Christmas Fiction – serie

A memoir about motherhood and music from the bestselling author of I KNOW WHY THE CAGED BIRD SINGS'A brilliant writer, a fierce friend and a truly phenomenal woman' BARACK OBAMAMaya Angelou's seven volumes of autobiography are a testament to the talents and resilience of this extraordinary writer. Loving the world, she also knows its cruelty. As a black woman she has known discrimination and extreme poverty, but also hope, joy, achievement and celebration. In her third marvellous volume, music and her son are the focus of Maya Angelou's life. She is on the edge of a new world: marriage, show business and a triumphant tour of Porgy and Bess.'She moved through the world with unshakeable calm, confidence and a fierce grace . . . She will always be the rainbow in my clouds' OPRAH WINFREY'She was important in so many ways. She launched African American women writing in the United States. She was generous to a fault. She had nineteen talents - used ten. And was a real original. There is no duplicate' TONI MORRISON

'Nobody does cosy, get-away-from-it-all romance like Jenny Colgan' Sunday Express__________________________________Christmas is going to be extra magical this year . . . With real mouth-watering recipes for you to try at homeRosie Hopkins is looking forward to Christmas in the little Derbyshire village of Lipton, buried under a thick blanket of snow. Her sweetshop is festooned with striped candy canes, large tempting piles of Turkish Delight, crinkling selection boxes and happy, sticky children. She's going to be spending it with her boyfriend, Stephen, and her family, flying in from Australia. She can't wait.But when a tragedy strikes at the heart of their little community, all of Rosie's plans for the future seem to be blown apart. Can she build a life in Lipton? And is what's best for the sweetshop also what's best for Rosie? Treat yourself and your sweet-toothed friends to Jenny Colgan's heart-warming new novel. The irresistibly delicious recipes are guaranteed to get you into the festive spirit and will warm up your Christmas celebrations.____________________Why readers ADORE Jenny Colgan 'Jenny Colgan has a way of writing that makes me melt inside''Her books are so good I want to start over as soon as I have finished''There's something so engaging about her characters and plots''Her books are like a big, warm blanket''Her stories are just so fabulous''She brings her settings and characters so vividly to life''The woman is just magic'

The sparkling festive rom-com from the Sunday Times bestselling author of Christmas for BeginnersLouise Young is a devoted single mother whose only priority is providing for her daughter, Mia. Louise has a good job in a huge international corporation and she's grateful for it. The only problem is her boss who can't keep his hands to himself, but Louise can handle him. What she really doesn't have time for is romance - until she meets the company's rising star, Josh Wallace.Louise usually says no to evenings out but she's decided to let her hair down tonight. It's the office Christmas party, she has a pretty dress to wear and she's looking forward to some champagne and fun. She's completely unaware that others around her are too busy playing dangerous games to enjoy the party - until she's pulled into those games herself . . .Romance is in the air and secrets are about to be uncovered. It's going to be a night to remember at The Christmas Party.READERS LOVE THE CHRISTMAS PARTY'Carole never disappoints. As with all her other books this one had me hooked from page one . . . It's the perfect read for relaxing by the Christmas tree with a glass of mulled wine' ***** Reader Review'An absolute scream! You name it, it happens. Very funny - and quite emotional' ***** Reader Review'A superb festive book full of twists and turns but also plenty of laughs' ***** Reader Review'Put on your favourite Christmas songs in the background and get into the spirit early. You won't be disappointed' ***** Reader Review

It's time for the men to take over . . . NYT Bestselling author Sheila Roberts gives the best gift of all in this funny, heartwarming story that touches the very core of Christmas spirit.At Christmas time, it seems as though a woman's work is never done. Trimming the tree, mailing the cards, schlepping to the mall, the endless wrapping - bah humbug! So this year, Joy and Laura and the rest of their knitting group decide to go on strike. If their husbands and families want a nice holiday filled with parties, decorations, and presents - well, they'll just have to do it themselves. The boycott soon takes on a life of its own when a reporter picks up the story and more women join in. But as Christmas Day approaches, Joy, Laura, and their husbands confront larger issues in their marriages and discover that a little holiday magic is exactly what they need to come together.Sheila Roberts makes me laugh. I read her books and come away inspired, hopeful, and happy.- Debbie MacomberPerfect for fans of Marie Force, Debbie Macomber and Jill Shalvis, this is a sparkling Christmas story that's sure to capture your heart and leave you with a smile

