Best Holiday Books
I wanted to make a list of my favorite holiday books that take place over the holiday season but are not necessarily about Christmas. Of course, I could not resist adding in our favorite Christmas books too, but this list will have some Hanukkah, some Winter Solstice, and other winter holiday books as well.
There is nothing like the perfect holiday book to help celebrate the season. So whether you are curled up by a fire or sitting on a beach, you can find the best holiday books to make the season even more special.
The Best Holiday Books
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
The Best Winter Solstice Book
A December to Remember by Jenny Bayliss – Jump to section
The Best Hanukkah Book
Three Holidays and A Wedding by Uzma Jalaluddin & Marissa Stapley – Jump to section
The Best Set over the Christmas Season
Evergreen Christmas by Janet Dailey – Jump to section
The Best Fantasy Holiday Book
In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren – Jump to section
The Best Christmas Book
The Christmas Bookshop by Jenny Colgan – Jump to section
The Best New Year’s Eve Book
This Time Next Year by Sophie Cousens – Jump to section
*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Best Holiday Books for Adults: Winter Solstice
A December to Remember
Author: Jenny Bayliss
Year: 2023
Genre: Fiction
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Jenny Bayliss is back with an exciting holiday book about the Winter Solstice. When Simone, Maggie, and Star, half-sisters with different moms, find out their father has died they also learn that to receive their inheritance, they must first solve a scavenger hunt and then relaunch the town’s Winter Solstice celebration.
The sisters don’t have a relationship outside of the one month each summer they all spend together with their father. Now, they are forced to work together and rebuild their sisterly bond.
Each sister is also working through something. One is a single mom facing eviction. One is struggling with infertility. And one is a bit adrift and trying to start over and settle down.
Why Kirsten loves it
I adored this holiday book about love and reconnection during the holiday season. It’s probably my favorite Christmas book for 2023. #gifted
Find this book in: Best Holiday Books / Christmas Books of 2023 / Christmas Book Club Books
A Court of Frost and Starlight
Author: Sarah J. Maas
Year: 2018
Genre: Fantasy
More info: A Court of Thorn and Roses #3.5
Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This short novel bridges the gap between the #ACOTAR trilogy and the next books set in the same universe. It has us catching up with all of our favorite characters during the Winter Solstice.
Why Kirsten loves it
This holiday book is cute and fun with no real plot – just some stage setting for the next book. Think of it as an extended epilogue to A Court of Wings and Ruins.
Find this book in: Fantasy Christmas Books / Best Holiday Books / Sarah J Maas Books in Order
Best Holiday Books: Hanukkah
Three Holidays and a Wedding
Author: Uzma Jalaluddin & Marissa Stapley
Year: 2023
Genre: Holiday Romance
Spice Rating:💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Maryam and Anna find themselves on a plane from Denver to Toronto in the middle of the storm of the century, they have no idea that they will spark an unexpected friendship.
When the plane is diverted to a small town outside of Ottawa with no end to the snow, they all must change their plans. Anna is not able to make it to Toronto to spend Christmas with her boyfriend, and Maryam’s sister’s wedding is in jeopardy.
Why Jackie loves it
This is an enchanting Hanukkah, Ramadan, romance Christmas book for 2023 with a charming small town, a snowbound inn, and a touch of fate that brings everyone together. This is a holiday book at its very best. #gifted
Find this book in: Celebrity Romance Books / Best Books of 2023 / New Christmas Books of 2023 / Best Christmas Romances / Holiday Books / Best Christmas Books of All Time / Christmas Book Club Books
Plot
A Hanukkah fake dating romance? You had me at Hanukkah. Abby is charged with putting together her Vermont town’s first Hanukkah festival. It is difficult because the people in her town do not understand putting blue lights on a Christmas tree does not make it a part of the Hanukkah story.
When Abby goes on a dating app to find someone Jewish nearby to help her, she find Seth, who has been coming to Abby’s cafe every day. She had no idea he was Jewish. He offers to introduce her to all the vendors she needs to make her festival successful if she comes home to New York City with him and pretends to be his girlfriend.
Why Jackie loves it
Along the way, Abby finds herself and her connection to her Judasim. We learn a lot about Abby and I loved seeing her character development. The story was sweet without being sappy. While this is not a trigger warning, Abby’s parents display disturbing behaviors that may be upsetting.
Find this book in: Fake Dating Books / October 2024 Book Releases / Best Holiday Books
Plot
A Chanukah romance? Yes, please!!! I mean, I would have been happy to read this book based only on that but the fact Rachel is a Rabbi’s daughter who is secretly a best-selling author of Christmas romances hooked me.
This is a hilarious spin if you are looking for holiday romantic comedy books. Add in a splash of romance with Jacob, Rachel’s first kiss from summer camp/ arch nemesis and this book is the perfect light romance.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved the humor and sweetness of this book. And I would not turn down food from Jacob’s Bubbie. I wish more Jewish writers would write Hanukkah romances!
