As the holiday season approaches, author John Searles has shared his top book recommendations for December 2023, perfect for cozy reading by the fire. Searles, known for his upcoming release, Single Girls, set to hit shelves in July 2026, highlights a selection of titles that cater to various tastes, from romance to thrillers. Here are his top picks for this festive month.
Romantic Escapes for the Holidays
For those seeking a heartwarming love story, Searles recommends The Holiday Grump by Enni Amanda. Set in the picturesque town of Hideaway Harbor, this novel follows a runaway bride who forms a complicated relationship with a grumpy bookstore owner. Priced at $16.99 on Amazon, Searles notes that the story captures the essence of holiday romance with its mix of humor and emotional depth. “This sweet and spicy tale has all the key ingredients for a fun holiday love story,” he explains, highlighting the charm of a cozy town filled with festive decorations.
Moving into the realm of holiday fantasy, Good Spirits by B.K. Borison presents a modern twist on the classic A Christmas Carol. Retailing at approximately $13.86 on Amazon, the narrative reimagines the Ghost of Christmas Past as a rugged former sailor named Nolan. Searles describes the book as a delightful mix of romance and supernatural elements, where Nolan, tasked with haunting, finds himself yearning for a future with a charming woman named Harriet.
Timeless Classics and Thrilling Reads
No holiday reading list would be complete without a classic, and Searles recommends A Christmas Carol (Deluxe Gift Edition) by Charles Dickens. Available for $9.99, this edition features classic illustrations and engages readers with its timeless message about compassion and generosity. Searles emphasizes Dickens’ role as a social critic, noting how the story sheds light on societal issues that resonate even more during the festive season.
For younger readers, The Polar Express: 40th Anniversary Edition by Chris Van Allsburg is a must-have. Priced at $21.99 on Bookshop.org, this enchanting tale transports children to the North Pole, where they discover the true spirit of Christmas. Searles points out that many may not realize the beloved film was adapted from this beautifully illustrated book, which captures a sense of magic and wonder.
Lastly, for those who enjoy a gripping tale, The Award by Matthew Pearl offers a thrilling experience. With a retail price of $23.95 on Amazon, this novel follows a struggling author navigating fame amidst a holiday party that escalates into a shocking murder. Searles describes it as a “dark, gripping read” that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, making it an ideal choice for those looking for suspenseful holiday entertainment.
In a season filled with joy and celebration, these curated selections by John Searles promise to enhance the reading experience, offering stories that resonate with the spirit of the holidays. Whether indulging in romance, exploring classics, or diving into thrilling narratives, readers can find the perfect book to cozy up with this December.
