5 Book Subscriptions I Need In My Life

There is absolutely nothing better than curling up with a good book.

If you follow this blog on whatever platform, you’ll probably be aware that I’m a little bit of a bookworm. (Fun fact: a lot of people actually thought I was a bookstagrammer for while).

Whether it’s for a casual read in the summer sun or a chance to escape from the day to day. A new book always brings a particular type of warmth in my heart.

We all know the joy of a new book.

I used to love buying new books as a kid; before I went off to University I’d spend hours In the old Waterstones. If I remember correctly, it was the only Waterstones in the country to ever lose money. If it is true I wouldn’t be surprised. It was built and decorated an old fashioned library so why treat it as any other way? I used to spend hours in their with my friends, flipping through the YA section or simply slouching on the leather chairs for a break. I think in all the years I visited the shop, I only bought a handful of books, most the time I’d bring one from home to read.

Looking back, I don't know why I was so surprised when it shut down. But watching the beautiful staircase get ripped out and the walls painted a dull white broke my heart a bit. The place where I spent a large portion of my adolescence has been hollowed out into an Apple store.

My point is, the way we shop has changed significantly over the past few months (Especially) and years. Bookshops like this are getting less and less convertible footfall with each passing year.

Instead of wondering into a beautiful bookstore or venturing out to support and independent bookshop, we've turned to places like Amazon for our reading material or invested in e-readers. It's sad to see businesses struggle like this, but some of them have adapted to change, and it's beautiful.

You've most likely seen them advertised on your IG feed or mentioned in passing by your favourite book reviewer. Perhaps you've never seen one for a book before, but you're aware of a subscription box.

A monthly subscription box is a kind of like being in a book club with millions of other people. But instead of discussing the semantics of your latest novel over snacks and cheap wine, it's a solitary but luxurious experience. Loads of the monthly subscription boxes try to make an experience out of it, sending books and self-care items or healthy snacks.

It's a whole new reading experience, and I want to try it.

But I'm trying somewhat hard to save money at the moment, so I can't be frivolous and invest in a range of subscriptions to try out. Instead, I'm going to make a little wish list of some of my favourite book subscriptions on the market. You never know, one day I might be able to REVIEW them!

Books That Matter

Books That Matter or BTM is straight at the top of my Wishlist. Here's a little about how they describe themselves:

"BTM is a brand putting women's writing in the spotlight through unique reading experiences. Our bestselling book subscription boxes are the main vehicle for our message, each capturing an important theme specifically to enlighten, educate and empower, all in a way that feels like a gift every single month. For just £17 a month, each box contains a book by female authorship and at least three themed gifts by independent female creatives. Our brand encompasses events with high profile authors, two podcasts, and online members book club, and merchandise too."

In my opinion, this is perfect for those of us who want to educate ourselves on the feminist movement but don't have a clue on where to start. Like most subscription boxes you'll find on this list, BTM allows you to buy subscription boxes monthly, or pay in one large chunk. Each month has a set theme and gives you the chance to look at what you'll get, so there's no chance of you getting a dupe!

Coffee And Book Club

If there's one thing I enjoy just as much as reading, it's my coffee. If you follow me on Instagram, you'll know the full extent of my coffee addiction. I'm able to work through 6 large cups of expresso in a two-hour sitting! I'm honestly surprised I haven't got a severe heart condition or something.

Getting back on track, Coffee And Book Club does exactly what it says on the tin. Every month you can choose from a few book bundles, and on the 14/20th of every month, you'll receive a sizeable collection of vintage books and a bag of ground coffee beans. 

Mr B’s Emporium

I don't want to sound dramatic or anything, but this is a god-tier book subscription. Perhaps this is the Gucci of book subscriptions.

Mr B's Emproum originates from its eponymous bookshop in the heart of Bath. For £25 a month you'll receive a book chosen by one of Mr B's in house Bibliotherapists (since when was this a job and how do I apply?).

It's over the top in the best way possible. Of course, these books a subscription from Mr B's is a little on the pricey side, but it's one of those experiences you cherish. It's also a fab way to support independent businesses.

Reposed (Formerly Reading In Heels)

Reposed is the UK's bestselling book subscription for women, delivering elegantly-designed, expertly-curated reading experiences each month. We're the antidote to screen time, offering members an immersive, restorative experience – a way to switch off from all the endless noise and unwind.

Our boxes feature the very best in contemporary literary fiction, alongside a considered selection of beauty and lifestyle gifts from a handpicked edit of independent and luxury designers and brands – think skincare to rejuvenate and uplift, restorative herbal teas, delicious gourmet snacks and bespoke stationery.

I'll be honest with you; this is perhaps one of the most affordable boxes out of the current selection. At £13 a month this subscription box undercuts Books That Matter by nearly £4. Yet I have a feeling the service is not as high standard as the others. I may be a marketing nerd, but I'd happily pay the additional £4 if it meant they could polish off their website a little more.

Wild Woman

Wild Woman is a solid subscription box, and It's so tempting to buy a year's worth of subscriptions.

This is the UK's first non-fiction book subscription which aims to provide a monthly pick me up. Everything from sustainable gifts to journal prompts.

One of the things I like about this is that they don't just care about mental wellbeing. Wild Woman take steps to support the whole community around them. Their July box is raising funds for the 'Black Minds Matter' movement, who connect individuals and families with mental health professionals across the UK.