The Devil on the Christmas Tree and Other Stories

Aksai, the titular adviser of the Synod— the most timid, yet impeccably obedient bureaucrat of the Russian Empire—receives an assignment of exceptional importance. On the eve of Christmas, the wicked witch Melyanya Shtuk dies, without ever passing on to the Synod her eight trained devils. Left without supervision, they instantly dissolve into the city. The trail leads Akaki and his partner, a flamboyant Anzibol, to a brilliant ball hosted by General Bagration: among masks and outfits, the fugitives are hiding, and the unexpected ally becomes the charming daughter of the host. And here’s the paradox: protecting Christmas will be entrusted to the one who has long been considered its main enemy.

In front of you is an alternative Russian Empire, where the Gogolian spirit comes alive among gleaming shop windows, snowy streets, and festive masquerades. This is a story with witty humor, light mysticism, and warm winter magic that feels especially delightful on long cold evenings.