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The Triumph of Love
A Celtic Yuletide Carol follows an enigmatic priestess who is mute due to trauma and meets a man with a dark past and his own trauma, and together, they start to heal. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
A Celtic Yuletide Carol is the story of Cardin–the youngest of three De Landuc brothers who are Breton knights– first introduced in my paranormal fantasy trilogy, The Wild Rose and the Sea Raven. I wanted to show Cardin’s struggle with alcoholism and gambling after the tragic death of his wife. I felt that a Celtic priestess with Druidic healing powers who had suffered her own trauma would be the one who could heal him (and herself in the process).
What were some of the emotional and moral guidelines you followed when developing your characters?
I used the tragedy in my own life as inspiration for the characters in A Celtic Yuletide Carol. I applied the suffering of my family to that felt by the protagonists in my novel.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I wanted to explore the themes of loss, suffering, redemption, family, loyalty, courage, music, healing, and the triumph of love overall within the context of a holiday setting–hence the title, A Celtic Yuletide Carol.
What is the next book that you are working on and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I am currently writing Wolf of the Nordic Seas, book 2 of my Valiant Vikings series set in tenth-century Normandy. Book 1–Dragon of Denmark--was just published October 5th. I hope that Wolf of the Nordic Seas will be published in early 2025.
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A Celtic Yuletide Carol
A Celtic Yuletide Carol beautifully weaves together the story of Ulla, the daughter of a Viking chieftain who has lost her voice following the tragic deaths of her husband and son, and Cardin, a former knight struggling with grief after losing his wife and estranging himself from his son, Lukaz. Cardin’s reluctant return home, driven by his mother’s dying wish, brings him into Ulla’s life, and as their worlds intertwine, they begin to heal from their shared pain.
Set in 13th-century medieval France, author Jennifer Ivy Walker crafts a captivating love story filled with heartache, healing, and the magic of the holiday season. Both Ulla and Cardin are richly developed characters who have endured years of emotional suffering, and their journey of overcoming trauma and finding love feels authentic and deeply moving. The historical backdrop enhances the story, while the festive atmosphere adds an extra layer of warmth.
Walker’s writing shines throughout the novel. She has a remarkable ability to draw readers into the world she creates, making them feel deeply connected to the characters. The bond between Cardin and Ulla is both tender and powerful and left me convinced that these two souls were destined to find each other. Their relationship unfolds with grace as they help one another overcome their past wounds and form a connection that feels both unique and timeless. Adding a touch of humor, Cardin’s mother brings lightheartedness to the story with her determined efforts to reunite her family. Her antics are both amusing and endearing, capturing the essence of a loving, scheming mother who will stop at nothing to bring her son home.
A Celtic Yuletide Carol is an enchanting and cozy holiday read, perfect for curling up with during the festive season. Walker’s storytelling leaves readers with a heartwarming sense of joy and renewal, making it an ideal pick for those looking for a feel-good tale filled with love, healing, and the spirit of the season.
Pages: 212 | ISBN : 1509257446
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