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Let the Story Lead Itself
The Best Worst Christmas Ever follows a father and his three children trapped by a blizzard on Christmas Eve, who, after the power goes out, spend the evening on a magical adventure through their shared imagination. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
After writing five adult mysteries, I wanted to challenge myself with something completely different and decided to cross over to a fantasy. I started brainstorming ideas not long before Christmas, so it was an easy decision to choose a holiday setting. I thought it would be fun to see the story from different points of view as it progressed, and what better way to do that than to have it told by children of different ages with different ideas of what the story should be. The power outage was the only way I could think of to force bickering children to sit still and listen to each other talk. It also created more of a cozy atmosphere in the home.
Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your character’s life?
I have three daughters, all grown now, that I used to read to every night at bedtime. Much of their interactions with each other and reactions to the stories, including their likes and dislikes, found their way into the voices of the children in this story.
When you first sat down to write this story, did you know where you were going, or did the twists come as you were writing?
I had my first novel all planned out, but by the third chapter, it had taken itself in a totally different direction, and I never used most of what I’d plotted in advance, so I’ve learned to just let the story lead itself as I write. Virtually all of the events in this book were the result of ideas that only entered my mind while writing the chapter before it. It’s surprising how different parts end up fitting together even without following an outline.
What is the next novel that you are working on, and when will that be available?
I wrapped up my five-mystery series in a way that would make it unfair to the characters to bring them back and put them in harm’s way again. Now, though, I’ve had several requests to write a prequel, including one from my editor. It’s an intriguing idea that I may pursue this winter, but at this point, it’s only a concept that will require a lot of gray hair to bring to reality, so the release of an actual book is hard to imagine at this stage.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
From the Back of a Donkey, Journey of a Lifetime – Second Edition
Nancy Elaine Hartman Minor’s From the Back of a Donkey: Journey of a Lifetime reimagines one of the most familiar stories in the Christian tradition, the birth of Jesus, through the eyes of Mary. The book blends biblical retelling, creative storytelling, and devotional reflection into a narrative that feels both ancient and deeply personal. Each chapter combines Mary’s imagined thoughts and prayers with scriptural passages and reflection questions for the reader, making it part story, part meditation, and part journal. The style is warm, vivid, and grounded in faith, giving life to moments that the Gospel of Luke only hints at.
Reading this book, I found myself unexpectedly moved. Minor doesn’t just recount events; she breathes humanity into them. Her Mary isn’t distant or saintly in the untouchable sense; she’s tender, curious, even a little scared, and wholly devoted to God. The writing feels like sitting down with someone who loves to tell stories by firelight, earnest and filled with wonder. There’s something beautiful in the author’s refusal to make Mary flawless. Instead, she lets her faith shimmer through her doubts and daily tasks, through her conversations with Joseph and her cousin Elizabeth. I loved that. It made the sacred story feel reachable, even intimate.
Stylistically, the book reads with a kind of musical rhythm, almost like a prayer. At times, I caught myself pausing just to let a sentence sink in. The writing is rich with sensory detail like the smell of baked bread, the roughness of wood, the brightness of stars, and yet it never drifts into heavy language. The author’s tone feels humble and heartfelt. Occasionally, the abundance of biblical references slows the pace, but it never feels forced; rather, it roots the story in the faith that inspires it. I could tell this book was written not only with literary care but also with devotion.
From the Back of a Donkey draws the reader into reflection, not just about Mary’s journey, but about their own. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to experience the Christmas story in a fresh, contemplative way. It’s perfect for believers who enjoy devotional reading, book clubs that center on faith, or anyone who wants to feel a deeper connection to the humanity behind the divine story.
Pages: 99 | ASIN : B0CP8WMQS4
The REAL 12 Days of Christmas
The REAL 12 Days of Christmas takes the familiar carol and spins it into a whimsical love story. Travis Trulove, a young man with more persistence than sense, tries to win over Taylor by giving her increasingly outrageous gifts over twelve days. Birds, cows, maids, dancers, lords, pipers, even a dog band with drummers, all tumble into her life in a kind of joyful chaos. What starts as a quirky attempt at romance blossoms into a fairy-tale ending where love, music, and laughter rule the season.
