In a Holidaze, by Christina Lauren, is a perfect book to read at the holidays. It follows Mae, a girl who has spent every Christmas at her family‘s cabin with the people she loves most. Mae hates change, so when she finds out that the cabin is being sold, she is very crushed. She‘s scared that the bonds between her friends and family won‘t be the same. As she tries to save the cabin, she forms an unexpected relationship with her lifelong friend.

A Little Life by Hanya Yanigihara, is a beautifully written novel that follows four young men from their time in college, all the way through adulthood. As the characters face unimaginable trauma, especially that of the enigmatic Jude, their friendship and love for each other never wavers. The story covers tough and disturbing topics, but they are brought to light by making readers feel a sense of awareness and empathy.