Books & Bevvies: Fall Book and Beverage Pairings

I’m a sucker for a good cocktail. I love to celebrate any time and honestly, a fun beverage is a great way to make a normal gathering or happy hour a little more special. Now I definitely can’t hang like I used to in my college years so I typically only have one or two these days, but if you don’t drink, these can easily be made non-alcoholic as well! After all, any drink you put effort into feels special, right?

Citrus Sage Ginger Toddy—Beartown by Fredrik Backman—This drink is warm but has a bite to it, just like Beartown. If you are one of the few people who hasn’t read it, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s about a hockey town that is rocked by violence and sexual assault, calling into question the only identity it’s known.

Apple Bees Knees —Finlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano—A classic cocktail with a twist, just like Finlay. I love a gin and tonic so give the Fall version! And Finlay Donovan is Killing It gives us a twist on a classic murderous tale. When a meeting with her literary agent is overheard and she is mistaken as a hitwoman by a desperate woman looking to off her husband, Finlay latest book might be the thing that frames her.

Apple Cider Mimosa —Pumpkin by Julie Murphy—A little bit of Fall fabulous! I LOVED Pumpkin. It’s about a high school senior in Texas who has always been out and proud, but is starting to dabble in drag. It has a prom storyline, supportive parents who will make your heart melt, and the wonderful world of drag. Highly recommend!

Chai Hot Toddy—The Idea of You by Robinne Lee—Warm, cozy, and a little spicy. I will say, I didn’t love this book but I know so many people do. I’m pretty sure I’m in the minority and it could be the time I read it (literally during election week 2020, hello STRESS) but it is always a hot topic. It’s Harry Styles fan fiction pretty much, about the mother of a fan of a famous male pop group who catches the eye of their star, Hayes. What unfolds is full of drama, desperate hot and fast love, and a taste of glamour.

Maple Whiskey Sour—We Are the Brennans by Tracey Lange—I read this book over the summer and really liked it. It’s about an Irish American family in the NYC suburbs. It’s a family drama with heart and mystery that felt very personal to me. It does deal with miscarriage if that is a sensitive topic for you.

Let me know if you make any of these drinks or red these books!