If you’re searching for a clean Christmas read, then you’ve come to the right place. I recently spoke with author Pat Simmons about her latest release, Shopping for Christmas.
Tell me about your latest book.
Christmas came early for fitness center owner Brandon Johnson when personal shopper Imani Robinson showed up on his doorstep—with groceries he never ordered. The mix-up sparks an instant attraction for Brandon.
Dating was not on her Christmas list, so Brandon is stuck at the bottom.
What’s a man to do when the only way to see her again is to order more groceries?
Brandon doesn’t mind risking a few extra pounds if it means a spot on her calendar before Christmas. With each delivery, their chemistry grows until Imani lets him tag along on one of her runs.
Suddenly, Christmas shopping feels like the best date ever, and Brandon is determined to turn holiday sparks into something that lasts.
How long did it take you to write it?
Shopping for Christmas is an extended version of a short story I wrote for an Australian anthology entitled The Personal Shopper. It took me about four weeks.
Which character could you relate to the most and why?
I based Imani Robinson’s character on my experience working a gig job to save money for an overseas trip, and as an author, I see a story everywhere, so I wrote what I know as a grocery shopper. With so many people taking on gig work as Instacart shoppers, DoorDash delivery drivers, Uber drivers, and others, I think they will be able to relate.
How are you celebrating the book’s release?
I plan to do a daily countdown on social media.
What is the most valuable piece of writing advice you’ve received?
After 18 years, I’ve received so much, but perhaps my writing matters. It inspires and changes hearts.
What books have you read lately and loved?
I read so many research books for a historical book that I’m working on that seems like forever, but on my trip to Australia, I had a chance to read Natasha E. Frazier’s Batch of Love and You’re Not Too Busy by Pamela Nance Johnson. Both were excellent.
What’s next for you?
My readers are due another Jamieson Legacy book, so I’ll begin researching and outlining it in December.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I’m grateful to every reader who has supported me with my Christmas stories that keep Christ in Christmas and for this opportunity to be featured.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your of Shopping for Christmas by Pat Simmons.
To learn more about Pat Simmons, visit her website or connect with her on social media.
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