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Firelight and Frost
Discover a haunting collection of Gothic fantasy inspired by the longest nights of the year.
Striking a poignant balance between the endearing and the sentimental, this collection of wintry-themed short stories and novellas offers readers a unique and engaging selection of Gothic and supernatural, character-driven tales exploring powerful themes of fellowship, human need, and charity that will touch the hearts and minds of readers alike during the darkest months of the year. Imbued with a bittersweet charm and a dash of wit, Firelight and Frost deals with the living and the dead, the magical and the macabre, all to enchant readers and provide a glimmer of warmth against the chills contained within.
Fates intertwine when two estranged, former lovers revisit two trees of legendary and romantic repute to discover that their carved initials mean more than they expected or hoped for; an apprentice watchmaker discovers a remarkable secret when a unique clock chimes the quarter-hour; an unusual visitor in the middle of the night offers a dying romantic one final chance to address his life's single regret; humanity is tested by the appearance of a wandering minstrel during a seventeenth century Christmas, and many more…
Perfect for fans of classic ghost stories and imaginative fantasy alike, these tales will satisfy your curiosities and speak to your deepest human desires to connect and empathise, making them ideal for readers of Edith Nesbit, M. R. James, Laura Purcell and many others.
Stories included:
❋ The Skerry Rose ❋ Moondance ❋ The Soul Clock ❋ Misrule ❋ One More Day ❋ Flash Powder ❋ The Order of the Candle ❋ Entwined ❋
Are you ready to uncover this hauntingly beautiful collection? Then scroll up and grab your copy now!
Striking a poignant balance between the endearing and the sentimental, this collection of wintry-themed short stories and novellas offers readers a unique and engaging selection of Gothic and supernatural, character-driven tales exploring powerful themes of fellowship, human need, and charity that will touch the hearts and minds of readers alike during the darkest months of the year. Imbued with a bittersweet charm and a dash of wit, Firelight and Frost deals with the living and the dead, the magical and the macabre, all to enchant readers and provide a glimmer of warmth against the chills contained within.
Fates intertwine when two estranged, former lovers revisit two trees of legendary and romantic repute to discover that their carved initials mean more than they expected or hoped for; an apprentice watchmaker discovers a remarkable secret when a unique clock chimes the quarter-hour; an unusual visitor in the middle of the night offers a dying romantic one final chance to address his life's single regret; humanity is tested by the appearance of a wandering minstrel during a seventeenth century Christmas, and many more…
Perfect for fans of classic ghost stories and imaginative fantasy alike, these tales will satisfy your curiosities and speak to your deepest human desires to connect and empathise, making them ideal for readers of Edith Nesbit, M. R. James, Laura Purcell and many others.
Stories included:
❋ The Skerry Rose ❋ Moondance ❋ The Soul Clock ❋ Misrule ❋ One More Day ❋ Flash Powder ❋ The Order of the Candle ❋ Entwined ❋
Are you ready to uncover this hauntingly beautiful collection? Then scroll up and grab your copy now!
354 pages, Paperback
Published November 12, 2022
58 people are currently reading
146 people want to read
About the author
J.T. Croft
10 books54 followersJ. T. Croft is a Gothic and speculative fiction author with a passion for tales both fantastical and supernatural.
An avid fan of Gothic fantasy and ghost stories, J. T. imbues his work with strong emotional themes designed to tug readers’ hearts and make them think. His stories roam between good and evil, exploring the grey area between with a melancholy, bittersweet, and strangely charming feel.
J. T. Croft is enchanted by the works of Edwardian ghostwriters such as M. R. James, E. Nesbit, and E. F. Benson, as much as the Gothic works of Laura Purcell, Susan Hill, and Daphne du Maurier.
When not writing, he enjoys listening to podcasts, drinking coffee, and spending time with his partner and their grey tabby in Worcestershire, UK.
Website - www.jtcroft.com
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/jtcroftauthor/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jtcroftauthor
Twitter - https://twitter.com/jtcroftauthor
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/j-t-c...
An avid fan of Gothic fantasy and ghost stories, J. T. imbues his work with strong emotional themes designed to tug readers’ hearts and make them think. His stories roam between good and evil, exploring the grey area between with a melancholy, bittersweet, and strangely charming feel.
J. T. Croft is enchanted by the works of Edwardian ghostwriters such as M. R. James, E. Nesbit, and E. F. Benson, as much as the Gothic works of Laura Purcell, Susan Hill, and Daphne du Maurier.
When not writing, he enjoys listening to podcasts, drinking coffee, and spending time with his partner and their grey tabby in Worcestershire, UK.
