Honest review of The Winter Order

by Robert Seutter (Author)

Updated at: 13/02/2025

In Robert Seutter's "The Winter Order," the idyllic Christmas season in LaMoure, North Dakota, takes a chilling turn. Three days into the holiday, Santa Abe, a man named Abe who plays Santa, encounters young Ricky Saldana, whose innocent Christmas wish masks a terrifying secret. Ricky's plea for a stake and a hammer reveals a far more sinister reality than Santa's workshop – a vampire preying on his sister. This unexpected encounter throws Santa Abe into a world of supernatural horror, forcing him to confront a threat far beyond the usual Christmas chaos. The seemingly peaceful Christmas setting clashes with the dark urgency of Ricky's desperate request, promising a unique and suspenseful holiday tale.

4.9 / 18 ratings

Review The Winter Order

"The Winter Order" by Robert Seutter is a delightful surprise! I went in expecting a quirky Christmas story, maybe something a little offbeat, but I got so much more. This isn't just Santa Claus battling vampires – though that's certainly a hook that grabs you from the first page – it's a rich, surprisingly deep dive into folklore and mythology, weaving together Christmas traditions with creatures and legends from all over the world. Imagine a world where Santa's jolly image isn't just a myth, but a carefully guarded secret, a front for a centuries-old battle against ancient evils. That's the world Seutter crafts, and it's absolutely captivating.

The pacing is fantastic; it expertly balances moments of quiet reflection with bursts of thrilling action. One minute you're settling into the cozy Christmas atmosphere of LaMoure, North Dakota, the next you're on the edge of your seat as Santa Claus himself confronts a terrifying vampire threat. This constant shifting keeps the story fresh and engaging, preventing any sense of lull. The Christmas theme is wonderfully integrated; it's not just a backdrop but an active participant in the narrative, enhancing the overall magical feel.

The dialogue is natural and believable, perfectly suited to each character. You feel like you know these people; their personalities shine through their words, making them instantly relatable and endearing. The way Seutter brings together seemingly disparate elements of folklore – Santa, vampires, Krampus, fairies, and more – is masterful. He makes it feel as though these beings have always coexisted, their interactions natural and logical within the established world. It completely reimagines the usual holiday narrative, adding layers of depth and excitement I never anticipated. It’s as if I’ve been living in a world where the existence of a Santa-led militia fighting vampires has been conveniently omitted from my knowledge.

What stood out the most, however, was the seamless blending of the familiar Christmas cheer with darker, more suspenseful elements. The contrast is incredibly effective, creating a unique and memorable reading experience. It’s a story that simultaneously warms your heart and chills you to the bone, a clever and satisfying combination.

While the ending felt a bit abrupt, leaving me wanting more (and desperately hoping for a sequel!), it was also a testament to how engaging the story is. It leaves you with a sense of anticipation, eager to see what adventures await Santa and his order in the future. If there's a downside, it's that the ending feels like the beginning of a longer, more epic saga. Overall, "The Winter Order" is a thrilling and unique read that subverts expectations and delivers a fantastic, imaginative story. I'd wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a fresh take on holiday stories, vampire tales, or simply a captivating adventure with memorable characters and a fascinating premise.