Good afternoon, everybody.
Today marks the first day of November! I don't know about you all, but in my household, November also marks the start of the Christmas season. Granted, I also enjoy Thanksgiving, but Christmas is really where my focus lies starting Nov. 1.
Soon, I will begin decorating for the holidays and growing excited for the winter season.
I hope everyone had a fun and safe Halloween yesterday, and I hope you've had the chance to recuperate and relax. Halloween has always been one of my favorite holidays, but it can also be a very long and tiring day depending on how you choose to celebrate.
Today, I wanted to recommend a few books to read during the holiday season that have cozy vibes for you to enjoy by a warm fireplace. I tried to incorporate various genres in the mix so that there would be a recommendation for everybody.
Also, before I begin, I want to remind everyone that our PODCAST comes out every Friday on most listening platforms. Also called BOOKMARKED, you can find the podcast on our website here. This week, Janie, Draco, and I discuss a variety of NEW BOOKS coming out that we are very excited for. We talk about everything ranging from historical fiction to the mystery genre to children's books. You won't want to miss it!
First, let's start out with Reclaiming Christmas by Melissa Sneed Wilson.
This novel is a perfect story to read around Christmastime! It has been described as a romance movie in book-form and contains themes of romance, family, and inspiration. It is a cozy read for all ages to enjoy.
During the holiday season, a cynical economic consultant grieving the loss of his parents butts heads with a Christmas-obsessed hospital administrator over their town's annual holiday festival.
As they navigate their feelings about Christmas and each other, they learn that maybe they aren't so different after all.
This lovely novel can be purchased online here.
2. Next, let's switch gears and talk about a fantastical young adult novel called The Purple Bird by Dylan Roche.
No matter how long he has yearned to escape his boring life as an ordinary teenager, nothing can prepare James Shannassy for the afternoon when he meets a figmental bird called Archit.
The two set off for the world of Nalgordia to break a centuries-old curse. Being the hero of his own fantasy adventure isn't exactly what James expected, but when he finds himself caught up in an epic fight against a force of evil, he knows he might be the only one able to stop it.
Archit's fate now rests entirely in James' hands... and there's no turning back now.
This fantasy novel can be purchased here.
3. Now, I'd like to call your attention to one of our anthology series, titled Snowy Trails.
At JCP, we are very proud of our anthology series, and "Snowy Trails" is a special one.
With each story set in the Appalachian region, "Snowy Trails: A Short Story Collection" presents a strong sense of place and belonging.
Noted authors contribute stories capturing trials, tribulations, and triumphs, each one sprinkled with a gamut of emotions. In this collection, readers will become immersed in the varietal settings and characters and will share the feelings of heartache in challenges, and the joys of survival.
This anthology is perfect for the winter season, and it can be purchased here.
4. Finally, I wanted to recommend a novel that is currently available for pre-order titled Gone Before Breakfast by Jan Howery.
When brothers Jackson and Brandon Taylor vanished without a trace at the airport, their girlfriends, Jan and Allison, are left heartbroken and confused. The women have no idea where the brothers went, or how they disappeared from the airport.
After years of no clues, Jan and Allison move on with their lives. Allison soon meets an investigator who reveals that there’s a secret ongoing investigation of the brothers. Through twists and turns, Allison discovers the truth and learns that their boyfriends were in danger.
Does she keep the secrets to herself? Does Jan need to know the truth? The brothers could be alive, but finding them will put Allison’s and Jan’s lives at risk. Secrets, lies, and deception abound in this cozy mystery that can be pre-ordered here.
Thank you to everyone reading this week's blog post. I appreciate each and every one of you!
Remember to listen to our weekly podcast, BOOKMARKED, every single Friday. This week's episode will be a very fun one!
Allison Chudina
Editorial Assistant
Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.
Bookmarked
Great suggestions! Love the season and on a cold snowy weekend, I love to read a good book!