Families who loved Secret Santa by D.E. Athkins often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your teen or local middle schooler is looking for a thrill that balances the festive season with a bit of vintage horror. It is perfect for the reader who enjoys the adrenaline of a spooky mystery but wants something grounded in familiar social settings. The story follows a group of high school friends whose Secret Santa gift exchange takes a sinister turn when anonymous, threatening gifts begin to arrive. While the plot focuses on suspense and mild peril, it opens up deeper conversations about the nature of trust, the dynamics of peer groups, and how well we truly know the people around us. It is an ideal pick for those who want a fast-paced, entertaining escape during the winter break, offering a nostalgic slasher vibe that is safer than modern adult horror but still delivers a satisfying chill.