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Monday, December 12, 2016

Winter Themes For Writers





First, I’m thrilled to share with you that the World Romance Writers first holiday anthology is now available for $0.99 on Amazon. http://a.co/bXwKeiq

Five enchanting novelettes in Holiday Magic will sweep you away and warm your heart!
 

~*~
 
While outlining a romantic suspense that was inspired on a skiing trip last year, it occurred to me that although each season has unique features to enhance a story, winter has loads of them. Here are a few ~~ can you add more?

Avalanche
Icy Roads
Snowfall & Icicles
Blizzard
Hibernation
Frozen Lakes/Rivers
Cars Not Starting or Getting Stuck
Ice Skating/Skiing/Apres-ski/Mulled Wine
Snowboarding, Sledding, Cross-Country Skiing
Problems with a Ski Lift
Seeking the Perfect Christmas Tree in a Forest
Building a Snowman/Snow Woman/Snow Children
Drinking Hot Cocoa with Marshmallows, Eggnog
Setting a Fire in the Fireplace
Watching Flames Crackle in the Grate
Howling Winds Whipping Around the Building in a Winter Storm
Being Snowbound
Winter Solstice/Winter Festivals/Traditions of Many Cultures
Festivals of Light/Religious Traditions
Nearly Freezing To Death When Stranded in Sub-Zero Weather
Aurora Borealis ~~ Northern Lights
Shopping for Christmas Gifts
Toys for Young and Old
The Magic of Believing in Magic
Soups & Stews, Hearty Food to Warm Body and Soul
Snowmobiling
Night Skiing With Torches
Making Snow Angels
Being Cornered by a Bear or Other Hungry Wild Animals




Weather and location -- like an isolated cabin high on a snow-covered mountainside --  can set a brooding, intense tone in a winter story. A deadly winter storm can be as alive as any two-legged character, with apparent emotions and intentions. Timing kicks in, with a race against the clock not to freeze or to get ahead of a storm. There are endless combinations.

~*~

While the holidays are happy times for many people, others are depressed, lonely and even in despair. Many families have lost loved ones around the holidays, and the echo of that loss returns every winter. If you know someone who is suffering or lonely, think about opening your home and hearth to them this holiday season. It may gift you with richly rewarding memories.

 
This is my last blog post for the year, so let me thank each of you for enriching my life in 2016, and a special thank you to those who supported my efforts by buying my books.  I wish you Happy Holidays, wherever you are in the world!

Have you ever written a story based in winter that utilized landscape or weather as a character? If so, please share more about it with us!

GEMMA JULIANA has traveled the world, and believes exotic international settings can add extra spice to a story. As an eternal matchmaker, it brings her great joy to create love stories where two hearts end up beating as one. She is at home in Texas these days, where she shares a cozy cottage with her true love, teen son, and a crafty dog who rules them all. Her muse is nourished with the finest fuel for creativity – chocolate and coffee.

Visit Gemma’s website to see what she’s written and what’s coming soon. Sign up for her newsletter to receive occasional special offers and participate in fun events.








7 comments:

Melissa Keir said...

I've used a horrible snow storm and the memories of a past holiday in my story. Today I'm sitting at home because my job was cancelled due to the foot of snow which fell yesterday. It's both a blessing and a curse. I wanted to work and will miss the kids but I am terrified of driving in bad weather. Today I'll use to get other things done, safe at home.

Cara Marsi said...

I couldn't add anything to your list. You're right that winter presents lots of story ideas. I have a novella set during a January nor-easter at the Delaware beach. My couple is stranded together, along with 2 cats. I love your story in Holiday Magic.

jean hart stewart said...

How about adding 'searching for and bringing in the Yule log' to your list? Old fashioned, but still done in England.....

Unknown said...

Be safe and snuggle up at home today, Melissa. I'm sure there are plenty of things to keep you busy at home so close to the holidays. :)

Unknown said...

Cara, I'm so glad you enjoyed To Kiss A Prince. Thank you. :)

I like the sound of your novella... stranded at a beach during a nor-easter presents lots of great tension opportunities. Hmmm, I wonder how those 2 cats feature in the plot? I may need to read the story to find out...

Unknown said...

Jean, that's a lovely addition to the list, and can make for a very romantic scene. Thanks!

Judy Baker said...

Great Post. I think snow can look so romantic, but one of my Christmas stories happens at the beach too. Thanks for sharing. Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year.

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