Find this book in: Best Holiday Books / Christmas Novels for 2021
Eight Dates and Nights
Author: Betsy Aldredge
Year: 2023
Genre: YA Romance
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 12 – 17
Plot
Hannah Levin is upset that she is being forced to spend part of her winter vacation with her grandmother in small-town Texas. There is nothing she dislikes more than the tinsel of Christmas and wants to spend her Hanukkah with her friends and family in NYC.
When there is a snowstorm and her return flight home to New York is delayed, she is forced to spend Hanukkah in Texas. She meets Noah, who is annoyingly adorable and is determined to not only bring Hanukkah to his small town but teach Hannah that there are different ways to celebrate.
Why Jackie loves it
This is a holiday romance at its best. If you are looking for the best Hanukkah books, this young adult pick is a gem.
Find this book in: Best Holiday Books
Holiday Books Set during Christmas Time
Plot
Jordyn Banks is a horse breeder who has recently moved to Noel, North Carolina. She decides she wants to win the Christmas Crown by entering this year’s many holiday competions. But the reigning champs are her handsome single neighbor, Nate, and his charming daughter, Roxie.
As the competitions heat up, Nate needs to decide if he is ready to fall in love again. If his brother and the local Nanas have anything to say about it, his story will end tied up with a bow.
Why Kirsten loves it
Can I move to Noel? All the hilarious Christmas competitions made me wish I really could move to this charming small town. This sweet romance only had a kiss or two, but featured the sweetest family I’ve read in years. That Roxie is a treasure!
Find this book in: Holiday Books / New Christmas Books 2024 / Christmas Romances
Plot
When Charlie Goodwin gets a concussion, and cannot smell or taste, she doesn’t know what to do. Her job as a chef and the promotion she has been working toward is on the line.
She begs her twin sister Cass to switch places like they did when they were kids. She will take over the bakery and Cass will pretend to be her.
Why Jackie loves it
This adorable holiday romance is just the book to brighten your day and put a smile on your face. This is one of the best holiday books I’ve read!
Find this book in: Best Christmas Books Of All Time / Holiday Books / Books About Sisters / Best Canadian Novels / Books About Food / New Christmas Books 2021 / Bakery Romances
Royal Holiday
Author: Jasmine Guillory
Year: 2019
Genre: Romance
More info: The Wedding Date #4
Spice Rating:💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
When Maddie gets Kirsten’s dream gig (styling a Royal or let’s face it, hanging out with a Royal), she brings her mom, Vivian, with her to England. Vivian meets a very handsome gentleman who happens to be the Queen’s private secretary. Sparks fly but will this be more than just a holiday romance?
Why Jackie loves it
Looking for a last-minute Christmas Read, New Year’s book, or the perfect holiday book? Royal Holiday was the perfect first read for winter break, especially for those who love a royal romance.
Find this book in: Best Christmas Books Of All Time / Best Holiday Books / Jasmine Guillory Books in Order / Books Like People We Meet on Vacation / Royal Romance Books / New Year’s Eve Books
One Day in December
Author: Josie Silver
Year: 2018
Genre: Romance
More info: December 2018 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
When Laurie sees a man through the bus windows, she just knows it’s love at first sight. But the bus drove away before she could do anything about it. While she desperately looks for him for a year, she meets once again – as the boy her best friend, Sarah is dating.
Over the next 10 years, readers are privy to the ups and downs of Jack, Sarah, and Laurie’s lives and relationships with one another.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is another holiday book I adored. This second chance love story takes place over 10 years and you’ll be rooting for this couple the entire time.
Why Jackie loves it
The perfect winter romance – this one is a bit steamy – that will have you smiling from ear to ear. I listened to this one from my local library, but it would be just as good in print.
Find this book in: Best Holiday Books / Winter Books / New Year’s Eve Books / Best Christmas Books of All Time / Christmas Book Club Books / Best Christmas Romance Books
Fantasy Holiday Books
In a Holidaze
Author: Christina Lauren
Year: 2020
Genre: Holiday Romance
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Do you love Christmas movies? Are you obsessed with Christmas Romance books? Do you need to swoon? If you answered yes to any of those questions, stop everything and order In a Holidaze. This is possibly my favorite Christmas novel of all time and was a must for best holiday books.
I adored Mae and Andrew’s love story. It’s set up like Groundhog’s Day with Mae repeating the same Christmas vacation until she gets it right.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a time-travel romance at its best. And man… does she get it right. Peppermint kisses, sexy sledding, snowball fights, Christmas Tree trimming… this book oozes cheer-filled holiday goodness with a few scenes that are steamier than a cup of cocoa.
