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The Darkside of Christmas
Slip beneath the tinsel and twinkling lights—into the shadows where desire turns dangerous and love wears a wicked grin.
This isn’t your cozy cup of cocoa. These Christmas tales are wrapped in darkness, kissed by frost, and laced with sin. From twisted yuletide secrets to forbidden fires burning bright, each story delivers a decadent dose of holiday heat with a sinister edge.
So hang your stockings with care… because something wicked is coming down the chimney.
Are you ready to unwrap the dark side of Christmas?
Featuring stories from: Rachelle Bonifay, Cordelia Fierro, Bailey Grayson, TL Hamilton, Isla Harding, Katherine Isaac, Alice La Roux, S Lucas, Bryony Morgan, Amber Nicole, Whimsy Nimsy, Crystal North, and K. L. Thorne.
All proceeds of this limited anthology will be donated to Social Interest Group, who work with marginalised adults who experience multiple disadvantages, empowering them to improve their skills and live fulfilled lives.
This isn’t your cozy cup of cocoa. These Christmas tales are wrapped in darkness, kissed by frost, and laced with sin. From twisted yuletide secrets to forbidden fires burning bright, each story delivers a decadent dose of holiday heat with a sinister edge.
So hang your stockings with care… because something wicked is coming down the chimney.
Are you ready to unwrap the dark side of Christmas?
Featuring stories from: Rachelle Bonifay, Cordelia Fierro, Bailey Grayson, TL Hamilton, Isla Harding, Katherine Isaac, Alice La Roux, S Lucas, Bryony Morgan, Amber Nicole, Whimsy Nimsy, Crystal North, and K. L. Thorne.
All proceeds of this limited anthology will be donated to Social Interest Group, who work with marginalised adults who experience multiple disadvantages, empowering them to improve their skills and live fulfilled lives.
772 pages, ebook
Published November 1, 2025
About the author
Katherine Isaac
20 books589 followersKatherine Isaac lives and works in Wales with her beloved cat-son. Growing up surrounded by mythology and history has fueled her love for epic stories of magic, mystery, and romance.
She is happiest with her nose in a book, pinned down by a cat, or surrounded by nature; whether that's lying on the grass or diving in the ocean.
Katherine describes herself as an eternally sleep-deprived pixie, with the mouth of a sailor and too many characters living in her brain.
She is happiest with her nose in a book, pinned down by a cat, or surrounded by nature; whether that's lying on the grass or diving in the ocean.
Katherine describes herself as an eternally sleep-deprived pixie, with the mouth of a sailor and too many characters living in her brain.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
November 30, 2025
It’s an antholgical Dark Christmas 🎄
So we have a selection box of little stories delivered in one book by different authors. They are all varying genres and tropes; wolf shifters, Krampus, demons, fae, R/H, MM, FM, MF, non con/dub con, spice, 🐝DSM, sp4nking, captivity to name but a few…in candy essence I suppose it depends upon your proclivity, as there seems to be a little of something to suit someone. Some of the stories are not full, as I have found with a few anthologies, so take this into consideration that you may have to wait for the full story to be released, a little Christmas tinsel taster if you will 🎅🏻
I did enjoy most of them, as I can delve into a plethora of reads just maybe one or two that didn’t quite hit the mark for me but that’s not to say I would yuk someone’s yam 😊
So we have a selection box of little stories delivered in one book by different authors. They are all varying genres and tropes; wolf shifters, Krampus, demons, fae, R/H, MM, FM, MF, non con/dub con, spice, 🐝DSM, sp4nking, captivity to name but a few…in candy essence I suppose it depends upon your proclivity, as there seems to be a little of something to suit someone. Some of the stories are not full, as I have found with a few anthologies, so take this into consideration that you may have to wait for the full story to be released, a little Christmas tinsel taster if you will 🎅🏻
I did enjoy most of them, as I can delve into a plethora of reads just maybe one or two that didn’t quite hit the mark for me but that’s not to say I would yuk someone’s yam 😊
November 12, 2025
Overall 3.67⭐️
He Sees You When You’re Sleeping by Crystal North
⭐️⭐️.5
All I Want For Christmas… Is To Eacape by Rachelle Bonifay
⭐️⭐️.5
The Bells of Little Leighford by Bryony Morgan
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Strung Up by KL Thorne
DNF
Wilder, Baby (I’ll Wait Up For You, Dear) by Bailey Grayson
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Slashing Through the Snow by Katherine Isaac
⭐️⭐️.5
Gifting Giselle by Alice La Roux
DNF
My Merry Monster by Whimsy Nimsy
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Kiss of the Winter Devil by S Lucas
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Joy by TL Hamilton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Darkest Fantasies by Amber Nicole
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
O Come, All Ye Sinful by Cordelia Fierro
DNR
Captive Christmas by Isla Harding
DNF
He Sees You When You’re Sleeping by Crystal North
⭐️⭐️.5
All I Want For Christmas… Is To Eacape by Rachelle Bonifay
⭐️⭐️.5
The Bells of Little Leighford by Bryony Morgan
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Strung Up by KL Thorne
DNF
Wilder, Baby (I’ll Wait Up For You, Dear) by Bailey Grayson
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Slashing Through the Snow by Katherine Isaac
⭐️⭐️.5
Gifting Giselle by Alice La Roux
DNF
My Merry Monster by Whimsy Nimsy
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Kiss of the Winter Devil by S Lucas
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Joy by TL Hamilton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Darkest Fantasies by Amber Nicole
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
O Come, All Ye Sinful by Cordelia Fierro
DNR
Captive Christmas by Isla Harding
DNF
November 12, 2025
3.5 stars
First off, I don't love the formatting. I like to see the authors' names in the table of contents, and the individual chapters aren't tagged either. Just my personal preference.
