December New Releases: What the OUABC Team is Excited For
Deck the halls and stack the shelves—December’s new book releases are here to add some literary magic to your holiday season! Here at Once Upon a Book Club, we always get excited by new releases, especially with the holidays just around the corner, as they make the perfect gift for friends, families, and of course, ourselves—our TBR pile is growing at a rapid rate!
While these exciting titles are not featured in our subscription boxes, we couldn’t resist sharing the books our team is eagerly anticipating this month. Whether you’re a fan of sweeping fantasy, heartwarming romance, or thrilling mysteries, there’s something on this list for every reader. So, sit back and relax, grab a glass of your favorite cozy drink, and who knows, your next must-read may just be on the December list!
What the Woods Took by Courtney Gould
Release Date: 12/10/2024
What the Woods Took by Courtney Gould is a chilling exploration of fear, survival, and self-discovery, blending psychological horror with raw, emotional depth. When Devin Green is forced into a remote wilderness therapy program, she finds herself navigating not just a perilous trek through Idaho’s dense woods but the dark, supernatural forces hidden within them.
As counselors vanish and tensions rise, the teens must rely on one another while grappling with their own buried traumas. Devin’s connection with Sheridan, an enigmatic fellow camper, adds unexpected emotional complexity to this harrowing tale. Perfect for fans of Yellowjackets, this is a haunting, unforgettable journey.
PS: I Hate You by Lauren Connolly
Release Date: 12/3/2024
PS: I Hate You is a heartfelt and humorous enemies-to-lovers romance that explores grief, healing, and rediscovery. Maddie Sanderson reluctantly embarks on a cross-country journey to fulfill her late brother Josh’s wish to have his ashes scattered across eight dream destinations. The catch? She’s stuck with Dominic Perry—Josh’s best friend and the man who once broke her heart.
As they navigate stunning landscapes and shared memories, old wounds resurface, and sparks of connection reignite. Through awkward moments and heartfelt revelations, Maddie wonders if Josh’s plan was about more than just his bucket list.
North is the Night by Emily Rath
Release Date: 12/17/2024
North Is the Night by Emily Rath is a breathtaking sapphic fantasy that blends Finnish folklore with an emotional journey of love, sacrifice, and resilience. When Siiri and Aina’s tranquil life is shattered, their devotion is put to the ultimate test.
After Aina is abducted to Tuonela, the mythical underworld, Siiri embarks on a perilous quest to rescue her, seeking the aid of a legendary shaman. Meanwhile, Aina uncovers the dark truths behind her capture and must navigate the treacherous realm, risking her heart to survive.
Something Extraordinary by Alexis Hall
Release Date: 12/17/2024
Something Extraordinary by Alexis Hall is a hilariously whimsical Regency romance bursting with humor, heart, and queer representation. When Sir Horley Comewithers faces a dismal marriage of convenience, his bold and fiercely loyal friend Arabella Tarleton whisks him away on a chaotic journey to Gretna Green.
Their madcap adventure brims with quirky characters, bumbling highwaymen, and laugh-out-loud mishaps. Along the way, Horley and Belle discover that true happiness lies not in societal expectations, but in finding those who celebrate you for who you are.
The Last One by Rachel Howzell Hall
Release Date: 12/3/2024
The Last One by Rachel Howzell Hall is a gripping fantasy that plunges readers into a mysterious world of power, betrayal, and self-discovery. When Kai awakens in a forest with no memory and deadly abilities, she embarks on a perilous quest to reclaim a stolen amulet and uncover her past.
Joined by a dubious ally, Jadon, and shadowed by secrets and betrayal, Kai learns her powers might be the source of an impending catastrophe. As truths unravel and choices grow darker, she must decide whether she can escape the destruction within her.
Under Loch and Key by Lana Ferguson
Release Date: 12/3/2024
Under Loch and Key by Lana Ferguson is a mesmerizing blend of paranormal romance and mystery, perfect for readers drawn to forbidden love, magical curses, and Scotland's haunting beauty.
Keyanna “Key” MacKay journeys to Scotland seeking answers about her father’s enigmatic past, only to find Lachlan Greer—a brooding Scotsman with secrets of his own. As Key uncovers her family’s cursed history and her own emerging powers, sparks fly between her and Lachlan, despite the distrust tied to her family name.
Amid ancient curses, growing danger, and undeniable chemistry, they must face the shadows of their pasts to forge a future.