'Within minutes of cracking open the book, my mood was lifted; the warm, glowing feeling it gave me lasted for days' First for Women'A heartwarming tale of magic, miracles and coming home' Goodreads reviewerAn unforgettable holiday treasure . . . When Kiley Gray discovers an enchanting snow globe in an antique shop, she has no idea how much her life is about to change. For years, the snow globe has passed from generation to generation, somehow always landing in the hands of a person in special need of a Christmas miracle. Kiley could use a miracle herself. This year, all she wants for Christmas is someone to love. A hopeful shake leads her on an adventure that makes a believer out of her. When Kiley shares the story of the snow globe with her best friends-two women with problems of their own-they don't believe it. But they're about to discover that at Christmastime, sometimes the impossible becomes possible and miracles really do come true.Perfect for fans of Jill Mansell, Marie Force and Nora Roberts, this is a gentle, romantic Christmas story that's sure to capture your heart and leave you with a smile'Roberts' charming story offers hope, comfort, and a second chance for those who believe in love, and a nudge to change the minds of those who don't.' Booklist

In this Christmas tale, two people are about to discover that when it comes to finding love, Christmas magic isn't enough . . . sometimes it takes a pesky orange cat named Ambrose When a guy is in trouble, he starts making deals with his Creator . . . and Ambrose the cat is no exception. In danger of losing his ninth and final life, Ambrose makes a desperate plea to the universe. He'll do anything if he can just survive and enjoy a nice long, final life. His prayer is answered when a stranger comes along and saves him-and now it looks like he has to hold up his end of the bargain.The stranger turns out to be a firefighter named Zach, who's in need of some serious romantic help. If Ambrose can just bring Zach together with Merilee, the nice lady who works at Pet Palace, it's bound to earn him a healthy ninth life. Unfortunately for Ambrose, his mission is a lot harder than he ever thought. Merriliee is way too shy to make the first move on a ladies man like Zach, and Zach thinks he's all wrong for a nice girl like Merrilee. Now it's going to take all of Ambrose's feline wiles-and maybe even a good old fashioned Christmas miracle-to make them both realize that what they're looking for is right in front of their eyes.Perfect for fans of Jill Mansell, Marie Force and Nora Roberts, this is a sparkling Christmas story that's sure to capture your heart and leave you with a smile.Sheila Roberts makes me laugh. I read her books and come away inspired, hopeful, and happy.- Debbie Macomber

The new festive winter-warmer from the wonderful Carole Matthews

Curl up with this uplifting, escapist rom-com from the Sunday Times and multi-million-copy bestsellerCassie Smith has been out of work for a while but she has an idea. Drawing on her love of Christmas, she begins charging for small things: wrapping presents; writing cards; tree-decorating. She's soon in huge demand and Cassie's business, Calling Mrs Christmas, is born.Carter Randall wants to make Christmas special for his children, so he enlists Cassie's help, and his lavish requests start taking up all her time. Thank goodness she can rely on her loving partner Jim to handle the rest of her clients.When millionaire Carter asks Cassie to join his family on a trip to Lapland, she knows she shouldn't go . . . Suddenly Cassie finds herself facing a heart-breaking choice that could change her entire life.Join Cassie as she takes you on a romantic and emotional rollercoaster ride in Calling Mrs Christmas.Your favourite authors love Carole Matthews:'A gorgeous novel that will delight'KATIE FFORDE'Fun, fantastic and brimming with Matthews magic'MILLY JOHNSON'A life-affirming story full of joy and hope'CATHY BRAMLEY'An irresistibly warm-hearted story'TRISHA ASHLEY'Warm, witty and hopeful - I was charmed'SARAH MORGAN'The queen of funny, feel good fiction'MIKE GAYLE

