*I received a free ARC of this novel, with thanks to the author, Black Spot Books – Vesuvian Books and NetGalley. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Blurb: This short story collection includes six stories of not-so-merry Yuletide whimsy. A woman so cold she hardens to ice on a winter’s eve. Risen from his grave before his time, a winter god alters the balance between seasons. A wolf’s holiday season is interrupted by a strange curse. From a murder at the Stanley Hotel to demons of Christmas past, present, and future, and a mad elf and Santa’s Candy Court, these authors share their love for winter holidays in this collection of dark winter tales, destined to chill your bones and warm your heart for the Yuletide season.
This collection contains six fantasy stories with a seasonal theme – perfect for a little light reading as the cold nights draw in.
Each story is by a different author and has a completely different tone and content. ‘The Dauntless’ crosses Santa’s elves – all candycanes and sprinkles – with Lovecraftian eldritch horrors. ‘Tidings of New Moon’ turns the werewolf legend upside down, as man-wolf Glenn gets bitten by a human and begins… changing. ‘Movin’ On Up’ explores negotiations in Hell, as a group of damned souls fight to drag Cindi down with them. ‘The Poetry of Snow and Stars’ features an unusual death among a group of tourists at a certain ‘Shining’ hotel. ‘Sleep, Sweet Khors’ goes old-school and old gods, as an innocent child attempts to halt death but accidentally halts the changing season instead. Finally, cold-hearted, bitter Crystal is reminded of the true meaning of Christmas in ‘Snow Angel’, as she experiences a lesson that would make Scrooge shiver.
With the variety of stories here, there is a little something for every festive-fantasy taste: some funny moments, some scary moments, some touching moments and even some teaching moments. Each story is well-written and brings something entertaining and creative to the Yuletide table.
So, curl up with a mulled wine, a mince pie and a warm blanket, and enjoy a selection of short, winter-dark treats!
Find more from the authors in this anthology on the following links:
Sam Hooker: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads
Alvy Leyva: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads
Laura Morrison: Website, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads
Cassondra Windwalker: Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads
Dalena Storm: Website, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads
Seven Jane: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads
Bookshine And Readbows 