Fill Your Reading List with 12 Uplifting Fiction Reads for the Holidays
Looking for the best Christian fiction books this holiday season? This cozy reading list has something for every reader, including heartwarming Christmas romance novellas, World War II historical fiction, Regency romance, biblical fiction, and a cozy mystery. Whether you’re searching for a gift for the book lover in your life or an addition to your wish list, these books will fill the season with hope and joy.
There’s something lovely about settling in with a good book during the holidays. Maybe it’s a Christmas romance that puts you in the holiday spirit, a historical novel that transports you to another time, or a mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end. Whatever your favorite genre, a good story is always a welcome addition to the season.
We’ve gathered twelve Christian fiction reads with a little something for everyone. Some feature festive holiday settings and heartwarming romances, while others explore friendship, family, faith, and the challenges that shape our lives. You’ll also find stories set in different periods of history, along with a cozy mystery for readers who enjoy a bit of intrigue.
Whether you’re looking for your next read, adding a few titles to your Christmas wish list, or shopping for a friend who loves books, we hope this collection gives you some ideas. So grab a cup of coffee or tea, get comfortable, and see which of these uplifting fiction reads might be just right for your holiday reading list.
Twelve Days and Twelfth Night by Sarah Sundin
World War II Homefront Christmas Novella
World War II USO director Maggie Oliver must quickly organize a Christmas show, enlisting former Hollywood star Prescott Duke, who’s searching for new purpose after career-ending injuries. As they work together, Maggie and Prescott navigate their growing feelings while trying to reunite a young sailor with his lost love and save Maggie’s grandfather’s home.
We Wish You a Messy Christmas by Melody Carlson
Hallmark movie-esque Christmas Romance Novella
Olivia Bradshaw is dating veterinarian Malcolm McEntire, but her perfectionist mother hates his unorganized, messy family. Fearing her mother will ruin their romance, Olivia and her dad concoct a plot to derail their typical perfect Christmas. But will her mother ever embrace the chaos and joy of a messy Christmas?
Matchmaking Christmas by Toni Shiloh
The Parent Trap-Inspired Christmas Romance Novella
When widow Regina Parker and single father Theo Evers are reluctantly reunited by their scheming daughters, they must navigate past heartbreak while being thrust together for holiday activities. Through concerts and competitions, Theo and Regina must decide if they’re brave enough to risk everything for a second chance at the love that got away.
Belle’s Christmas Carol by Michelle Griep
A Dickens-Inspired Victorian Holiday Novella
Scrooge’s former fiancée Belle Beaumont inherits a struggling London orphanage and longs to give the children a merry Christmas. She joins forces with barrister Rafe Munro, who’s fighting to clear an innocent man’s name while searching for a child who may be his relative. Secrets and unexpected love intertwine in this tale with echoes of Dickens.
The Palace Spy by Tessa Afshar
Ancient Biblical-Era Historical Fiction
After the death of her master, Danna is traveling in search of work when she encounters a runaway horse, only to discover that its rider is Queen Esther of Persia. When it becomes clear the accident was an attempt on the queen’s life, Danna must join former spy Allon to uncover the threat and race to save Esther’s life.
The Widow of Woodlark Cottage by Julie Klassen
Jane Austen-esque Regency Romance
Young widow Elizabeth Eaton travels to the North Devonshire coast to collect her late father’s belongings. While there, she meets a charming seafarer who fills her head with local legends and an aloof man of business with his own agenda. When strange incidents begin to occur, Elizabeth must decide which man to trust when her life—and heart—are in danger.
Things We Cannot Keep by Amanda Cox
Southern Literary Fiction
In 1939 Georgia, Cora Cain runs The Brunswick, her family’s struggling general store and hotel. When Thomas Watkins arrives seeking solace after his mother’s death, a connection sparks. But their relationship and courage are tested when they shelter Jewish refugee children, including ten-year-old Charlotte, whose father faces persecution in Austria.
These Empty Places by Sarah Loudin Thomas
Southern Historical Fiction
Claire Roth sacrificed love for a life of comfort on Lake Toxaway—until the dam broke. Lena Hawkins and her husband arrive in town after losing everything, and she forms an unexpected connection with Claire. When Claire is given a second chance at love and Lena a tempting chance at wealth, both women must release the past to fill tomorrow with promise.
The Sisterhood of Unlikely Friends by Sara Brunsvold
Inspirational Contemporary Women’s Fiction
When fiercely independent Jess Becker reluctantly shares pizza with her neighbor, she unknowingly opens her door to community. Soon joined by a wise mentor figure and a troubled young woman, they become a sisterhood of faith. But Jess holds a guarded secret—one that threatens to take away everything.
Don’t Upstage the Body by Naomi Stephens
Cozy Historical Mystery
Hippolyta Halfpenny and her family of professional mourners find themselves trapped at a reclusive lord’s funeral after the undertaker is murdered. As suspicions rise, Hippolyta must conceal her family’s true identities, unravel secrets behind the murder, and unmask the truth before the final curtain falls.
The Home Front Sisters by Amy Lynn Green
Little Women-Inspired World War II Fiction
World War II pulls the Alcott sisters in different directions. Joan is restless for adventure and finds herself driving a trolley through Philadelphia’s streets, while Amelia serves with the Navy in Florida alongside Lawrence Whitman, the boy next door. Will faith, courage, and sisterhood bonds be enough to see them through to the end of the war?
