5 Giftable Books, According to a Hudson Valley Expert

Anthony and Amanda Stromoski of Rough Draft Bar and Books in Kingston give us their gift-worthy book recommendations.

Hudson Valley recommendations are objective, unbiased, and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Few things are more comforting in the winter months than cozying up with a thrilling novel, romantic comedy, or self-help book in preparation for the new year. If you’re shopping for a literature lover this holiday season, here are the titles you need to have on your radar. Anthony and Amanda Stromoski of Kingston’s Rough Draft Bar and Books gave us their top five picks for the gifting season so all of your family members can kick back with books this year.

The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny, and Murder

By David Grann
Price: $16.10

 

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From New York Times bestselling author of Killers of the Flower Moon, David Grann brings us this page-turning story of shipwreck, survival, and savagery, culminating in a court martial that reveals a shocking truth. The Wager is the perfect gift for the history buff in your life who still loves to live vicariously through the adventures and travails of the past.

Our Share of Night

By Mariana Enriquez
Price: $17.80

 

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For fans of the supernatural, Enriquez’s Our Share of Night follows a woman’s mysterious death as it puts her family on a collision course. Translated by Megan McDowell, the novel offers an exciting discovery and a once-in-a-lifetime reading experience that’s for the horror fan who loves their storytelling dark, serious, and complex. Set primarily in Argentina during its military dictatorship, Enriquez intertwines family, friendship, dark magic, the cursed search for immortality, and lots and lots of scary maiming.

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Homage: Recipes and Stories From an Amish Soul Food Kitchen

By Chris Scott
Price: $18.57

 

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Renowned chef Chris Scott writes this rich, narrative cookbook that celebrates an under-explored foodway in the African diaspora: Amish soul food. Scott tells the story of his family through comforting recipes and vivid narratives, sharing 100 dishes along the way that are born of a unique blend of cuisines that span several countries. Homage is for the home cook who enjoys unexpected, delicious recipes with some thoughtful history lessons.

The Joy of Winter Hiking: Inspiration and Guidance for Cold Weather Adventures

By Derek Dellinger
Price: $30

 

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This field guide combines gorgeous photos with essential tips to give you a reason to enjoy nature in every season. Dellinger believes that everyone should seek outdoor adventure in the cold months, not just in spite of snow but because of it. He touches upon everything from unmatched winter views to the mental and emotional benefits of getting outdoors. Dellinger is a local hiker, photographer, brewer, author, and lover of the woods and mountains, in the Hudson Valley and beyond.

Love Marriage

By Monica Ali
Price: $12.10

 

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Set in London, this novel follows the engagement of a 26-year old Yasmin and Joe as the anticipation of their wedding day brings with it misunderstandings, infidelities, and long-held secrets. Love Marriage is for the lover of (well-written) romantic comedy. The Booker Prize-shortlisted author Ali gives us an engaging mix of love, family, race, clashing cultures, and sex, delivering it all with hilarity and humanity.

Related: Your Guide to Last-Minute Gifts in the Hudson Valley

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