December Staff Recommendations

How My Neighbor Stole Christmas by Meghan Quinn

Storee Taylor had successfully avoided Kringletown for a decade after an embarrassing holiday mishap left her scarred for life. But when her elderly aunt broke her hip, Storee and her sister returned to town to help their dear Aunt Cindy get back on her feet. Cole Black, Aunt Cindy’s neighbor, had been harboring a decade old grudge against Storee and wasn’t pleased to see that she has taken up residence right next door to him. When, on behalf of her Aunt Cindy, Storee reluctantly entered the town’s beloved Christmas Kringle competition, Cole decided that it was the last straw. With the help of his best friend Max, Cole set out to sabotage Storee’s chances of winning by charming the town into voting for him instead. But things got messy when Cole and Storee found themselves fake dating to appease the nosey townspeople in this hilarious holiday rom-com! With an underlying Grinchy theme and a witty narrator, this was a fun read. I thoroughly enjoyed it on audio and could not get enough of it! This book is available at the library. ~ Alesia

Haven't Killed in Years by Amy K. Green

Gwen is the daughter of a notorious serial killer who for twenty years has led a very quiet life. Until one day some "packages" start showing up at her door with her old name written on them. Gwen sets out to find out who knows about her past. This novel is well-written, fast-paced and full of dark humor. I loved it! Available at the library and through Libby.

~ Leslie W.

A Merry Little Lie by Sarah Morgan

The Balfour family love the holidays but especially being together for Christmas except this year each sibling has a secret they're hiding. Twin sisters Becky & Rosie aren't as close as they've been because they're keeping something from each other and the rest of the family. Becky's trying to fly home but gets stranded at the airport until she unexpectedly runs into her brother Jamie's best friend Will. He offers her a ride home and she shares her secret with him; Will promises to help but being with him may make it worse.

Rosie meets Becky's friend and co-worker Declan; they have an instant spark. After a fast courtship they decide to marry. Was their marriage too quick? Jamie is also bringing his new girlfriend Hayley to their family's festive celebration but has not shared an important detail with everyone. Will the sibling's troubles affect their fun & cheery gathering or will they reveal their secrets in time to have a merry holiday? This book is available at the library and on audio through Libby. ~ Erin

Grace & Henry's Holiday Movie Marathon by Matthew Norman

Quite possibly the most delightful holiday romance ever! I love a smart, meaningful romantic comedy & this one is it. Grace and Henry are both grieving the loss of their spouses when their mothers conspire to introduce them. Their friendship is formed around their mutual love and even disdain for classic holiday movies. Heartwarming, touching, darkly comedic with well-written believable characters. Even the children are written superbly. Absolute perfection on audio. Available at the library and through Libby. 

~ Leslie M.

Never Flinch by Stephen King

Another thriller by Stephen King that keeps you reading into the night. Detective Izzy Jaynes is on the hunt for a serial killer on a revenge mission. Add a vigilante that is targeting a feminist celebrity speaker, new characters plus returning favorite Holly Gibney and you have a great read that will keep you totally engrossed. Available at the library and through Libby. ~ Bonnie