A deep exploration of the complicated bonds between mothers and daughters, examining how childhood trauma, alcoholism, and abuse can create lasting emotional scars while still leaving room for the possibility of redemption and healing. The story delves into the internal struggle between wanting to forgive and the inability to forget.

McMahon masterfully blurs the boundaries between psychological trauma and supernatural occurrence, leaving readers questioning whether the terrifying events are manifestations of mental illness, genuine demonic activity, or the result of long-buried family secrets coming to light. The Christmas setting provides an eerily contrasting backdrop to the growing horror.

The novel examines the cost of seeking forgiveness and reconciliation, both for the person who caused harm and those who were hurt. Through Mavis's terminal illness and Alison's reluctant caregiving, the story explores whether true redemption is possible and what sacrifices must be made to achieve it.