It might still be warm outside, but holiday romance season is officially calling. From fake dating in the Scottish Highlands to FBI agents chasing a very bad Santa, these upcoming releases are ready to bring the romance, laughs and a little heat. Grab the cocoa, or, if you’re in South Florida, an iced coffee, and start adding to that TBR.
The Christmas Getaway by Debbie Mason: Oct. 13
Fake dating, Scotland and a grumpy duke? Yes, please. Book-loving librarian Charlotte invents the perfect Scottish boyfriend to prove she’s totally over her ex, then heads overseas to make the story believable. But an unexpected encounter with a grumpy Highland duke and single dad turns her imaginary romance into something surprisingly real. Cozy, romantic and filled with family and Christmas magic, this one feels made for curling up under a blanket.
A Married Little Christmas by Abby Jimenez: Oct. 20
Apparently, we’ve been very good this year because Abby Jimenez is giving readers another book. This festive collection features three brand-new novellas, bonus recipes and illustrations by Jimenez’s daughter, Maya. Expect the humor, heart and romance readers love from Jimenez, plus enough holiday coziness and pancake cravings to make this a perfect little escape from the December chaos.
The Holiday House Swap by Lauren Appelbaum: Oct. 20
If The Holiday is part of your annual Christmas movie rotation, put this one on your list. Phoebe and Arden swap homes for the season, trading sunny Florida for snowy Seattle and vice versa. But changing addresses might also give them the chance to stop running from their pasts. Romantic, hopeful and wonderfully cozy, it’s about finding the kind of love, and home, you didn’t know you needed.
The Santa Claus Con by Lauren Kung Jessen: Oct. 27
Christmas romance meets an FBI thriller, and I’m already intrigued. Nathan and Scarlett are two agents, two certified Grinches and two exes with some serious unfinished business. Now they have one day to stop a dangerous Santa terrorizing New York City. Think second-chance romance, holiday action and Miss Congeniality energy wrapped together with a big red bow.
Too Cold for Comfort by Nisha J. Tuli: Nov. 1
Things are about to get very hot somewhere very cold. NatGeo photographer Aadya travels to the polar bear capital of the world hoping to capture the career-making shot, only to clash with Reid, the handsome and seriously surly lodge owner. Add northern lights, a struggling lodge, forced proximity, steamy hot-tub moments and undeniable chemistry, and this follow-up to Not Safe for Work sounds like one deliciously snowy romance.
Holiday books are arriving before the decorations go up, and I’m absolutely here for it. Happy reading!
