Ahh, the holiday season is here with winter enveloping us in its big warm hug. The twinkling lights, the sweet scent of cinnamon and pine in the air, and the soft, crackling glow of a fire as you curl up with a good book. If you're anything like me, there's no better time to dive into some cozy, festive reads that bring all the warmth and cheer of the holiday season right to your heart. From romantic comedies to magical adventures, I've rounded up the best new holiday books to keep you turning pages (and sipping hot cocoa or that delicious glass of red wine) all winter long!
Not only do I love to read by the fire, but I end up downloading audible holiday books. I love to listen to them while I'm wrapping, driving from store to store to buy those stocking stuffers. I have such a distinct recollection of my first holiday audible being Sophia Kinsella's Christmas Shopaholic and wondering if the pile of gifts I was wrapping was making the book hit a little too close to home, hehe.
So, put on your coziest sweater, grab a blanket, and let's unwrap some literary gifts that are sure to make this winter a little more merry and bright.
If you're looking for a perfect mix of festive charm, humor, and heartfelt moments, Lindsay Kelk’s The Christmas Wish is your holiday soulmate. The story follows the lovably imperfect Laura, who sets off on a whirlwind Christmas adventure to find her perfect holiday romance. Think of it as The Holiday meets Love Actually, with a hefty dose of Kelk's signature wit and sparkling characters. You'll laugh, you'll swoon, and you'll be ready to add some extra tinsel to your tree by the time you're finished.
Buy on Amazon: The Christmas Wishy by Lindsay Kelk
The Holiday Cottage by Sarah Morgan is a heartwarming and feel-good romance set against the backdrop of a cozy holiday retreat in the picturesque British countryside. Known for her captivating stories about love, family, and personal growth, Sarah Morgan delivers another perfect escape that combines the magic of the season with the warmth of human connection.
Buy on Amazon: The Holiday Cottage by Sarah Morgan
I don't know why, but I read The Santa Suit this summer and STILL loved the holiday vibes. It's such a delightful read that’s part mystery, part holiday magic. The story follows Ivy Perkins, who buys an old, somewhat mysterious Santa suit and uncovers unexpected secrets and surprises that lead her to a more fulfilling Christmas than she ever imagined. Andrews does a beautiful job of weaving holiday warmth and a touch of intrigue into a heartwarming tale about second chances and discovering the true meaning of Christmas.
Buy on Amazon: The Santa Suit by Mary Kay Andrews
A Home for the Holidays by Taylor Hahn is a heartwarming and thought-provoking holiday novel that combines the warmth of family, the messiness of relationships, and the magic of the Christmas season. Known for her engaging storytelling and relatable characters, Hahn crafts a story that perfectly balances humor, emotion, and a touch of romance—all set against the backdrop of the holidays.
Buy on Amazon: A Home for the Holidays by Taylor Hahn
Now, if you're in the mood for something a little more spicy this season, A Merry Little Meet Cute is the perfect book to heat up your winter nights. This holiday rom-com centers around two unlikely love interests—a plus-size pop star and a bad-boy former child star—who are cast together in a cheesy Christmas movie. As you can imagine, sparks fly, but it's more than just about romance; the book has a ton of heart and tackles body positivity and self-acceptance, all wrapped up in a glittery holiday package.
Buy on Amazon: A Merry Little Meet Cute by Julie Murphy & Sierra Simone
If you're a sucker for rom-coms with a twist, The Holiday Swap is the read you need in your life. When twin sisters swap places for the holiday season, both get more than they bargained for. One ends up working in a bakery in the small town she once called home, while the other takes over a luxury hotel in the city. Of course, romance, mishaps, and plenty of holiday cheer ensue. This book is a delightful, sweet escape, perfect for those long winter nights when you just need something light and festive.
Buy on Amazon: The Holiday Swap by Maggie Knox
For those who love a good cozy mystery with a side of Christmas cheer, The Twelve Jays of Christmas will be your go-to. This holiday whodunit follows protagonist Sarah, a retired detective who is roped into investigating a strange occurrence at a local Christmas tree farm. As the mystery unfolds, Sarah and her friends begin uncovering secrets that lead them to a very unexpected—and very festive—solution. It's got all the wintery vibes of a Hallmark movie, but with a fun, intriguing twist.
