10.) The Christmas Tree Farm Mystery Series (The Twelve Slays of Christmas, 'Twas the Knife Before Christmas, and Slashing Through the Snow) By: Jacquleine Frost
This delightful series is as charming as charming can be. Set in Mistletoe, Maine at the Reindeer Games Tree Farm, with wonderfully quirky characters, it was pure joy reading all three books in this series. Despite the corpses that keep popping up at Christmas time, Mistletoe is a place I would so live in!
9.) How Y'All Doing? By: Leslie Jordan
The diminutive actor packs a whole lot of story in a small book. I defy you to read it and not smile! A true southern gentleman, Leslie is a true storyteller, with a heart of gold. This little book is a pure gem!
8.) The Last Thing to Burn By: Will Dean
A harrowing, claustrophobic tale set on a sprawling farm. I can't actually say anymore than that without giving away major plot points. Suffice it to say, this novel will unnerve you at the same time the author's exceptional wiring will awe you.
7.) Station Eleven By: Emily St. John Mandel
Written about 10 years before COVID, this tale follows a theatrical troupe on it's rounds in the aftermath of a pandemic that wipes out most of the population. Think Outbreak meets The Stand.
6.) How Lucky By: Will Leitch
Reviews state that if you liked Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime, you'll like How Lucky. This is a bit simplistic, because, other than the main character being differently abled and having a mystery to solve, the two books are not alike. They are both brilliant however. How Lucky is not what you think it is going to be, and you should just sit back and enjoy one of the most creative characters in literature and the ride!
5.) A Deadly Education By: Naomi Novik
A Novel that turns the fantasy genre on its ear. Think Hogwarts going to the Dark Side. A fascinating, fun and snarky boarding school/coming of age story with a sadistic twist. So GOOD!
4.) Wreathing Havoc By: Julia Henry (aka Julie Hennrikus)
I adore this cozy mystery series. The Garden Squad is comprised of a diverse group of people from all backgrounds and walks of life which is so refreshing! The mysteries are well plotted and the cast of characters a superbly drawn. I've singled this one out because the use of crafts (definitely my bailiwick) is so creative and delightful and just adds to the overall small town feel of Goosebush! Do yourself a favor and get this whole series, as a Christmas present to yourself!
3.) The Lincoln Highway By: Amor Towles
An expert story teller, Towles latest tome does not disappoint. A road trip in the wrong direction leads it's teenage protagonist and his little brother on a trip to self discovery, with unexpected fellow travelers and consequences. Gorgeous!
2.) The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo By: Taylor Jenkins Reid
A little bit of classic Hollywood backstage drama, a glamorous movie star, several secrets and a twist that will give you whiplash! This fantastic read lies up to its hype and then some!
1.) The James Herriot Memoirs (All Creatures Great and Small; All Things Bright and Beautifull;All Things Wise and Wonderful; The Lord God Made Them All; Every Living Thing) By: James Herriot
I can not gush enough about these books! Reading them was like sitting in an old English pub, in a worn leather chair in front of a fire, with a dog at your side and pint in your hand, while chatting with an old friend. Everything about these stories is comfortable, cozy, heartfelt, moving and funny. I binge read all 5 books at the beginning of this year and they have stayed with me all year!
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