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Claus #11
Nutcracker: Journey to Candyland
The 11th standalone novel in the Claus Universe.
Once upon a time, there was a toy store filled with magical playthings and fantastical stories. But not anymore. That was a long time ago.
When Marie arrived, the place was cobwebs and empty shelves. Little dry pellets covered the floor. Aunt Rinks called them dirt balls. They weren’t dirt balls.
The place didn’t feel like Christmas. Nothing did anymore. What Marie wanted, she couldn’t possibly have. A leaky air mattress and a self-absorbed aunt was all she got. But Christmas wasn’t about what you wanted; it was about what you needed. Godfather told her that. That was when he told her the tale of the nutcracker.
“You must find the princess,” he told Marie. “She’s been waiting for you.”
It was a story, nothing more. Marie didn’t believe in fairy tales or Christmas spirit anymore. Certainly didn’t believe in a wooden soldier and a cursed princess who needed saving. Until she discovered the gift.
Marie and her brother, Fritz, find a small box hidden in the old toy store. When they open it, the real journey begins. Marie discovers the nutcracker is more than just a silly toy. The princess isn’t a metaphor. The nutcracker shows Marie a truth hidden inside her.
They’ll have to hurry to save the princess. When Aunt Rinks finds the gift, she aims to take everything they’ve discovered for herself, to leave Marie and Fritz with nothing and the princess still cursed. The journey, however, isn’t a game. It will reveal Marie’s true nature.
What happens next is not what anyone wanted for Christmas.
Once upon a time, there was a toy store filled with magical playthings and fantastical stories. But not anymore. That was a long time ago.
When Marie arrived, the place was cobwebs and empty shelves. Little dry pellets covered the floor. Aunt Rinks called them dirt balls. They weren’t dirt balls.
The place didn’t feel like Christmas. Nothing did anymore. What Marie wanted, she couldn’t possibly have. A leaky air mattress and a self-absorbed aunt was all she got. But Christmas wasn’t about what you wanted; it was about what you needed. Godfather told her that. That was when he told her the tale of the nutcracker.
“You must find the princess,” he told Marie. “She’s been waiting for you.”
It was a story, nothing more. Marie didn’t believe in fairy tales or Christmas spirit anymore. Certainly didn’t believe in a wooden soldier and a cursed princess who needed saving. Until she discovered the gift.
Marie and her brother, Fritz, find a small box hidden in the old toy store. When they open it, the real journey begins. Marie discovers the nutcracker is more than just a silly toy. The princess isn’t a metaphor. The nutcracker shows Marie a truth hidden inside her.
They’ll have to hurry to save the princess. When Aunt Rinks finds the gift, she aims to take everything they’ve discovered for herself, to leave Marie and Fritz with nothing and the princess still cursed. The journey, however, isn’t a game. It will reveal Marie’s true nature.
What happens next is not what anyone wanted for Christmas.
- GenresChristmas
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2023
40 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Tony Bertauski
75 books768 followersGet my books FREE. Tell me where to send them at http://bertauski.com
He grew up in the Midwest where the land is flat and the corn is tall. The winters are bleak and cold. He hated winters.
He always wanted to write. But writing was hard. And he wasn’t very disciplined. The cold had nothing to do with that, but it didn’t help. That changed in grad school.
After several attempts at a proposal, his major advisor was losing money on red ink and advised him to figure it out. Somehow, he did.
After grad school, he and his wife and two very little children moved to the South in Charleston, South Carolina where the winters are spring and the summers are a sauna (cliche but dead on accurate). That’s when he started teaching and writing articles for trade magazines. He eventually published two textbooks on landscape design. He then transitioned to writing a column for the Post and Courier. They were all great gigs, but they weren’t fiction.
That was a few years later.
His daughter started reading before she could read, pretending she knew the words in books she propped on her lap. His son was a different story. In an attempt to change that, he began writing a story with him. They made up a character, gave him a name, and something to do. As with much of parenting, it did not go as planned. But the character got stuck in his head.
He wanted out.
A few years later, Socket Greeny was born. It was a science fiction trilogy that was gritty and thoughtful. That was 2005.
