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.
Thanks for the Christmas book ideas…I love seasonal themes this time of year! (From Dishes to Snow please.) Also, I like your Christmas design on your blog!!
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Thanks! I had to resist putting decorations up for months, since I started my Christmas reading around August. 😀 You’re entered!
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Thanks for the list, Nadine. Going to check out some of these. BTW, love the new profile pic!
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Thank you kindly, Gail! I feel like I’m looking more and more like my mom. 🙂
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These look like great Christmas reads! I hope this is going to become a yearly post. Sure do enjoy finding out about new seasonal books. 😉 Thanks for sharing, Nadine. And thank you for adding FD2S in your giveaway. Enter me for Falling Like Snowflakes, please. Merry Christmas! 🙂
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You’re welcome, Kathy–and thank YOU for stopping by. You’re entered, and Merry Christmas to you, too! 🙂
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Thanks for the list Nadine! I would love to read Falling Like Snowflakes by Denise Hunter. 🙂
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Yay! You’re welcome, and you’re entered. 🙂
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Falling Lke Snowflakes and From Dishes To Snow both look very interesting. Christmas is my favorite holiday and reading Books of the season is one of my long standing traditions. 😀
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It’s only a short-standing tradition for me, but I’m loving it and wondering why, as a big lover of books and Christmas, it took me so long to join the Christmas books party. 😀 Thanks, Deb– you’re entered for both books!
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Falling Like Snowflakes is on my TBR list. I’d love to win it!!
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Great, Kathy! You’re entered. 🙂
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I would be happy to read any of them. thanks so much for he chance to win.Anne
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You’re quite welcome, Anne, and you’re entered!
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I would love to read Falling like snowflakes. Thank-you for giving us a chance to win !!!
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It’s my pleasure, Penny! You’re entered. 🙂
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Falling Like Snow Flakes and From Dishes To Snow
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You’re entered for both novels, Joy–thanks!
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I love your reviews. I’ve read Christmas Roses and enjoyed it. Think that was the first book by Amanda Cabot and what started me reading her books. Kathy M Howard is a dear author friend of mine and I love her book From Dishes to Snow. Truly one of my favorites. 🙂
Please enter me for Falling Like Snowflakes. It’s been a while since I read Denise Hunter.
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Thanks so much! Christmas Roses is also my first by Amanda Cabot, and I’ve got to get my hands on Kathy’s sequel. I’m still a little miffed that I totally missed its release. 😀 You’re entered for Falling Like Snowflakes!
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I love to read Christmas books during December! I would prefer Falling Like Snowflakes but From Dishes to Snow sure looks good too!
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Then I’ll put you in for both, just in case. 😉 Thanks, Joan!
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great list! I have a Wreath of Snow waiting on my shelf.. Would love to be entered for Falling Like Snowflakes, it’s on my must get list for the season!
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Thank you kindly, and you’re entered!
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Thank you for sharing these reviews. This is a wonderful idea of gifting your books to others. Thank you. My choice is Falling Like Snowflakes by Denise Hunter
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Thank YOU for stopping by. 🙂 You’re entered!
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