I’m starting a new series every other Monday! Every week, I’ll post a playlist I curated based on my current read. This week, we’ll dive into Only for the Holidays by Abiola Bello. This story has all the festive vibes, family warmth, and romantic tension you could want, and these songs capture that magic beautifully!
The book📖
Synopsis
City girl Tia Solanké is dreading the festive period. She’s on a break with her boyfriend and the last thing she wants to do is spend Christmas away from London. Arriving at Saiyan Hedge Farm, Tia takes an instant disliking to it. She falls in horse manure, is chased by sheep and the Wi-Fi sucks. How is she meant to stalk her ex now and concoct a foolproof plan to win him back?
Country boy Quincy Parker and his family run the farm, and this year they’ve been selected to host the biggest event in the town’s calendar – the Winter Ball. Preparations are underway, and Quincy is working around the clock to make it a success. The only problem is, he’s told everyone he has a date to the ball, when in reality that couldn’t be further from the truth.
At first, Tia and Quincy don’t see eye to eye, until they realise they both have something to gain by pretending to be a couple. But when a snowstorm threatens to cancel the Winter Ball, their fake relationship is put to the test. Will Tia and Quincy be able to keep up the pretence and save the day, or will real feelings get in the way?
The playlist 🎶
- “This Christmas” – Donny Hathaway
Warm, soulful, and timeless—just like the moments of family and connection in the book. - “Let It Snow” – Boyz II Men feat. Brian McKnight
Smooth and romantic, perfect for those tender, snow-filled moments. - “Santa Baby” – Eartha Kitt
A playful and cheeky classic for the fun, flirtatious energy of the holidays. - “8 Days of Christmas” – Destiny’s Child
Upbeat and modern, this one is perfect for festive fun and shopping sprees! - “Give Love on Christmas Day” – The Jackson 5
Sweet and heartfelt—just like the book’s message of love and togetherness. - “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” – Luther Vandross
Luther’s soulful voice captures the quiet, reflective moments of the season. - “Silent Night” – Aretha Franklin
Powerful, moving, and full of emotion—like the deeper family moments in the story. - “Someday at Christmas” – Stevie Wonder
This hopeful track feels perfect for those heartwarming and thoughtful moments. - “Every Year, Every Christmas” – Luther Vandross
A romantic ballad that matches the yearning and love in the story. - “The Christmas Song” – Nat King Cole
Timeless and elegant, adding a touch of nostalgic holiday magic. - “Soul Holidays” – Sounds of Blackness
Joyful and celebratory—just like the bustling holiday scenes in the book. - “What Christmas Means to Me” – Stevie Wonder
Energetic and fun, this one perfectly captures festive holiday activities! - “It’s Christmas Time” – Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
Sweet harmonies for cozy moments shared with loved ones. - “Little Drummer Boy” – Alicia Keys
A soulful and unique touch to your holiday playlist. - “Who Would Imagine a King” – Whitney Houston
Tender and emotional, this one’s perfect for the heartfelt, family-centered moments in the story.
Why these songs?
Only for the Holidays brings together love, family, and the spirit of the season. This playlist reflects that with a mix of soulful classics, upbeat bops, and heartfelt ballads by incredible Black artists who bring their unique magic to holiday music.
What songs make it onto your holiday playlist? Let me know in the comments or share your favorites on Instagram. And if you haven’t already, grab a copy of Only for the Holidays and get into the festive spirit with me! 🎄🎶
heavenlybookish 