I found myself smiling through most of it. The writing has a playful rhythm, almost like someone telling you a story out loud, a little tongue-in-cheek and never taking itself too seriously. I liked that. It reminded me of being a kid, when stories didn’t need logic to make sense, just a sense of fun. The humor is lighthearted, and I could feel the author’s love for exaggeration in every chapter. The French hens with lipstick and wine glasses might be my favorite detail.
Once I gave in to the idea that this was a story more about spectacle than sentiment, I enjoyed the ride even more. It’s a book for anyone who wants to laugh at the absurdity of grand gestures in love. One of the things that stands out in this picture book is the artwork; it feels alive and playful. The colors are bright and full of warmth. Each scene feels like a painting you could hang on a wall.
I’d recommend The Real 12 Days of Christmas to families looking for a festive story to read together, as well as to adults who want a little humor mixed into their holiday traditions. It’s playful, colorful, and best enjoyed with the same “childish enthusiasm” the author says life should have. If you go in expecting lighthearted fun and a good laugh, you’ll find yourself charmed.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0FLT64PMG
If I Had One Wish: I’d Wish That You Were Here
If I Had One Wish: I’d Wish That You Were Here, by August E. Allen, introduces us to Wynter, a snowman whose heart aches with loneliness. One quiet winter’s night, he lifts his gaze to the stars and makes a simple wish, for friends to share the snowy world around him. His wish is answered with gentle magic as a pair of cardinals and a colony of bunnies arrive, filling his days with laughter, warmth, and companionship. Though Wynter delights in this newfound joy, a quiet longing remains. He comes to understand that those he misses are never truly gone; they remain close, tucked deep within his heart, and with friends by his side, he will never be alone again.
Wynter is a character brimming with charm and relatability. His yearning for connection mirrors our own human need for belonging. The story’s closing realization, that love endures across distance and even loss, is both poignant and universal. It speaks to anyone who has felt the absence of a loved one and found comfort in the strength of family and friends.
The illustrations enrich the narrative beautifully. They capture Wynter’s solitude with quiet grace, then burst into joy and warmth as his companions gather around him. The snowy scenes evoke the enchantment of winter nights and the anticipation of the holiday season, adding layers of coziness and wonder to the tale.
If I Had One Wish: I’d Wish That You Were Here is a gentle reminder, cloaked in snowy wonder and touched with starlight. For young readers, it offers a way to understand the complexities of missing someone, whether through loss, distance, or change. For adults, Allen provides a reminder of the healing power of companionship. Heartfelt, tender, and visually delightful, If I Had One Wish is a perfect winter read for families to share.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0FNDJ4JQ5
Pure Creative Alchemy
Elf Dust follows elves as they sneak into homes before Christmas to check whether kids have been naughty or nice and leave behind a mystery surprise for children to discover. What was the inspiration for your story?
I lived in Hong Kong in a high rise. My children were quite young and eager for a fun-filled Christmas. The only problem was – Santa could not land on our roof and, of course, there were no chimneys. I had to come up with something to create magic and mystery. Elf Dust came to me driving to work one morning.
My son discovered his first elf dust and raced to the playground of our building to tell his friends. Soon I had an apartment full of kids all circling the specimen like archeologists at a dig. They were mesmerized. Then the other parents in the building used some of my dust and one by one children were rushing to announce their elf dust sitings. I can safely say it was a tie between parents and kids as to who had more fun! Parents also loved how easy it was. Me too!
But, the real testament to Elf Dust’s magic was when my son showed his younger sister her first Elf Dust. As she went to touch it, he pulled her back saying “Oh No, you can’t touch it or you’ll become an Elf.”
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
The entire book was a joy. But, If I must choose it would be the scenes where the children find Elf Dust. They remind me of all the years I saw this wonderful scenario play out. The moment the Elf Dust is discovered is a moment of sheer elation for the young and the young at heart who love the magic of Christmas.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Colleen Sgroi?
