Author From Roaring Spring Releases Christmas Book

Author and Roaring Spring native Trisha Ridinger McKee's new release is a Christmas romance, where the main character, Winona, was sheltered by her father growing up. He had the best of intentions and was hiding a past from her. She finds herself pregnant, and the guy wants nothing to do with her. Winona knows that she has to branch out and start her own life and take responsibility. The book is about Winona finding the courage to move on and branch out.

McKee said that she was inspired to write the book, titled "Christmas Bump," because her cover designer had a pre-made cover. McKee said that she had this story in mind but without the Christmas theme.

"I love Christmas. I thought that this would be perfect for this story. I put it in a Christmas setting."

She added that she just loved the thought of the female character being very flawed in the beginning and being very spoiled. Winona is immature and fighting through all of her fears along with other's beliefs that she really can't do it on her own.

"I just love the strength that she finds to go and do it to face those fears," said McKee. I love having flawed characters who can overcome fears and doubts."

McKee has written all of her life. She said that it was a way to escape a dark childhood and a great comfort to her.

In 2019, McKee decided to step out of her comfort zone and send her writing out. She said that it started with her short stories.

"I was really shocked that first year when I sold a lot of short stories and won some awards," said McKee.

The second year, she decided to take another big jump and send her book out. It was published.

One of McKee's short stories has been accepted into the Chicken Soup for the Soul Anthology series. She said that she has always loved these books.

"I love that I am going to break out into this larger pool of audience," said McKee. "It was my second time submitting to them."

The process is very intense because even before authors are selected, they need to sign contracts and do edits. McKee said that it was nerve-wracking.

"I was thrilled when I found out that my story was one of those selected," said McKee. "It is in the Believe in Angels Edition, which comes out Jan. 22."

McKee said she finds Chicken Soup for the Soul books to be very soothing and inspirational.

"I really didn't consider submitting to them until I saw the call for the angels," said McKee. "My story tells how I became a writer and it delves into my childhood a little and what I endured and how I came out above it. It is a very special story for me. So, I am honored that they felt that I deserved a place in their book."

Some of the awards that McKee has earned include The Best of the Net for 2020. She was also nominated for The Pushcart Award. Her first book, "Beyond the Surface," was nominated by Savvy Authors for best romance of 2020.

McKee says that over the next several months, she will be holding book signings at Boro Coffee in Hollidaysburg as well the farmer's market in the spring.