of an iconic character. Genius!
Have you picked up any of these amazing books? We'd love to hear your thoughts about Veronica's choices, or perhaps you're reading Veronica's latest book The Impulse Purchase? Join us with these Autumn reads and pop your comments and thoughts below.