'Nobody does cosy, get-away-from-it-all romance like Jenny Colgan'Sunday Express___________________________________Come and celebrate . . .With real mouth-watering recipes for you to try at homeIssy Randall, proud owner of the Cupcake Cafe, is in love and couldn't be happier. Her new business is thriving and she is surrounded by close friends, even if her cupcake colleagues Pearl and Caroline aren't quite as upbeat about the upcoming season of snow and merriment. But when her boyfriend Austin is scouted for a possible move to New York, Issy is forced to face up to the prospect of a long-distance romance. And when the Christmas rush at the cafe - with its increased demand for her delectable creations - begins to take its toll, Issy has to decide what she holds most dear.This December, Issy will have to rely on all her reserves of courage, good nature and cinnamon, to make sure everyone has a merry Christmas, one way or another . . .____________________Why readers ADORE Jenny Colgan 'Jenny Colgan has a way of writing that makes me melt inside''Her books are so good I want to start over as soon as I have finished''There's something so engaging about her characters and plots''Her books are like a big, warm blanket''Her stories are just so fabulous''She brings her settings and characters so vividly to life''The woman is just magic'

THE BESTSELLING SERIES FROM THE MULTI-MILLION-COPY-SELLING AUTHORCan friendship overcome all for The Chocolate Lovers' Club this Christmas?Christmas is just around the corner, but the women of The Chocolate Lovers' Club have more to worry about than shopping for presents. . .Lucy loves running the café, Chocolate Heaven, but she hasn't spent time with her boyfriend, Aiden, in weeks. And then her ex-fiancé turns up and things become even more complicated.Nadia hasn't let herself get close to a man in a long time, yet she can't help feeling drawn to Jacob. Will he be her last chance for a happy ending?Chantal and her husband, Ted, are besotted with their baby daughter Lana - but she's not sure that's enough to base a marriage on.Autumn is dealing with a tragedy that has hit too close to home. But when she doesn't get the support she needs from her fiancé, will she look elsewhere for comfort?The Chocolate Lovers' Christmas is the third novel in Carole Matthews' much-loved series, promising heart-warming friendships, breath-taking romance, and a whole lot of sweet and delicious treats! Perfect for fans of Milly Johnson, Cathy Bramley and Sarah Morgan. Don't miss the final book, The Chocolate Lovers' Wedding.YOUR FAVOURITE AUTHORS LOVE CAROLE MATTHEWS:'A life-affirming story full of joy and hope' CATHY BRAMLEY'Full of heart and fun' MILLY JOHNSON'A wonderful setting where dark clouds part to reveal a happy ending' KATIE FFORDE'An irresistibly warm-hearted story' TRISHA ASHLEY'Warm, witty and hopeful - I was charmed' SARAH MORGAN'The queen of funny, feel-good fiction' MIKE GAYLE

'Nobody does cosy, get-away-from-it-all romance like Jenny Colgan' Sunday Express___________________________________In a tiny little sweetshop, something very special is waiting under the Christmas tree . . . With mouthwatering seasonal recipes for you to try at home Snuggle up and escape with Jenny Colgan 'An evocative, sweet treat' Jojo Moyes'Gorgeous, glorious, uplifting' Marian Keyes'A cracker - the must-read this festive season' Sun'Irresistible' Jill Mansell'Just lovely' Katie Fforde'Naturally funny, warm-hearted' Lisa Jewell'A gobble-it-all-up-in-one-sitting kind of book' Mike Gayle__________________________________Rosie Hopkins, newly engaged, is looking forward to an exciting year in the little sweetshop she owns and runs. But when fate strikes Rosie and her boyfriend, Stephen, a terrible blow, threatening everything they hold dear, it's going to take all their strength and the support of their families and their Lipton friends to hold them together. After all, don't they say it takes a village to raise a child?__________________________________Why readers ADORE Jenny Colgan 'Jenny Colgan has a way of writing that makes me melt inside''Her books are so good I want to start over as soon as I have finished''There's something so engaging about her characters and plots''Her books are like a big, warm blanket''Her stories are just so fabulous''She brings her settings and characters so vividly to life''The woman is just magic'

