Best Lighthearted Books December 2024

99 Percent Mine

Darcy Barrett has always lived in the shadow of her twin brother’s perfect best friend, Tom Valeska. Growing up, she harbored a secret crush on Tom, but he was off-limits. Now, years later, Tom reappears in her life to renovate her grandmother’s cottage. As they work side by side, Darcy’s feelings resurface, stronger than ever. But with her brother’s claim on Tom and her own fear of commitment, can Darcy finally admit that Tom might be 99 percent hers? A witty, heartwarming tale of second chances and finding the courage to pursue what you truly want.

Something Borrowed

Rachel’s always been the good girl, playing by the rules and putting others first. But on her thirtieth birthday, fueled by one too many drinks, she finds herself in bed with her best friend’s fiancé, Dex. Torn between guilt and an undeniable connection, Rachel grapples with her feelings and the potential consequences of her actions. As the wedding day approaches, she must confront the truth about love, loyalty, and what it means to follow your heart. Giffin’s debut novel is a witty, heartfelt exploration of friendship, romance, and the messy realities of growing up.

Landline

Georgie McCool’s marriage is on the rocks, and she knows it. When her husband Neal takes the kids to Omaha for Christmas without her, she discovers an old landline phone that somehow connects her to Neal in the past. As she grapples with the chance to rewrite history, Georgie must confront her fears and decide what she truly wants. Rowell’s poignant exploration of love, choices, and second chances will leave you laughing, crying, and believing in the magic of connection.

The Bodyguard

Falling for your client is never a good idea, especially when you’re their bodyguard. Hannah Brooks may look like a kindergarten teacher, but she’s actually an Executive Protection Agent. When movie star Jack Stapleton needs protection from a stalker, Hannah’s assigned to the job. Posing as Jack’s girlfriend at his family’s Texas ranch, Hannah finds herself drawn to the charming actor. As the lines between duty and desire blur, Hannah must confront her growing feelings while keeping Jack safe. A heartwarming tale of unexpected love and self-discovery.

What You Wish For

Sam Casey loved her job as a school librarian, but everything changed when Duncan Carpenter became the new principal. Once her teenage crush, Duncan was now a different man—rigid and joyless. As the school atmosphere darkens, Sam realizes she must fight for the heart of her beloved workplace. Amidst personal struggles and unexpected alliances, she rediscovers her own capacity for joy and the power of choosing happiness. A heartwarming tale of resilience, second chances, and finding light in the darkest times.

Sweet Disaster

Olivia never expected her life to unravel so spectacularly. One moment, she’s planning her dream wedding; the next, she’s nursing a broken heart in her childhood bedroom. But when a freak accident lands her back in her hometown’s quirky bakery, she finds unexpected solace in sugar and flour. As she kneads dough and frosts cupcakes, Olivia rediscovers parts of herself she’d long forgotten. And then there’s Jack, the infuriatingly charming firefighter next door, who seems determined to add some spice to her carefully measured life. Maybe disaster isn’t so bad after all.

99 Percent Mine

Darcy Barrett has always had a knack for falling in love with the wrong guy, but her twin brother’s best friend, Tom Valeska, was the exception. He’s perfect—except for being off-limits. When Darcy inherits a rundown cottage and Tom shows up to help renovate, old sparks reignite. Amidst sawdust and paint, Darcy must decide if she’s ready to risk her heart for the one man who’s always been just out of reach.

The Bookish Life of Nina Hill

Nina Hill’s life revolves around books, her cat, and a meticulously organized planner. Introverted and content, she works at a quirky bookstore and leads a trivia team. But when her estranged father dies, leaving her with a sprawling family she never knew existed, Nina’s carefully curated world is thrown into chaos. Suddenly, she’s navigating new relationships, unexpected feelings for a trivia rival, and the realization that stepping out of her comfort zone might just lead to the greatest adventure of all. A charming tale of self-discovery, family, and the power of embracing the unexpected.

Fearless Fourteen

Stephanie Plum’s back, and this time she’s in over her head with a mysterious teenager, a gang of dangerous seniors, and an unexpected houseguest. When a local gaming mogul goes missing, Stephanie finds herself tangled in a web of family secrets and suburban intrigue. With her loyal sidekick Lula and the ever-charming Morelli by her side, she navigates Trenton’s underbelly, dodging bullets and bad guys. Evanovich’s signature wit shines through in this rollicking adventure that’ll keep you laughing and guessing until the very last page.

Pippi Longstocking

Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren is a whimsical tale that has enchanted readers for generations. Pippi, with her mismatched stockings and boundless imagination, lives alone in Villa Villekulla with her horse and monkey. Her fearless spirit and unconventional antics captivate her neighbors, Tommy and Annika, leading to a series of delightful adventures. I remember reading this as a child and feeling inspired by Pippi’s independence and zest for life. It’s a timeless story that celebrates the joy of childhood and the power of individuality.