He Sees You When You're Sleeping by Crystal North - 3 stars
Stalking, omegaverse, why choose(?), two POVs. This one started off really interesting, with the MMC stalking the FMC, with the best of intentions, of course. There were some really problematic bits for me, with some kink shaming from a love interest that was never addressed. It was also NOT A FULL STORY! It ends very suddenly, including a link to preorder the full version which comes out next year. Felt a little cheated and deceived on that.
All I Want for Christmas... is to Escape by Rachelle Bonifay - 3 stars
Why choose, stalking (but the bad kind, now), one POV. While these two first stories seem to have the same plot, they're entirely different. The FMC is traumatized from her ex harassing her and is on the run. The two MMCs want to protect her. I like the way they slowly muddle their way into a kind of throuple. The climax was over WAY too quickly for my taste, and I personally prefer more spice. It's all fade to black or implied.
The Bells of Little Leighford by Bryony Morgan - 3 stars
I really liked how this one started, with a paranormal reality podcaster heads out to a small town to investigate a Christmas myth surrounding missing women over the past 500 years. There's blood, death, violence, and smut, a winning combo for sure, but there were a lot of little things that bugged me about the second half of the story.
Strung Up by K.L. Thorne - 4 stars
MM, dub con (though honestly, non con). Just because someone gets off, that doesn't mean they consent. That being said, I did enjoy the story, but it really came down to that final scene for me.
Wilder, Baby (I'll Wait Up For You, Dear) by Bailey Grayson - 5 stars
Obsession, dub-con. Okay, so even though there are parts of this romance that are absolutely done without consent, it was actually still somehow adorable. This phychopath was so well written, I loved every second. The story isn't exactly complete, but it stands well on its own, and yes, I will be following up with their full story.
Slashing Through the Snow by Katherine Isaac - 2.5 stars
Okay, so... I feel like this had potential. It started off well enough, with a bit of step-bro omegaverse heat, but then it kinda felt like I'd stepped into another dimension. Suddenly people were dying with no real explanation as to why, only for the story to end, promising you can read more if you preorder the full story. I feel like I might've even been interesting in reading more if the story had been edited or if there had been a clue as to what was actually going on. As it is, I'll have to pass.
Gifting Giselle by Alice LaRoux - DNF
Trafficking, Unseelie fae. I always have trouble reading fae books, and throw in trafficking and I’m out.
My Merry Monster by Whimsy Nimsy - 3.5 stars
Frostkin/Krampus, enemies to lovers. I think I loved the premise of this one more than the execution of it. It really needed to be a full story, taking the time to worldbuild, because boy, was I ever lost at first. I really did enjoy the dynamic of the characters, even without an on-page sex scene. I absolutely wanted more of the backstory.
Kiss of the Winter Devil by S. Lucas - 3 stars
Fated mates? Krampus? It's kinda hard to tell because it's only a glimpse at a story, and nothing is specifically revealed. Short and spicy instalove.
Joy by TL Hamilton - 5 stars
Reverse harem. Really enjoyed this one! There are a fair number of kinks thrown in, but I especially loved the safety measures and clear boundaries set. Consent is sexy. I would for sure read more with these characters.
Darkest Fantasies by Amber Nicole - 3.5 stars
Sex club, stalker ex, healing after abuse. I liked the overall story and how strong the FMC is. I also loved the he-falls-first vibe, with Rock's complete devotion to Shina and his patience as he waits for her to heal. I wasn't really into the dirty talk, though, and the ending felt a little forced.
O Come, All Ye Sinful by Cordelia Fierro - 3 stars
Religious shame, reverse harem. The religious content is sure to offend a few readers. I usually really love reverse harem, but in this case, there was very little about the characters' interactions outside of sex and possessiveness, so I didn't feel any chemistry.
Captive Christmas by Isla Harding - DNF
First off, I don't love the formatting. I like to see the authors' names in the table of contents, and the individual chapters aren't tagged either. Just my personal preference.
He Sees You When You're Sleeping by Crystal North - 3 stars
Stalking, omegaverse, why choose(?), two POVs. This one started off really interesting, with the MMC stalking the FMC, with the best of intentions, of course. There were some really problematic bits for me, with some kink shaming from a love interest that was never addressed. It was also NOT A FULL STORY! It ends very suddenly, including a link to preorder the full version which comes out next year. Felt a little cheated and deceived on that.
All I Want for Christmas... is to Escape by Rachelle Bonifay - 3 stars
Why choose, stalking (but the bad kind, now), one POV. While these two first stories seem to have the same plot, they're entirely different. The FMC is traumatized from her ex harassing her and is on the run. The two MMCs want to protect her. I like the way they slowly muddle their way into a kind of throuple. The climax was over WAY too quickly for my taste, and I personally prefer more spice. It's all fade to black or implied.
The Bells of Little Leighford by Bryony Morgan - 3 stars
I really liked how this one started, with a paranormal reality podcaster heads out to a small town to investigate a Christmas myth surrounding missing women over the past 500 years. There's blood, death, violence, and smut, a winning combo for sure, but there were a lot of little things that bugged me about the second half of the story.
