I know, you probably saw the title, checked the date, and then thought why are we talking about Christmas so early?
Easy! I have to decide how many Christmas novellas to write this year, and I thought y’all would be the perfect people to help me figure it out. :)
You see last year I was in a novella collection with Angela Ruth Strong, Jaycee Weaver, and some other great authors. We did modern retellings of fairy tales and set them at Christmas time. We had so much fun doing the collection, we decided to do another Christmas collection this year.
Obviously I said yes and have a story idea waiting its turn at bat.
Then there’s another Christmas collection I always do. In fact, last year I created a story with a bunch of secondary characters in hopes that I could pull from them and create their own Christmas stories. And thankfully one of the characters wants her turn to be center stage.
I was happy to go through this year knowing I would have 2 Christmas novellas to write. They’re always fun and it gives me a reason to listen to Christmas music while I write. But then this other idea popped in my brain. Quietly knocking on my idea door, trying to peek inside. Since it wouldn’t leave me alone, I asked my street team what they thought of a Christmas novella set in Maple Run.
Y’all, I was surprised that every single person who responded all wanted one particular person’s story: Mrs. Williams. Now I don’t know what to do. So help me out and vote please!
Also, leave me a comment and let me know what are your favorite details in a Christmas book. I’ll pick one lucky (and random) commentator to win an eBook copy of my novella, Deck the Shelves. Comment by 3/13/20 3:00pm EDT for a chance to win.
I prefer novellas! I have a short attention span…lol And Christmas? Yes, please. :)
Christmas is a really great time of year, isn’t it?!
Hi Toni! This avid reader enjoys stories with holiday settings, especially Christmas. Christmas stories need lots of decorations (lights, special ornaments, nativity sets), snow, activities (community, church, family), traditions, and holiday cookies and food. Really enjoyed the fairy tale retell boxed set, which was unique. Looking forward to the new set. Best wishes.
Thank you, Renate!
Toni–First, that Deck the Shelves cover is beautiful. And I voted to give Mrs. Williams her own story—give the readers what they want! Looks like you might have a busy few months!
Thank you, Lindi! It’s one of my favorite covers and thanks for voting!
I voted for a Christmas story for Mrs Williams! ❤️
Thanks for your vote!
I enjoy Christmas novellas because they help you get into the Christmas spirit but don’t take too long to read. I think what I enjoy most is when the characters realize what’s important in life, God and family.
Yes! I love those realizations too.
The main thing, other than a good romance at Christmas, is that it has to tell the Christmas story, whether they attend a performance at a church, go to a live Nativity, as long as the true Christmas story is in it, I’m happy!!!
Good to know!
I love Christmas novellas. :)
Me too!
Morning Toni!
I love Christmas books and yours are wonderful! I loved the collection last year and look forward to the one for this year.
I’m not quite thinking Christmas right now, however, I know it will get here faster than I imagine.
Have fun writing and listening to Christmas music!
Thanks, Marylin!
I love to read anything Christmas.
Good to know!
I love Christmas novellas with descriptions of Christmas decorations,lights. and setting.
Thanks!
I think a Christmas novella is a good idea. A little shorter during the holiday is good. It must contain at least some snow, because we really don’t have snow here.
Yes! Snow is a must imo.
Your Christmas novellas are amazing Toni! I can’t wait to read this year’s ones! ❤️😍
Thank you, Caitlyn!
Mrs. Williams needs her own story! Christmas novellas are awesome.
Thanks for the vote!
I really enjoyed last years retelling box set. I’m a sucker for a good retelling! As for this year? I say go with your heart and your schedule! :):)
Thanks, Lincoln!
I love Christmas stories cos it gives a glimpse how others celebrate. I love reading Christmas stories set in the snow as it is summer in Australia and it sounds magical. (not that I want to experience one cos I like Summer). I have read a few where they characters to another country or destination which is fun too.
What I would love to see is a Christmas story set in Hawaii.
A story in Hawaii would be awesome!
It is always fun to read a feel good Christmas story!
Agreed!
I love Christmas stories and read them all year long. I love the description of decorations, different traditions, and definitely need the meaning of Christmas somehow in the book.
I love reading the descriptions of decorations too.
I love Christmas stories with lots of traditions honored–even quirky ones unique to characters’ families.
Quirky ones are great!
I love reading about the characters Christmas traditions.
Thanks for the suggestion!
Christmas stories are always fun!
Agreed
I would enjoy hearing about the character’s traditions and favorite ornaments.
Same
You are a new-to-me author but I love Christmas stories! My favorite part is the holiday itself because I believe Christmas is a magical holiday where anything is possible.
Yes!
Christmas…YES! Any time of the year! I’m still listening Christmas music! I love everything about Christmas ❤️
Christmas music ? :)
I’m currently reading Once Upon A Christmas right now! So far I’m enjoying it a lot.
I’m so glad!
I like novellas and please give Mrs. Williams her own story. I love to read Christmas stories that are full of hope and romance, maybe a nice fire, decorating the tree, baking cookies…