Prepare to fall in love this Christmas with the ultimate festive romance . . .'A perfect Christmas treat' MIRANDA DICKINSON'Sprinkled with humour, warmth and, of course, Christmas magic' CATHY BRAMLEY*WINNER OF THE NOVELICIOUS DEBUT OF THE YEAR AWARD*Claudia is thirty and fearing her romance with long-term love Seth has lost its spark. Determined to rediscover the magic they once had, Claudia and Seth go on their first date in a very long time. But when the night ends in disaster, Claudia suddenly finds herself facing life - and Christmas - alone.But being alone doesn't mean she has to be miserable. Familiarising herself with long-forgotten exercise regimes and ill-advised sexy underwear, Claudia decides to fill up her Christmas with dates. And with best friends Penny and Nick at her side, a surplus of festive markets, mulled wine and Christmas tunes, Claudia feels ready to face anything life can throw at her. One thing's for sure, this year Christmas is going to be very different . . .Filled with Christmas sparkle, butterflies-in-your-stomach romance and a LOT of humour, The Twelve Dates of Christmas is the perfect festive romance to settle down with this winter. Perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan, Heidi Swan and Cathy Bramley.PRAISE FOR LISA DICKENSON:'A very funny and touching tale' HEAT magazine'A fun and festive sweet treat of a book' ALI MCNAMARA'You need to read this romcom! Fun, flirty and funny' FABULOUS magazine'A fun, flirty festive read full of Christmas sparkle and romance' JO THOMAS

Carla Scofield has looked after her family since she was a teenager but it's never been a bother because there isn't anything she wouldn't do for those closest to her. Warm, friendly, and with the ability to make everyone around her laugh, she carries her burden proudly.As the years roll past, Carla sees life around her change dramatically. Wartime brings new challenges and a new job for Carla in a sewing factory, and she shines. It also brings with it love and Carla has a chance at real happiness - but not everyone is rooting for her. With Christmas ahead of her, and her sights set firmly on love and the future, will she be too distracted to sense the danger before it's too late?An East End Christmas is an emotional, compelling and page-turning story that will be perfect for fans of Katie Flynn, Annie Groves and Carol Rivers.

A delightfully nostalgic Christmas collection of Fairacre tales from the ever-popular Miss Read.The people of Fairacre celebrate Christmas in a traditional style which has hardly changed over the generations. Children eagerly hang up their stockings, families go to church together and everyone enjoys Christmas cake and other treats of the festive season.From an unexpected visitor on Christmas Eve in 'The Christmas Mouse' to an unwanted change of plan in 'No Holly For Miss Quinn', Miss Read recounts some of the most memorable Christmas events where often, despite best-laid plans, things do not always go as expected.For heart-warming reading there is no writer to rival Miss Read, and this charming collection of Christmas tales is packed with unforgettable characters, enchanting stories and festive cheer.

A wonderfully nostalgic collection of Christmas tales from the enduringly popular Miss Read.'Miss Read so understands and loves the country and can write so tenderly and humorously about the minutiae of village life without distortion or sentimentality' TLS'Sometimes funny, sometimes touching, always appealing' New York TimesTaken from the original omnibus CHRISTMAS AT FAIRACRE, Miss Read's wonderfully festive collection of Christmas stories is packed with entertaining characters and enchanting stories.From the rural festivities in 'Village Christmas' and 'Jingle Bells' to the pre-war story 'Christmas At Caxley 1913', the intriguing 'The Fairacre Ghost' and the poignant tale of 'The White Robin', Miss Read's wry wit and light touch is the perfect antidote to the long winter evenings.

