From the desk of Laurel Ann Nattress:
In between shopping, baking, gift wrapping, and holiday parties be sure to make time for reading. There are some fabulous new holiday themed books this year. I have plowed through publishers’ catalogues and kept an eye out on indie authors’ newsletters and social media to curate this special list.
You will find a bit of everything here from romcom, mystery, historical, and anthologies to put you in the holiday spirit and keep you centered during this hectic time of the year.
Enjoy, and happy holidays to one and all.
Best, LA
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
All’s Fair in Love and Christmas, by Sarah Monzon (Sept 5)
A workplace rivalry heats up when the competition sparks more than business for this couple during the Christmas season.
“Inspirational rom-com readers are going to love this one.”— Bethany Turner, bestselling author of The Do-Over
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Every December two things are guaranteed for graphic designer Mackenzie Graham–Christmas celebrations and the annual promotion at her workplace. Those two things are by no means mutually exclusive. In fact, the better an employee is at harnessing the Christmas spirit, the more likely they’ll win the new job. With her social anxiety, Mackenzie never thought she’d be a contender in her company’s holiday competition, so how exactly has she found herself dueling her workplace crush with wrapping paper tubes and using tinsel as her weapon of choice for a much-needed raise?
Jeremy Fletcher’s life is meticulously planned out, including how to win this year’s promotion at work. Not only will the new position fulfill some of his career goals, but as a single guardian to his twin niece and nephew, he needs the salary increase to support his family. Jeremy has barely noticed Mackenzie Graham around the office, but now that she’s his rival, he can’t stop thinking about her. Her quirkiness intrigues him, and he’s afraid that if he can’t get his head on straight, the promotion isn’t the only thing he’ll end up losing to Mackenzie.
AMAZON | PUBLISHER | ADD TO GOODREADS
Midnight at the Christmas Bookshop, by Jenny Colgan (Oct 10)
Escape to Edinburgh for the holidays again with bestselling Scottish author Jenny Colgan and her charming ensemble of local characters centered around a bookshop.
“Midnight at the Christmas Bookshop will keep your holiday spirits up as you follow the residents of Edinburgh in their pursuit of simple life pleasures.”— Novel’s Alive
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Christmas comes early—far too early—to McCredie’s little Old Town bookshop in Edinburgh. It’s summer, but an American production company has decided that McCredie’s is the perfect location to film a very cheesy Christmas movie. After all, who can resist the charmingly narrow historic street with its Victorian grey stone buildings and warmly lit shop windows?
Carmen Hogan, the bookshop’s manager, is amused and a bit horrified by the goings-on, but the money the studio is paying is too good to pass up. She uses the little windfall from filming to create new displays and fend off a buyout offer from an obnoxious millionaire who wants to turn McCredie’s into a souvenir shop selling kilts made in China and plastic Nessies. Still reeling slightly from a breakup, Carmen’s not particularly looking forward to the holidays. But just as snow begins to fall and the lights of Christmas blink on, all sorts of lovely new possibilities present themselves…for McCredie’s bookstore, and for Carmen herself.
AMAZON | PUBLISHER | ADD TO GOODREADS
Snowed In, by Catherine Walsh (Nov 1)
If you like forced proximity tropes involving Christmas, snow, and a bit of warmth with your romance novels, then this one’s for you.
“…a holiday romance with a runaway bride and fake dating trope. It’s a sweet, light, pleasant read.”— All About Romance
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Megan is dreading going home for the holidays. She’s the village pariah, the she-devil who left local golden boy Isaac at the altar four years ago and ran away to the big city. She could really do without the drama. Particularly as he’s engaged again, and she’s just been dumped for the fourth time this year.
Christian’s fed up of being on his own every Christmas. He doesn’t mind being alone, but he hates his family’s sad eyes and soft tones as they sit around coupled up. Because he’s actually, totally, fine.
So when Megan literally bumps into Christian in a Dublin pub, they come up with a pact to see them through the holiday season. They’re going to be the very best fake dates for each other, ever.
Rules are drawn up, a contract is signed on a wine-stained napkin. They will sit through each other’s family gatherings and be outrageously in love until freed from their annual obligations. After all, it’s only for a few weeks.
