Spooky season is officially over and we’re counting down the days until the big man come’s to visit. Some might say that you can’t get in the Christmas spirit until the 1st of December but here at eve HQ, we think otherwise. As we wave goodbye to Halloween and Bonfire night, it gives us a free pass to get involved in all things festive.
Whether you think it’s acceptable to put up your tree on the 1st of November (We’re definitely with you on that one!), or you prefer to start off the festive season a little bit more subtlety – there’s no rules around here. One of our favourite ways to kick off the festivities, especially as book worms, is to stick our head in the chapters of a new book. No matter what sort of genre is your vibe, there’s a Christmas themed book out there that will definitely tickle your fancy. Want to know the magical news? Whether you’ve been naughty or nice this year, we’ve rounded some of them up just for you.
We might sound like a broken record but reading really does come with a whole list of benefits, especially when it comes to those all important zzz’s – find out more here. Anyway, let’s get into it shall we?
festive books to read this Christmas
1. The Christmas Tree Farm – Laurie Gilmore
The viral book series that has took tik tok by storm, if you haven’t already been influenced to buy then consider yourself influenced. If you haven’t heard of The Christmas Tree Farm, then you may have heard of The Pumpkin Spice Café or The Cinnamon Book Store. A love story with a Christmas twist. Kira, who loathes Christmas, is too stubborn to ask for help after buying a Christmas tree farm that turns out to be nothing like the social media dream. Fate brings Ben to her door step (or should we say field).
2. Murder Under The Mistletoe – Richard Coles
When two meet until the mistletoe and one falls down dead, Daniel suspects murder has returned to his town. Can he catch the Christmas killer along with the help of detective Sergeant Neil Vanloo, read to find out.
3. Home For Christmas - Heidi Swain
A Sunday times top ten best selling author, who’s known for her feel good books. Bella is living her best life living in the home she inherited from her grandparents, whilst counting down the days until Christmas. But could an unexpected visitor, who detests Christmas, throw a spanner in the works?
4. A Christmas Carol – Charles Dickens
Do we really need to do an intro on this Christmas classic? Okay, if you insist. The story follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a grumpy old man who brings misery wherever he goes, especially at Christmas. He’s paid a visit by ghosts from his past, present and future in the hopes that he can inherit some kindness.
5. Murder On The Christmas Express – Alexandra Benedict
A murder mystery with some festive fizz. On Christmas eve, a train with 18 passengers is derailed and as time goes by a killer begins to strike them off one by one. The race is on for a former detective to find the killer before they strike again.
6. The Secret Santa - Trish Harnetiaux
When a husband and wife take it upon themselves to organise their works Christmas party in a remote mansion, they expect it to be a night to remember. But the festive mood is killed when a sinister gift is unwrapped in the Secret Santa gift exchange. As heavy snow traps the guests, it quickly becomes clear that one of the party is out for revenge.
7. One Day In December – Josie Silver
Laurie is pretty sure love at first sight doesn't exist anywhere but the movies. But then, one snowy December day, she sees a man who she knows instantly is the one. Their eyes meet, there's a moment of pure magic... and then her bus drives away. One year later, they meet again at a Christmas party, when her best friend Sarah giddily introduces him as her boyfriend. Are they really destined to be together after all.
8. Diary Of A Christmas Elf – Ben Miller
The perfect read for the whole family, so why not get the little ones involved in some festive reading?
All Tog has ever wanted is to work in Santa's workshop and one wonderful day, the letter from Santa arrives, inviting him to become an apprentice elf. Tog discovers that someone has been stealing the presents from the workshop and he’s accused of being the culprit! It’s up to him to use his special Christmas magic to find the real thief and save all the presents before Christmas Eve is over.
what makes a festive book?
A truly good festive read is one that captures the essence, atmosphere, and emotions of the holidays. Festive books should bring the seasonal spirit to life through their story, setting, and themes.
Here are some of the most important elements that can help to make a book feel more festive:
- Holiday settings: When a story is set during a specific holiday season like Christmas, it becomes grounded in time and place which helps to enhance that festive feel.
- Atmospheric descriptions: Books that include detailed, sensory descriptions are also great at creating that festive mood. Snowy landscapes, cosy fires, twinkling lights, or bustling Christmas markets are all examples of imagery that can instantly transport the reader to a festive setting.
- Themes of togetherness: A true sign of a festive book is one that puts emphasis on family, friendship, romance, or community. These themes echo the holiday spirit of togetherness. In Christmas books, characters will often reconnect with loved ones, reignite old flames, or build new bonds.
- Magic or wonder: Another commonality amongst festive books is the element of magic, wonder, or even a sense of miraculousness. These writing elements help to bring a whimsical, hopefulness to readers everywhere.
- Generosity and kindness: In a lot of Christmas tales, you’ll encounter characters who engage in acts of kindness, giving, or self-discovery. This also aligns with holiday themes of generosity and goodwill and so is a staple in festive stories.
- Traditions and rituals: Festive stories which incorporate cultural traditions, foods, decorations, or Christmas traditions also help to set a vivid scene. This can give the story a feeling of authenticity, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the festivities.
- Feel-good tone: Festive books will also often have an uplifting tone. The best ones make readers feel cosy, cheerful, and hopeful right up until the very end of the book. And where there are challenges or conflicts, they’re usually resolved in a heart-warming way.
- Transformation or redemption: Think about the classic festive tales such as A Christmas Carol. Here, it’s clear that festive stories also often feature characters undergoing personal growth, redemption, or a change of sorts that has been inspired by the holiday season.
When packaged together between the front and back cover of a good book, these elements come together to create a story that resonates with the reader’s own experiences and emotions surrounding the holidays. So, if you’re looking for a truly festive read this Christmas, now you know what qualities to look for.
festive books: our final thoughts
Whether it’s reading for pleasure, reading with family, or reading for sleep, tying your book choices in with the season can really help cement your mindset. And as Christmas approaches, we encourage you to choose festive titles. Books about Christmas should warm your heart and have you looking forward to the festivities in general. And if you're in need of a new duvet to snuggle up in while poring over the pages of your new book, we've got you covered. So, when the opportunity presents itself, stay festive! Until next time, eve sleep.
