It’s been almost a year since I last published. The third book in my Uncertain Riches has been progressing slowly, when it’s been happening at all.

For me, drafting is the hardest part of the writing process. I love researching and meeting my new characters. Even brainstorming the basic story can be exciting. However, when it comes to actually writing the words, I will look for things to do other than draft that thing. I don’t fully understand the part of my brain that puts on the brakes when I open my document, but adding to my grocery list or spending hours searching for the perfect inspirational playlist suddenly gets high priority.

So, when I was invited to an author collaboration, I was hesitant to join at first. What if the drafter-averse part of me couldn’t come up with a story? Or stick to the word count? Or meet the deadline? The extroverted side of me (yes, there’s one in there somewhere) wanted to jump at the opportunity to work alongside other authors. But I also knew how slow my brain works. Especially when I had zero story ideas.

I agreed to pray and seek God about it. Which is how I said yes to a Christmas short story collection with eight other Christian YA authors. And I’m so glad I did.

My writing friend, Shanna Heath, is the mastermind behind this idea. And what better time to read short than at the Christmas season? I’ll be talking more about this faith-filled, multi-genre, short story collaboration in the coming weeks.

I feel blessed to have been included in this project alongside some very talented authors. This is the first time I’ve read many of these ladies and I’m delighted with how God has woven similar themes throughout these stories. Trust me when I say there’s a little something in this collection for all the teen readers in your lives. Stay tuned for a cover reveal very soon. For now, here’s a little taste of my contribution.

My short story “Christmas for the Prodigal” is a Christian YA historical set at Christmas.

The main character is a prodigal daughter who is returning home for Christmas.

Civil War setting in southern Missouri, a place I’ve wanted to feature for a while now.

I don’t want to give away too much, but a Rebel soldier figures into the story.

It’s Christmas so it seemed fitting for a sleigh to be included.

I’ve been calling this my Prodigal Daughter meets No Room in the Inn story.