It’s the season of giving, and there’s no better gift that an engrossing novel (at least not, in my opinion). So, whether you’re currently searching for titles to add to your own Christmas wish list, or looking for the perfect present for a loved one, here are 9 novels that will make really brilliant gifts, this holiday season…
My Sister, The Serial Killer By Oyinkan Braithwaite
Korede’s younger sister Ayoola has a habit of killing her boyfriends. And each time Korede helps her clean up the mess. But when Ayoola starts dating Korede’s boss (who has long been the object of Korede’s affections), Korede must decide who to protect.
Give To… Your best friend. This is the kind of novel you’ll want to talk about over cocktails. It’s fast-paced, addictive and unlike anything you’ll have read before.
Where The Crawdads Sing By Delia Owens
Abandoned by her family, Kya grows up alone in the swamps of North Carolina. Known to locals as the “Marsh Girl”, she only has the gulls for friends. Until, one day, two young men from the town become transfixed by Kya, leading her into danger.
Give To… Friends and family members who love stories that centre around nature and beautiful landscapes.
The Dutch House By Ann Patchett
Danny and his sister Mauve are exiled from their lavish family home, The Dutch House, after their father dies and their stepmother takes ownership of the property. As adults, they struggle to let go of the house – and the past.
Give To… Lovers of literary fiction and your siblings (Ann Pathcett is SO skilled at writing sibling relationships).
City Of Girls By Elizabeth Gilbert
Vivian moves to New York city aged 19, with nothing but her suitcase and sewing machine. She soon becomes the seamstress at a flailing New York theatre, befriends a bunch of showgirls and has the time of her life in the city.
Give To… Your best friend, sisters, mother, etc. This is a wonderful coming-of-age story. To quote Vivian, “At some point in a woman’s life, she just gets tired of being ashamed all the time. After that, she is free to become whoever she truly is.”
The Bankers Wife By Cristina Alger
Annabel’s husband husband has died in a plane crash, and she’s left wondering whether it was really an accident. Meanwhile, Mariana’s boss has been found dead, and it seems like more than a coincidence his death occurred whilst he was investigating a powerful and corrupt bank.
Give To… Anyone who loved Gone Girl and Girl on the Train.
The Seven Husbands Of Evelyn Hugo By Taylor Jenkins-Reid
Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo comes out of retirement to grant one last interview. Famously married seven times, she shares the stories of each marriage, and reveals the true love of her life.
Give To… Anyone obsessed with the Golden Age of Hollywood. Or fans of epic love stories.
Girl, Woman, Other By Bernardine Evar
Bernardine Evaristo made history, earlier this year, becoming the first black woman to win the Booker Prize. Her winning novel, Girl, Woman, Other should be on every bookworms Christmas list.
Give To… Loved ones who pride themselves on being one of the first to read all of the buzziest titles.
Circe By Madeline Miller
In Greek mythology, Circe is a goddess of magic, and the daughter of the god Helios. When her gift of magic threatens the gods, she’s sent to live on a remote island, where she soon greats an unexpected visitor: Odysseus.
Give To… Fans of Greek mythology and fantasy fiction will go wild for this novel. But I fall into neither category, and absolutely adored it. So, really, it’s perfect for anyone who loves good storytelling!
American Royals By Katherine Mcgee
What if America had a Royal family? This YA novel follows the young Royals in the House of Washington.
Give To… Teenage siblings and cousins, or anyone who adored Gossip Girl and Crazy Rich Asians.