It was pure creative alchemy. From our first conversation, it was clear Colleen understood what I was looking for, like no one else. It was a harmony of words and images like I’ve never experienced before. While I was eager to finish the book, I was sad when the creative process ended. Each session was a real collaboration, and the result was beyond what I hoped for. Colleen and I worked very well together sharing our ideas and visions. But it was her art and talent that brought it all together.
What next book are you working on and when will it be available?
I am working on a sequel involving Cookie and Jingle – the two elves on the cover. They’re senior elves in Santa’s brigade and will surely have some stories to tell in the future.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Have you seen Elf Dust in your house? Better check!
Santa Claws: A Christmas Tail for Cats
Apollo is a fortunate black cat. He enjoys a warm, loving home, rests comfortably by the fire, and has everything he could ever need. Yet life was not always so kind. Although his memories are faint, Apollo once lived on the streets, struggling to survive. That all changed when he was rescued and brought to an animal shelter. Now, grateful for his second chance, he cherishes every moment of his life. On Christmas Eve, Apollo receives an unexpected visitor—Santa Claus himself. Unfamiliar with the jolly figure, Apollo listens as Santa explains his mission to deliver gifts to children around the world. Curious, the black cat asks if there is a Santa Claus for cats. Santa admits there isn’t but offers to transform into one, a gesture Apollo eagerly accepts. Driven by his past, Apollo hopes to spread the Christmas spirit and help other cats facing struggles similar to his own.
Denise Alicea delivers a heartwarming and meaningful story that resonates deeply. Her ability to convey so much with so few words is remarkable. Through Apollo’s journey, Alicea highlights the challenges faced by pets, reminding readers to value and care for animals. At its core, the story explores themes of home, affection, and selfless giving—perfect lessons for children during the holiday season. The narrative is fast-paced yet thoughtfully structured, ensuring readers remain engaged while gaining insight into Apollo’s experiences and heartfelt thoughts.
Children will find the story both uplifting and relatable. Apollo’s desire to share joy and help others captures the true magic of Christmas. The charming illustrations further enhance the book’s warmth, evoking feelings of comfort, hope, and festive cheer. Together, the words and visuals create an immersive and delightful experience for young readers. Alicea emphasizes empathy, generosity, and kindness—values that extend beyond the holiday season. Apollo and Santa, as characters, are sweet, kindhearted, and serve as wonderful role models for young readers.
Santa Claws: A Christmas Tail for Cats is a beautifully crafted tale that captures the essence of giving, gratitude, and the joy of sharing. It is a perfect holiday read, offering children a fun and thoughtful way to embrace the Christmas season while reminding them to appreciate what they have and extend kindness to those in need. Denise Alicea’s story will undoubtedly warm hearts and inspire young readers to spread love, empathy, and generosity.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DKJPF9S4
Christmas Actually: A festive novel about family and forgiveness
Christmas Actually, by Lisa Darcy, is a heartwarming yet humorously chaotic exploration of midlife, motherhood, career revival, and family dynamics set against the backdrop of the holiday season. Katie, the protagonist, is a once-aspiring photographer grappling with the pressures of parenting, a faltering marriage, and the rediscovery of her professional identity. The story unfolds with relatable messiness and sharp wit, drawing readers into Katie’s world of imperfect Christmases and the quest for fulfillment.
Lisa Darcy’s writing is charmingly down-to-earth, though, at times, it feels a bit overly descriptive. Early in the book, Katie’s chaotic dinner party with her husband’s Mormon colleagues is laugh-out-loud funny yet painfully awkward. The tension between Katie’s desire to reclaim her photography career and her insecurities about keeping up with new technology is palpable. Darcy has a knack for making the reader feel like they’re part of Katie’s bustling household, with all its mishaps and tender moments.
What I enjoyed most were the layered relationships, especially between Katie and her teenage daughter, Lexi. Their interactions brim with a mix of love and exasperation, reflecting the generational clash over social media and self-expression. The holiday theme is cleverly interwoven without being overbearing. Katie’s hesitation to embrace Christmas traditions mirrors her internal struggles, and her eventual engagement with the festive season aligns beautifully with her personal growth. Darcy’s portrayal of the season’s chaos, complete with mismatched decorations and burned pavlovas, is refreshingly real.
