The holidays are supposed to feel magical, but let’s be honest—it’s not always easy to summon the Christmas spirit, especially when December has barely begun and your to-do list is longer than Santa’s naughty list. Enter books: the ultimate festive cheat code. Whether you’re a Christmas super fan or identify with the Grinch, there’s nothing like settling down under a cozy blanket (chestnuts roasting on an open fire, optional) with a great book.

Thank you for signing up!

By clicking submit, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge we may use your information to send you emails, product samples, and promotions on this website and other properties. You can opt out anytime.

Whether you prefer a sharp wintertime mystery, a bit of steamy Christmas spice or a nostalgic holiday classic, the right story can melt even the frostiest of moods and have you humming carols before you know it. With that in mind, here’s a curated list of Christmas reads, both old and new, to help you lean into the season—one page at a time.

Cole has one goal for Christmas: hide away from it all while the rest of the town dives headfirst into holiday cheer. Unfortunately for him, his plans are swiftly upended when his nemesis, Storee Taylor, moves in next door to care for her aunt—and proves impossible to ignore. Refusing to surrender to the season, Cole takes a more combative approach, entering the town’s Christmas Kringle contest with the sole aim of sabotaging Storee’s chances. What he doesn’t see coming, however, is the spark that threatens to melt his icy resolve. This enemies-to-lovers, small-town romance serves up enough heat and holiday spirit to thaw even the frostiest hearts.

Nothing captures the essence of a cozy Christmas quite like a thatched cottage with a crackling open fireplace. For Imogen, a burnt-out........

© Observer