He has been practicing Zen since he was 23 years old. A daily meditator, he wants to instill something meaningful in his stories that appeals to a young adult crowd as well as adult. Think Hunger Games. He hadn’t planned to write fiction, didn’t even know if he had anymore stories in him after Socket Greeny.
Turns out he did.
He grew up in the Midwest where the land is flat and the corn is tall. The winters are bleak and cold. He hated winters.
He always wanted to write. But writing was hard. And he wasn’t very disciplined. The cold had nothing to do with that, but it didn’t help. That changed in grad school.
After several attempts at a proposal, his major advisor was losing money on red ink and advised him to figure it out. Somehow, he did.
After grad school, he and his wife and two very little children moved to the South in Charleston, South Carolina where the winters are spring and the summers are a sauna (cliche but dead on accurate). That’s when he started teaching and writing articles for trade magazines. He eventually published two textbooks on landscape design. He then transitioned to writing a column for the Post and Courier. They were all great gigs, but they weren’t fiction.
That was a few years later.
His daughter started reading before she could read, pretending she knew the words in books she propped on her lap. His son was a different story. In an attempt to change that, he began writing a story with him. They made up a character, gave him a name, and something to do. As with much of parenting, it did not go as planned. But the character got stuck in his head.
He wanted out.
A few years later, Socket Greeny was born. It was a science fiction trilogy that was gritty and thoughtful. That was 2005.
He has been practicing Zen since he was 23 years old. A daily meditator, he wants to instill something meaningful in his stories that appeals to a young adult crowd as well as adult. Think Hunger Games. He hadn’t planned to write fiction, didn’t even know if he had anymore stories in him after Socket Greeny.
Turns out he did.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 5, 2023
Every time I crack open a Claus novel by Tony Bertauski, I know I am going on a magical adventure. Nutcracker is the eleventh novel in this stand alone series and is just as entertaining as the past novels I have read.
After the death of their parents, Marie and her brother, Fritz, are taken in by her Aunt and Uncle. Vern has many personalities, but Rinks has only one, and it’s not a pleasant one. She wants….everything and doesn’t care much what she has to do to get it.
This wonderfully fun fantasy of magic and childish delight is fraught with sadness and it comes through in Tony Bertauski’s writing. I love that he made me try to put myself into Rinks shoes and see why she was so unhappy and vindictive, trying to see her life from her perspective, try to walk a mile in her shoes, to empathize with Marie and Fritz with their loss. Marie tamps down her sadness over the loss of their parents and Fritz no longer speaks.
Marie and Fritz find the gift, after a visit to their Godfather, and their adventure into Candyland begins. Is it a dream? Another one of their Godfather’s inventions? I love the creativity involved in the creatures and action that takes place. It is so hard for me to describe what happens inside Candyland without spoiling it, so I will leave it to you to find out for yourself
I always wonder how an author comes up with such a fantastical story and I can only attribute it to their vivid imagination. Their ability to open their mind and let the magic begin is a gift to us readers. The best thing is that I end the book with a smile on my face.
After the death of their parents, Marie and her brother, Fritz, are taken in by her Aunt and Uncle. Vern has many personalities, but Rinks has only one, and it’s not a pleasant one. She wants….everything and doesn’t care much what she has to do to get it.
This wonderfully fun fantasy of magic and childish delight is fraught with sadness and it comes through in Tony Bertauski’s writing. I love that he made me try to put myself into Rinks shoes and see why she was so unhappy and vindictive, trying to see her life from her perspective, try to walk a mile in her shoes, to empathize with Marie and Fritz with their loss. Marie tamps down her sadness over the loss of their parents and Fritz no longer speaks.
Marie and Fritz find the gift, after a visit to their Godfather, and their adventure into Candyland begins. Is it a dream? Another one of their Godfather’s inventions? I love the creativity involved in the creatures and action that takes place. It is so hard for me to describe what happens inside Candyland without spoiling it, so I will leave it to you to find out for yourself
I always wonder how an author comes up with such a fantastical story and I can only attribute it to their vivid imagination. Their ability to open their mind and let the magic begin is a gift to us readers. The best thing is that I end the book with a smile on my face.
