A Review of “@Santa : A Scary Short Story For Christmas” by Craig Priestley

Full disclosure, I was provided a copy of this book by the author or their representative, however, have voluntarily chosen to write a review. All opinions are my own.

The list you do not want to be on

Tis the season to be jolly. All the halls are decked, and the stockings hung, but when Santa checks his list, where will you be? In the digital age, Santa can more easily keep track of the naughty and the nice, and this year he has it out for his very own internet trolls. Fed up with the rude comments ruining the spirit, he sets out on a special mission prior to his usual nightly flight. Visiting those who have landed on his “naughty list” Santa has a job for them and it will not be easy.

I have read my share of Christmas-themed books as well as speculative retellings of beloved favorites, but this is definitely new territory. The legends say that Santa has a “naughty” and a “nice” list and we all know what awaits recipients of the “nice” list, but the “naughty” list is never really explored. @Santa uses modern-day technology coupled with what seems to be every growing brazenness of online trolling and negative comments to address just that. With Santa coming into the home of the top naughty list almost “Grinch-like”, the reader does not suspect what happens next. Not a long story, @Santa is still very easy to become immersed in and is an enjoyable read that adds a little bit of sinister into an otherwise benevolent time of year. During this time when goodwill abounds and with Santa as the poster child for the secular season, one can only wonder “what if HE loses it”. @Santa attempts to give us a glimpse into a Santa postal moment that is every bit as entertaining as it is disturbing. If you like a little bit of creepiness thrown into an otherwise harmless event, @Santa is the perfect short to top of your year.