With this being a double release month, let’s talk about some of the behind the scenes moments in Quilted by Christmas and the novella in Holiday Defenders!
This week, in honor of the release of Holiday Defenders, let’s talk about the novella!
I wrote the novella in two weeks, over Christmas break, while my husband and daughter watched Australian TV in the living room. It’s a wonder my characters don’t all have wicked accents. (And if you’re wondering, the show was “Sea Patrol,” and I think my daughter has a small crush on Jeremy Lindsay Taylor.) So, contrary to how it usually works, I actually wrote a Christmas story during the Christmas season. (Unlike Quilted by Christmas, which I wrote in June and July.)
This story marked the first time I actually knew how the story was going to end when I started.
I actually know a FRSA named Kelly, though I didn’t realize I’d given Kelly that name and job until after I turned in the novella. Considering she went through several name changes before I landed on Kelly, so my subconscious must have been at work.
My 7th grade literature students named Tyler. They earned candy for their help. (Of course, all of them wanted me to use their names.)
I’m still in awe that I’m in a collection with Debby Giusti and Susan Sleeman. How did I get here?
The toy giveaway is a real event, and it’s amazing and huge and wonderful. I had to tweak a few of the details, but you would not believe how amazing those volunteers and that community are.
So, do you have any questions you want answered? Fire away! And come back next week for more!
-JB
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