Website - www.jtcroft.com
Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/jtcroftauthor/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jtcroftauthor
Twitter - https://twitter.com/jtcroftauthor
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/j-t-c...
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
February 1, 2023
3.5 ⭐️ overall
This is a wonderful collection of short stories with an older feel. The mystery and horror genres aren't my usual 'vibe' but the authors writing is beautifully haunting.
The Skerry Rose ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I enjoyed this story.The beginning had way too much information for me and at times the plot felt too loose. The ending was rather lovely and I loved the imagery.
Moondance ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I devoured this short, so good
The Soul Clock ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Loved the feel of this. It definitely could have been a lengthier novel, the ending felt too tidied up.
Misrule ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My other fave of this collection
One More Day ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cute story
Flash Powder ⭐️⭐️
I really did not care for this at all. It was trying too hard to be creepy.
The Order of the Candle ⭐️⭐️
It's a quick ghostly story, but not for me.
Entwined ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This was adorably sweet
This is a wonderful collection of short stories with an older feel. The mystery and horror genres aren't my usual 'vibe' but the authors writing is beautifully haunting.
The Skerry Rose ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I enjoyed this story.The beginning had way too much information for me and at times the plot felt too loose. The ending was rather lovely and I loved the imagery.
Moondance ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I devoured this short, so good
The Soul Clock ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Loved the feel of this. It definitely could have been a lengthier novel, the ending felt too tidied up.
Misrule ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My other fave of this collection
One More Day ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cute story
Flash Powder ⭐️⭐️
I really did not care for this at all. It was trying too hard to be creepy.
The Order of the Candle ⭐️⭐️
It's a quick ghostly story, but not for me.
Entwined ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This was adorably sweet
December 19, 2022
Firelight and Frost is a beautiful short story compilation featuring enchanting Gothic tales. Striking a poignant balance between the endearing and the sentimental, this collection of wintry-themed short stories and novellas offers readers an escape from their world into a Gothic world of magic.
Firelight and Frost deals with the living and the dead, the magical and the macabre, all to enchant readers and provide a glimmer of warmth against the chills of the wintry night.
I loved that J. T. Croft arranges his tales chronologically that span winter to Valentine's Day. Hence the theme and subtitle: Haunting tales for long nights. "Moondance" is the perfect example of this for me. Haunting and beautiful images of winter snowfall and the sculpture dancing
Croft's best work is always his short stories. This collection is just as wonderful as The Midnight Treasury. Since then Croft has expanded his writing and is one of the few writers I know who uses his writer's group to truly enhance his writing. He said fans asked for romance, and this works contains it. I almost got tired of it because all but one was "insta love." But if you were just reading a story at a time, it wouldn't seem overly romantic. The best love story is "Entwined" which is different from others in the collection and is a more patient kind of love. It's touching and moving and almost tear-inducing.
My favorite tales include "The Soul Clock", “One More Day” and “Entwined”. “The Soul Clock” is a very creative story with romance, mystery, and action elements. As one might figure from the name, the clock captures souls but the soul in this clock hasn't given their consent. “One More Day” answers that age-old question “What if I just had one more day?” This story gives the reader a lot to think about.
.
My least favorite was “The Order of The Candle.” It's written in a very old-fashioned manner and inspired by authors such as M.R. James and E. Nesbit. It was hard to read for me. I had to read it twice to truly appreciate the story and what its format does for it.
I would absolutely recommend this to readers. Anyone who likes goth stories, ghost stories, and light horror.
I am a member of the Muses, The Reading Group for J.T. Croft. I was provided a copy op the book for review; all opinions are my own
Firelight and Frost deals with the living and the dead, the magical and the macabre, all to enchant readers and provide a glimmer of warmth against the chills of the wintry night.
I loved that J. T. Croft arranges his tales chronologically that span winter to Valentine's Day. Hence the theme and subtitle: Haunting tales for long nights. "Moondance" is the perfect example of this for me. Haunting and beautiful images of winter snowfall and the sculpture dancing
Croft's best work is always his short stories. This collection is just as wonderful as The Midnight Treasury. Since then Croft has expanded his writing and is one of the few writers I know who uses his writer's group to truly enhance his writing. He said fans asked for romance, and this works contains it. I almost got tired of it because all but one was "insta love." But if you were just reading a story at a time, it wouldn't seem overly romantic. The best love story is "Entwined" which is different from others in the collection and is a more patient kind of love. It's touching and moving and almost tear-inducing.
