In a small country village on a cold December night, Arnold Hassock, shop assistant and part time writer of instruction manuals, is chairing a meeting of the Pendon Writers’ Circle.
From children’s stories to detective novels, from historical romance to science fiction, the vast scope of their literary range is equalled only by their lack of commercial success.
Despite the imminent approach of the festive season, a slough of despond has settled over the gathered scribes.

Christmas, though, is a special time of year. A bewitching, beguiling time when magical forces come out to play and Arnold unwittingly triggers a series of implausible encounters in a bewildering world comprised of mystery, deception, intrigue, and a very large walnut.