A Novel Noel weaves five interconnected Christmas mysteries into a festive storytelling gathering in Malibu, where supernatural encounters, holiday folklore, and heartfelt revelations celebrate the enduring magic of love, friendship, and human connection. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

A Novel Noel, book 2 in the Rikkhe St. Clair Hygge & Bisous Holiday Mysteries continues Rikkhe’s family tradition of gathering together right before Christmas for a night of storytelling by the fire. Growing up, I always loved hearing the tales my family members would tell when we were together for weekend gatherings or the holidays. Stories from the bizarre to the absurd would keep us laughing, sometimes gasping, and interacting with one another in a way that brought out a warmth I remember to this day.

I wanted readers to experience a night of storytelling and fellowship that mixes the stories told with conversations and comments between Rikkhe and her guests. You’lll get to know the characters in a way that may be a bit unexpected in an informal setting. It’s a different approach, but one I felt particularly fitting for the holiday season. 

What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?

Rikkhe St. Claire grew up with an eclectic international background steeped in family tradition and hard work. Her mother is a savvy executive for a Danish aquavit family-owned empire. Her father–a Parisian mystery writer who delights his fans with intriguing whodunits. Christine, her childhood nanny and now house companion nurtured and traveled with Rikkhe as she grew up and pursued her passion of interior design. Pete, Rikkhe’s love interest, is an architect who appreciates the history of buildings around the world.

Rikkhe’s had a chance to experience life to its fullest and is a go-getter in her profession. Her family and friends are precious to her. I admire her for setting aside time to gather and entertain one another during the holidays. She’s made her own tradition as an adult that she cherishes.

Fun fact, Rikkhe has crossed over to participate in two baffling mysteries with my main character Lady Gemma Lancaster Williams in Double Trouble: Showtime at Castlewood Manor and Behind the Scenes: The Exhibition of Castlewood Manor. The ‘interior designer with an eye for clues’ was most helpful lending her designing skills to the manor projects while also assisting Gemma to solve whodunit in those tales.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this collection?

I’ve always enjoyed a good cozy mystery set during Christmas-time. To me, there’s nothing better than mixing holiday magic with mayhem and perhaps a touch of the supernatural. 

In this collection, I wanted to focus on the emotions experienced by the characters as they dealt with the mysteries of their sometimes bizarre and/or magical situations. There’s a mix of terror, wonderment, enchantment, and love that tugs at the heartstrings, but ultimately fills you with a warmth of experiencing the messages in the tales. One never knows what to expect during the holidays, but hopefully you’ll end up with a smile on your face!

What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?

I’m working on a cozy mystery tale set in the south. It’s a new series, filled with an eclectic mix of characters with bold personalities and even stronger ties to family and the surrounding community. Southern sass is on the case! This book will be released in the second half of 2027.

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