My own answer is “not much,” but I hope you’re getting more time to read than me! I have been listening to audiobooks a lot, though, while baking Christmas goodies and getting ready for Christmas visits!
I’m still deciding on my First Book of 2026, but I need to choose and send my photo in soon for Sheila’s 13th Annual First Book of the Year photo collages at Book Journey. For my birthday, I received signed copies of books by Massachusetts authors – An Ordinary Wonder by Buki Papillon and The Bear by Andrew Krivak – so I may choose one of them. But I have others that I bought for myself or received as gifts in 2025 (or earlier) that I also haven’t read yet, so I may choose one of those.
Currently Reading
Singin’ and Swingin’ and Gettin’ Merry Like Christmas by Maya Angelou
Charged with Maya Angelou’s remarkable sense of life and love, Singin’ and Swingin’ and Gettin’ Merry Like Christmas is a unique celebration of the human condition–and an enthralling saga that has touched, inspired, and empowered readers worldwide. – Publisher
I started reading Maya Angelou’s autobiographies a couple of years ago, I think, and when I came across book #3 while searching in Libby for Christmas books, I grabbed it. It doesn’t actually have to do with Christmas beyond the title, I don’t think, but, as with the first two, it’s fascinating to read about her life and art.
The Christmas Wedding Guest: A Holiday Romance by Susan Mallery
“This two-in-one romance starts a new series that Mallery’s many fans will devour like a Christmas cookie.”—Booklist
This one is definitely a Christmas book – ready to be optioned for a Hallmark holiday movie, if it hasn’t already been made into one!
Recently Listened To
Mistletoe and Murder by Carola Dunn
“Replete with well-drawn characters, snappy dialogue, and interesting plot twists…painting a fascinating portrait of human nature. Easily the best entry in a charming series.”—Booklist
The Mistletoe Mystery: A Maid Novella by Nita Prose
Molly the Maid has a whole new mystery to solve in this heartwarming novella from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Maid and The Mystery Guest. – Publisher
Love, Holly by Emily Stone
“Written with her signature charm, Emily Stone’s Love, Holly is a heartfelt novel that will endear readers.”—Booklist
Currently Listening To
Dachshund Through the Snow by David Rosenfelt
“Narrator Grover Gardner…makes the experience of listening to this audiobook as delightful as can be.” — AudioFile Magazine
This post is linked up to It’s Monday, What Are You Reading, hosted by The Book Date. It’s Monday! What Are You Reading is a place to meet up and share what you have been and are currently reading each week. Visit the link-up for more books to add to your groaning TBR pile.
Some great Christmas reading here for sure. Yes I have been thinking about the first book of the year and struggling to decide. It’s a good week away but I know we have to decide and send photo. Pressure! Hope you have a lovely Christmas with family.
Thank you! I kind of want to wait and see what books might be under the tree for me on Christmas Day! 😉
I need to choose my First Book as well and get my photo into Sheila. Thank you for reminding/motivating me! Happy Holidays!
You have lots of Christmas cheer on your reading list! I listened to a few holiday audiobooks this year but I find it difficult to find ones that are actually good. So many are just mediocre at best. I hope you enjoyed yours! Happy New Year!
The Murder at Holly House on audio was good, but I know what you mean. The David Rosenfelt Christmas audios are light legal thrillers that are fun. I listened to one last year and another one this year. For serious listening, Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan, A Lot Like Christmas by Connie Willis, and The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey (You’ve probably already read these!)