Strung Up by K.L. Thorne - 4 stars
MM, dub con (though honestly, non con). Just because someone gets off, that doesn't mean they consent. That being said, I did enjoy the story, but it really came down to that final scene for me.
Wilder, Baby (I'll Wait Up For You, Dear) by Bailey Grayson - 5 stars
Obsession, dub-con. Okay, so even though there are parts of this romance that are absolutely done without consent, it was actually still somehow adorable. This phychopath was so well written, I loved every second. The story isn't exactly complete, but it stands well on its own, and yes, I will be following up with their full story.
Slashing Through the Snow by Katherine Isaac - 2.5 stars
Okay, so... I feel like this had potential. It started off well enough, with a bit of step-bro omegaverse heat, but then it kinda felt like I'd stepped into another dimension. Suddenly people were dying with no real explanation as to why, only for the story to end, promising you can read more if you preorder the full story. I feel like I might've even been interesting in reading more if the story had been edited or if there had been a clue as to what was actually going on. As it is, I'll have to pass.
Gifting Giselle by Alice LaRoux - DNF
Trafficking, Unseelie fae. I always have trouble reading fae books, and throw in trafficking and I’m out.
My Merry Monster by Whimsy Nimsy - 3.5 stars
Frostkin/Krampus, enemies to lovers. I think I loved the premise of this one more than the execution of it. It really needed to be a full story, taking the time to worldbuild, because boy, was I ever lost at first. I really did enjoy the dynamic of the characters, even without an on-page sex scene. I absolutely wanted more of the backstory.
Kiss of the Winter Devil by S. Lucas - 3 stars
Fated mates? Krampus? It's kinda hard to tell because it's only a glimpse at a story, and nothing is specifically revealed. Short and spicy instalove.
Joy by TL Hamilton - 5 stars
Reverse harem. Really enjoyed this one! There are a fair number of kinks thrown in, but I especially loved the safety measures and clear boundaries set. Consent is sexy. I would for sure read more with these characters.
Darkest Fantasies by Amber Nicole - 3.5 stars
Sex club, stalker ex, healing after abuse. I liked the overall story and how strong the FMC is. I also loved the he-falls-first vibe, with Rock's complete devotion to Shina and his patience as he waits for her to heal. I wasn't really into the dirty talk, though, and the ending felt a little forced.
O Come, All Ye Sinful by Cordelia Fierro - 3 stars
Religious shame, reverse harem. The religious content is sure to offend a few readers. I usually really love reverse harem, but in this case, there was very little about the characters' interactions outside of sex and possessiveness, so I didn't feel any chemistry.
Captive Christmas by Isla Harding - DNF
November 30, 2025
Overall a nice variety of stories centered around Christmas time with a bit of darkness. Several of these were more like teasers with how short they are & will be keeping a list of the ones I need to keep a look out for the full versions.
-He Sees You When You're Sleeping - Crystal North ⭐️⭐️⭐️
*This story has a really melancholy vibe. I thought we’d see more of her interacting with the dad but then the story ends abruptly when it was starting to finally seem interesting.
-All I Want For Christmas…Is To Escape - Rachelle Bonifay ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*This story felt cozy with how patient Ethan & Aiden were with Ivy by taking it slow to not overwhelm her. Also gotta love a guy who also lives books & has his own bookstore is a bonus.
“You don’t have to be anything right now. You can just be.”
-The Bells of Little Leighford - Bryony Morgan ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*This had a gothic vibe even though it’s told in the modern time. Would definitely read a longer version of this story.
-Strung Up - K. L. Thorne ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*That ending felt like a cliffhanger & I need more lol. Lee seems to be just as twisted as Jason.
“Thanks for letting me come up your chimney, very festive of you.”
-Wilder, Baby (I'll Wait Up For You, Dear) - Bailey Grayson ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*Byron is definitely unhinged lol Wilder will probably take some time to warm up to him more.
-Slashing Through The Snow - Katherine Isaac ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*Whoa that escalated quickly! This story definitely needs that extension & with maybe more detail for the beginning.
-Gifting Giselle - Alice La Roux ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*This story started kinda slow for me but it got very intriguing & definitely is like a teaser story with how it ends on a cliffhanger, will have to add the full version to my tbr.
-My Merry Monster - Whimsy Nimsy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*Kaj seems like a troublemaker or just likes getting under Pebblet’s skin. Would like to see where they go with their “friendship”.
-Kiss of the Winter Devil - S Lucas ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*Ugh! Just when it was getting steamy it has to end lol. It’s not too clear what Talon is but I’m picturing him as a Krampus since he talks about punishments.
-Joy - TL Hamilton ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*They’re all a bit crazy & that makes the story so fun. Definitely need more.
-Darkest Fantasies - Amber Nicole ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I liked Shina’s character. Most Mistresses seem super strict & hard but she waa really caring & maternal. Also liked that Rock was willing to step in to help with the kids.
-O Come, All Ye Sinful - Cordelia Fierro ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*Seems every book I read with a Patrick is an unsavory character lol but he got his hypocrite ways revealed to everyone.
-Captive Christmas - Isla Harding ⭐️⭐️⭐️
*That was a different take on deciding fates. Not sure I would want either option they were given.
-He Sees You When You're Sleeping - Crystal North ⭐️⭐️⭐️
*This story has a really melancholy vibe. I thought we’d see more of her interacting with the dad but then the story ends abruptly when it was starting to finally seem interesting.
