A Christmas Memory by Richard Paul Evans. Perennial holiday favorite Evans returns with a heartfelt, poignant story set in the 1960s. Hard losses have recently defined Richard’s life, leaving the holidays a time of uncertainty. After an older neighbor helps Richard when school boys attack him, Richard finds a true friend, a new love of books and dogs, and some holiday spirit, too.
A Merry Little Meet Cute by Julie Murphy. Bee has become famous for her steamy film career, but when she is cast for a Hope Channel holiday movie, her image needs a family- friendly update. Her co-star is none other than her adolescent crush, who is searching for a new direction too. When Bee and Nolan meet, the chemistry is undeniable. Can they keep their romance under wraps? A fun, sexy, and joyful holiday romance.
A Murder at Balmoral by Chris McGeorge. King Eric Windsor holds court over the royal family’s Christmas celebration at Balmoral Castle each year, with drama and fighting and manipulation the standard fare. But this year, murder is afoot because King Eric has collapsed and died just before giving his annual speech and naming his successor. The family can not agree on anything, so investigating the murder falls to the King’s loyal chef. A clever closed-room mystery with charm.
Spare by Prince Harry. Prince Harry of Sussex’s long-awaited memoir is an honest, unflinching reflection on his life so far, both as heir to the British throne and a private citizen.
The Villa by Rachel Hawkins. An Italian summer retreat in- spires a young woman’s creativity but threatens to destroy her oldest friendship. Emily and Chess were childhood best friends until the demands of adult life came between them. Trying to reconnect, Chess invites Emily to spend the summer with her at Villa Aestas, a gorgeous Italian home famous as the setting where, decades earlier, one of pop music’s most iconic records was written and an artist was murdered. When Emily discovers original writings that shed light on the murder and the music, she shares with Chess how these may invigorate her stalled writing career. But grudges and competition threaten to overwhelm the rebuilt friendship. A suspenseful tale in a lush setting.
