The holidays are upon us, and there’s no better way to embrace the festive spirit than by diving into stories that blend the magic of Christmas with fantastical worlds. Here’s a curated list of Christmas-themed fantasy novels, highlighting diverse voices and inclusive narratives, perfect for adding warmth and wonder to your holiday reading.
1. Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris
Category: Adult
Trigger Warnings: Dark humor, language, references to substance abuse
This collection of essays offers a satirical take on holiday traditions, featuring Sedaris’s experiences, including his time as a Macy’s elf. Known for his sharp wit, Sedaris, a queer author, provides a humorous yet poignant perspective on the absurdities of the festive season.
2. Black Nativity by Langston Hughes
Category: All Ages (Play)
Trigger Warnings: Religious themes
Langston Hughes, a pivotal figure in the Harlem Renaissance, reimagines the Nativity story through an African American lens, incorporating gospel music and vibrant storytelling. This play celebrates cultural heritage and community, offering a soulful rendition of the Christmas narrative.
3. The Christmas Spell by D.J. Heart
Category: Adult
Trigger Warnings: Explicit content
This LGBTQ+ romance introduces a wizard crafting the perfect Christmas gift through a spell, leading to unexpected romantic entanglements. It’s a festive tale filled with magic and heartwarming moments, catering to readers seeking queer-centric holiday stories.
4. A Taste of Sugar and Snow by Rebekah Weatherspoon
Category: Adult
Trigger Warnings: None
Rebekah Weatherspoon, a queer author of color, presents a cozy holiday novella where a baker with a magical touch teams up with a charming stranger to save her family’s bakery. The story is rich with holiday cheer, delectable treats, and a sprinkle of enchantment.
5. The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jasmine Guillory
Category: Adult
Trigger Warnings: None
Jasmine Guillory, a POC author, crafts a heartwarming tale of a woman embarking on twelve dates to find her perfect match during the holiday season. While not strictly fantasy, the story exudes holiday magic and features a diverse cast, making it a delightful festive read.
6. All I Want for Christmas Is the Girl Next Door by Chelsea M. Cameron
Category: Young Adult
Trigger Warnings: None
This sapphic holiday romance follows a young woman whose wish leads her into an alternate reality where her best friend is now her girlfriend. Chelsea M. Cameron, a queer author, delivers a lighthearted and magical narrative perfect for the festive season.
7. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
Category: Adult
Trigger Warnings: None
Sangu Mandanna, a POC author, tells the story of Mika Moon, a solitary witch hired to teach three young witches to control their powers in a secluded, wintry mansion. This whimsical tale explores themes of found family and love, wrapped in holiday spirit.
8. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Category: Middle Grade
Trigger Warnings: War themes, mild violence
This classic introduces four siblings who discover the magical land of Narnia, trapped in eternal winter by the White Witch. Their journey to restore hope, aided by the noble lion Aslan, intertwines themes of sacrifice and redemption, with a touch of festive magic.
9. Midnight in Everwood by M.A. Kuzniar
Category: Adult
Trigger Warnings: Emotional abuse, violence, sexism
Inspired by The Nutcracker, this novel follows Marietta, an aspiring ballerina, drawn into a magical winter kingdom. M.A. Kuzniar crafts a lush fantasy romance filled with court intrigue and holiday enchantment, perfect for the festive season.
10. A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig
Category: Middle Grade
Trigger Warnings: Death, grief, bullying
Matt Haig offers an origin story of Santa Claus through the adventures of Nikolas, a kind-hearted boy journeying to the North Pole. Filled with elves, reindeer, and holiday cheer, this heartwarming tale delivers humor and magic for readers of all ages.nships, and mild sexual content.
These cozy Christmas romances will fill your heart with festive cheer and diverse representation. Whether you’re looking for a lighthearted YA tale or a swoon-worthy adult love story, there’s something here to warm your soul this season.
Which one will you pick up first? Let me know in the comments or share your cozy holiday reads with me!
Note: Trigger warnings are provided based on available information to assist readers in making informed choices.
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