-All I Want For Christmas…Is To Escape - Rachelle Bonifay ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*This story felt cozy with how patient Ethan & Aiden were with Ivy by taking it slow to not overwhelm her. Also gotta love a guy who also lives books & has his own bookstore is a bonus.
“You don’t have to be anything right now. You can just be.”
-The Bells of Little Leighford - Bryony Morgan ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*This had a gothic vibe even though it’s told in the modern time. Would definitely read a longer version of this story.
-Strung Up - K. L. Thorne ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*That ending felt like a cliffhanger & I need more lol. Lee seems to be just as twisted as Jason.
“Thanks for letting me come up your chimney, very festive of you.”
-Wilder, Baby (I'll Wait Up For You, Dear) - Bailey Grayson ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*Byron is definitely unhinged lol Wilder will probably take some time to warm up to him more.
-Slashing Through The Snow - Katherine Isaac ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*Whoa that escalated quickly! This story definitely needs that extension & with maybe more detail for the beginning.
-Gifting Giselle - Alice La Roux ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*This story started kinda slow for me but it got very intriguing & definitely is like a teaser story with how it ends on a cliffhanger, will have to add the full version to my tbr.
-My Merry Monster - Whimsy Nimsy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*Kaj seems like a troublemaker or just likes getting under Pebblet’s skin. Would like to see where they go with their “friendship”.
-Kiss of the Winter Devil - S Lucas ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*Ugh! Just when it was getting steamy it has to end lol. It’s not too clear what Talon is but I’m picturing him as a Krampus since he talks about punishments.
-Joy - TL Hamilton ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*They’re all a bit crazy & that makes the story so fun. Definitely need more.
-Darkest Fantasies - Amber Nicole ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I liked Shina’s character. Most Mistresses seem super strict & hard but she waa really caring & maternal. Also liked that Rock was willing to step in to help with the kids.
-O Come, All Ye Sinful - Cordelia Fierro ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*Seems every book I read with a Patrick is an unsavory character lol but he got his hypocrite ways revealed to everyone.
-Captive Christmas - Isla Harding ⭐️⭐️⭐️
*That was a different take on deciding fates. Not sure I would want either option they were given.
November 30, 2025
HE SEES YOU WHEN YOU'RE SLEEPING by Crystal North
A dark and chilling story featuring stalking and obsession, two Alphas, father and son, and an Omega. A little spicy and left me wanting more.
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS.... IS TO ESCAPE by Rachelle Bonifay
An emotional, suspenseful read as Ivy, on the run from an abusive ex, falls for Ethan and Aiden. Touching.
THE BELLS OF LITTLE LEIGHFORD by Bryony Morgan
A fun, bloody story of a paranormal investigator going to investigate a Christmas Eve legend involving missing women.
STRUNG UP by K. L. Thorne
A smutty read as Jason, who has a demon inside, decides to show his boss who is in charge. MM with dub con. Very enjoyable and hot.
WILDER, BABY (I'll WAIT UP FOR YOU, DEAR) by Bailey Grayson
A fabulous, spicy, paranormal story of obsession and stalking with Wilder and Byron. Features non con. Loved the characters.
SLASHING THROUGH THE SNOW by Katherine Isaac
A dark, MM omegaverse with a chilling twist and family drama. Really enjoyable.
GIFTING GISELLE by Alice La Roux
An intriguing fae story with human trafficking, sacrifice and a festival called the Chaos Celebration. There's a little spice. Interested to see the full version.
MY MERRY MONSTER by Whimsy Nimsy
A really story of the Claus family and the Frostkin. Loved the world building the banter and the action. Pebblet and her monster were so much fun.
KISS OF THE WINTER DEVIL by S. Lucas
Cerys escapes to the mountains to escape her cheating ex and meets a mysterious stranger who's not what he seems. A spicy and intriguing quick read
JOY BY TL HAMILTON
A fabulous, spicy story as Joy is tasked to steal files from four men, including her ex, to save her dad.
DARKEST FANTASIES by Amber Nicole
A dark and thoroughly entertaining story as Shina, the Mistress of her BDSM club, is left to look after her sister's children with the help of Rock. Lots of violence and spicy scenes with great characters.
O COME, ALL YE SINFUL by Cordelia Fierro
A fabulous story as Grace tries to be restrained and free from lustful thoughts to please her pastor boyfriend in this religion themed read until her stepbrother and his friends intervene. Lots of spicy scenes with great characters.
CAPTIVE CHRISTMAS by Isla Harding
A very enjoyable story as Laia finds herself captured with hundreds of others and caged for disbelieving in Christmas and ruining for children.
They are offered a choice of rembering or forgetting this night with repercussions. A spicy read including fae and magic.
A dark and chilling story featuring stalking and obsession, two Alphas, father and son, and an Omega. A little spicy and left me wanting more.
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS.... IS TO ESCAPE by Rachelle Bonifay
An emotional, suspenseful read as Ivy, on the run from an abusive ex, falls for Ethan and Aiden. Touching.
THE BELLS OF LITTLE LEIGHFORD by Bryony Morgan
A fun, bloody story of a paranormal investigator going to investigate a Christmas Eve legend involving missing women.
STRUNG UP by K. L. Thorne
A smutty read as Jason, who has a demon inside, decides to show his boss who is in charge. MM with dub con. Very enjoyable and hot.
