Some people simply adore Christmas, while others hate it with a passion – and it’s easy to see why. On the one hand, Christmas is a major religious festival. On the other hand, it’s a commercial circus gone ape. But religion and shopping aside, Christmas celebrates the birth of a child, the day when a couple becomes a family. To me, this is the important Christmas message: that family matters.
While I never envisaged Jack & Gareth’s story to go beyond the “couple” stage, it did so right in the first book. And, scary though it may be for me, the Power of Zero books are now about more than just me exploring Jack and Gareth’s relationship or Jack moving past his anger and learning to trust. Jack’s story has become a story about family, about the thousand little things that draw us together and those that push us apart.
Most of all, it reflects what Gareth has taught me: we don’t have to settle for the family we’re born to. It’s perfectly fine to make a family with people we’ve chosen for ourselves. If we pick the right people, we’re stronger and more resilient for it.
That’s the message I’ve tried to explore in Midnight Tracks, how pulling together makes us stronger. It’s my thank you to everyone who has bought and read my books over the last few years, to everyone who commented, and reviewed and sent messages. You’ve kept me writing even when there are aspects in Jack’s story I don’t want to remember or explore further. And I’m better for doing it anyway.
Jack Horwood regards Christmas as a time when his life changes. So, unsurprisingly, Christmas is a recurring theme in the stories that feature Jack. While I’m not that fond of Christmas, I’ve made my peace with that fact. Mostly, because I can write about Jack, Gareth and food. And also because I can add lights and music as I see fit.
And why Midnight Tracks? Because late night conversations are always the best….
Have a peaceful few days, everyone. And thank you so much for your company.
Seasons of Cheer is my blogging challenge for this year. Every day during December I’m aiming to post a story, snippet or out-take. A moment to stop and draw breath during a month that’s usually crazy busy.
And here’s an extra treat for everyone who subscribes to my newsletter:
Midnight Tracks, a collection of shorts, snips, and out-takes from the first five Power of Zero books, including an exclusive Christmas short story you won’t find anywhere else – delivered to your inbox on Christmas Eve. 🙂
Season of Cheer, Day 23: Snow Prayers | A Dornost Saga Ficlet