It’s beginning to look a lot like…

The TV ads are beginning to roll out, the street lights are being hung up and we’ve started our shopping. Whether you like it or not, Christmas is fast approaching! But there is still plenty of time to discover some fantastic new reads for that hard-to-buy-for uncle, the friend who has everything, or even a treat for yourself. We’ve rounded up the best pre-Christmas events, so consider this our bookish gift guide!

Christmas Girls Night Out | 21^st November 7:00pm, Waterstones Leeds

Not one, not two… not even three, but FIVE fantastic romance authors will convene with mince pies and prosecco to discuss their latest books. Milly Johnson, Karen Swan and Heidi Swain all have cosy festive releases while Cathy Bramley and Lucy Dillon have both published heartwarming books this year. Join them for an evening of giggles!

Gothic Fiction: Laura Purcell and Stuart Turton | 26^th November 6:00pm, Waterstones Manchester 

There’s just SOMETHING about misty landscapes and big empty houses that is horrifically intriguing, isn’t there? Laura Purcell’s The Corset is a chilling tale of murder and madness set against a backdrop of a Victorian prison, while Stuart Turton’s mind-boggling debut The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is a labyrinth you’ll struggle to escape from. Take a look at where else they'll be visiting near you!

In Conversation with the Birmingham women who ‘dared to dream’ | 22^nd November 6:00pm, Foyles Grand Central Birmingham 

For an evening of inspiration from real-life Birmingham women with incredible stories to tell, head to Foyles in Grand Central. Journalist and activist Salma Zulfiqar, top mathematician Dr Sara Jabbari and domestic abuse campaigner Raj Holness will all be celebrating the release of Once Upon a Time in Birmingham: Women Who Dared to Dream.

Christina Gabbitas signing Save Us | 24^th November 11:00am, WHSmith Doncaster 

Highlighting the importance of limiting our plastic use, the beautiful new picture book from Christina Gabbitas, Save Us, is the rescue story of a seal, a whale and a turtle. Featuring stunning illustrations from Julie Omond, this is the perfect gift for little ones this Christmas. And you can get it signed at WHSmith Doncaster!

2018 Christmas Book Festival | 25^th November 11:00am, Waterstones London Finchley Road 

An incredible 13 authors and illustrators will assemble to sign copies of their much-loved children’s and YA books. Names such as M. G. Leonard, David Solomons and Anna James will be dropping in throughout the day so make sure you pick up a few special gifts!

Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls Story Hour: Michelle Obama Special | 17^th November 11:00am, Waterstones Piccadilly London 

Michelle Obama’s Becoming is finally here and feminist theatre company Fat Rascal Theatre are celebrating with one of their hugely popular story hours! Children aged 5-10 can discover the inspiring life story of the former FLOTUS through this funny, interactive storytelling event.