Story Behind the Story - Got Mistletoe? by Andi Anderson

Got Mistletoe? by Andi Anderson

Stats - Got Mistletoe? was published this past December as part of the Advent Calendar series that Dreamspinner Press publishes every year. When I saw the open call for submissions, I decided to take a chance and write something. I started it on September 11, 2009 and finished it on the 15th. I had just enough time for my sister to do a quick read before I submitted it to Dreamspinner that night. They sent me an email that they had accepted it as part of their series on September 18th.

Little known fact - When I wrote it, I had intentions of finishing Ryan and Blake’s story. I felt like it ended right when things were getting interesting between them. I don’t know if I’ll ever write a sequel to it and that makes me feel a little sad.

Extremely little known fact - I called my sister, Ashley, and my mother at least a hundred times while I was writing it. I kept emailing them copies of what I had written so far, while I waited anxiously on pins and needles as they read it and hopefully give me the green light to continue. I don’t think I would have finished the book if it wasn’t for them and their encouragement.

How did I get the idea for the book? - I came up with the story by envisioning one of my heroes, Ryan Jolly, in my mind. His sweet disposition and zest for life was something I thought was different about some of the heroes that are portrayed today. I have an internet friend that is always upbeat and happy. Although I have never met him, I pictured him being the type of person that was not only cute and adorable on the outside, but on the inside as well. That has always been attractive to me as a reader. So in many ways, Ryan was born and Got Mistletoe? was written because of him. Ryan’s sweetness was definitely suitable for a Christmas story. I really loved him.

If I could edit the book now, what would I change (if anything)? - If I could have changed anything about it, I would have made Ryan and Blake’s story a full length novel. I think they deserved that. In my mind, they definitely live happily ever after, and I hope that people who’ve read the book came away with thinking that too. I wish I had given myself more time to polish it better, but I didn’t. I’m still very proud of it and I will always love it.

Thank you, Ava, for asking me about my book. It’s been fun remembering and sharing the experience with you and all of your friends. As a newbie, it’s an honor to be recognized by a great friend and wonderful writer like you.