Find out what books are naughty and nice—December 16, 2011
Every October, timed not too early and not too late, publishers release a blizzard of Christmas-themed fiction novels. And like the children on Santa’s famous twice-checked list, some are naughty and some are nice!
This year’s no different with something for nearly everyone, a mixed holiday gift bag, from the reverent to the irreverent - mysterious, magical, suspenseful, spiritual, humorous, romantic stories with one thing in common, a Christmas backdrop.
Most Christmas authors write within their usual genre. Others such as James Patterson have written a Christmas story as a departure from their usual work.
With emotional twists typical of his thrillers, Patterson presents “The Christmas Wedding,” a fresh look at family and the magic of the season. The library has this title in regular, large print and audio versions.
David Sedaris fans won’t be disappointed with “Holidays on Ice” a collection of short stories filled with his trademark razor sharp wit, irreverent sarcasm and cynicism. This is a re-release of a 1997 collection with the addition of several new stories.
“Lost December: A Novel,” by Richard Paul Evans, is a holiday version of the biblical story of the prodigal son, a tale of redemption, hope and the true meaning of love. The library has copies of this story in regular print and a sound recording.
“A Christmas Homecoming,” by Anne Perry, is a Victorian mystery with dark secrets and modern-day thrills and chills. Although it contains characters from her eight previous Christmas novels, it can be enjoyed alone.
Author Cindy Woodsmall’s latest in her Amish romance series, Ada’s House, is “The Christmas Singing.” While the title mentions Christmas, the book’s focus is on the relationships of its main characters rather than the holiday.
The library has numerous traditionally sentimental novels that celebrate the magic of Christmas.
“The Christmas Shoppe,” by Melody Carlson is a homespun tale which promises to touch hearts. As townsfolk venture into a strange store, they discover that old memories can bring new life and healing.
“The Christmas Note,” by Donna VanLiere is an inspirational novel about an unlikely friendship between two women.
Women’s fiction author Debbie Macomber’s latest release and the last in her Cedar Cove series is “1225 Christmas Tree Lane.” This charming Christmas story is available in regular and large print type. Enjoy something naughty/something nice this Christmas from Hastings Public Library!