My favorite tales include "The Soul Clock", “One More Day” and “Entwined”. “The Soul Clock” is a very creative story with romance, mystery, and action elements. As one might figure from the name, the clock captures souls but the soul in this clock hasn't given their consent. “One More Day” answers that age-old question “What if I just had one more day?” This story gives the reader a lot to think about.
.
My least favorite was “The Order of The Candle.” It's written in a very old-fashioned manner and inspired by authors such as M.R. James and E. Nesbit. It was hard to read for me. I had to read it twice to truly appreciate the story and what its format does for it.
I would absolutely recommend this to readers. Anyone who likes goth stories, ghost stories, and light horror.
I am a member of the Muses, The Reading Group for J.T. Croft. I was provided a copy op the book for review; all opinions are my own
November 27, 2022
These stories sprinkled with fantasy, horror and terror, and a bit of romance will never disappoint the reader. Croft manages to evoke the proper mood within each reader to accurately allow the pure enjoyment the author hopes to stir in each reader. Whether you love an old sea tale like “Skerry Rose” or a bit of romantic love that may not shine as brightly for the lovers of “Entwined” the reader will bask in the glow of reading a story bound to become their favorite story, to suddenly find themselves obsessed with reading that next story which has to truly be their favorite story. Each story is unique and different in style and leads the reader aLong a different path of thought and emotion. Readers should be prepared for a roller coaster ride of enjoyment and emotion. Enjoy ALL that Croft has in store for you!
December 17, 2022
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 29, 2022
More stars are needed for this title.
JT Croft is an extremely talented author who subtly blends topics and characters that can compel compassion, tears, laughter,...pretty much every emotion possible.
Each of the stories within this collection stands alone and there is always a hidden depth that captures your imagination from the very beginning.
There are also cats ;-)
JT Croft is an extremely talented author who subtly blends topics and characters that can compel compassion, tears, laughter,...pretty much every emotion possible.
Each of the stories within this collection stands alone and there is always a hidden depth that captures your imagination from the very beginning.
There are also cats ;-)
December 3, 2022
In the long cold winter months ahead get comfy in a chair and at least warm your heart with these poignant ghost stories. Each beautifully crafted tale should keep you warm and transport you to a better place. I adored them and hope you do too.
December 26, 2022
Perfect stories for cold winter nights. Actually anytime is great. Keeping the lights on is perfect. Loved every single one. Ready for more.
January 1, 2023
This read was a bit out of my comfort zone, but I was definitely not disappointed. It’s a collection of gothic fantasy short stories, breathtaking and bittersweet.
Each story is unique and literally had me on the edge of my seat. The first story in the collection is the ‘Skerry Rose,’ and it had me hooked because I adore lighthouse mysteries. Especially with witty, old lighthouse keepers. I was blown away by how well-written and compassionate J.T. Croft's male characters were crafted. Jack from the ‘Skerry Rose’ stole a bit of my heart. He was the perfect balance of vulnerability and courage.
💯 percent recommend for anyone looking for a Gothic Fantasy or really anyone who wants to get lost in a dark adventure. 🔥🖤❄️
Each story is unique and literally had me on the edge of my seat. The first story in the collection is the ‘Skerry Rose,’ and it had me hooked because I adore lighthouse mysteries. Especially with witty, old lighthouse keepers. I was blown away by how well-written and compassionate J.T. Croft's male characters were crafted. Jack from the ‘Skerry Rose’ stole a bit of my heart. He was the perfect balance of vulnerability and courage.
💯 percent recommend for anyone looking for a Gothic Fantasy or really anyone who wants to get lost in a dark adventure. 🔥🖤❄️
February 22, 2023
I found this book at the beginning of winter and the idea of a bunch of cozy winter stories was very appealing. These stories were exactly as I expected, perfect for reading cuddled up under a blanket with a cup of tea. The stories are chronological, going from beginning to end of winter, I thought that was very well done to go with the theme. There were times that the old-fashioned language was difficult for me to understand what was happening or being said, but it was easy to just continue on. Overall, I really enjoyed these stories and will consider reading other works from this author.
December 5, 2023
"Skerry Rose" was by far my favourite, followed by "Misrule", "Order of the Candle", and "Entwined". But all the stories are exquisitely composer (not to mention closely researched!), narrated and described with great care.
January 23, 2024
Cozy and spooky, delightful and spine tickling.
These stories are the perfect mix of gothic ghost stories and cozy fireside tales. The writing and prose are different than what I’m used to, and I loved it. I got pulled right in to each tale.
These stories are the perfect mix of gothic ghost stories and cozy fireside tales. The writing and prose are different than what I’m used to, and I loved it. I got pulled right in to each tale.
January 30, 2026
Lovely Gothic tales
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews