Every year I dedicate the month of December to reading Christmas books, and to watching a lot of Hallmark Christmas movies. It’s the time of year when sentimentality is just what the doctor ordered. So here’s my annual list of Christmas reads. Join me in devouring some holiday fiction!
Last Christmas in Paris: A Novel of World War I by Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb
When World War I breaks out in 1914, Evie Elliott, her brother Will, and their friend Tom make a pact to meet in Paris at Christmas. But the war isn’t over by then, and Tom and Will are still fighting in France. Told through a series of letters, this novel tells Evie’s story, showing how difficult things were for women on the home front. Romantic and compelling, this is a Christmas story to savor.
Chasing Christmas Eve by Jill Shalvis
Best-selling author Colbie Albright runs away to San Francisco to escape her family and her agent and meets geeky but hot tech nerd Spencer Baldwin. What starts out as a fling with a Christmas end date may be turning into something more – but is either one of them ready for it? A steamy romance with a fun cast of characters and plenty of humor.
Pupcakes by Annie England Noblin
When her marriage falls apart and she gives up ownership of her beloved bakery, Brydie Benson finds herself house-sitting for an elderly woman who has moved to a retirement community, and looking after Teddy Roosevelt, the woman’s stubborn pug. This is a sweet, romantic story about second chances, and it’s perfect for dog lovers.
Murder for Christmas by Francis Duncan 
This reissue of a 1949 British mystery is perfect for Agatha Christie fans. When Father Christmas is found dead under the Christmas tree during a country house party, amateur sleuth Mordecai Tremaine steps in to find the killer. With an oddball cast of characters and lots of unexpected twists, this is a great mystery in the classic style. And don’t you just love that cover?
Mr. Dickens and His Carol by Samantha Silva
In this imagined backstory to the famous Christmas novel, Charles Dickens is facing financial hardship and is forced by his publisher to write a Christmas-themed book. As he struggles to write the story, Dickens finds an unexpected muse who brings back his holiday spirit. My colleague Ellen Jennings highly recommends this heartwarming Victorian tale — see her post from a few days ago!
Finally, if you’re like me and the books just aren’t enough, check out the library’s collection of Hallmark Christmas movies. Because at this time of year, who doesn’t need a happy ending?
Categories: Books and More
