Let’s take a look at the buzziest holiday books for 2025!
I’m a big seasonal reader. Give me beach reads in the summer, mysteries in the fall, and lots of holiday-themed books for Christmastime. Of course, I sprinkle in plenty of other genres each season. But I try to make a point to read several themed reads too.
And I look forward to the holiday-themed reads each year! This list features all the new releases this year for a variety of holiday vibes. While some are more on the light rom-com side, there are some that cover serious topics as well and even a murder mystery too. So I’m confident everyone will find something that fits their specific genre.
Also, if you’re looking for older titles (which are easier to get at the library and such), I put together my annual Christmas book club list full of holiday books I’ve read throughout the years, which all include my original book club questions as well.
Let’s get to the holiday list!
Snow Kissed by RaeAnne Thayne
What a gorgeous cover for Snow Kissed! RaeAnne Thayne is known for writing heartfelt and touching stories. I’m especially looking forward to Snow Kissed as it sounds like such a lovely and festive read.
The story follows single mom Holly Goodwin Moore, who normally adores Christmastime. However, this year, there’s a wedding in her ex’s family, and she’s dreading it. So she told a white lie about having a boyfriend, and now she needs a plus-one fast.
Enter Ryan Caldwell, who comes to town to help his niece have a nice Christmas. Ryan and Holly eventually cross paths, and the two decide to help each other.
The Secret Christmas Library by Jenny Colgan
Get ready for a holiday story set in the Scottish Highlands! Bestselling author Jenny Colgan’s latest story follows an antiquarian book hunter who is hired to find a rare book at a castle in Scotland. When a rival book hunter joins the mix, the search really begins.
This is said to be a treat for book lovers and treasure hunters alike, a mystery with some romance and plenty of holiday spirit.
Holiday Ever After by Hannah Grace
Hannah Grace is the New York Times Bestseller of Icebreaker, and she’s back with a new novel, this time a holiday romance set in a small town.
Clara Davenport is trying to climb the corporate ladder at her family’s toy business; however, her plans hit a roadblock when the company is accused of stealing an independent toy maker’s design. So she has to go to the small town where the toy maker is from to help ease the PR nightmare.
Jack Kelly is the toy designer, and he’s not thrilled that Clara is in town trying to spin a good tale about the big company. But when sparks fly, everyone’s plans change.
Sounds cute and charming, and I’m excited to check it out.
Murder at Holly House by Denzil Meyrick
If you’re looking for a holiday mystery, consider Murder at Holly House by Denzil Meyrick.
The story takes place in Yorkshire, 1952. Christmas is fast approaching, but suddenly a dead stranger in found in the chimney of Holly House.
Inspector Frank Grasby is ordered to investigate. But things don’t go as planned.
This is book is ideal for fans of Murder on the Christmas Express and Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot’s Christmas. While the book has been out for a while, it received a new cover and promotion in the U.S., including being featured as the Barnes and Noble $5 book deal. This is where you can buy the book for $5 with any cafe purchase. What a great deal!
Grace and Henry’s Holiday Movie Marathon by Matthew Norman
For those seeking a holiday story that covers more serious topics, consider Grace and Henry’s Holiday Movie Marathon. The story follows Grace White and Henry Adle, who have both lost their spouses almost a year ago. While their moms hatch a plan to matchmake the two, they are not ready yet.
However, they are open to a new friendship. And eventually, the two embark on watching a variety of holiday movies. With each movie, Grace and Henry’s shared grief eases as they start to see a life beyond the sadness.
A Little Holiday Fling by Farah Heron
A Little Holiday Fling by Farah Heron sounds like a festive and enjoyable holiday read. Ruby Dhanji loves Christmas and anything to do with the UK. She has plans to move to England and open a cozy inn; however, she needs hotel experience first.
Enter Rashid. While he’s not about the holidays, he eventually strikes a connection with Ruby.
Happy Holidays!