But with everyone home for the holidays, two big families to deal with alongside old friends, old flames and old feelings, things are bound to get messy. And when a snowed-in cabin and a little Christmas magic are added to the mix, anything could happen…
AMAZON | PUBLISHER | ADD TO GOODREADS
HISTORICAL ROMANCE
Mischief For Christmas: A Sweet Regency Romance (Once Upon a Christmas Storm Book 4), by Michelle Angus (Nov 14)
Five historical romance authors join forces for a new series, Once Upon a Christmas Storm, placing their romantic couples in close proximity during a snowstorm to spark romance.
5 STARS “…if you’re looking for a sweet Christmas novella to cozy up with this holiday season, this is the book for you!! I guarantee you will feel all warm and toasty inside when you finish!”— Heather’s Clean Reads
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Miss Talbot was made for mischief, and coincidentally Mr. Wynters could use a good lark. What happens, when a mischievous Lady’s companion and a wealthy gentleman with too many responsibilities, find one another under unforeseen circumstances?
Amelia Talbot was resigned to the idea of serving as a companion to the horrid Lady Brenton for the rest of her life. Her family’s ruin won’t allow her to dream of anything beyond that, but in the rare moments that she has to herself, Amelia nurtures a hope that life will hold more for her than the cards that have been dealt.
Ren Wynters was set on dutifully fulfilling his responsibilities as the oldest son and heir, caring for his mother and his two errant brothers, while frequently sacrificing his own desires in exchange for theirs. He cannot help but feel trapped in his circumstances, and wishes life held something more for him.
When an unexpected winter storm delays his plans, and a cunningly planned house party changes hers, Ren and Amelia are brought together, the two finding an easy friendship with one another. As feelings of friendship turn to something more during the Christmas season, they not only find themselves forgetting their troubles, but also experience the joy that can be found in realizing that the best gift of all is finding someone who brings out the best in you and loves you for who you are.
Mistletoe for Felicity: A Regency Romance, by Sally Britton (Nov 20)
Popular Regency Romance author Sally Britton continues to expand her publishing empire with this delightful Christmas novella—a quick read perfect for your busy holiday season.
“…grab a cup of cocoa, a cozy blanket, and pick up this charming holiday romance that you will have you believing in true love and the magic of Christmas.”— Marilee Love to Read
BOOK DESCRIPTION
A Yuletide romance where fate, duty, and the magic of Christmas intertwine.
Lady Felicity Winters, having lost the last of her family, is alone in the world. Theodore “Tad” Harcourt, a merchant’s son is thrust into navigating the complexities of high society. The two are bound in an arranged marriage—both a boon and a challenge.
As winter’s chill gives way to holiday warmth, Felicity and Tad tentatively explore their new life together. From snowball fights with village children to the sparkle of a grand Christmas ball, their journey turns into a heartwarming adventure filled with newfound trust and festive cheer.
Yet questions remain—does Felicity see beyond her role as a dutiful wife, and can Tad truly find his place in her world? This tender, closed-door Regency romance unfurls beneath mistletoe and candlelight, where love dispels all doubts, and Christmas joy resides in the most unexpected corners. Open this cozy tale and let it melt your heart this holiday season.
HISTORICAL MYSTERY
Murder at Midnight: A Lily Adler Mystery (Book 4), by Katharine Schellman (Sept 19)
Looking for the perfect snowbound country house murder mystery set during the holiday Season? Look no further. Schellman’s Regency mystery series is enchanting.
“Delightful . . . Historical mystery fans will devour this holiday treat.”— Publishers Weekly
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Perfect for fans of Deanna Raybourn and Ashley Weaver, when a body is found shot to death after an unexpected snowstorm, Lily Adler quickly realizes that some people will stop at nothing to bury their secrets.
Regency widow Lily Adler is looking forward to a quiet Christmastide away from the schemes and secrets she witnessed daily in London. Not only will she be visiting the family of her late husband; she will be reunited with Captain Jack Hartley, her friend and confidante, finally returned after a long voyage at sea.
But secrets aren’t only found in London. Jack’s younger sister, Amelia, is the center of neighborhood scandal and gossip. She refuses to tell anyone what really happened, even when an unexpected snowstorm strands the neighborhood families together after a Christmas ball. Stuck until the snow stops, the Adlers, Hartleys, and their neighbors settle in for the night, only to be awakened in the morning by the scream of a maid who has just discovered a dead body.
The victim was the well-to-do son of a local gentleman—the same man whose name has become so scandalously linked to Amelia’s.
