Three books to celebrate Christmas in July

Christmas is my all-time favorite holiday. I love finding presents for my loved ones, the sense of togetherness, and the general aesthetic of the holiday. I even keep my Christmas tree up all year! This time of year, I love to catch up on a few Christmas-themed books as July 25th is the day I start my Christmas Countdown. So while it is still 153 days away, these books will help you get in the Christmas in July spirit - while getting you excited for the second half of the year.

1. Midnight in Everwood by M.A. Kuzniar

The Nutcracker is a ballet that holds a special place in my heart - I actually danced in it twice! So the moment I discovered there was a cozy fantasy book that was a retelling of The Nutcracker, I was sold. However, I loved how Marietta's love of ballet and her internal struggle to follow her passions versus following society's expectations was a key part of her story. It is a beautiful story and perfect for anyone who wishes they could get swept away into a land where candy and sweets dance for you.

Midnight in Everwood is available through HarperCollins Publishers

2. Once Upon a December by Amy E. Reichert

One of the things I have noticed in the Christmas fiction genre, is Christmas magic is typically reserved only for children. This book reminds readers magic can be for adults too. It's a fluffy heartwarming romance, centered around a magical (sometimes literally) Christmas Market. This is the kind of book that not only will you want to read in one sitting, but provides a happy escape from the real world - which we all need from time to time.

Once Upon a December is available through Penguin Random House

3. The Holiday Swap by Maggie Knox

Identical twins. A Great British Baking Show -esque competition. The need to switch places like they're in The Parent Trap. This book is delightfully chaotic as Charlie and Cass switch places after Charlie loses her sense of taste after an accident - making it impossible to judge her competition! This book is full of fun holiday cheer and will delight fans of Netflix's The Princess Swap movies.

The Holiday Swap is available through Penguin Random House