What Special Books Will Pair Best With an Espresso Martini?

Discover the perfect book and espresso martini pairings! From thrilling adventures to reflective poetry, these reads will elevate your next cozy night.

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Books and espresso martinis — what could be a more perfect combo? At Bookstr, we’re all about elevating your reading experience, and nothing says sophisticated relaxation quite like pairing a great book with this bold, caffeine-packed cocktail. Whether you’re craving a thought-provoking poetry collection, a paranormal manga, or an edge-of-your-seat thriller, we’ve got your next read perfectly matched with an espresso martini. Our team has handpicked a few titles that go as smoothly as your favorite caffeinated cocktail. So, grab a glass and settle in for an unforgettable literary (and boozy) journey!

As Is by Julia Spicher Kasdorf

As Is by Julia Spicher Kasdorf, book cover. Abstract sculpture with different types of wood nailed, stapled, or pinched together.
IMAGE VIA BOOKSHOP.ORG

The poems in As Is are like the perfect blend of boldness and reflection, much like an espresso martini. They make you sit with the bittersweet moments of life while savoring every last drop. This medium-paced collection suits it just right to be paired with an espresso martini.

Aliyah Rios, Editorial

Dandadan by Yukinobu Tatsu

Dandadan by Yukinobu Tatsu, book cover. An anime-drawn woman with a purple bob cut raises her hand towards her face with a serious, determined face with a monster behind her.
IMAGE VIA BOOKSHOP.ORG

I just started this series, and it’s quite the fever dream. It’s about two high schoolers: one of them believes in aliens but not ghosts, and the other believes in ghosts but not aliens. The girl, who believes in ghosts, dares the boy to go to a haunted location; the boy, who believes in aliens, dares the girl to explore a sight known for alien abductions — Paranormal and extraterrestrial chaos ensues. The story is just the right amount of weird for me, with its lovable protagonists being its major selling point. I don’t drink, but this is the kind of trippy series I would relax to, glass in hand, watching the unhinged shenanigans unfold.

Gabriela Collazo, Editorial

Infected by Scott Sigler

Infected by Scott Sigler, book cover. Close up on an eyeball with the iris forming a blue triangle. The rest of the image is black-and-white.
IMAGE VIA BOOKSHOP.ORG

It’s a gripping blend of horror, science fiction, and thriller that pairs well with an espresso martini due to its intense and suspenseful narrative. The rich cold, caffeinated drink complements the book’s fast-paced and chilling storyline, keeping you alert and engaged as you immerse yourself in the terrifying world of bioengineered alien parasites that turn people into homicidal maniacs in their quest for world domination.

Erin Dzielski, Editorial

Happy Hour by Marlowe Granados

Happy Hour by Marlowe Granados, book cover. A painted illustration of a person having a drink at a red table. Beside them is a bottle, a pink flower, and a plate of peaches.
IMAGE VIA BOOKSHOP.ORG

This rompy read is all about one titillating summer in New York City as experienced by 21-year-old Isa Epley. It’s a lively, humorous, and energetic read filled with nightclubs, dive bars, eccentric individuals, and odd jobs. While drinking your espresso martini, you can imagine you’re sitting next to Isa at a classy cocktail bar trying to catch the eye of some high-profile bachelors. The caffeine kick will keep you awake and ready to experience those long city nights to the fullest.

Anonymous Bookstr Team Member

Now that you’ve got your book and espresso martini pairings, you’re all set for a cozy reading night. From bold poems to thrilling adventures, these reads will keep you hooked and sipping away in style. So, raise your glass, dive into a new world, and let the good times (and caffeine) flow!


Want to see what books could be paired with other vodka drinks? Check out this article.

Be sure to browse our Bookstr Team Recommendations bookshelf on Bookshop.org for more team recommendations!

FEATURED IMAGE VIA BOOKSTR / ALIYAH RIOS