WILDER, BABY (I'll WAIT UP FOR YOU, DEAR) by Bailey Grayson
A fabulous, spicy, paranormal story of obsession and stalking with Wilder and Byron. Features non con. Loved the characters.
SLASHING THROUGH THE SNOW by Katherine Isaac
A dark, MM omegaverse with a chilling twist and family drama. Really enjoyable.
GIFTING GISELLE by Alice La Roux
An intriguing fae story with human trafficking, sacrifice and a festival called the Chaos Celebration. There's a little spice. Interested to see the full version.
MY MERRY MONSTER by Whimsy Nimsy
A really story of the Claus family and the Frostkin. Loved the world building the banter and the action. Pebblet and her monster were so much fun.
KISS OF THE WINTER DEVIL by S. Lucas
Cerys escapes to the mountains to escape her cheating ex and meets a mysterious stranger who's not what he seems. A spicy and intriguing quick read
JOY BY TL HAMILTON
A fabulous, spicy story as Joy is tasked to steal files from four men, including her ex, to save her dad.
DARKEST FANTASIES by Amber Nicole
A dark and thoroughly entertaining story as Shina, the Mistress of her BDSM club, is left to look after her sister's children with the help of Rock. Lots of violence and spicy scenes with great characters.
O COME, ALL YE SINFUL by Cordelia Fierro
A fabulous story as Grace tries to be restrained and free from lustful thoughts to please her pastor boyfriend in this religion themed read until her stepbrother and his friends intervene. Lots of spicy scenes with great characters.
CAPTIVE CHRISTMAS by Isla Harding
A very enjoyable story as Laia finds herself captured with hundreds of others and caged for disbelieving in Christmas and ruining for children.
They are offered a choice of rembering or forgetting this night with repercussions. A spicy read including fae and magic.
November 27, 2025
This isn’t your cozy cocoa read—it’s a sleigh ride straight into the shadows. The Darkside of Christmas gathers multiple authors to unwrap twisted yuletide tales where desire, danger, and darkness mingle beneath the tinsel.
Each short story feels like a snow globe shaken too hard: glittering on the outside, but inside lurk secrets, sins, and sinister cheer.
What makes it work is the variety of the 14 stories—some stories lean gothic and atmospheric, others flirt with horror or forbidden romance. The endings are sharp, often unguessable, and perfect for readers who want their festive season spiked with something wicked.
Tropes
• Twisted holiday cheer
• Forbidden desire
• Morality plays: Characters punished or tempted in chilling ways.
• Found family gone wrong
• Supernatural intrusions
Triggers
• Violence: Dark confrontations, sometimes brutal.
• Death: Loss and mortality woven into festive settings.
• Sexual content: Desire with a dangerous edge.
• Psychological manipulation: Gaslighting, betrayal, twisted family dynamics.
• Supernatural horror: Hauntings and occult elements.
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
Each short story feels like a snow globe shaken too hard: glittering on the outside, but inside lurk secrets, sins, and sinister cheer.
What makes it work is the variety of the 14 stories—some stories lean gothic and atmospheric, others flirt with horror or forbidden romance. The endings are sharp, often unguessable, and perfect for readers who want their festive season spiked with something wicked.
Tropes
• Twisted holiday cheer
• Forbidden desire
• Morality plays: Characters punished or tempted in chilling ways.
• Found family gone wrong
• Supernatural intrusions
Triggers
• Violence: Dark confrontations, sometimes brutal.
• Death: Loss and mortality woven into festive settings.
• Sexual content: Desire with a dangerous edge.
• Psychological manipulation: Gaslighting, betrayal, twisted family dynamics.
• Supernatural horror: Hauntings and occult elements.
Spice 🌶🌶🌶
December 11, 2025
I Totally thought by the title that I was going to get all the blood, guts and gory side of dark romance in this anthology, but it was a nice mix that I wasn’t expecting. I got omegaverse, I got M/M, I got a little thrilling and mystery… As well as contemporary and fantasy…I did obviously get some“dark romance “out of this anthology… But I can’t say I didn’t love every single one of these stories. I definitely ended up following every single author in this anthology and am impatiently waiting for the expansion of a few of these stories. I definitely will be on the watch out for anything that these authors are involved with in the future!
November 3, 2025
What a great collection of dark Christmas stories. They are just a preview of the stories but I enjoyed them. I can't wait to see of they make these stories into full books. The cliffhangers leave lots of room for a great book.
November 25, 2025
Cool Christmas collection of 10 bite sized ditties, featuring romance on the darker side. Featuring tropes: Possessive/ obsessive, stalker, alpha males, why choose, mm, dubcon.
I can’t wait to see some of these short stories turn into full length books.
I can’t wait to see some of these short stories turn into full length books.
November 8, 2025
Get ready to be pulled into a wonderful collection of stories. Each one will take you on a trip down the dark side of Christmas. Get ready for some sleepless night while reading
December 5, 2025
This is a great anthology for those needing a little something spicy for Christmas! There are so many good stories throughout the anthology and several different kinks so everyone can get a little something out of it.
A few of my favorite were O Come All Ye Sinful by Cordellia Fierro and Joy by TL Hamilton. Both are reverse harem stories that have a great mix of spice and story, which with anthologies can be hard to do.
There were a few stories that I couldn't finish, mostly because the stories just never grabbed my attention. There were also some that had some interactions that felt forced and weird to read, which took me out of the story.
