The Christmas Holiday | Phillipa Ashley
Reading The Christmas Holiday is exactly like taking a break from the woes of the world and being plunged into an atmosphere of romance, risk and relationships.
It’s the perfect story to brighten the darkest winter days.
The Lakeland setting feels an ideal backdrop to the romantic aspect of the story. It’s beautifully and evocatively described, and the hills and becks form physical challenges that echo metaphorically the emotional challenges of day to day life.
This means that Krys and Max both learn that success comes from being prepared to step outside their comfort zones, and be honest with themselves. Capricious weather and beautiful landscapes add zest, atmosphere and a real sense of drama to the story.
The voice of the absent Auntie Linda
I thought the pace of the narrative was perfect too. Phillipa Ashley balances quieter moments against high action so that the reader is completely absorbed in the story. I hardly noticed I was reading because I was so mesmerised.
As well as an entertaining story, I thought the people in The Christmas Holiday were really well drawn. I loved the way the voice of the absent Auntie Linda propelled Krys on, guiding her to fulfilment without recourse to relying on others.
Linda’s philosophy of life is so uplifting, so affecting and embodies the true spirit of Christmas. The Christmas Holiday shows us how life truly is what we make it. This story really does give the reader a warm and happy glow.
Joy in being part of a community
Krys and Max are particularly vivid characters. Both are carrying a burden from their past and illustrating how we can become defined in ways we never intend.
This theme of self-discovery adds such a warmth and depth to The Christmas Holiday that it makes the story brilliantly suited to the festive season. Both characters find joy and happiness in being part of a community and in helping others in ways readers can identify with and emulate.
Themes of grief and community are so beautifully included. The connection between Krys’s childhood and her present personality is sensitively handled.
Through her, Phillipa Ashley makes the reader thoroughly appreciate their own life.
I’d defy even the most ardent Christmas grinch not to be converted to loving the season through this gorgeous story. The Christmas Holiday is a total festive treat filled with emotion and entertainment. I thought it was terrific.
The Christmas Holiday by Phillipa Ashley is published by Avon, £8.99 PB.
You’ll find a delightful, touching short story by Phillipa Ashley in the latest issue of My Weekly magazine, in shops on November 29. Plus loads of other uplifting features. Why not subscribe and never miss an issue (plus save loads on the shop price!)
