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4 min read
We all love a Christmas movie, but what about a Christmas novel? Here are eight to read over the festive season.
In between festive catch-ups, family obligations and the big day itself, Christmas is a time to reset, recharge and take a little time out for yourself.
Before gearing up for the new year ahead, we’re looking to enjoy some downtime – and while we’ll be turning to the very best that Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney+ have by way of Christmas films – nothing beats a good book.
From Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol, to more modern tales of the festive season, including romance, murder and everything in between, carve a little time out of your busy December plans to settle in with these eight seasonal reads.
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
And while many us of us will have watched the countless TV and film adaptations – yes, we’re looking at you, The Muppet Christmas Carol – how many have actually sat down and read the original words? The Dickensian festivities promise to be infectious from the very first page.
A Magical New York Christmas by Anita Hughes
A frothy Christmas love story, this one is for those looking for some lighter holiday reading.
Last Christmas In Paris by Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb
Told through a series of letters between Evie, her brother and their childhood friend, the novel spans through the war from 1914 to 1918 and into December 1968, depicting how the individuals, their lives and relationships change over time.
Shop Last Christmas In Paris by Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb at Waterstones
The Nutcracker And The Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann
Though still a traditional Christmas tale familiar to fans of the festive ballet, Hoffmann’s original story is darker than expected.
Shop The Nutcracker And The Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann at Bookshop
The Twelve Dates Of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss
Cue 12 very different first dates and enough festive references to get anyone into the Christmas spirit.
Shop The Twelve Dates Of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss at Bookshop
Hercule Poirot's Christmas by Agatha Christie
When the Lee family reunion is derailed by a suspicious death, the Belgian detective is on hand to unravel the crime – finding an atmosphere not of mourning but of mutual suspicion…
Shop Hercule Poirot’s Christmas by Agatha Christie at Bookshop
The Gritterman by Orlando Weeks
The heart-warming novel tells the story of the hardworking Gritterman – who after years of diligent work, sets out on his last night of preparing roads and pavements for the public. To complete the experience, Weeks has also released an accompanying 10 track The Gritterman album to listen to as you read.
A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig
Depicting the story of an 11-year-old boy called Nikolas as he embarks on a life-changing adventure to become the very symbol of Christmas itself, it’ll bring a touch of magic to your festive season.
Images: Unsplash; courtesy of publishers
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