Tales for Christmas Eve

by Rhoda Broughton

"Tales for Christmas Eve" by Rhoda Broughton is a collection of stories written in the late 19th century. The opening portion introduces readers to a lively exchange of letters between two friends, Mrs. De Wynt and Mrs. Montresor, as they navigate social situations in London and hint at supernatural elements. The discussions revolve around their experiences in a new residence and the eerie happenings associated with the house, setting a tone that combines humor with a hint of suspense. At the start of the collection, the characters exchange letters filled with anecdotal observations and personal woes. Mrs. De Wynt eagerly finds a beautiful but suspiciously cheap home for her friend and her husband, while Mrs. Montresor recounts chilling occurrences that suggest their new dwelling may be haunted. The main tension builds around the haunting implications of the house when one of the characters experiences a supernatural phenomenon, leaving her in utter distress. This opening effectively sets the stage for a blend of light-hearted communication and an underlying sense of dread, alluring readers who enjoy a combination of wit and the supernatural.