Overall for the anthology
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4 🌶🌶🌶🌶
A few of my favorite were O Come All Ye Sinful by Cordellia Fierro and Joy by TL Hamilton. Both are reverse harem stories that have a great mix of spice and story, which with anthologies can be hard to do.
There were a few stories that I couldn't finish, mostly because the stories just never grabbed my attention. There were also some that had some interactions that felt forced and weird to read, which took me out of the story.
Overall for the anthology
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4 🌶🌶🌶🌶
November 29, 2025
If you like your holiday reads with more bite than sugar, this anthology is an absolute must. Each story pulls you beneath the twinkling lights and straight into the shadows—where desire turns dangerous, secrets slither beneath the mistletoe, and love is anything but innocent.
This collection is not your cozy cocoa-and-carols romance. It’s frost-kissed, sin-laced, and wickedly addictive. Every author brings something different to the table—twisted yuletide bargains, forbidden chemistry, sinister magic, and holiday heat that burns hotter than a crackling fire.
What I loved most is how each tale keeps the spirit of Christmas while flipping it beautifully on its head. Dark, seductive, and deliciously atmospheric, this anthology gives you the perfect escape when you’re craving something festive with an edge.
If you’re ready to unwrap the wicked side of the season, this collection delivers in every way. Highly recommend for readers who enjoy their holidays a little twisted and a lot spicy.
This collection is not your cozy cocoa-and-carols romance. It’s frost-kissed, sin-laced, and wickedly addictive. Every author brings something different to the table—twisted yuletide bargains, forbidden chemistry, sinister magic, and holiday heat that burns hotter than a crackling fire.
What I loved most is how each tale keeps the spirit of Christmas while flipping it beautifully on its head. Dark, seductive, and deliciously atmospheric, this anthology gives you the perfect escape when you’re craving something festive with an edge.
If you’re ready to unwrap the wicked side of the season, this collection delivers in every way. Highly recommend for readers who enjoy their holidays a little twisted and a lot spicy.
October 17, 2025
My review is for stung up by k.l Thorne.
This was such a quick and down right delicious read. I didn't put it down for a minute, I couldn't I was hooked from the start.
It's such a crazy read that just keeps on giving. It's action packed, spicy , hilarious, and dark. But my black heart loved that. I lost count of the amount of times I laughed throughout this book.
It has wonderful main characters and storyline.
q
K.l thorne out done herself once again. Oh and let's not forget the candy cane. IYKYK. Forever burnt into my brain.
My favourite quotes ⬇️⬇️
"You should. Bite the bastard, let's taste his blood and bend him to our will."
" He hasn't seen the last of us, " my demon purred" we'll make sure he gets what's coming to him."
" You like that, baby? "I huffed" that sweet fucking hole is just that little bit sweeter right now, huh? Merry fucking Christmas."
This was such a quick and down right delicious read. I didn't put it down for a minute, I couldn't I was hooked from the start.
It's such a crazy read that just keeps on giving. It's action packed, spicy , hilarious, and dark. But my black heart loved that. I lost count of the amount of times I laughed throughout this book.
It has wonderful main characters and storyline.
q
K.l thorne out done herself once again. Oh and let's not forget the candy cane. IYKYK. Forever burnt into my brain.
My favourite quotes ⬇️⬇️
"You should. Bite the bastard, let's taste his blood and bend him to our will."
" He hasn't seen the last of us, " my demon purred" we'll make sure he gets what's coming to him."
" You like that, baby? "I huffed" that sweet fucking hole is just that little bit sweeter right now, huh? Merry fucking Christmas."
December 3, 2025
If you prefer holiday reads with a touch of edge, this anthology is an absolute must. Each story transports you from the twinkling lights to the shadows, where desire turns dangerous, secrets lurk beneath mistletoe, and love is far from innocent.
This collection is not your typical cosy romance. It’s frost-kissed, sin-laced, and wickedly addictive. Each author brings their unique twist to the table, from twisted yuletide bargains to forbidden chemistry, sinister magic, and holiday heat that burns hotter than a crackling fire.
What I loved most is how each tale keeps the spirit of Christmas while flipping it beautifully on its head. Dark, seductive, and deliciously atmospheric, this anthology offers the perfect escape when you crave something festive with an edge.
If you’re ready to unwrap the wicked side of the season, this collection delivers in every way. Highly recommend for readers who enjoy their holidays a little twisted and a lot spicy.
This collection is not your typical cosy romance. It’s frost-kissed, sin-laced, and wickedly addictive. Each author brings their unique twist to the table, from twisted yuletide bargains to forbidden chemistry, sinister magic, and holiday heat that burns hotter than a crackling fire.
What I loved most is how each tale keeps the spirit of Christmas while flipping it beautifully on its head. Dark, seductive, and deliciously atmospheric, this anthology offers the perfect escape when you crave something festive with an edge.
If you’re ready to unwrap the wicked side of the season, this collection delivers in every way. Highly recommend for readers who enjoy their holidays a little twisted and a lot spicy.
November 3, 2025
What I love about an anthology is that you get to read different authors, maybe people who's work you've never read, and you find a new favourite. This collection has so many great stories in it, I have added several authors to my TBR list now!
I loved He Sees You When You're Sleeping by Crystal North but that ending doesn't, really, finish the story!! Will there be more??
All I Want For Christmas...Is To Escape by Rachelle Bonifay is such a lovely tale of healing and romance with a bit of revenge thrown in too!
Wilder, Baby (I'll Wait Up For You, Dear) was so good, I can't wait to read the whole story!
