Dear Readers,
Joyeux Noël from France!
This year, I find myself celebrating Christmas in a place that feels like it’s been plucked straight out of a storybook—a quaint little village in the French Alps, Haute Savoie. It’s a special place for me not only because my “French family” lives here, but also because I crafted the first outline of Frozen Lives in this place in May 2023.
On this frigid winter’s day, the cobblestone streets are lined with twinkling lights from the Christmas market, the ancient church bells (les cloches) ring Christmas songs softly across the ville and the air is filled with the scent of fresh-baked coffee and baguettes. I think I’ve eaten my weight in pastries!
Being here has reminds me of the inspiration we get when we step outside of our everyday routines to experience new places and allow them to reshape our perspectives. As a writer, I’m always drawn to how place shapes story, and this Christmas has me dreaming of new tales to tell, one with a French twist! You’ll hear about this much more in the new year.
These holiday weeks are the only time during the year that my husband and I truly get to unplug and unwind without distractions from work. Every year we take this time to reflect on the blessings of the past year and goal set for the new year’s adventures.
Gratitude for a Year of Stories
Some of you may remember that I started this year committed to operating my life at 80%, not a 110%, like we Americans tend to do. I did this intentionally to create a cushion of space in my schedule that would allow me to really be present to my craft, my family, and my community. It was the year of “no” to new and extra commitments. It was hard at first. But about half way into the year (yes, it took that long for me not to feel guilty about saying “No thanks. Not right now.”), I settled into a peace that was nothing short of miraculous.
That doesn’t mean it hasn’t been a full year. It has. No wasted moments. Life lived all the way up! And I was right there, not missing a single significance in each and every one of them.
You were in many of those moments with me! Whether you’ve joined me in celebrating my newest book Frozen Lives, attended a workshop or seminar, or reached out to share your love of mysteries, you’ve been a light in my life. Thank you for inspiring me with your presence. Next year, I’m flipping the script. It’s the year of “Yes!” There is going to be more Dr. Emily Hartford, the Coroner’s Daughter. I will also be introducing you to my uniquely curated Coroner’s Daughter store and new stories that will thrill, intrigue, educate, and connect.
A Holiday Mystery Challenge:
In the spirit of Christmas—and mystery—here’s a festive challenge for you: Imagine a sleepy village where a puzzling event takes place during the holidays. A mysterious package left on a doorstep with a severed hand inside, a child who goes missing from the village Noël market, or a cryptic note slipped into a stocking from a victim who was killed five years earlier. What’s the story behind it? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments or on social media!
As the year comes to a close, I’m raising a glass of chocolate chaud (hot cocoa) to each of you. May your last days of the year be spent with those you love, and perhaps a touch of mystery to keep things exciting.
Wishing you peace and joy from the heart of France,
Jennifer
P.S. If you’re cozied up with a good book this Christmas season, I hope Frozen Lives is keeping you company. I’d love to see where you’re reading—share your holiday reading setup with me on Instagram, and let’s spread some suspenseful bookish cheer!
