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Books and tea- the perfect combination!

Books and tea- the perfect combination!

It's time to hunker down with a good book and an excellent cup of tea (after all, C.S Lewis famously claimed that there was no book or cup of tea large to suit him). If you're looking for a good read this autumn, we're here with some suggestions- and the perfect tea to go with it!

The Secret Garden- Frances Hodgson Burnett

The story of Mary, Dickon and Colin is comforting and worth re-reading as an adult. It's the perfect winter read, filled with hope and beauty (and a robin that reminds you to feed your local wildlife when the weather is bad!) As this is a novel that explores nature and friendship, we recommend pairing it with something floral and hearty such as Rose Congou.

Ariadne- Jennifer Saint

If you're looking for an escape this autumn, you can step inside the world of Ancient Greek mythology with this re-telling of the story of Ariadne- the sister of the Minotaur. With lush descriptions and excellent storytelling, this novel will have you gripped from page one. Jennifer has said that she sees each novel as a colour when she writes and that Ariadne was gold. With this in mind, Golden Monkey is the perfect tea to sip as you read about the eponymous heroine's bravery.

My Cousin Rachel- Daphne du Maurier

As a Cornish business, we can't have one of these lists without the Queen of Cornwall herself, Daphne du Maurier! We could have recommended any of her novels- they're all brilliant. However, My Cousin Rachel is fantastic: twisty, dark and delicious, perfect for when you've got the curtains closed and it's pouring with rain outside. Of course, we think you should be drinking our signature blend, Merchant of Truro as you read.  

Dracula- Bram Stoker

This novel needs literally no introduction- but is worth reading as we approach spooky season! It's also the 125th anniversary of its publication this year, which is worth celebrating. Light a candle, create a blanket fort (or a blanket cocoon, up to you. Just be cosy while you're terrifying yourself.) Create the smoky vibes of a vampire's forbidden castle by sipping some Lapsang Souchong. Maybe add extra garlic to your cooking. Just in case.

Mrs Dalloway- Virginia Woolf

This novel about the genteel upper classes and their secrets revolves around a dinner party. Short enough to read in one sitting, it's a landmark of stream of consciousness writing (but much more accessible than Joyce's Ulysses!) Want to drink like Mrs Dalloway's guests and/or a member of the bohemian Bloomsbury set? You're going to need a good Darjeeling and your best china. Don't forget to stick your pinkie up as you drink, though.

The Miniaturist- Jessie Burton

The Miniaturist is a perfect slice of historical fiction with a sliver of magical realism that never feels forced. With a dark undercurrent and a fantastic protagonist, this novel has also had a sequel published recently, so now is the time to read it! (The TV adaptation also had the amazing Anya Taylor-Joy as Nella.) As one of the plot threads involves a large quantity of sugar, a strong black tea would be perfect here, one that can pair well with sweet things like cake. Try the Sailor of Hamburg.

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