Title: Christmas Bitch
Author: Jack Lelko
Genre: fiction, magic realism, Christmas/Holiday
Pages: 468
Publication Date: 2022
StoryGraph* Moods: Hopeful, Reflective
How I Stumbled Upon This Book: Full disclosure, Jack is my writing bestie.
Other Books by Lelko: There is a sequel in the works. 👀
*StoryGraph also offers content warnings (though there aren’t any listed for this book).
Description: This story follows Ophelia O’Leary as she makes her way through a series of chaotic Christmases – but not everything is as it seems. While her family and friends see her as a bit of a meddling menace, there’s method to her madness – Ophelia creates chaos to help those around her find their correct path. Along the way, we meet a cast of characters who all have a beef with Ophelia; gathered for the holiday, they share their memories (that include things like a bedazzled taser, a weaponized fruitcake, and the reappearance of a once-thought-missing family heirloom).
Along her journey, Ophelia has Clarence, her best friend who knows her better than anyone else – even her own sister. But that’s because they have known each other for many lifetimes. He helps keep her on track – and often keeps her upright as her chaos sews discord with those she loves.
Why I recommend this book: Aside from my writing bestie being the author, I’ve read this book several times because I love a good character-driven story, I love magic realism, and I love a sassy/sarcastic character/narrator. In addition, the braided plot weaves together in such a satisfying way with moments coming back to the surface in a new light. Yes, I read it the first time because Jack wrote it. I keep reading it because I love returning to Ophelia and all her friends.
But don’t take my word for it:
“Don’t be fooled by the title. The story within is one of growth, family and relationships.
Jack Lelko’s mastery of prose weaves multiple intricate storylines into one beautiful cohesive tapestry. My highlighter struggled to keep up, so many gorgeous lines.
‘When you know who you are, fear isn’t necessary.’
The overarching message of needing to leave one’s comfort zone in order to progress and ultimately find more joy and happiness was a pleasure to read.
Anyone looking for a contemporary fiction with a dash of magic and a heaping dose of witty sarcasm needs to give Christmas Bitch a read.“
— Ashley Ottesen, Goodreads
You can watch Ottsen’s full review on YouTube (where she noted that, to date, this was her most tabbed book and gave it a “10/10. no notes”).
“That’s the thing about stories. It’s all about perspective.”
~ Jack Lelko, Christmas Bitch
Ami Maxine 