November 28, 2025
Most don't know, but the story of the Nutcracker is my absolute favorite story. And this was such a beautifully done twist to the classic tale it might just be my new favorite.
This is probably the most emotional of the entire series. I used to think Ronin's story was, but I think this one might just top it in the amount of times it made me tear up. But like most who follow Mr. Bertauski, we know about Ben. We know that Ben, his son, passed away while he was writing this. After reading the afterward, you can absolutely see Ben in Fritz and in Marie. And you can see Mr. Bertauski the most in Marie.
While this, like all the books in The Claus Universe, is a sci-fi Christmas adventure, it does tug at emotions you may have buried deep within your own black box. I think it's worth the read for anyone that loves the feeling that Christmas magic; even if that magic brings a few tears along with it.
This is probably the most emotional of the entire series. I used to think Ronin's story was, but I think this one might just top it in the amount of times it made me tear up. But like most who follow Mr. Bertauski, we know about Ben. We know that Ben, his son, passed away while he was writing this. After reading the afterward, you can absolutely see Ben in Fritz and in Marie. And you can see Mr. Bertauski the most in Marie.
While this, like all the books in The Claus Universe, is a sci-fi Christmas adventure, it does tug at emotions you may have buried deep within your own black box. I think it's worth the read for anyone that loves the feeling that Christmas magic; even if that magic brings a few tears along with it.
November 2, 2023
My yearly tradition, as an adult, begins on Thanksgiving night when I reread each book in Tony Bertauski's Claus Universe. Christmas characters twisted in a more adult story. And every year, I say the same thing about the new addition to the series ... this is the BEST one yet! The Nutcracker is a story of love, loss, adventure beyond anything you could imagine and ... Karma! lol You will travel to lands you could only dream of ... or have a nightmare of ... and cheer on the lead characters. This is a book you won't want to put down and, like me, read every year. Once you've enjoyed this one, you'll want to read them all! Guaranteed lol. Tony Bertauski has a unique imagination and can weave a story like no other. I've read all his books.
November 3, 2023
This has become my new Christmas tradition. I love reading the newest book in Tony's Claus series every year, as well as re-reading the other books. They are a new sci-fi twist to the wonderful stories and characters we have all known for many, many years. This one, I will say, is my favorite. It's full of lots of emotions as the characters are dealing with grief from the loss of their parents while living with their selfish aunt and uncle. I highly recommend giving this book a read, along with the rest of the series. Each book is a stand-alone story, but references of each are made throughout the series. They are all well written and such an enjoyable read. You won't be disappointed!
October 23, 2023
Powerful story
Sometimes art imitates life and sometimes life imitates art - that's when the lines become blurred. Having lost my mother, in an extremely violent way, at a very young age, this story took hold of me straight away. The response of both Marie and Fritz to their parents' death was like revisiting my own experience in how me and my siblings responded. But the release came in the protagonists...Aunt Rinks and Uncle Vern. Another amazing story by an incredibly strong and amazing author. Condolences to the author and his family on the unexpected loss of his son, Ben. #benishere
Sometimes art imitates life and sometimes life imitates art - that's when the lines become blurred. Having lost my mother, in an extremely violent way, at a very young age, this story took hold of me straight away. The response of both Marie and Fritz to their parents' death was like revisiting my own experience in how me and my siblings responded. But the release came in the protagonists...Aunt Rinks and Uncle Vern. Another amazing story by an incredibly strong and amazing author. Condolences to the author and his family on the unexpected loss of his son, Ben. #benishere
November 1, 2023
Another masterpiece by one of my all time favorite authors. This story delivers a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Having lost their parents, Marie and Fritz suffer under the care of the horrible, miserable creatures that are their aunt and uncle. Aunt Rinks is a shallow self-centered woman who cares for no one but herself. Uncle Vern is marginally nicer…sometimes, but mostly just follows along with the lead of his wife. I loved the journey they took through Candyland and I absolutely LOVED the way the book ended. It was fantastic.
