An Evening with Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone: Celebrating the Release of A Jingle Bell Mingle

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Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone recently hit the road to celebrate their newest (and final) addition to the Christmas Notch universe, A Jingle Bell Mingle. I was beyond excited when I saw they would be within driving distance from my home, so I threw caution to the wind and ordered a ticket. As someone who has struggled with social anxiety my entire life, the decision to attend this event by myself was a big risk for me. However, the chance to meet two of my favorite authors and snag a copy of A Jingle Bell Mingle to complete my collection made stepping out of my comfort zone totally worth it.

A Cozy Venue and Stunning Book Selection

The event was hosted by indie bookstore Main Street Books and held at a library in St. Charles, Missouri. From the moment I arrived, the cozy atmosphere of the library and the energy of the staff from both the bookstore and the library had me feeling right at home. Main Street Books curated a stunning selection of books by both authors for purchase, and of course, I couldn’t resist adding several more of Sierra Simone’s books to my collection. Her books always draw me in with their bold storytelling, complex characters, and the way she blends intense emotion with steamy romance.

I bought Saint and Sinner to go with Priest, which I already owned. I also picked up American Prince and American King to complete the American Queen trilogy that I had started. Additionally, I found Salt Kiss, a book I’d never heard of before, and my curiosity got the better of me. The icing on the cake (or the sparkle in the wine glass!) was the delicious wine served by Defiance Ridge Vineyards. Each ticket included a glass of wine, making the evening feel even more festive and relaxed. If I’m being honest, the wine on my empty stomach helped take some of the edge off my anxiety too!

An Author Q&A Full of Personality

The highlight of the night was, of course, Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone themselves. During the author interview and Q&A session, their vibrant personalities truly shone. They were naturally funny, engaging, and so down-to-earth. Their cheeky humor and candid responses made it clear why they’re so beloved in the book community. It was a joy to witness their friendship and to learn more about the creative process behind their smutty, Christmas-themed books. They truly seem like two best friends living their dreams.

Personal Connections and Memorable Moments

With this being the first event of this kind that I have ever attended, I wasn’t sure what to expect. One of the things that really took me by surprise was how generous Julie and Sierra were with their time. For instance, when it was my turn to meet them, they not only signed all the books I had brought but also took the time to compliment my clothing and chat about how it reminded Sierra of her daughter’s unique personal style. Their genuine interest and warm conversation made me feel truly seen and appreciated, turning what could have been a quick interaction into a memorable and personal connection.

They signed any and all books that attendees brought or purchased at the event with genuine enthusiasm. Their warmth and humor made each interaction feel personal and special. Attendees happily took selfies and chatted during their turn at the signing table, everyone looking happy and at ease in their presence.

Thoughtful Extras and Festive Fun

As if that weren’t enough, every attendee left with a hardcover copy of A Jingle Bell Mingle and a limited-edition booklet featuring three bonus scenes—one from each book in the series. According to the authors, these scenes will not be officially published or released in the future, making them a truly exclusive treasure.

To keep the festive spirit alive while waiting for a turn at the signing table, Julie and Sierra set up arts and crafts stations where we could create holiday-themed keepsakes. It was a thoughtful touch that added to the communal and festive atmosphere, giving everyone something fun to do while waiting to get their books signed.

Taking a Leap of Faith: A Reflection

Looking back on the night, I couldn’t be prouder of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone and going to this event solo. By sharing this, I hope to encourage others who face similar anxieties to take a leap toward opportunities that excite them. You never know what amazing moments and connections might be waiting for you. Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone went above and beyond to ensure that everyone had an incredible time, and their kindness and humor made the experience unforgettable. This event has reignited my love for connecting with authors and the book community, and I would absolutely jump at the chance to attend another signing or meet-and-greet with these two extraordinary writers.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Next Event

If you ever have the opportunity to meet Julie Murphy or Sierra Simone, don’t hesitate to go. Their passion for storytelling and their genuine connection with readers make them an absolute joy to meet. And if you haven’t yet picked up A Jingle Bell Mingle or its predecessors, I highly recommend adding them to your holiday reading list. This event was everything I could have hoped for and more—a perfect blend of books, community, and holiday cheer.

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