Every year my publisher, Carina UK (HarperCollins) releases a lovely number of Christmas novels and novellas, and this year is no different from any other. So, I thought it a good idea to ask some of their writers for tips on how to go about creating a festive story. My own novel, My Big Fat Christmas Wedding was a joy to write and if you want my very own top tips have a look on the lovely Wendy Clarke’s blog, here.
TA Williams author of What Happens At Christmas
Write it in the summer when you think nostalgically of snowy scenes and winter wonderlands, rather than in the winter when it’s freezing cold, grey and soggy.
Buffy Andrews author of The Christmas Violin
It can be tough writing a Christmas story when the holiday is months away. To help get in the mood, create a feeling of Christmas. Listen to Christmas music. Make a cup of cocoa. Put up a small tree or display a few of your favorite ornaments in your writing area.
Jennifer Joyce author of The Mince Pie Mix-Up
To get myself in the festive mood while working on The Mince Pie Mix-Up during the summer, I listened to lots of Christmas music (AccuRadio have a great selection of festive stations year-round) and used a festive mug for my all-important tea.
Jaimie Admans contributing author to Christmas Wish Come True
My tip would be to immerse yourself in Christmas, no matter what time of year you’re writing in! Drag some tinsel out of the attic, burn a festive scented candle, go and bake gingerbread men, find a Christmas playlist on Youtube, and think of all the senses – what Christmas feels, sounds, smells, and tastes like!
Darcie Boleyn author of Wish Upon a Christmas Cake
Play some Christmas tunes, burn some cinnamon candles, look at photographs from Christmases gone by then let the words flow.
Misty Shaw contributing author to Christmas Wish Come True
Remember the Christmas magic from your childhood, how the snow always used to cover the ground.
Annie Lyons author of A Not Quite Perfect Christmas
Watch The Snowman, It’s A Wonderful Life & Love Actually to get those festive emotions (& tears) flowing!
Jenny Oliver author of Four Weddings and a White Christmas
There’s nothing more fascinating (and unique) than other people’s Xmases – so draw on your own memories and traditions as much as possible when writing festive.
Maxine Morrey author of Winter’s Fairytale
‘Nothing beats Michael Buble’s Christmas album for getting you in the festive mood – even when it’s 30 plus degrees outside!’
You could simply use your imagination along with good diction, which is the job of the writer anyway.
Ooh, I think a few mince pies and festive background music certainly help the imagination though 🙂
Mulled Wine makes the world go round…
(and aids the thought process)
It does indeed!
Great tips here from the Carina authors! Can’t wait to read all the lovely Christmas books!
Thanks so much, Rachel 🙂
Great blog! To first commenter: Yes writers must primarily rely on their imagination and skills, but sometimes imagination needs a kick start or a helping hand. These are fantastic tips to spark ideas and get you in the mood.
Yes, anything that helps inspire the imagination is very welcome by me! Thanks for popping by, Kath!
Ooooh mulled wine, mince pies, Christmas music. Much more fun than just imagination and I’m sure inspirational too.
Great blog – – really enjoyed it xx
Thanks Sue! x