Why Jackie loves it
I thought a time loop book would become repetitive and this book was definitely not repetitive! I could not get enough of the Christmas cheer and the sweet moments in this book. I was rooting for the characters!
Find this book in: Time Travel Books / Best Books of 2020 / Magical Realism / Time Loop Books / Fantasy Christmas Books / Best Holiday Books / Best Christmas Books of All Time / Christmas Romance Books
The Nightmare Before Kissmas
Author: Sara Raasch
Year: 2024
Genre: Fantasy Romance
More info: Royals and Romance #1
Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Coal is the heir to the Christmas kingdom who is being forced into an arranged marriage with his best friend Iris from Easter. But when Prince Hex of Halloween shows up to court Iris too, Coal realizes he’s met him before – when they made out at a bar a year ago.
Determined to get to the bottom of what is going on between the Holiday Courts, Coal tries to avoid Hex and keep up the ruse of the arrangement. Except these princes can’t seem to stay away from each other for long…
Why Kirsten loves it
This was filled with chaotic energy, a fun new fantasy world, and all kinds of holiday lore. It was billed as Red, White, and Royal Blue meets The Nightmare Before Christmas. Seems like an odd pairing, but I went in with a totally open mind and was rewarded with a unique, charming holiday story.
Find this book in: Christmas Fantasy Books / Best Holiday Books / Best Christmas Books of All Time / Best Christmas Romance Books / New Christmas Books 2024
Just Like Magic
Author: Sarah Hogle
Year: 2022
Genre: Fantasy Romance
More info:
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range:
Plot
If you only read one Christmas book this holiday season, let it be Just Like Magic. I adored this funny paranormal romance book! The premise is amazing. Down-on-her-luck Bettie Hughes accidentally summons the magical Holiday Spirit, who can’t leave her until he raises her spirit level. So going by the name of Hal, he poses as her boyfriend for her week-long family Christmas vacation.
Why Kirsten loves it
Hal’s use of magic throughout the week is hysterical. It also helps that the chemistry between Hal and Bettie crackles. It’s unlike any other Christmas story I’ve read in the best way possible! #gifted by Putnam
Find this book in: Fantasy Christmas Books / Best Christmas Books Of All Time / Christmas Books for 2022 / Ghost Books / Best Books of 2022 / Best Holiday Books
Once Upon a December
Author: Amy E. Reichart
Year: 2022
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
I adored this Christmas romance novel with a magical premise. It’s all about a Christmas market and its residents who travel from town to town each Christmas. The baker, Jack loves to visit Milwaukee the most because he’s drawn to Astra, an average girl. Will this Christmas be the one where romance can bloom?
Why Kirsten loves it
I loved hearing about each Christmas Jack and Astra met and how their loved formed. I also loved the magical elements of the market and how it played a crucial role in their story.
Find this book in: Christmas Books for 2022 / Best Holiday Books / Christmas Romance Books / Fantasy Christmas Books
Best Christmas Holiday Books
The Christmas Bookshop
Author: Jenny Colgan
Year: 2021
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
More info: New York Times Bestseller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Jenny Colgan is back with a stand-alone Christmas romance book about a failing bookshop and the woman who saves it. Carmen is stuck with no boyfriend, no job, and living at home, while her sister Sophie seems to have it all – a beautiful house, a great husband, a killer job, and 3 kids with one more on the way.
When she realizes her client is going to lose his bookshop and home, she overs Carmen up for the job of turning the shop around, offering her a room at her house to boot.
But the long-standing rivalry between the sisters is out in full force, Carmen seems to sabotage her own happiness in the romance department, and her bookstore boss might be hiding some family secrets that need uncovering.
Why Kirsten loves it
A charming contemporary fiction Christmas tale in true Jenny Colgan fashion, this heartwarming holiday book also has some appearances from beloved characters from previous books.
Find this book in: Best Christmas Books Of All Time / Best Holiday Books / Christmas Novels 2021
Plot
This tear-jerking story blew me away. It was a romance story for the first 30% of the book, but then it became something much deeper.
Josie mails a letter to her deceased parents every Christmas, but this Christmas she accidentally hits a stranger named Max with her bike on the way to the post box.
As she explores the holiday season with Max her feelings start to grow, but when he leaves unexpectedly, she’s left to deal with the aftermath of the impact he had on her heart. But fate isn’t done with their story yet as they bump into each other throughout the year.
Why Kirsten loves it
Probably my favorite Christmas romance book of 2021, this one is a tear-jerker for sure. I sobbed for the entire last 10% of the book and it will most likely, emotionally wreck you. This book is a testament to the healing power of love and the kind of impact each of us can make on each other.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but if you are looking for a Christmas book that ends with a bow and smile, you may want to look elsewhere. Despite this, we needed to include this on our list of best holiday books. #gifted by
Find this book in: Books That Will Emotionally Wreck You / Best British Books / Best Holiday Books / Best Christmas Books Of All Time / Best Christmas Romance Books / Christmas Book Club Books / Christmas Novels for 2021 / Emily Stone Books Ranked
Plot
This marvelous Christmas story tells the tale of a newly renovated community theatre and the members trying to perform A Christmas Carol before the theatre is sold. It all started because 5 student were caught skipping school in said theatre by their guidance counselor – who takes the heat and offers their community service as payment so the landlord doesn’t press charges.
