The Christmas Thief (13 page)

Speaking of this story, this one actually began years ago after I’d written a few chapters of a romance and sent them to a publishing house. The editor at the time wrote back and asked, “Would you send the rest?"

I was thrilled. So while my little kids napped and played and wreaked general havoc—they’re all young adults now!—I wrote the remaining chapters and sent them to the publisher.

The book was rejected. Broke my heart, but I wrote another book—and that one was rejected, too.
Sigh.

Eventually, I wrote
Chocolate Beach
, and that first sale led to many other book contracts.

I never forgot about Tasha and Marc in the town of Cottage Grove, though. Admittedly, when I dusted off that original manuscript, I realized it needed work. So I called my mom, Elaine, a mystery fan, and asked her to brainstorm with me. The result was this novella,
The Christmas Thief
. Naturally, a huge shout out and hug goes to my mom who faithfully read several drafts of this manuscript and inspired me to keep what needed keeping and change what needed changing.

I’m also grateful to Denise Harmer for proofing and critiquing
The Christmas Thief
, and for my family—Dan and kids, for putting up with my distracted writer’s face.

Readers, I appreciate you very much—you keep me writing (and overindulging in dark chocolate as I do, but I forgive you). If you liked this novella, and any of my other titles, please consider reviewing them on Amazon and/or Goodreads.

Merry Christmas,

Julie