With the snow still falling and no way to come or go, it’s clear that someone in the house was responsible for the young man’s death. When suspicion instantly falls on Jack’s sister, he and Lily must unmask the true culprit before Amelia is convicted of a crime she didn’t commit.
AMAZON | PUBLISHER | ADD TO GOODREADS
Murder on Mistletoe Lane: A Stella and Lyndy Mystery (Book 5), by Clara McKenna (Oct 24)
A Christmas in Edwardian England, and a perplexing murder. What mystery lover could ask for more?
“This easygoing Christmas mystery hits the spot.”— Publisher’s Weekly
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Ex-pat Stella and British aristocrat Viscount “Lyndy” Lyndhurst are thrilled to celebrate their first Christmas together as Morrington Hall comes alive with caroling, intricate decorations . . . and a deadly murder.
Taking on the responsibilities that come with being Lady Lyndhurst, Stella is eager to embrace yuletide traditions in the Edwardian English countryside and use her strong social influence for good. Her world becomes so consumed with starting a horse farm charity for the holidays that she barely notices the usual oddities attached to her upper-crust lifestyle. At least, not until items vanish from her bedroom and maligned housekeeper, Mrs. Nelson, becomes seriously ill—only to be found dead in the cold on Mistletoe Lane . . .
Cheery spirits are dashed following the sudden death, especially once Stella questions whether her own staff knows what—or who—killed the woman. Her suspicions mount when another person dies under strange circumstances during New Forest’s annual Point‑to‑Point Boxing Day race. Then there’s the case of Morrington Hall becoming plagued by false identities, secret affairs, and disgruntled employees . . .
Now, with two murders unfolding before their eyes in late December, Stella and Lyndy realize they can’t fully trust anyone except for themselves while investigating. Because as disturbing answers come into focus, identifying the criminal responsible and surviving into the new year would be the greatest gift of the season . . .
AMAZON | PUBLISHER | ADD TO GOODREADS
ANTHOLOGY
Christmas Forevermore: A Christmas Romance Collection, by Sally Britton, Sarah Eden, Ashtyn Newbold, and Karen Thornell (Oct 3)
This collection of novellas brings together an impressive lineup of popular historical romance authors that are sure to add cheers and happiness to your Christmas season.
“Festooned with kissing boughs, greenery, carols, and party games, this collection will warm the heart during cold winter nights.”— Historical Novel Society
BOOK DESCRIPTION
This holiday season, fall in love with a brand-new collection of swoon-worthy novellas from four of your favorite historical romance authors. From meddling matchmakers to fortuitous fiascos, the holidays have never been more magical!
“A Family Christmas” by Sally Britton: After years abroad, Cyril Grant worries about relating to his highborn relatives at the family’s holiday celebration. But an unexpected connection with a member of the household staff opens his heart—in more ways than one.
“Christmas Forevermore” by Sarah M. Eden: In this reimagining of the beloved Charles Dickens tale A Christmas Carol, spinster Minna Schofield is inadvertently ensnared by a local matchmaker whose meddling launches Minna on a journey of self-reflection that could lead her to unexpected love.
“Christmas at Cranfield” by Ashtyn Newbold: Though childhood friends Hannah and Samuel secretly adore one another, fate conspires to keep them apart. But after years of shared holidays and missed opportunities, this Christmas brings the hope that their stars will align.
“A Thrill of Hope” by Karen Thornell: After a devastating loss, Christmas holds little appeal for Isabel Reid. But when a snowstorm traps her in the company of a surprising traveling companion, the perpetual winter of Isabel’s heart may just begin to thaw.
AMAZON | PUBLISHER | ADD TO GOODREADS
We received a review copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, or we purchased a copy for our own enjoyment. Cover images and book descriptions courtesy of the respective publishers © 2023; text Laurel Ann Nattress © 2023, austenprose.com, an Amazon affiliate.
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Austenprose 
This list of suggested reads is lovely; I am partial to mysteries and would contemplate the following titles: Murder on Mistletoe Lane: A Stella and Lyndy Mystery (Book 5), by Clara McKenna (Oct 24); Murder at Midnight: A Lily Adler Mystery (Book 4), by Katharine Schellman (Sept 19); otherwise, my plate is fullest with plenty books to read. Currently, I am trying to get through this Lydia Bennet, Witch by Melinda Taub, it is a very slow start and I hope to get through it with many positive claimants. Thank you for sharing and Happy Holidays!
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I can personally attest to the Clara McKenna being fab. Looks like several tasty holiday reads here.
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