Slashing Through The Snow was short but perfectly formed, a hot romance with a touch of revenge? Perfect!
I loved He Sees You When You're Sleeping by Crystal North but that ending doesn't, really, finish the story!! Will there be more??
All I Want For Christmas...Is To Escape by Rachelle Bonifay is such a lovely tale of healing and romance with a bit of revenge thrown in too!
Wilder, Baby (I'll Wait Up For You, Dear) was so good, I can't wait to read the whole story!
Slashing Through The Snow was short but perfectly formed, a hot romance with a touch of revenge? Perfect!
November 20, 2025
So I started reviewing this story by story but my review ended up wayyy too long, so I decided to review it as a whole.
This is an anthology!
So lots of short stories.
And a Christmas one too! My favourite time of the year. However I did feel like some of these aren’t really Christmas reads.
These books are completely different from one another so is literally something for everyone. We have omegaverse, fae, mm, ff, mf, rh, rituals, magic the lot!! A few are the beginnings of a book so we do get a couple of to be continued. Which does give you some reads to look forward to which is good!
I really enjoyed this anthology, the overall review is 4.5 stars as we have some 4 star reads and some 5 star reads!
This is an anthology!
So lots of short stories.
And a Christmas one too! My favourite time of the year. However I did feel like some of these aren’t really Christmas reads.
These books are completely different from one another so is literally something for everyone. We have omegaverse, fae, mm, ff, mf, rh, rituals, magic the lot!! A few are the beginnings of a book so we do get a couple of to be continued. Which does give you some reads to look forward to which is good!
I really enjoyed this anthology, the overall review is 4.5 stars as we have some 4 star reads and some 5 star reads!
January 23, 2026
Soo majority of the snippets, I want them to be books, I know some are, but other aren’t, I’m gutted at the one which aren’t actually books. It’s took me a while to get through this book as life has been getting in the way AGAIN!!! I like every single snippet of the stories… some moreee than others. I believe the first one, I wasn’t feeling it at the start but by the end. I ended up pre ordering that book it’s going to be from. Another one isn’t actually a book or from a book (yet) but I liked it that much I actually emailed the author saying ‘you need to make this into a book’ my email caught them at a good time as she was struggling with everything and hearing that someone actually wants more from her books/snippets. Made their day… awaiting and hoping some become actual books!!!
Oh and this is the first anthology I’ve ever read…
Oh and this is the first anthology I’ve ever read…
November 10, 2025
Strung Up - KL Thorne
This story was not what I was expecting. I’m not sure what I was expecting actually but whatever it was, it was not this.
Jason has a strange kinky obsession with his boss Lee but when Lee fires Jason, Jason knows he needs to get his revenge. The problem is, he can’t contain his “desires” when thinking about Lee. There is a dark voice in his ear telling him what to do and let’s just say it’s sugar and spice and nothing nice.
Jason sneaks into the company Christmas party to put his plan into play and play he did. Let’s just say there were candy canes involved.
Please read the triggers before reading this one.
This story was not what I was expecting. I’m not sure what I was expecting actually but whatever it was, it was not this.
Jason has a strange kinky obsession with his boss Lee but when Lee fires Jason, Jason knows he needs to get his revenge. The problem is, he can’t contain his “desires” when thinking about Lee. There is a dark voice in his ear telling him what to do and let’s just say it’s sugar and spice and nothing nice.
Jason sneaks into the company Christmas party to put his plan into play and play he did. Let’s just say there were candy canes involved.
Please read the triggers before reading this one.
November 14, 2025
A little treat
I love when authors come together for a good cause. This is a fun collection of quick reads to get readers into the Christmas spirit.
He See You When You're Sleeping is a mix of naughty and nice. Holly is nice and Nick is naughty. Nick is trying to give Holly a chance to discover what she is to him. Unfortunately, his son, Dominic has set his sights on her too. And when she comes for dinner, things get complicated.
Looking forward to reading the completed story.
Crystal North might've brought me here, but I really enjoyed reading all the stories from these amazing authors.
I love when authors come together for a good cause. This is a fun collection of quick reads to get readers into the Christmas spirit.
He See You When You're Sleeping is a mix of naughty and nice. Holly is nice and Nick is naughty. Nick is trying to give Holly a chance to discover what she is to him. Unfortunately, his son, Dominic has set his sights on her too. And when she comes for dinner, things get complicated.
Looking forward to reading the completed story.
Crystal North might've brought me here, but I really enjoyed reading all the stories from these amazing authors.
December 1, 2025
This is an anthology with varies of tropes and authors. Some were new to me others were not. The stories have a mixture of triggers and spice but there is something for everyone who is a fan of the darker reads. There is some humor, stalking, different types of "play", RH, M/M and much more. As I said something for everyone on the darkside of readers. Authors included are Crystal North, Rachelle Bonifay, Bryony Morgan, both of these were new to me., then there is K.l. Thorne, Bailey Grayson, Katherine Isaac, Alice La Roux, Whimsy Nimsy new to me, S Lucas, TL Hamilton, Amber Nicole, Cordelia Fierro and Isla Harding also new to me. Each brought an interesting read.
December 6, 2025
Well this isn’t your classic Christmas story. It is a set of short stories that provide a perfect way to unwind before going to bed during the stressful holiday season. The stories are short and vary from mild to dark and spicy. I really liked that I could read a complete story in one sitting without dedicating myself to anything too long and involved during this busy time of year. And, even though they are short, these stories are really good. However, I would like to disclose that you may never look at a candy cane the same way again. Disgruntled employees with psychotic issues can be very creative!
