The CNET team is diving into a diverse selection of 25 books this holiday season, highlighting genres such as sci-fi, fantasy, and non-fiction. The compilation features works from various authors, including a significant focus on the writing of Terry Pratchett. Amidst the hustle of the holidays, these titles promise to captivate readers well into the night.
One standout recommendation is The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, a historical fiction retelling of the Indian epic Mahabharata from the perspective of Draupadi. This portrayal emphasizes her strength and intelligence against the backdrop of a patriarchal society, offering a fresh take on a well-known narrative.
Another noteworthy title is a whimsical romance by Jackie Lau, centered on a woman trapped in a time loop due to magical dumplings. This engaging story has quickly risen to the top of many readers' holiday lists, promising both fun and enchantment.
Additionally, John Dies at the End by David Wong, also known as Jason Pargin, is being explored by readers seeking a blend of supernatural comedy. Each of these selections contributes to an ever-growing to-be-read list this festive season.