Bright Lights and Candle Glow

This collection from eight talented authors boasts short stories set during the winter holiday season. These tales encompass sober themes, heartwarming messages, and uplifting endings, appropriate for the winter season or all year long.

Arranged in chronological order, witness winter miracles from the mid-1800s through modern day, running the spectrum from somber to lighthearted.

  • Learn the meaning of the season from a Civil War soldier.
  • Go from rags to riches with a 1920s mobster.
  • Relive a fond holiday activity with a helpful Grinchy neighbor.
  • Create new holiday memories with a 1970s ranching family.
  • Meet a new friend whose advice rekindles the magic of the season.
  • Experience Christmas from a wise, aged perspective.
  • Cross cultures and beliefs to create a new holiday tradition.
  • Celebrate the season with estranged family after a life-changing revelation.

These stories are sure to enhance your experience of the holiday season. It’s a holiday-themed compilation of short stories with heavy messages and uplifting endings sure to warm the heart in the cold winter months.

Download your free copy by clicking here.


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Excerpt from my short story, “The No in Noel” (a tale of one man’s night at an Overeater’s Anonymous meeting).

“I’m not usually so down. I’m actually a cheerful person, most of the time. Anyone who knows me will tell you I’m a jolly guy. It’s just— this is a hard time of year.” Cole had never been such a downer, especially during the holiday season. Was it his weight? Something else? He didn’t know, but he felt more like Scrooge or the Grinch than he did his usual merry self.

“Don’t be so hard on yourself,” Louis said. “This time of year is hard for all of us. Probably even more for you, given the hectic nature of your job. But don’t lose sight of the bigger picture. It’s also a magical time of year.”

“Magical?”

“Sure. People are more kind, more generous. The music in the stores and on the radio is so uplifting, it’s hard not to smile when you hear it. Family and friends getting together.” He sighed and smiled. “It’s just so…”

“Magical.” This time Cole answered rather than questioned.

“Yeah. We don’t need food to feel good. We’ve got so many other great things to celebrate. Like the song says, it’s the most wonderful time of the year.”

“It also says there are marshmallows for toasting, which we’re trying to avoid, but I think I get what you mean.”