November 16, 2025
*** Review of Strung Up by K.L. Thorne ****
Short, spicy and not so sweet. Let me repeat. There is nothing sweet about this short story. Jason has a demon in his head that makes him do things. Crazy things. He tries to hold it at bay, but after a while the demon gets the best of him. Lee, Jason's supervisor, has pushed Jason and his demon to the limit. Something will definitely be going down after Jason gets suspended. He sneaks in during the office Christmas party and lures Lee to his office where he is waiting. All I am going to say is just hold on. Christmas lights and candy canes are involved and maybe an ornament. This night is definitely one for the books. Read for yourself to see who enjoyed it more.
Short, spicy and not so sweet. Let me repeat. There is nothing sweet about this short story. Jason has a demon in his head that makes him do things. Crazy things. He tries to hold it at bay, but after a while the demon gets the best of him. Lee, Jason's supervisor, has pushed Jason and his demon to the limit. Something will definitely be going down after Jason gets suspended. He sneaks in during the office Christmas party and lures Lee to his office where he is waiting. All I am going to say is just hold on. Christmas lights and candy canes are involved and maybe an ornament. This night is definitely one for the books. Read for yourself to see who enjoyed it more.
November 29, 2025
If you’re looking for a cute cozy Christmas read…this isn’t it. If you’re looking for a sleigh ride into the dark side of Christmas then you’ve come to the right place. This is filled with novellas that focus on the dark and dirty. Each story was a nice quick read and then move on to the next. They’re each by different authors which was fun. Some were new to me authors and others were some of my favorite authors. I thought each story was well written. I loved Wilder Baby by Bailey Grayson. It was a perfect add on from the Morozov world.
December 3, 2025
The Darkside Of Christmas: A Dark Christmas Charity Anthology is a collection of short dark romances filled with tales that are spicy and sinful. If you're a fan of Christmas monsters and you like your romance dark and little twisted these tales are just what you need. Each tale is short enough to be read easily in a day, making it perfect for counting down to Christmas. Each tale is unique and this anthology contains an array of various stories including omegaverse, monsters, suspense, demons, MM, and a variety of spice. There is pretty much something for everyone to enjoy in The Darkside of Christmas.
December 3, 2025
This anthology is made up of 13 short stories based around Christmas. Each story is inspired by the darker side of Christmas full of stalkers, murders, auctions, kidnapping & let’s not forget Krampus. As it is an anthology there is a mix of couples M/F, M/M, F/F, RH. So a good mix for all readers.
I’m not a fan of short stories, as I always want more. But I gave this a shot. So, get your Christmas tree lights on & a hot drink & get snuggled in whilst you delve in to the Darker side of Christmas 🎄
I’m not a fan of short stories, as I always want more. But I gave this a shot. So, get your Christmas tree lights on & a hot drink & get snuggled in whilst you delve in to the Darker side of Christmas 🎄
April 19, 2026
This review is for KL Thorne's short in this anthology, "Strung Up".
This dark holiday novella is dark, spicy, and short. Coming in under 40 pages each, it's surprising how much flair the author can fit in! But much like that candy cane, readers get more than expected.
Jason wants to scare his boss after being suspended and sneaks in during the work Christmas party to enact a little revenge. What neither of them expect is their encounter to go from tense embers to a raging inferno. Their chemistry is explosive and I enjoyed every minute of this holiday rendezvous.
This dark holiday novella is dark, spicy, and short. Coming in under 40 pages each, it's surprising how much flair the author can fit in! But much like that candy cane, readers get more than expected.
Jason wants to scare his boss after being suspended and sneaks in during the work Christmas party to enact a little revenge. What neither of them expect is their encounter to go from tense embers to a raging inferno. Their chemistry is explosive and I enjoyed every minute of this holiday rendezvous.
November 3, 2025
Now im ready for Christmas. I got this Anthology because it as some of my go to authors in it and im so glad I picked it up. I just devoured all these novella's / short stories but you could just read one or two at a time if you wanted. Can i just say though I can't wait for more from Crystal north I need more Holly , Nick and Dom I am so intrigued and ready to see how their relationship unfolds. Amazing five-star Anthology that I would definitely recommend for the festive season.
November 10, 2025
Fantastic read of stories showcasing a darker side to Christmas! While I do wish some stories were complete, it was overall a wonderful read and I cannot wait for some full stories to come out. There was tons of action, suspense, steam, and of course some dark main characters. Bailey Grayson's story was probably my favorite, but Katherine Isaac's was a close second! This anthology gives a perfect taste of all of the authors, and added some new ones to my TBR. Wonderful read!
November 25, 2025
What a great Christmas anthology. This is full of short Christmas stories. Definitely not the Christmas stories that I listened to as a child. These are so much better. They are on the darker side as well. That's a bonus for me I'm hoping that at some point the authors will expand these. If you are looking for a book with Christmas stories that are unique look no further. You won't regret reading these
December 2, 2025
This is a holiday anthology, with stories from a variety of authors. This anthology, like the title says, definitely leans more to the dark side. There is truly something for everyone in this anthology. It's not all dark and dangerous. This collection has action, intrigue, humor and steam. Whether you're ready to take on the whole collection or just a few stories, you will definitely enjoy this anthology.
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