Christmas by Candlelight – the narrative begins three days before Christmas and it’s just starting to snow. Libby Pugh has been inveigled, against her better judgement, by her best friend to stop in on their university reunion, whilst travelling home from a wedding in North Yorkshire with her new boyfriend, Max.
The reunion is being held by Archie Templeton, the playboy of their former house-share group. Archie has finally inherited his father’s title and estate, although the latter is a somewhat rundown heap than, even remotely, a palace. Libby is surprised at how marvellous it feels to catch up with her old friends. Despite the fact that her lowly background has always meant she has felt out of place among her more fortunate friends. The night is enjoyed by all, but, when they attempt to leave, they find the road home is now covered by snow and is impassable! The guests are all given rooms for the night, including and her and Max.
Initially, being snowed in with old friends is exciting and the next day is spent eating, drinking and playing as they wait for the local farmer to clear away the snow. As the day passes, there is no sign of the farmer and everyone becomes anxious, for Christmas is only two days away and they all have other plans and places to be.
Then. Disaster! They have no power! …………
Mysterious, intriguing, Karen’ latest novel explores the ties between friends and their lasting relationships.
The narrative includes the subject of evil intent by outwardly respectable persons who prey upon young women, breaking their trust with lies and deceit.
It also tells, however, of true love, sacrifice, coping with fatal illness, and the highs and lows of power, money and status.
But, most importantly, it also shows how resilient and innovative humans can become when faced with a crisis.
Christmas By Candlelight is a definite must read for 2024!
ISBN: 9781529084283
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
Christmas by Candlelight is available in paperback and e-book.
About Karen Swan
Karen Swan is the Sunday Times top three bestselling author of twenty-five books and her novels sell all over the world. She writes two books each year, which are published in the summer and at Christmas. Previous summer titles include The Spanish Promise, The Hidden Beach and The Secret Path and for winter, Together by Christmas, Midnight in the Snow and The Christmas Postcards.
Her historical series, called ‘The Wild Isle’ and starting with The Last Summer, is based upon the dramatic evacuation of Scottish island St Kilda in the summer of 1930.
Karen lives in Sussex with her husband, three children and two dogs.