Harriet, the guidance counselor, was not expecting their ramshackle group to grow, and while she hoped the theatre could be an access to the community – she did not anticipate it becoming THE community hub. As she works to pull the production off, she is not expecting to partner with the landlord’s attorney – who happens to be a man she had a one-night stand with the night before.
Why Kirsten loves it
A lot is going on in this story in the best possible way. Some students bring talents and gifts to life as they earn confidence working on the production. Other community members find their place in the group and help mentor the children. There is romance, a fantastic production, and so much Christmas cheer. I also got choked up at the acknowledgment of Hanukkah and the mini celebration they have for one of the theatre members. Representation means so much.
Find this book in: Best Holiday Books / Christmas Book Club Books / Best Christmas Books Of All Time / New Christmas Books 2024
Best Holiday Books: New Year’s Eve
This Time Next Year
Author: Sophie Cousens
Year: 2020
Genre: Romance
More info: December 2020 GMA Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
When two women are in the hospital in labor and there is one huge cash prize for the first baby born in 1990, one child, Quinn, will be born into a charmed life and the other will be named Minnie Cooper. When Minnie meets Quinn on the eve of their thirtieth birthday, well, it is the meet-cute of the decade.
Why Jackie loves it
If I could see this romantic comedy on the big screen, I would love every second. This is an enemies-to-lovers book at its best.
Find this book in: Best Holiday Books / New Year’s Eve Books
A Winter in New York
Author: Josie Silver
Year: 2023
Genre: Romance
More info: A POPSUGAR Best Book of the Year
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
In this sweet holiday romance book, Iris uncovers a hidden family recipe, falls in love, and learns the power of mouthwatering gelato. Set against the backdrop of New York City from Halloween to NYE, this romance book covers more than just love.
It’s a story that includes uncovering new layers of a deceased parent, recovering from an emotionally abusive relationship, single parenthood, and family ties.
Trigger Warnings
Emotional Abuse, Death of a Parent
Why Kirsten loves it
With secrets, romance, and a dash of culinary magic, this charming tale will leave you craving for more. My only complaint is that Iris kept the secret for a little too long. #gifted by Delacorte Press
Find this book in: Best Holiday Books / Best New Christmas Books of 2023 / New Year’s Eve Books
Plot
Taking place at a dated luxury hotel at Christmas time and culminating with a New Year’s Eve ball, there is an abundance of antics afoot. Sophie is a hotel intern there to make sure the guests have all they need. But when she is not expecting to deal with missing jewels, find a potential love interest, or be worried about ghosts – all in one holiday season!
Why Kirsten loves it
What a cute story! I loved the unique setting and hysterical antics. Jewel thieves, ghosts, kid-nappers, back-door dealings, and teenage drama fill this wonderful holiday book.
Find this book in Best Holiday Books / YA Christmas Books / Best Winter Books / Hotel Novels / New Year’s Eve Books
The Rewind
Author: Allison Winn Scotch
Year: 2022
Genre: Romance
More info: A Good Morning America Buzz Pick
Spice Rating:💋💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Frankie and Ezra were inseparable during college and it all ended in an epic breakup a decade ago. Now, they are seeing each other for the first time since at their friends’ New Year’s Eve of Y2K wedding.
When they wake up in bed together with wedding rings on their fingers and NO memory of what happened, they find themselves searching for answers. And all this has to happen before Ezra’s girlfriend shows up at the wedding because Ezra is planning on proposing.
Why Jackie loves it
This book is a hilarious glimpse into the past and an adorable romance. I was swept into the story as I rooted for Ezra and Frankie to find their happy ending.
Find this book in: Best Holiday Books / Novels About Music / New Year’s Eve Books
Helpful Tip
- It’s always fun to start a holiday book on the day that holiday actual starts – a Christmas book on Christmas Eve or a New Year’s story on NYE.
- But these books don’t have to be read just on those holidays. Loads of people celebrate Christmas in July through Hallmark movies and fun holiday novels.
This post fulfills a prompt for the 2024 reading challenge! It’s not too late to join!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the must-have holiday books?
It comes down to personal preference but In a Holidaze, Always in December, and The Royal Holiday are all great choices.
What books do you recommend to read during the winter holidays?
If you don’t want to pick a Christmas specific book, look at stories about Winter Solstice or New Year’s Eve. Books like A December to Remember, Castle in the Clouds, and A Winter in New York are all great choices.
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