I missed “The Winter Solstice Gift” by Jenn McKinlay when it came out last month.The short story serves as a bridge between McKinlay’s fantasy novel, Witches of Dubious Origin and the November release, Witches of Questionable Intent.
Zoe Ziakas is the newest librarian at the Museum of Literature in New York City in the Books of Dubious Origin department. It’s her first Winter Solstice ceremony at the library, and she’s celebrating with the other four staff members. Jasper Griffin, their British colleague, a mage and the containment specialist, brings the Yule log. They light it on the roof, and express their hopes and wishes for the future. But, before the ceremony ends, Zoe’s boss, Miles, sees that The Book of Shadows has been stolen from the collection. As the containment expert, Jasper has to go after it, but before he leaves, he appears in the form of a raven at Zoe’s door, bringing her a gift.
“The Winter Solstice Gift” is quite short, but it does serve as the perfect link between McKinlay’s first book in the series, and the new one. I’m actually glad I missed it last month, because it’s a reminder of the characters, their roles, and where McKinlay is heading with the next book. It’s an ideal transition piece.
Jenn McKinlay’s website is https://jennmckinlay.com/
“The Winter Solstice Gift” by Jenn McKinlay. JMO Inc., 2026. 27p.
FTC Full Disclosure – I downloaded a copy of the story from KindleUnlimited.
