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Jane Leeves, known to many as Daphne Moon from Frasier, has a soft spot for books that blend wit with mystery. Her reading list mixes British humor, sharp character studies and page-turning puzzles. If you love cozy nights with a mug of tea and a gripping story, her picks could reshape your next TBR pile.
How Leeves reads: cozy rituals and a new memoir
Leeves says she favors novels that make her laugh and think. She enjoys rainy afternoons, a warm drink and a comfortable chair. Comfort and comedy steer many of her choices.
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Her own memoir, Daphne & Me, arrives as a collaborative project. It was co-written with her daughter, Isabella Kathryn Coben, and revisits Leeves’ years on the sitcom and its effect on her life and career.
Jane Leeves’ six recommended reads worth adding to your shelf
Below are the books Leeves highlighted, with why each one grabbed her attention. These selections reflect her taste for humor, dark edges and memorable characters.
About a Boy — Nick Hornby
Leeves champions Hornby’s sharp, wry voice. She praises the novel’s ’90s sensibility and its take on masculinity. Funny and a little bit raw, it remains a staple for readers who like character-driven comedy.
The Thursday Murder Club series — Richard Osman
Leeves admires Osman’s talent for creating vivid, humorous characters. She says the ensemble feels like people she knows from home in Britain. These mysteries blend warmth with clever plotting.
What Was She Thinking — Zoe Heller
She describes Heller’s novel as unsettling and irresistible. The story pulls you in even as it discomfits. Compelling and morally complex, it’s a book that provokes discussion.
This Is Going To Hurt — Adam Kay
Leeves calls Kay’s diary of a young doctor both laugh-out-loud and heartbreaking. The memoir mixes dark humor with real emotional stakes. She warns it isn’t for the faint of heart.
Emma — Jane Austen
Leeves notes a playful connection to Austen’s heroine. She finds the novel surprisingly modern despite its age. Timeless themes and sharp social observation make it a repeat read for her.
Publish and Perish — James Hynes
Leeves appreciates Hynes’ satirical take on academic life. The book contains three linked tales that mix mystery with a sinister edge. She enjoys the blend of humor and menace.
Where to start if you follow her list
- Pick a mood: go with comedy for light nights or mystery for longer reads.
- Try an author you haven’t read yet, like Osman or Hynes.
- If you want to connect with Leeves’ story, read her memoir alongside one of her favorites.
Leeves’ selections showcase why she favors books that balance laughs with sharp observation. They pair well with rainy days and a cozy corner.