A magical Christmas story from the bestselling author of Sophie's WorldIn the corner of a dusty old bookstore, a boy named Joachim discovers a magic advent calendar. When he opens the first door on 1st December, a small piece of paper falls out: on it is the beginning of a story about a little girl named Elisabet... Little Elisabet has been missing ever since the day she ran after a lamb and found herself travelling right across Europe to Palestine, and back through 2000 years to meet the Holy Family in Bethlehem. There she met angels, shepherds and wise men who joined her on her pilgrimage.Each of the twenty-four windows in Joachim's calendar hides another chapter in Elisabet's story, along with the key to unlock a renewed sense of awe at the true meaning of Christmas. But who was Elisabet and where is she now? On Christmas Eve, all the pieces of the puzzle will come together...

From beloved Norwegian author Jostein Gaarder, this enchanting Christmas classic weaves together magic and miracles 'All the elements of a perfect Christmas tale' The Times'A gentle wise gem' Independent 'Totally delightful' Irish TimesHidden in the corner of a dusty old bookshop, Joachim discovers a handmade advent calendar and begs his father to let him take it home. The next morning, when he opens the calendar's first door, out falls a tightly folded piece of paper: the first instalment of a magical story about a young girl named Elisabet. Little by little these pieces tell the girl's story, and as we learn what happened to her, another story is revealed - that of the strange old man who made the calendar . . .'Anyone who enjoyed Jostein Gaarder's philosophical bestseller Sophie's World will relish ­The Christmas Mystery ' Sunday TimesTranslated by Elizabeth Rokkan

It may be winter, but in the Devonshire village of Burracombe there is always warmth and friendship, no matter what troubles arise...In the village of Burracombe, nothing stays secret for long and behind the peaceful, rural charm there's always a scandal to uncover, a newcomer to the village to set tongues wagging, a happy occasion to celebrate or friends to help their neighbours through the tough times.It's December 1953 and for Stella Simmons, recovering from a car crash, the winter wedding that she and her sweetheart had planned seems impossible. Elsewhere in the village, Jackie Tozer is dreaming of America and Hilary Napier, who thought the war had robbed her of her chance of happiness, has to ask herself if she could ever imagine leaving her life at the big house for the sake of love and adventure. The darkest time of the year finds everyone asking questions with no easy answer.As snow falls softly on the village, Burracombe proves once again that there's always a surprise just around the corner.

In dark, wintry Lochdubh, Christmas Cheer is about as welcome as a flat tyre on a deserted road. The Calvinist element in town has always resisted what they view as secular frivolity, so for most of the townsfolk there'll be no carols, feasting, gifts - or even whisky on Christmas Day!And for PC Hamish Macbeth there's no holiday from crime - he finds himself hunting for a missing cat belonging to a lonely spinster. Curt and unfriendly, the woman is convinced her pet has been stolen but once behind her heavily-bolted door, Hamish can spot her true problem - she lives in fear, though of who or what he cannot guess.Then someone steals a Christmas tree and lights from the nearby village of Cnothan. So it is up to Hamish to sort all these problems out - and he had better do it quickly, for the church bells will soon peal on the eve of Christmas.This one-off standalone story is a special Christmas treat for all fans of Hamish Macbeth and can be read at any point in the ongoing series.Also features the first UK publication of a Hamish Macbeth short story, Knock, Knock, You're Dead!Praise for the Hamish Macbeth series:'First rate ... deft social comedy and wonderfully realized atmosphere.' Booklist'It's always a treat to return to Lochdubh.' New York Times'Readers will enjoy the quirks and unique qualities of the cast ... Beaton catches the beauty of the area's natural geography and succinctly describes its distinct flavour.' Library Journal'Befuddled, earnest and utterly endearing, Hamish makes his triumphs sweetly satisfying.' Publishers Weekly