Dear Reader,

How many of you know the little rhyme about the hurricane season? "June, too soon. July, stand by. August, you must. September, remember. October, all over." It seems like with global warming, the season is starting earlier than June sometimes, and ending later than October. And with the devastation of Helene, and others apparently lining up like jets waiting to land, we can only hope and pray that they spare those places that have been ravaged by Mother Nature. If you are one of those whose life has been affected by the storm, I pray for quick assistance and the strength to pick up the pieces and forge ahead.

Now on to happier things. If you're like me, reading is one way to escape for a little while from the harsh realities of life. October is Read Indie Authors Only Month, and in the spirit of support and community, I'll be sharing indie authors whose work I enjoy. I hope you'll find somewhere to escape to in these book recs.

But first, some news. Book 5 in the Twelfth Day of Christmas series, set to be released on January 5, 2025, is in the planning stages. The idea that I have deals with some pretty heavy topics, including living with PTSD from physical and emotional trauma and the ethical dilemmas faced by two medical professionals. One is a pediatric surgeon and the other is a former Navy medic turned ER trauma nurse. The doctor is female and the nurse is male. He's also seven years older than her.

I have 23 questions for you.

1) Do you think these issues are too heavy for a Christmas story?

2) What do you think would be good names for each MC?

3) Which do you prefer ... romnce covers with or without people, whether real or cartoon?

And now to the book recs. Mel Walker, Tana Jenkins, ML:ori Wilde, and Lane Hayes have all contributed to the wealth of holiday romance stories. I've chosen these 4 just to give you a clue as to what is out there, with corresponding links so you can go and check out the blurbs for yourself. I hope you'll be hooked by their diversity.

These are all contemporary sweet, spicy, heartwarming, funny, MF, and MM love stories from male and female authors with a heart for romance.. Click on the links for each title.

Cupid's First Christmas by Tana Jenkins

Christmas Beach Wedding by Lori Wilde and Susan Sands

Doctor Charmer by Mel Walker

The Humbug Holiday by Lane Hayes

Well, it's time to say goodbye till the middle of the month, when I'll have a teaser from my next Christmas novel for you (fingers crossed!) Until then, I do hope you'll all respond to my questions. I love it when my readers engage with me. And depending on how things pan out, you may end up having a name you suggested used in the next story!

Happy October, everyone, and stay safe out there!

À bientôt,

KT