Buy on Amazon: The Twelve Jays of Christmas by Ann Hazelwood
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Okay, confession time: if you haven't read In a Holidaze yet, what are you waiting for? This funny, feel-good rom-com is about a woman named Maelyn who finds herself stuck in a time loop, reliving the same Christmas vacation with her family over and over again. As Maelyn tries to figure out how to break the loop, she starts to realize that the holiday season—and her love life—may not be as hopeless as she once thought. With laughs, love triangles, and a family so lovable, it’s an absolute must-read for the season.
Buy on Amazon: In A Holidaze by Christina Lauren
For fans of slower-burn romances with a side of charming setting, Meet Me Under the Mistletoe is a delightful addition to your holiday reading list. Set in a beautiful English village, the story follows Lottie, who’s returning home for Christmas after years of avoiding it. She reconnects with her first love, but of course, things aren’t as simple as they once seemed. It’s a beautifully written tale about love, nostalgia, and the magic of Christmas, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of romance with a dash of emotional depth.
Buy on Amazon: Meet me Under the Mistletoe by Jenny Bayliss
This is first on my list that I'm starting on Audible the day after Thanksgiving. This a heartwarming, historical novel that beautifully blends the magic of Christmas with a poignant story of courage, love, and resilience during one of the most significant events of the 20th century. Set in the days leading up to Christmas in 1940, the novel transports readers to London during the dark days of World War II, where the holiday spirit stands in stark contrast to the realities of wartime life.
Buy on Amazon: Christmas with the Queen by Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb
You Better Watch Out is a pulse-pounding holiday horror novel from Impractical Jokers star James S. Murray and co-author Darren Wearmouth. Perfect for readers who enjoy their Christmas spirit with a side of terror, this novel brings an unforgettable twist to the festive season.
Buy on Amazon: You Better Watch Out by James S. Murray and Darren Wearmouth
This is a charming holiday novel filled with warmth, second chances, and festive cheer. Set in Nantucket, the story centers around a quaint inn that has become a beloved destination for holiday gatherings. When the owners announce their plans to retire and sell the inn, the news sends shockwaves through the close-knit community.
Buy on Amazon: The Christmas Inn by Pamela Kelley
This is a super quick read - I picked this one up at my library a few weeks ago and read it one sitting. best known for her bestselling debut The Maid. In this festive follow-up, Prose once again delivers a charming and witty whodunit, this time wrapped in the magic and warmth of the Christmas season. With quirky characters, a cozy atmosphere, and a plot full of twists and turns, The Mistletoe Mystery is the perfect read for those who love a little intrigue with their holiday cheer.
Buy on Amazon: The Mistletoe Mystery by Nita Prose
One Big Happy Family is quintessential Susan Mallery—full of warmth, humor, and emotional depth. The book tackles themes like family dynamics, healing from past hurts, trust, and the power of love. It’s not just about romantic love; it’s about finding a sense of belonging, accepting yourself and others, and understanding that families aren’t always perfect—but they can still be full of love set during the holiday season.
Buy on Amazon: One Big Happy Family by Susan Mallery
The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter is a festive and fun holiday-themed mystery that will delight fans of cozy whodunits, clever sleuthing, and a touch of holiday spirit. With her signature blend of charm, wit, and suspense, Ally Carter brings readers a delightful Christmas caper that combines the joy of the season with the thrill of a good mystery.
Buy on Amazon: The Most Wonderful Crime of the Yearby Ally Carter
Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret by Benjamin Stevenson is a twisty, atmospheric holiday thriller that combines suspense with sharp wit, perfect for readers who love their Christmas stories laced with mystery and intrigue. Set against the backdrop of a remote mountain retreat, this darkly humorous, fast-paced novel brings a chilling edge to the classic holiday setting.
Buy on Amazon: Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret by Benjamin Stevenson
Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a festive mystery, or something that will make you laugh out loud, this year’s crop of holiday books has something for everyone. From whimsical time loops to heartwarming small towns, these new releases are sure to keep you entertained and full of holiday cheer all winter long.
So, this season, treat yourself to a new book (or five), cozy up by the fire, and let the magic of the holidays take you away. Merry reading, and may your winter be full of twinkling lights, warm drinks, and the best books to snuggle up with! Happy Holidays, my friends!
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