The tradition of a haunted tale at Christmas has flourished across the centuries. These twelve stories – authored by some of today’s most loved and lauded writers of historical and gothic fiction – are all centred around Christmas or Advent, boldly and playfully re-imagining a beloved tradition for a modern audience.
Taking you from a haunted Tuscan villa to a remote Scottish island with a dark secret, these vibrant haunted stories are your ultimate companion for frosty nights.
Featuring: Bridget Collins, Imogen Hermes Gowar, Andrew Michael Hurley, Jess Kidd, Elizabeth Macneal, Kiran Millwood Hargrave, Natasha Pulley, Laura Purcell, Laura Shepherd-Robinson, Susan Stokes-Chapman, Stuart Turton, Catriona Ward.
Widow’s Walk
My contribution - Widow's Walk - is the story of a celebrated fan maker working on a special commission, and partly inspired (very loosely) by something that happened to my great grandmother. It was also inspired by the little pamphlet shown opposite, a darkly 'charming' collection of Georgian anecdotes at Christmastime.
There is something peculiar about the hour after midnight. It is the time when darkness reigns. And strange things roam the earth. In this dazzling collection of original haunted tales, thirteen bestselling and much-loved authors bring the old superstition of the witching hour to new and vivid life.
Transporting you from the smog of London to the freezing mists of Svalbard, these thirteen stories will serve as your spinetingling companion to the long hours of winter.
Featuring: Bridget Collins, Stacey Halls, Imogen Hermes Gowar, Andrew Michael Hurley, Jess Kidd, Elizabeth Macneal, Kiran Millwood Hargrave, Michelle Paver, Natasha Pulley, Laura Shepherd-Robinson, Susan Stokes-Chapman, Stuart Turton, Catriona Ward.
A Midnight Visitor
My contribution - A Midnight Visitor - is the story of a Parisian tarot reader and devoted student of acclaimed occultist Jean-Baptiste Alliette, who receives a mysterious client at a most inhospitable hour.