The Heartfelt Dilemma of Christmas in The Yuletide Apprentice

Christmas stories often bring warmth, magic, and a sense of belonging. Justin Alcala’s latest short story, The Yuletide Apprentice, offers all this and more, wrapped in a tale that explores the difficult choices between ambition and loyalty. Justin Alcala is best known for his darker work, but The Yuletide Apprentice reveals a different side of his storytelling. This story is heartfelt and whimsical, blending magical elements with deep emotional conflict. It follows a young apprentice who, on Christmas Eve, sets out to study under a grumpy wizard. The twist comes when the apprentice learns that the price of mastering magic is leaving behind his beloved family. Set to appear in Lowell & Benson Publishing’s anthology Hearth & Lantern, releasing December 10, 2025, this story invites readers to reflect on what truly matters during the holiday season.

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