Christmas can never come too soon, especially when it's in cosy book-shaped form. Here are the big Christmas books of 2020 to delve into as early as you'd like, seeing as there's nothing wrong with a touch of sparkle, festive joy and good cheer, at any time of year.
Recommendations
Christmas 2020: the best, most comforting reads for the festive season
This Time Next Year by Sophie Cousens (2020)
Get ready to fall for this year's most extraordinary love story. Quinn and Minnie are both born on New Year's Eve, one minute apart, in the same hospital. Their lives may begin together, but their worlds couldn't be more far apart - until thirty years later, when they find themselves back together at the same time, same place. Could fate be playing a part? If you love Jojo Moyes and Josie Silver, this is going to be the biggest treat. Refreshingly romantic with a sprinkle of feel-good sparkle, reading it is like Christmas come early.
Out on 1 August in ebook.
Finding Love at the Christmas Market by Jo Thomas (2020)
The ultimate festive read to curl up with, this'll have you tingling with sugar, spice and all things nice. Single mum Connie has been hurt too many times with online dating, but someone at the carehome she works at decides to set her up - at a Christmas market, with a bus-load of pensioners in tow, no less. But there she meets baker Henrich, who seems to tick all of her boxes - and his rival, William, who sparks something just as intriguing... Will Connie find the love of her life this Christmas, and if so, who will it be? With the promise of twinkling lights and the smell of gingerbread wafting through the pages, you'll fall head over heels for this one! It's romantic, atmospheric and full of festive fun.
Out on 12 November.
Christmas Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella (2019)
Who doesn't want some Becky Bloomwood for Christmas, in all her wondrous, loveable, brilliantly-dressed joy? Treat yourself to the paperback of her latest adventure, Christmas Shopaholic, and laugh your way through the ups and downs that come with hosting the big day for all the family. Embarrassing Christmas jumpers. A vegan turkey. A surprise appearance of an old boyfriend and pushy, unpredictable girlfriend. It's laughs aplenty with a dollop of irresistible festive cheer, the perfect read for any time of the year if you need a little lift.
Out in paperback on 1 October.
The Christmas Invitation by Trisha Ashley (2019)
Reading a Trisha Ashley is like toasting your toes by the fire - comforting, warming and something you never want to move away from. Her Christmas novel is no different, and the paperback is sure to be the perfect stocking filler. Meg's not a fan of the festive season, all the tinsel and tat that goes with it. But when she gets the chance to spend the snowy lead-up in the countryside, she soon finds she might discover the true meaning of a family Christmas, even when an old flame shows his face. It's fabulously funny and all-round lovely.
Out in paperback on 29 October.
Christmas with the Variety Girls by Tracy Baines (2020)
Christmas is the perfect time for unexpected reunions, and that's what you get in swathes with this heartwarming family drama. Frances has always dreamt of being a dancer, but when war was declared and theatres closed, she put that dream to bed. She also harbours another secret, something to do with her beloved niece, whose bond runs much deeper than she cares to share. But when her old sweetheart returns to town, she worries that her secrets will finally be revealed - and wonders, is Christmas really the right time for that? It's like a mulled wine in book form. Drink up, sink in, and enjoy.
Out on 15 October.
One Day in December by Josie Silver (2018)
As one of our favourite romances of the decade, we'll be digging this out every Christmas for the foreseeable future. Picture this: you fall in love at first sight, with the cute guy who looks up at you from the bus stop. But then the bus you're sitting on drives away. When you finally do meet him again, it turns out he's now dating your best friend... what's a girl to do? Swoon-worthy stuff with an ultra romantic first kiss scene in the snow, this is the love story you'll want to find under the tree.
Out now.
Johanna's Christmas by Johanna Basford (2016)
As one of our favourite romances of the decade, we'll be digging this out every Christmas for the foreseeable future. Picture this: you fall in love at first sight, with the cute guy who looks up at you from the bus stop. But then the bus you're sitting on drives away. When you finally do meet him again, it turns out he's now dating your best friend... what's a girl to do? Swoon-worthy stuff with an ultra romantic first kiss scene in the snow, this is the love story you'll want to find under the tree.
Out now.
Christmas with Billy and Me by Giovanna Fletcher (2014)
If you loved Billy and Me, hunker down with this short story of a sequel, shimmering with all the best bits of Christmas thrown in - the kindess of strangers, making dreams come true, and one fairytale ending you'll just love waiting for. Sophie May is asked to help pull off a proposal in her little tea shop, and despite the festive season being her busiest time, the romantic in her can't say no. This is a wonderful festive escape that hits all the right notes.
Out now.
Christmas Angels by Rowan Dobson (2020)
The Christmas Angels on top of our trees see it all. The spilled sherry, the heartfelt exchange of gifts. They know when family tensions are bubbling, and when presents have been bought last minute. But they also have their own stories, whether they've been passed through generations, or handmade and brought home from school. This magical collection showcases the personalities and differences behind a few of our most delightful festive companions, and would make a glorious gift for any Christmas-lover in your life.
Out on 5 November.
