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RaeAnne Thayne is the author of The December Market, which is available now.
#1 Publishers Weekly, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne finds inspiration in the beautiful northern Utah mountains where she lives with her family. Her books have won numerous honors, including seven RITA Award nominations from Romance Writers of America and a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews magazine.
In The December Market, Amanda is wary of the new man her grandmother is dating. And his grandson Rafe is also not a fan of the match either. The two first connect over their protectiveness, but soon become more drawn to each other.
Let’s get to know RaeAnne as she talks favorite novels, story inspirations and more!
What are some of your favorite novels?
I have far too many to list! My Kindle has hundreds of books! I love historical novels, both romances and historical fiction, and I’m always looking for new authors.
When did you know you wanted to become an author?
While I have been a lifelong reader, it wasn’t until high school after my mom made me take a journalism intro class that I really fell in love with writing. I went on to earn a degree in journalism and worked as an editor and reporter for a daily newspaper for a decade. Through that time, I dreamed of becoming a writer and started my first book while I was home on maternity leave with my oldest child.
Where do you draw your story ideas from?
Ideas come from everywhere. I might overhear a conversation that sparks an idea or read an article in a newspaper or magazine that sends my brain off on a tangent. When you are a writer, your curiosity never really shuts off and you’re always searching for inspiration.
What are some of the aspects you like best about romance novels?
I love the journey! I love reading and writing about two people who clearly belong together but have to overcome internal and external obstacles to find their happy ending.
What are some key plot points that help make a memorable holiday story?
It really depends on the characters. For me, a memorable holiday story features strong characters yearning for something, even if they can’t admit it to themselves. The plot for me always derives from my characters and what they need (or think they need!).
Tell us about The December Market! What can readers expect from it?
This is a cozy, warm book about two people who truly belong together, a story I hope will leave readers feeling all the holiday feels! In the snowy town of Shelter Springs, shop owner Amanda Taylor is still grieving the fiancé she lost a decade ago. Sparks fly when she re-connects with Rafe Arredondo, a widowed firefighter reluctant to open his heart again—but their shared painful history threatens to keep them apart. As Christmas magic fills the air, Amanda and Rafe must decide if they can let go of the past and embrace a second chance at love.
What are you currently reading and what’s on your TBR (to be read) list?
I’m currently listening to YOURS CHEERFULLY by AJ Pearce, Book 2 in the Emmy Lake series. Next up for me will be Susan Mallery’s latest, ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY.
