It’s hard to believe that 2023 is coming to a close! We had some wonderful books released this year. I’d like to share twelve of my favorites with you that would be perfect gifts for book-loving friends and family. Hopefully you find a recommendation for everyone on your list!
Christmas Forevermore by Sally Britton, Sarah M. Eden, Karen Thornell, and Ashton Newbold is a collection of four historical romance novellas centered around the Christmas holidays. There are mistletoe moments, dancing with dashing suitors, and plenty of matchmaking. Each story will weave the Christmas spirit closer around your heart and leave you warm and cozy with all the sparkly happy feelings of the season. Published by Covenant Communications. Available in ebook, paperback, and audio.
The Trespassers by Stephanie Black. This paranormal murder mystery was difficult to predict with several viable red herrings. I was glued to the page and can’t wait for the next book in the series. Published by Covenant Communications. Available in ebook, paperback, and audio.
Secret of the Sonnets by Samantha Hastings is a quirky historical mystery with plenty of twists, witty conversation, humor, and romance. The detail and nuance in this clever story were particularly well done. Published by Covenant Communications. Available in ebook, paperback, and audio.
Shifting Sands by Kathi Oram Peterson is a time travel mystery romance that is well-researched and full of secrets. Readers will learn more about the World War II Sand Pounders and the danger will keep you racing to the end to see what happens! Published by Covenant Communications. Available in ebook, paperback, and audio.
Under the Java Moon by Heather B. Moore is a World War II historical fiction based on a true story of a family and what they endured while separated during the Japanese occupation of the Dutch East Indies. This inspiring novel will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Published by Shadow Mountain. Available in ebook, hardback, and audio.
A Waltz with Traitors by A.L. Sowards is an epic tale of fighting for Czechoslovakian independence and finding connection and love in the middle of war. With intrigue and sabotage, friendship and perseverance, this is a memorable story. Published by Covenant Communications. Available in ebook, paperback, and audio.
The Queen and the Knave by Sarah M. Eden is a fast-paced action-adventure romance set in Victorian times. The Dread Penny Society is finally going to face the greatest villain London has ever seen. Moirin Donnelly and Detective Constable Parkington are trying to keep everyone safe, but things get complicated fast. Published by Shadow Mountain. Available in ebook, paperback, and audio.
Educating Elizabeth by Jennifer Moore is a complex Victorian romance that highlights the plight of the poor and the hearts of those trying to help them. A thoughtful romance with well-written characters and plenty of emotional angst as our hero and heroine find the courage to change. Published by Covenant Communications. Available in ebook, paperback, and audio.
Just One More by Annette Lyon is a heart-pounding thriller with a unique dual point of view that adds an extra layer of nuance to this gripping tale. A riveting edge-of-your-seat mystery with several twists you won’t see coming! Published by Scarlet. Available in ebook, hardback, and audio.
Betting on Your Best Friend’s Brother by Melanie Jacobson is a romantic comedy with plenty of fireworks and funny moments. Readers will enjoy this charming story of experiencing the many bumps on the path to finding true love. Published by Four Petal Press. Available in ebook and paperback
Unseen by Traci Hunter Abramson is a thrill ride set in Honduras. Manuel is trying to keep an informant alive when unsuspecting civilian Laura is kidnapped by a cartel. Can he track her down and keep all of them from getting caught in the crossfire? Published by Covenant Communications. Available in ebook, paperback, and audio.
A Heart Worth Stealing by Joanna Barker is a mystery romance with a handsome Bow Street runner and an independent woman who team up to find a family heirloom and get more than they bargained for! Published by Shadow Mountain. Available in ebook and paperback.
I hope you found some books on this list that are perfect gifts for your loved ones! As always, I wish I could highlight all of my favorites, but that would be a very, very long list. There were just so many wonderful books that I loved. If you would like to add your favorite books of the year, please comment below. I’d love to hear your recommendations! Happy holidays!
After winning $10 in a second-grade writing contest, Julie Coulter Bellon knew she wanted to be a published author someday. That dream came true and she is now an award-winning author of thirty books. She is also a podcast host for Authors Off the Page and Book Chat with Julie
