Is there anything better than cozying up in bed or by the fire during the holidays–while reading a cozy, heartwarming book about the holidays!?
I just discovered this indulgence a couple years back when I got into my first holiday book series–which I’ll tell you more about in a second. I was so sad when it was over that I was hoping you all would have some good recommendations on more books to read that were full of holiday cheer!
When I asked on Instagram, a lot of answers poured in. All suggesting the same handful of books. I dove headfirst into the one’s I hadn’t read yet, and can vouch–they are wonderful! If you’re looking for a holiday read, I hope you’ll love these suggestions! (Plus one new one of my own!)
8 Holiday Books to Read This Season
The Christmas Orphans Club by Becca Freeman
My newest addition to the “favorite holiday books” list–my friend Becca’s first book! It’s the cutest, feel-good storyline about friendship and life transitions (one reviewer called it a “friendmance” which I feel perfectly describes it), love, and best of all–transports you to New York City during the magic of Christmastime! It really brought me back to my twenties in the best way.
Buy on Amazon or Bookshop.org (which supports independent bookstores!)
Winter Street Series by Elin Hilderbrand
Winter Street is the first book of a Christmas series by Elin Hilderbrand, followed by Winter Stroll, Winter Storms, and Winter Solstice. (So technically this particular review counts as FOUR books, not one.) I highly recommend reading them in order.
I tore through all of them last December and I was so sad when they were over–I miss the Quinn family! I think I’ll just have to re-read them this year. It’s everything you expect of Elin Hilderbrand–an easy-read page-turning series full of dysfunctional family drama, romance, betrayal, loyalty and of course, love. All set in a charming, historic Nantucket Inn at Christmastime. Buy on Amazon or Bookshop.org (which supports independent bookstores!)
Winter Solstice
Not to be confused with Elin Hilderbrand’s Winter Solstice, which is part of the above series. I had never heard of this Winter Solstice by Rosamunde Pilcher before you all suggested it to me, and I absolutely LOVED it. (And I promptly bought another book of hers, which lead to another, and another, and another and I’ve now read so many of her beautiful books.)
When I wasn’t reading this book, I was thinking about how much I was looking forward to jumping in bed early and returning back to the charming story! It’s set in the Scottish countryside at Christmas. And unfortunate circumstances bring together five main characters–each of whom you will adore–in a beautiful old, yet neglected mansion. It’s a beautifully written heartwarming story about family, love and new beginnings. Buy on Amazon or Bookshop.org (which supports independent bookstores!)
Royal Holiday
Jasmine Guillory has become one of my favorite authors when I need a lighthearted romcom read. (She’s been crowned “the rising star of the romance genre”) and this book was no exception! Another popular submission by you all–and I read it in just a few sittings! This book is a textbook example of everything you want in a Royal holiday romance. I also really loved that Guillory chose to make a 50 year old woman the star of her romance. Rather than the typical 20/30 something! (We need more of that!)
Vivian Forest decides to fly to England for Christmas with her daughter and rising star personal stylist, Maddie, when she lands the job of dressing the duchess for Christmas! She doesn’t remember the last time she took a vacation or did anything for herself. After being divorced for decades, the last thing Vivian expects is for her impromptu holiday getaway to spin into a full blown romance with the Queen’s private secretary! Buy on Amazon or Bookshop.org (which supports independent bookstores!)
One Day in December
I actually started One Day in December on audiobook last holiday season and then I never got around to finishing it! But it was one of your most popular suggestions, so I plan to go back and revisit it now! (It was also a Reese book club pick, which never let me down!) I really liked the audio version but perhaps I will try the print version. As I seem to have more time to read vs listen these days.
The protagonist of the book is Laurie, who is certain she will never find love. Then, one day, she makes eye contact through a steamy bus window with a man she instantly knows is destined to be her match–and the bus drives away. She spends the next year hoping to find him. And she does–when he’s introduced to her as her best friend’s new boyfriend! The book follows the two over the next ten years–and I can’t wait to find out what happens! One Day in December is described as “a joyous, heartwarming and immensely moving love story to escape into and a reminder that fate takes inexplicable turns along the route to happiness.” Buy on Amazon or Bookshop.org (which supports independent bookstores!)
