Emma Types Stuff

With the Victorian era being the source of so many Christmas traditions, Victorian stories are a staple of Christmas. A Christmas Carol may be a popular choice, but for a slightly less moralistic read, many adore Arthur Conan Doyle's Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle .  "I had called upon my friend Sherlock Holmes upon the second morning after Christmas, with the intention of wishing him the compliments of the season." - The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle In it Holmes and Watson work out the series of events that led to a priceless gem being found in a goose. It's a good-humoured and heart-warming tale, and well worth reading if you are looking for a moment of relaxation rather than spooky Dickensian social justice. But what if you have already read it, and are seeking out more festive Holmes tales? Luckily you are spoiled for choice, as other authors have penned their own festive pastiches...  What Child is This? by Bonnie Macbird You may recognise this as one of the ...

Believe it or not, despite being a massive chocolate fiend, I don't like chocolate Advent calendars. Nor do I like the over-the-top-ones for adults filled with gin, or jewellery or make-up (usually costing a ridiculous amount of money.) For me, Christmas begins more simply, with either an Advent candle or paper Advent calendar (with the only treat behind each window being a little picture.) But the latter is hard to find these days, and the only space I have to put a candle makes them gutter so badly that burning them evenly becomes a complex act of turning and timing.  As my Christmases are increasingly bleak ( no decorations either at home or work, some unhappy memories, little time for friends, extra work responsibilities, body issues, and the prospect of going home not being appealing ) I wanted something to bring me at least a little Christmas joy. So this year I've decided to do something different.  I own five collections of short stories with a festive theme, all havi...