Countdown to 2026: Day 24 – Christmas Eve – One of your most anticipated books for next year

Once again I am counting down to the New Year, as with the previous years I shall be highlighting at least one book per day to fit the prompt on that given day.  The main aim for this countdown is to highlight some of my reads during the past year and to shine the spotlight on them once again (although some of the prompts relate to forthcoming reads).

Today is Day 24 of the countdown to 2026 and a list of prompts can be found here if you wish to join me in counting down to 2026 and casting a spotlight on some of your favourite books.

Today’s Prompt: Christmas Eve – One of your most anticipated books for next year:

I’ve chosen Nightshade and Oak by Molly O’Neill.  Because I loved Greenteeth and can’t wait to see what the author comes up with next.  Plus, check out this cover:

7 Days Remaining

Tomorrow’s prompt: Christmas Day – a book you received as a gift

Can’t Wait Wednesday: Nightshade and Oak by Molly O’Neill

CWW

“Waiting On Wednesday” is a weekly meme that was originally created by Breaking the Spine.  Unfortunately Breaking the Spine are no longer hosting so I’m now linking my posts up to Wishful Endings Can’t Wait Wednesday. Don’t forget to stop over, link up and check out what books everyone else is waiting for.  If you want to take part, basically, every Wednesday, we highlight a book that we’re really looking forward to.  This week my book is: Nightshade and Oak by Molly O’Neill.  I absolutely loved Greenteeth and can’t wait to tuck into this one.  Here’s the description and cover – feast your eyes:

An Iron Age goddess must grapple with becoming human in this delightful historical fantasy of myth and magic from the author of the instant hit Greenteeth.

When Malt, the goddess of death, is accidentally turned human by a wayward spell, she finds she’s ill-equipped to deal with the trials of a mortal life. After all, why would a goddess need to know how to gather food or light a fire?

Unable to fend for herself, she teams up with warrior Bellis on a perilous journey to the afterlife to try to restore her powers. Frustrated by her frail human body and beset with blisters, Malt might not make the best travelling companion.

But as animosity slowly turns to attraction, these two very different women must learn to work together if they are to have any hope of surviving their quest.

Expected publication: February 2026