When one conjures up images of Christmas, it usually consists of snow, warm fires, and hearty dinners. Here, in the southern hemisphere, Christmas is a time of sun, surf, and barbeques. This is why Christmas in July has become popular in Australia; so that we can enjoy a traditional Christmas.
I’ve written two short stories that portray two very different Christmas’s, and lately I’ve been experimenting with creating book videos. They’re time consuming to make, and at times frustrating, but I’ve had fun working with another creative outlet. I’m even thinking of making some more! 😉
Here’s the video for First Christmas. I hope you like it!
Christmas spirit comes in the most unexpected ways.
In 1916, young newlywed, Caroline Owens spends her first Christmas alone. Or is she?
Shy nurse, Linda Graham, struggles with a tragic loss. Can a ghost help restore her broken heart?
‘Lots of emotion packed into a short story… I was left wanting more.’
Another winter has arrived in Australia. On the first of June, we received our first snowfall, and the weather has been chilly ever since. Perfect conditions for staying indoors and doing some reading (as well as writing)!
For a few years now, I tend to read mostly from my Kindle or listen to audio books. It’s rare for me to read a paperback these days, and even then, it’s usually an old favourite. Speaking of which, I recently listened to the audio version of an old childhood favourite to lighten up my usual darker books of choice. 😉
Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
This is a favourite classic that I sometimes like to return to, and I really enjoyed this audio version. Narrated by Dan Stevens, of Downton Abbey fame, he does a great job. Each character voice is distinct, his performance of Victor Frankenstein is filled with anguish, and his portrayal of the monster is particularly moving. These are two characters that I both pity and despise; Victor who plays God yet avoids responsibility for his actions and suffers the consequences, and his creation who seeks revenge, but yearns for love.
Beautifully written, this is a sad and tragic tale. A remarkable piece of literature, penned from the author at such an early age, it is highly recommended.
We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson
Mary Katherine (Merricat) and her older sister Constance live with their Uncle Julian, survivors of a family tragedy and outcasts within their community. Eighteen-year-old Merricat has a childlike quality, but there is another side to her. The reader is drawn in by this unreliable narrator, so that they feel the tension and fear as Merricat visits the town. Her home is a safe haven, one where the reader gradually learns about the tragedy and the effects it had on the rest of the family; Constance who is agoraphobic, and her Uncle Julian, crippled and suffering dementia. When their cousin, Charles, arrives, their sanctuary is shattered, taking on a darker, menacing tone.
This is a beautifully written, eerie, psychological horror story. A story with characters that stays with you long after you’ve finished the book.
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
It’s been a long time since I read this book, so re-visiting Anne Shirley and Green Gables is like visiting old friends. Anne is a lovable character, despite her faults, but it is these faults that help make her so enduring. Her tragic past does not hamper her enthusiasm and outlook on life, which is contagious. It’s also a pleasure to spend time with other characters, such as Marilla, Matthew, and Diana Barry. Gilbert Blythe hovers in the distance, but he is a constant presence, and it’s pleasing to see the blossoming of his relationship with Anne.
The descriptions of Prince Edward Island and nature throughout the various seasons, as well as Green Gables itself, creates a nostalgic image of a simpler time. It’s a place the reader is drawn to and would happily inhabit.
This is a heart-warming story, which will make you laugh and cry, but it is also one where you would happily return to to spend more time with these characters.
What have you been reading lately? Do you have any recommendations? How do you prefer to read these days?
If you’ve been following my blog for a while, and/or read some of my stories, you’ll know I don’t write romance per se, but some of my stories do have romantic elements. Writing romance was a part of the craft I needed to improve, which is why I joined Romance Writers of Australia.
As it is now winter here, I was pleasantly surprised to be asked to be a guest on their blog and talk about my comfort read.
But be warned – my book of choice does not fit the modern definition of a romance novel. 😉
So, grab a cuppa. I hope you join me. ☕
Image courtesy Pixabay
Speaking of romance…
In other news, Christmas has come early!
If you’re looking for a romantic read this month, I’ve got together with romance writers to celebrate ‘Christmas in July’.
In fact, I’ve joined two promotions, so there’s over a hundred books for you to choose from!
My book, First Christmas, is included and contains two paranormal romance short stories.
It’s time once again for a little shameless promo.
I’ve partnered with other authors this month to give you some spooky reads. From 1-15 June, our books are either Free on Kindle Unlimited or 99cents each.
The collection is a mix of genres, including horror, mystery, and suspense, so there’s something for everyone.
My recent book of short stories, ‘First Christmas’ is out! In fact, with all the goings-on around its release, I failed to mention it on the blog. I think that officially puts me on the naughty list!
‘First Christmas’ has been out for three weeks now and I’d like to thank those of you who pre-ordered or have bought a copy since. I really do appreciate it.
Shortly after its release, and out of curiosity, I snuck a peek at the US Amazon site. ‘First Christmas’ made the Top 100 in the ’30-minute Romance Short Reads’ Category. I had no idea such a thing existed, but I’ll take it! It certainly looked out of place among all those ‘naughty housewives’ though! 😉
Here’s the blurb: –
Christmas spirit comes in the most unexpected ways.
In 1916, young newlywed, Caroline Owens spends her first Christmas alone. Or is she?
Shy nurse, Linda Graham, struggles with a tragic loss. Can a ghost help restore her broken heart?
Today is release day of my short story collection Legacy and Other Short Stories!
Jonathan befriends the new boy in class, but Jonathan has something sinister in mind.
A young boy tests his skills to continue his father’s legacy; a young woman goes to great lengths after a betrayal; a woman confronts her stalker. These stories, along with those of obsession, revenge, and teenage tragedy, explore the dark side of human nature.
Legacy and Other Short Stories is available as an eBook on Amazon for $1.99AUD, as well as other countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
If you purchase a copy of Legacy and Other Short Stories, please visit me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and let me know so I can thank you personally. Please don’t forget to leave a review.
Today is release day for my first short story, The Ghost at Willow Creek! It is also my first foray into the world of indie publishing!
A child’s death. A grieving mother. A marriage in turmoil.
Australia, 1886.
Eleanor Mitchell can’t move on after her young son’s death and begins to question her sanity due to noises in the middle of the night of a child at play that only she can hear.
Has Eleanor lost her grip on reality or does she really hear the ghost of her dead son?
‘A beautiful story. Loved it!’ – Annie Seaton
The Ghost at Willow Creek is available as an eBook on Amazon for $1.99AUD, as well as various other countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
If you purchase a copy The Ghost at Willow Creek, please visit me on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and let me know so I can thank you personally. Please don’t forget to leave a review.