Born Into the Night by Emily Bisbach
Release Date: 12/3/2024
Born Into the Night by Emily Bisbach is a captivating blend of dark academia and parallel universe fantasy, perfect for fans of A Discovery of Witches and The Da Vinci Code. With its intricate mysteries and richly atmospheric world, this novel explores art, magic, and destiny across two intertwined realms.
Evie, an art history student, has no memory of the magical world she was born into—until a stranger, Charlie, returns a cryptic book and buried memories. Driven by the hope of finding her missing mother, Evie steps into a breathtaking yet dangerous realm, uncovering ancient prophecies, mysterious Renaissance clues, and a growing dark force.
Dead of Winter by Rebecca Zanetti
Release Date: 12/31/2024
Dead of Winter by Rebecca Zanetti is a gripping mix of mystery and romance set in Alaska’s rugged wilderness. Agent Olivia Spilazi’s investigation into unsolved murders leads her to suspect the enigmatic sheriff, Brock Osprey. Their fiery chemistry complicates her mission as danger looms and secrets unravel.
With murder lurking in the shadows and passion simmering beneath the icy surface, Olivia and Brock must navigate a web of danger, trust, and desire.
A Five Letter Word for Love by Amy James
Release Date: 12/3/2024
A Five-Letter Word for Love by Amy James is a heartwarming romance that pairs small-town charm with witty workplace banter. Emily, a receptionist yearning for a more creative life, finds an unexpected connection with John, a coworker she’d sworn to avoid after he helps her save her precious Wordle streak.
As their bond deepens over playful guesses and honest conversations, Emily begins to rethink her dreams and discover the true meaning of love and happiness. This delightful story is perfect for fans of quirky romances and heartfelt self-discovery.
Dating and Dragons by Kristy Boyce
Release Date: 12/31/2024
Dating and Dragons by Kristy Boyce is a charming young adult romance that weaves gaming culture, first love, and the thrill of finding your tribe. When Quinn joins a new school's D&D group, their no-dating rule becomes a challenge as sparks fly with a charming player.
Old friendships, livestream drama, and in-game adventures blur into real life, leaving Quinn to navigate her heart and loyalties. With humor and heart, this delightful story celebrates friendship, gaming, and taking risks in love and life. Perfect for fans of lighthearted romance and D&D fun.
A Monsoon Rising by Thea Guanzon
Release Date: 12/10/2024
A Monsoon Rising by Thea Guanzon delivers a stunning sequel brimming with forbidden romance, high-stakes politics, and spellbinding magic set against a lush, Southeast Asian-inspired backdrop. Fans of epic fantasy will be enthralled by the slow-burn tension and intricate alliances woven into this unforgettable tale.
In the aftermath of a hard-won peace, Talasyn and Alaric are bound in a tenuous marriage of convenience, balancing political intrigue, and mounting danger. As a cataclysmic magical force looms, their connection deepens, challenging their loyalties and threatening their world.
Blending passion, peril, and breathtaking magic, this continuation of The Hurricane Wars trilogy is utterly captivating.
To Shatter the Night by Katherine Quinn
Release Date: 12/3/2024
To Shatter the Night by Katherine Quinn is a spellbinding sequel that immerses readers in a kingdom shrouded in mist and mystery. Perfect for fans of Serpent & Dove and A Court of Thorns and Roses, this young adult fantasy brims with forbidden love, magical peril, and the resilience of the human spirit.
Kiara Frey, hardened by loss and betrayal, embarks on a desperate quest to break the curse plaguing Asidia. With Jude Maddox by her side, she seeks answers from the elusive Fox, navigating a land where shadows conceal danger, and her growing powers threaten to consume her. Can love endure where darkness reigns?
Conclusion
December’s new releases promise to deliver everything from heart-pounding fantasy adventures to laugh-out-loud romances, and we can’t wait to get started. Whether you’re drawn to dark mysteries or whimsical tales, these books are sure to add a festive sparkle to your reading list.
And if you’re looking for an even more magical reading experience, check out our book subscription boxes! With handpicked novels and carefully curated gifts that bring stories to life, our boxes are the perfect way to immerse yourself in a tale this holiday season.
This year’s Christmas Boxes are an absolute treat! Make sure to check out our 12 Days of Book-Club-Mas or our special Christmas Box.
Happy holiday reading!
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