Interview with J.B. Fitzgerald, Author of Happily Ever Antlers
09 Oct 2025
What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Happily Ever Antlers: A Christmas Story?
“Every life should be touched by a twinkling of magic.” For so many of us, Santa was that magic, at least for a while, but why should that feeling fade simply because we get older? My wish was to take the entire legend of the Clauses, the elves, and the North Pole and flip it on its stylishly stocking-capped head, creating something new and wondrous for a grown-up audience looking for the ultimate holiday escape, while also touching on the enduring mysteries of certain historical figures (Amelia Earhart, for example). I love Christmas, and to contribute a tale of perilous adventure and self-discovery, of hope and healing, joy and magic, to this already magical season—that was my own way of reigniting that twinkle in the hearts of those who once believed—and those who just might believe again.
If you had to pick theme songs for the main characters of Happily Ever Antlers: A Christmas Story, what would they be?
“Crazy for Christmas” — by Lindsey Stirling and Bonnie McKee — would certainly apply to all the North Pole locals, but for the protagonist of the story, “Rise Up (Joy to the World)” by Jillian Shea is not only hauntingly beautiful, it is a fitting lyrical tribute to Felicity’s personal journey.
What’s your favorite genre to read? Is it the same as your favorite genre to write?
While I enjoy historical fiction, mysteries, and rom-coms, fantasy is always my first choice. A well-written and imaginative tale provides a level of escape that no other type of book can. This is also why I write predominantly fantastical stories. If I can draw readers out of the harsh realities all around us, out of their own worries and grief, even for a little while, that’s precisely the kind of magic I want to cast into the world.
What books are on your TBR pile right now?
With TBR titles tallying in the hundreds, I wouldn’t even know where to start that list. The next book I read will depend on whatever whim strikes my fancy that day. With Halloween approaching, it’ll likely be something witchy, though even that specific TBR stack would require a powerful spell to topple.
What scene in your book was your favorite to write?
That’s a tough call, as nearly every chapter was an immense joy to write, but if one scene stood out a little more, it would be the extraordinary meeting of the Reindeer Council, in which a lively debate introduces readers to Santa’s flight crew (all fourteen of them) and their unique personalities—including one youthful buck with an uncanny tendency to vex the Council Elder.
Do you have any quirky writing habits? (lucky mugs, cats on laps, etc.)
Only if you think acting out every pivotal scene is quirky. My dog finds it delightfully entertaining.
Do you have a motto, quote, or philosophy you live by?
“The best part of life is not just surviving, but thriving with passion and compassion, and humor, and style, and generosity, and kindness.” – Maya Angelou
If you could choose one thing for readers to remember after reading your book, what would it be?
That our strength is in unity, in respecting and embracing the glorious diversity of life upon this planet, and rallying together as a single community for the good of all. (Also, if you want to make a stellar impression on an elf, you can’t go wrong with disco.)
J.B. Fitzgerald is the author of the new book Happily Ever Antlers: A Christmas Story
Connect with J.B. Fitzgerald
Author Site
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