November 9, 2023
Once upon a time ……..
And the story begins. A story of disappointment, of heartache, of selfishness and of great loss. It’s also a story of adventure, of friendship, of great discovery, of love, of believing, of belonging. This is the story of a Nutcracker and an adventure in Candyland and at home.
You’ll love the characters. You’ll hate the characters. You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You’ll remember as you find the Easter eggs. And there are Lots!!
And so the latest book in the Claus universe is unveiled. And Tony Bertauski’s genius and creativity and heart come to life. To Ben!
And the story begins. A story of disappointment, of heartache, of selfishness and of great loss. It’s also a story of adventure, of friendship, of great discovery, of love, of believing, of belonging. This is the story of a Nutcracker and an adventure in Candyland and at home.
You’ll love the characters. You’ll hate the characters. You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You’ll remember as you find the Easter eggs. And there are Lots!!
And so the latest book in the Claus universe is unveiled. And Tony Bertauski’s genius and creativity and heart come to life. To Ben!
November 28, 2023
The journey had delightful references to other books in the Claus Universe as well as the Nutcracker (my favorite ballet and music).
I've enjoyed all of Claus Universe books, but Nutcracker impacted me more than any of the others. Marie's grief mirrored my own even though I've been morning my husband for 2.5 years instead of my parents.
If you've never read any of the Claus Universe books, you can start with any of them.
I've purchased them all to put on the bookcase for my grandson. He's only 9 months old, but I want him to have lots of good books to read in the future.
I've enjoyed all of Claus Universe books, but Nutcracker impacted me more than any of the others. Marie's grief mirrored my own even though I've been morning my husband for 2.5 years instead of my parents.
If you've never read any of the Claus Universe books, you can start with any of them.
I've purchased them all to put on the bookcase for my grandson. He's only 9 months old, but I want him to have lots of good books to read in the future.
July 13, 2025
Another "Good" entry in "The Claus Universe" series.
Good; not great.
I'm beginning to wonder if I loved the first few volumes so much that I'm having trouble giving the second half of the series a fair shake.
This book, like the previous, has great characters and great descriptions; but someone I just can't get engaged. The plot was okay; but it the "magic" (science) just didn't have the pazazz the first few volumes had (IMHO). Worthwhile read (and may set up the 12th volume) .... just not my favorite!!
Good; not great.
I'm beginning to wonder if I loved the first few volumes so much that I'm having trouble giving the second half of the series a fair shake.
This book, like the previous, has great characters and great descriptions; but someone I just can't get engaged. The plot was okay; but it the "magic" (science) just didn't have the pazazz the first few volumes had (IMHO). Worthwhile read (and may set up the 12th volume) .... just not my favorite!!
October 24, 2023
This is (as all of the authors books are), an absolutely stunning book! Aside from being a masterfully written fantasy, which can be read at several different levels, it is also a deeply moving chronicle of dealing with personal loss and grief.
I will definitely be reading this book again shortly, there are so many facets to this story that I'm sure that I must have missed some!
Thank you Mister Bertauski for sharing this with us, and my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your son Ben.
I will definitely be reading this book again shortly, there are so many facets to this story that I'm sure that I must have missed some!
Thank you Mister Bertauski for sharing this with us, and my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your son Ben.
November 1, 2023
The 11th entry in the Claus Universe is actually one of the best. I think I would go far enough to say it's my favorite so far and I've been a fan since the first book released! Very well written and the characters are stupendously written as well. Can't say enough positive things about this series. Well done Mr. Bertauski! In case you are interested they can be read in any order as they are standalones for the most part. Definitely give them a try. You won't be disappointed.
December 21, 2023
Nutcracker: Journey to Candy land (Claus Universe Book 11)
Sometimes I didn't figure out whether I was in a rabbit hole or following my own confusions, but whatever it was called, I did love the Christmas basis to the dreams. Tony is the finest at extrapolating from the ordinary Christmas dreams into almost mystical side worlds. Can't help but enjoy where you drift off. Just enjoy yourself!
