Listen well, because these are not words I say often: This book is full of odd punctuation and really needed a mean copy editor, but I loved it. 

I was looking for Christmassy books that weren’t about Christmas, and this popped up. It takes place in 1780 in Ireland and begins with the widow Maura and her son showing up at her brother-in-law’s house in the dead of winter. 

We soon learn that Shea Brogan is a Gift Keeper, otherwise known as a Druid. He can manipulate the elements in small and large ways, but even though Maura’s son soon sees these “tricks” for what they are (magic), Maura can’t let herself believe in it. She also struggles with class differences: she is a commoner who married nobility, yet she never feels like she belongs. The novella charts her journey to acceptance in all senses of the word. 

Eccentric punctuation aside, Nicole Strycharz is a beautiful storyteller. This was unique, atmospheric and (yes) magical—she really has a way with words. I would so love to get my hands on this novella and polish it till it shines. 

If you’re only looking for steam, move along: They never get past second base. But really, it didn’t matter to me. The magic is the star of the show here.