Christmas and Other Horrors: A Winter Solstice Anthology

Josh Malerman curates a chilling collection titled Christmas and Other Horrors: A Winter Solstice Anthology. This volume explores the darker side of the festive season, focusing on the long nights that accompany the winter solstice. While many celebrate joy during this time, these stories highlight traditions involving ghouls, hauntings, and supernatural visitations. The anthology invites readers to consider the unholy and dangerous aspects of family gatherings. The text draws upon specific cultural folklore to ground its horror. Readers will encounter tales featuring the eerie Austrian Schnabelperchten and the skeletal Welsh Mari Lwyd. Other narratives include ravenous golems, uncanny neighbors, and unwelcome visitors. These elements capture the heart and horror of the festive season. The stories are presented as all-new works, offering fresh perspectives on familiar seasonal fears. The collection is published by Titan Books in the UK. This book suits readers who appreciate gothic fiction and supernatural tales rooted in specific cultural traditions. It may not appeal to those seeking purely lighthearted holiday cheer or secular celebrations without dark undertones. The anthology serves as a companion for those who find comfort in the frightful rather than the festive. It captures the mood of a time when the fire inside is hungry, reflecting the tension between warmth and dread.