Christmas Book Picks 2015

I received complimentary copies of some of the books I mention here in exchange for honest reviews, which you’ll find in the posts I’ve linked to.

It’s that time of year again! I share my Christmas Book Picks before Thanksgiving Day in the U.S. in case any of my dear blog readers would like to procure and read a title or two from the list during the holiday season, which I do hope you will. 🙂 You’ll find them listed in the order I read them.

The Gift of the Magi by O. Henry

Classic Literature/Short Story

I’d been hearing the title of this story for years and have finally read the story itself. It’s so easy to tell why this delightful tale is a classic. The cover I have pictured is from a different edition than the one I read, but this cover (though perhaps a bit inaccurate, technically) wonderfully captures the story’s warmth. It takes very little time to read, but the warmth is lasting!

A Wreath of Snow: A Victorian Christmas Novella by Liz Curtis Higgs

Christian Fiction/Historical Romance

Book covers aren’t always my initial attraction to a book, but this cover got me immediately. The story is complete with winter chills, Christmas warmth, a little romance, and Victorian trimmings. I’d recommend reading a print copy of this novella, if at all possible. There’s just something ultra-cozy about holding a book like this in your hands.

Pastels and Jingle Bells by Christine S. Feldman

Romantic Comedy

This novella has the kind of premise to make for a nice, forgivably flat, easily forgettable read, but instead, this entertaining story has substance to it–substance that makes it stick to your mental and soulish bones without dragging you (or the story itself) down. Perfect for adding a little laughter to your Christmas–and for New Year’s, check out the second novella in the Heavenly Bites series, Love Lessons.

Christmas Roses by Amanda Cabot

Christian Fiction/Historical Romance

This is another book that grabbed me with its cover, given the holiday mood I was in. (Plus, variations of deep red are variations of my favorite color.) Here’s a simple, warm, enjoyable story with a particular plot twist I didn’t see coming, and it’s another I would recommend reading in print if you can. Even its hardback is lightweight, and holding it as I read brought on the coziness.

My Mother’s Wish: An American Christmas Carol by Jerry Camery-Hoggatt

Christian Fiction

Here’s a punchy and heartwarming little tale with a heroine I liked: Ellee, who has an unapologetic tendency toward wry exaggeration that I took to and could even smile at. This is a quick, deftly-written read with substance and room for a reader’s imagination. Not to mention there’s a character in it named Nadine, which is always a plus. 😉

Elderberry Days: Season of Joy by Becky Doughty

Christian Fiction/Women’s Fiction

I found here much of what I enjoyed in the rest of the Elderberry series: warmth, pain, humor, hope. Realistic areas of darkness that don’t overwhelm the whole story with gloom. Homey feelings and homemade baked goods–and, yes, actual recipes that tie into the story. Ultra Christmassy on that score! Also, though there’s nothing wrong with single people getting a lot of attention in ChristFic romance, it’s great to see married-people-romance in fiction too, as is the case with this novella. You’ll want to read the entire Elderberry series!

The Bennett Women by Roberta R. Carr

Women’s Fiction

Okay, so just like last year, I’ve got a Christmas Pick that isn’t strictly a Christmas novel, but its holiday theme is strong enough to make it a great Christmas read anyway–absolutely Hallmark movie material! I was fortunate to come across this novel about life, love, mortality, forgiveness, and joy, intertwining the storylines of three generations of (rather different) women at a collective make-or-break point. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys hopeful stories about family.

One Shenandoah Winter by T. Davis Bunn

Christian Fiction/Historical Fiction

Kind-of an oldie from the author who now goes by “Davis Bunn.” This winter tale of a small American town in the hills in the 60s is a rather somber one, but it does have its fiery moments, along with good helpings of light and laughter. And what I just may’ve loved about this little hardback novel the most? The illustrations! Nice, soft ones in gray hues, spread throughout the pages. Who says adults aren’t supposed to get a kick out of books with pictures in them?

Falling Like Snowflakes by Denise Hunter

Christian Fiction/Romance

Snowflakes had me engrossed in a way I didn’t suppose I would be and faster than I would’ve guessed. Eden, a single mother on the run from danger, and Beau, a Christmas tree farm manager, are believably flawed characters. The author has a down-to-earth style, and the novel’s suspense elements unfold gradually, unpretentiously, so I was compelled to pay close attention and remained intrigued during the process. This novel about love, fear, faith, and healing had me all in and has my recommendation for fans of ChristFic romance.

Well, those are my picks this year–and now Christmas is officially kicked-off! Entries for 2015’s Christmas Book Picks giveaway are now closed, but comments on the post are remaining open.