Sometimes I didn't figure out whether I was in a rabbit hole or following my own confusions, but whatever it was called, I did love the Christmas basis to the dreams. Tony is the finest at extrapolating from the ordinary Christmas dreams into almost mystical side worlds. Can't help but enjoy where you drift off. Just enjoy yourself!
August 5, 2024
Nutcracker (Claus Universe Book 11
An exceptional addition to the Claus Universe. Nutcracker deals with grief, loss and recovery. It’s a very deep story and resonates for anyone who has or is suffering through loss.
Tony Bertauski has magically taken these dark emotions and experiences and filled them with his own particular and personally unique perspective on Christmas.
An exceptional addition to the Claus Universe. Nutcracker deals with grief, loss and recovery. It’s a very deep story and resonates for anyone who has or is suffering through loss.
Tony Bertauski has magically taken these dark emotions and experiences and filled them with his own particular and personally unique perspective on Christmas.
November 1, 2023
This book doesn't disappoint. Intricate plotting, wonderful descriptions, and characters that win your heart. Looks like a modern fairy tale but then you find so many layers underneath, in the end it's quite profound. Highly recommended
January 10, 2024
Read the Entire Series
All the books do stand alone, although you get the comfort of some overlapping characters and themes, but every book is outstanding in its own way. I'm so glad that I came across this series!
All the books do stand alone, although you get the comfort of some overlapping characters and themes, but every book is outstanding in its own way. I'm so glad that I came across this series!
February 3, 2024
My favourite Christmas read. Every year I read one of the "Claus Universe Books" and I enjoyed every one of them. Nutcracker is a magical story like all the others and I think for me will be the next Christmas in July to read another book by Tony Bertauski :).
October 24, 2023
Twilight Zone!
An interesting, unique and unpredictable story that blurs the lines of reality, while dealing with the strong emotions of grief.
An interesting, unique and unpredictable story that blurs the lines of reality, while dealing with the strong emotions of grief.
November 1, 2023
Nutcracker is a fantasy designed for adults and kids alike. You will revel in the mysterious worlds that have escaped the confines of the mind of Tony Bertauski.
November 17, 2023
Magical magnificence
A truly beautiful and emotional experience, so much more than a Christmas story, a lesson about family, life and love.
A truly beautiful and emotional experience, so much more than a Christmas story, a lesson about family, life and love.
December 13, 2023
Super Read
This whole series has been a great read . Should be made into a movie. Thanks so much.... I really enjoyed it
This whole series has been a great read . Should be made into a movie. Thanks so much.... I really enjoyed it
February 13, 2024
Amazing storytelling.. this one touched on deeper Subject matter and I thoroughly enjoyed it
April 16, 2024
Great final story in the series ! More emotional than I expected but a great read!
June 9, 2024
Amazing
Everything about this whole series can be summed up in one word...AMAZING. I purposely read this book extra slow because I didn't want any of it to end!!!
Everything about this whole series can be summed up in one word...AMAZING. I purposely read this book extra slow because I didn't want any of it to end!!!
Read
December 24, 2024Loved reading this to my grandchildren.
September 13, 2025
another great read. Amazing stories and characters, each chapter pulling you into another world.
November 1, 2023
ARC on Kobo
This is one of the less cheerful books in the series - for reasons which the author explains. However it fits well into the range of tales riffing on the Santa (more secular) side of the celebratory season and ultimately there is a more or less happy resolution.
This is one of the less cheerful books in the series - for reasons which the author explains. However it fits well into the range of tales riffing on the Santa (more secular) side of the celebratory season and ultimately there is a more or less happy resolution.
December 18, 2023
A fantastic journey!
The author never fails to delight and amaze me. I wish I could live in the Claus Universe. Merry Merry! To all!
The author never fails to delight and amaze me. I wish I could live in the Claus Universe. Merry Merry! To all!
December 14, 2025
This is my favorite book of all the books in the Claus Universe series! It’s actually one of my all time favorite books I’ve ever read. It gets very real and raw in the end. I found myself wanting to read “just one more chapter” every single night.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews