Discover The Magic Of Christmas With The Stephens Children And The Scarlet Queen By S.H. Holloway

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, join the Stephens children—Lorna, Christian, and Gemma—as they uncover secret passages, talking mice, and magical powers in a thrilling Christmas battle against the Scarlet Queen, in S.H. Holloway’s heartwarming fantasy that blends Frozen’s emotion with Narnia’s heroism, perfect for ages 7–9!

The Stephens Children And The Scarlet Queen

As the festive season approaches, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a captivating children’s book that blends wonder, adventure, and heartfelt lessons. This year, SH Holloway’s The Stephens Children and the Scarlet Queen emerges as a standout festive Christmas children’s fantasy fiction, perfectly tailored for readers aged seven to nine. Drawing inspiration from the emotional depth of Frozen and the heroic spirit of The Chronicles of Narnia, this enchanting tale invites young minds to believe in the extraordinary hidden within the ordinary.

The story follows the Stephens children—Lorna, Christian, and Gemma—as they arrive at their uncle’s old vicarage for what promises to be a “traditional” Christmas holiday. What starts as a cozy family getaway quickly transforms into an epic quest. A hidden secret passage, a clever talking mouse, and a portal to the forbidden land of Outlands propel the siblings into a magical battle against the wicked Scarlet Queen. Along the way, they uncover their own extraordinary powers, learning that courage, kindness, and imagination are the true gifts of the season.

Holloway masterfully captures the heart of what makes Christmas so enchanting. It’s not just about sparkle, tinsel, or snow—though there’s plenty of that—but about the enduring magic that sparks in every child who dares to believe in something greater than themselves. On Christmas Eve at the vicarage, the children think they are ordinary youngsters. But as they step into the secret world of Outlands, develop magical abilities, and confront the Scarlet Queen, they realize they are the most extraordinary adventurers imaginable. This daring challenge changes their lives forever, turning a simple holiday into an exhilarating journey of self-discovery.

Echoes of Beloved Classics

Resonating deeply with children on the threshold between innocence and growing self-awareness, the narrative explores the quiet bravery required to face change and uncertainty. Through moments of peril, laughter, and heartfelt connection, the Stephens siblings evolve from everyday kids into brave heroes. Holloway’s prose is beautifully written and infused with warmth, making it a perfect read for families seeking both wonder and emotional depth. It’s a story that shines brighter than any festive light, reminding us that true heroism often blooms in the face of the unknown.

Fans of Frozen will adore the themes of sibling bonds and inner strength, while Narnia enthusiasts will thrill at the portal to a hidden realm filled with talking creatures and moral battles. Yet, The Stephens Children and the Scarlet Queen stands on its own as a fresh, festive gem.

More Than Just a Story

What elevates this book further is its real-world impact. Holloway is donating 5% of the proceeds from sales to charities supporting Autism, ADHD, eating disorders, and Barnardo’s—a generous touch that aligns with the story’s message of kindness and empathy.

And the excitement doesn’t end here: a sequel is already in the literary pipeline, promising more adventures in the Outlands for Lorna, Christian, Gemma, and their newfound allies.

Whether read aloud by the fireside or devoured under the covers with a flashlight, The Stephens Children and the Scarlet Queen is a heartfelt treasure that will captivate young readers and leave them believing in their own magic. This Christmas, step into a world where ordinary children become legends—and discover that the greatest adventures often begin with a single act of belief. Grab your copy and let the festive fantasy unfold!

S. H. Holloway

For many years I have worked in NHS Children’s Services and an NHS Commissioner for Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Lancashire.  I have seen some awful cases of anguish and despair for families, carers, children and young people struggling to access some very low cost, yet important, integral and community facilities for neurological interventions.  I am hoping that the content, sentiment and profit from my writing could go some way to assist.

I am an ardent supporter and active enabler of encouraging children and young people to read, an activity which I feel benefits the unification of younger members of our society now more than ever.  Reading can take anyone anywhere, especially in these days of severe unsettlement and challenging conditions.  For children, it can create a belief and an optimism that things or situations can get better and will.  To dream, helps.  This is the sentiment and story of my novel.  It is also in tune in captivating a young readership into fantasy fiction.  I see it as novel akin to ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’ mixed in with aspects of ‘Frozen’.

In January 2024, I was suddenly and unexpectedly widowed.  My late husband, Ian, had actively encouraged me to write this, my Christmas fantasy, fictional children’s story novel entitled ‘The Stephens Children and The Scarlet Queen’.  I dedicated this book to my late mother Pattie and Ian for their unconditional love and support.  It is now that I wish to try and honour their memory by seeing if I can get this novel out to a wider, maybe international, audience.

I am now 64 and hope to inspire others of my generation by showing that it’s never too late to begin a successful new venture — that a fulfilling start-up career can flourish at any stage of life.

–S.H. Holloway

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