The Apple Tree

A man who has lost his wife can only confess to himself that Midge's passing brings a sense of relief. However, even though he is no longer subjected to her nagging, her presence lingers. Is he burdened by guilt? Or does that weathered tree in the orchard oddly resemble her stooped posture?

Halloween may be thought of as the most frightening time of the year, but H.R. Wakefield, Walter de la Mare, and Daphne du Maurier thought differently. They were among the numerous authors who chose to set their most chilling tales during the cold and shivering days of—you guessed it—Christmas.