Sweet Holiday Stories
Since I shared some Steamy Holiday Romances, you’ll know I don’t like the Hallmark style holiday books. I need my stories to have a little more substance to them, but I know that’s not everyone’s taste! Sometimes you want the sugary sweet, predictable moments.
Not all of the books listed here are romances and not all of them are Hallmark-esque stories. But they are a little lighter, definitely closed door/fade to black when it comes to the romance, and packed with festive vibes.
Christmas at the Chalet by Anita Hughes
I picked this book up on a whim from The Strand in 2019 based on the cover alone. It wasn’t my speed but it is perfectly festive and set in a cozy, idyllic mountain village. Plus it’s a quick read!
I’m Dreaming of a Wyatt Christmas by Tiffany Schmidt
One of my new reads for the season! I liked this YA romance a lot. It’s set in a cozy Vermont mountain lodge, it’s got banter and adventures in babysitting, plus some YA self discovery. It’s got all the Christmassy vibes as well, but does mention grief (loss of a parent) quite a bit.
Eight Perfect Hours by Lia Louis
This book isn’t necessarily Christmassy, but it is wintery and all about fated love. A little too sweet and slow for my taste but the author’s first book, Dear Emmie Blue, was so popular I know there is an audience for it!
New Year’s Kiss by Lee Matthews
I was so excited to find a New Year’s Eve book last year! This Is a fun quick read (I read it on NYE morning last year) and packed with YA angst and romance. It’s also set in a mountain lodge!
One Way or Another by Kara McDowell
I really liked this book last year but I know a couple of my friends didn’t so it just goes to show we all have different taste! This one is about a teenage girl who is torn between two realities when she slips and hits her head. Christmas in NYC with a mystery guy or Christmas with her best friend who she’s been in love with secretly. Teen drama, christmastime in the city, and a snowy cabin. What more could you need?
In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren
The most “open door” when it comes to Romance on this list, but still VERY tame. I think everyone read this book last year and I thought I didn’t like it, but I still think about it. There are so many aspects to the story I’d change, yet I read it in one sitting lol. It’s a Groundhog Day take on Christmas with a group of family friends who spent the holidays together every year in a cabin. Romance, holiday vibes, suspension of disbelief…it’s a good time.
All I Want for Christmas by Wendy Loggia
Another YA that was so fun last year. It’s an A Christmas Carol/It’s a Wonderful Life retelling with a super sweet YA romance.
3 I Haven’t Read
A Mrs. Miracle Christmas by Debbie MaComber
I’ve read one Debbie MaComber and I know so many love her but her romance books are just too cheesy for me. However, if you do like her writing, my friend Danielle sings high praises of this book! I know it centers on adoption and is supposed to be very, very special. I actually own this one so I may give it try if I need something light and quick. It sounds like a special read!
Home for the Holidays by Sara Richardson
I haven’t read this one but I was gifted a copy last year. It’s about 3 sisters and the cover is so beautiful! I may just have to make time for it this season.
The Santa Suit by Mary Kay Andrews
A newly divorced women finds a magical santa suit in her home with a note tucked in the pocket containing a wish made by a little girl long ago. It sounds like a great easy, festive, hopeful read that captures the season!
I hope you enjoy these recommendations!