Hogfather is a festive novel based in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld – a flat, circular planet that rests on the backs of four elephants, which in turn are standing on the back of a giant turtle. The events in Pratchett’s Discworld novels reflect events or ideas from our world just covered in a distinctly “Discworld” way. Christmas, for example, is known as Hogswatch, and Santa as the Hogfather. It’s still known to be the most joyful time of year – a time for giving and celebrating with loved ones. Except, there are certain beings who have had enough of the holiday. They want the Hogfather out of the picture and hire an assassin to do so. With the Hogfather’s disappearance and disbelief spreading amongst children, Death takes the reigns of the sleigh to ensure the universe is righted once again. With Death occupied by the giving of gifts, his granddaughter Susan finds the responsibility of unraveling the dastardly plan falls on her shoulders.
Terry Pratchett is such a talented satirical writer because there is also so much heart in his stories. It’s not all cynicism or judgement of society, it’s also a celebration of the wobbly, unstable bits of humanity that we try to pretend isn’t there but that ultimately make us human. Therefore, we should embrace them! And Terry Pratchett does so in a silly, magical way that everyone can enjoy.
The Eight Reindeer of the Apocalypse by Tom Holt follows the team of sorcerers at Dawson, Ahriman & Dawson, along with a certain jolly, bearded fellow, as they try to save the world from an incoming asteroid steered by a vindictive goddess whose ex locked her in said asteroid.
This is such a fun, festive read. If you like comedic fantasy novels, you should definitely check out Tom Holt. I just love when an author knows how to make you laugh while also making you pause to consider the truth hidden behind the jokes.
A Creme Brulee Christmas by Randi Lynn is a cute contemporary romance for the holidays. It’s a quick read and plays out like a classic Hallmark Christmas movie (with some additional steamy bits that would have to be cut out for television).
Baker Donna Phillips finds herself whipped up between nosey neighbors and an arrogant architect, all while trying to survive Christmas chaos. Can her son, Owen, mix up a holiday miracle to show Donna that love is the reason for the season?
If you’re looking for something quick, cute and sexy, and easy to read, this is a great choice to wind down after the holiday chaos.
For All Story Lovers! 