Christmas Actually is perfect for readers who appreciate stories about juggling life’s messiness with humor and grace. It’s especially suited for working moms, fans of domestic dramas with comedic undertones, and anyone needing a reminder that life doesn’t need to be picture-perfect to be fulfilling. Lisa Darcy’s relatable characters and sharp observations will leave you smiling—and perhaps reaching for your camera to capture your own “perfectly imperfect” moments.
Pages: 346 | ASIN : B0DCDCFY1B
Boundless Imagination
In A Christmas to Remember, a young girl sets out to renew her best friend’s belief in Santa Claus and the two find themselves on an adventure at the North Pole. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My inspiration comes from the joy and magic that stories can bring to people of all ages, especially during special times of the year. My wife, Linda, has a deep love for Christmas and all the wonder that comes with it, including festive films and timeless traditions. I wrote this book as a gift for her, capturing the warmth, hope, and enchantment that the season offers.
What draws you to write children’s literature?
Writing children’s literature allows me to tap into a sense of innocence, curiosity, and boundless imagination. Through these stories, I can create moments of joy, encourage belief in magic, and celebrate the values of kindness and togetherness. Knowing that these tales can spark joy in children, and the child within every adult fills me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Are there any of your own childhood experiences included in this story?
Yes, there are several elements of my own childhood experiences woven into this story. Christmas was always a magical time for me, filled with wonder, excitement, and cherished traditions. One thing that stands out in my memories is that we always had mistletoe in the house, a small but meaningful symbol of Christmas.
We weren’t wealthy, but my parents worked hard to keep the magic of Christmas alive for us children for as long as they could. Their love and dedication ensured that the season felt special, no matter our circumstances. The anticipation, the togetherness, and the small traditions they upheld created a sense of wonder that has stayed with me to this day.
I drew on these feelings of hope, love, and enchantment to shape the story’s themes. My goal was to capture that childhood sense of magic and share it with others, reminding readers of all ages that the true spirit of Christmas comes from the love and joy we share with one another.
Can young readers look forward to more work from you soon? What are you currently working on?
Absolutely! I’m excited to share that I’m currently working on another Christmas book set to be released next year, continuing my love for festive storytelling.
Additionally, Book 2 in the Shamera trilogy is on track for release around Easter, and I can’t wait for readers to continue that journey. Beyond that, I am also co-writing a supernatural horror novel titled The Eye of Vengeance and working on Book 2 in the horror series Ravenswood.
It’s shaping up to be a very busy and thrilling year ahead, with stories for a range of readers, whether they’re seeking holiday magic, fantasy adventures, or spine-chilling horror.
Author Links: Facebook | Website | Amazon
In the snow-draped village where children’s laughter pierces the cold air, “A True Believer” unveils the stirring story of Lily, a young girl with fiery red hair and emerald eyes, facing a profound Christmas revelation. Clad in her pink scarf and bobble hat, Lily writes to Santa in her diary, her faith in holiday magic unwavering. Yet, her spirit is tested when her friend Sophie reveals a sombre truth: Santa might just be a myth. This revelation threatens Lily’s cherished beliefs, but instead of succumbing to doubt, she embarks on a quest to discover the reality of Santa Claus. “A Christmas to Remember” weaves a heartwarming narrative of innocence, faith, and friendship, as Lily and Sophie navigate the true essence of the Christmas spirit, proving that some magic is indeed real. This tale is a testament to the enduring power of belief and the magic that binds us during the festive season.
From the hushed whispers of doubt to the resilient bonds of friendship, join Lily as she seeks to uncover whether the spirit of Santa Claus really exists. This enchanting narrative is a testament to the enduring wonder of Christmas, promising to warm your heart and restore your faith in the magic of the season. Perfect for anyone who cherishes Christmas traditions and the timeless question of what it truly means to believe.
LITERARY TITAN 