Charlie N. Holmberg is an award-winning, best-selling, and internationally published author of fantasy and romantic fiction. She was raised a Trekkie alongside three sisters, who also have boy names. She is a proud BYU alumna, plays the ukulele, owns too many pairs of glasses, and finally adopted a dog.

This difficult year is, once again, taking its toll on beloved holidays and traditions. As we find ourselves separated from family and friends during a time of celebration, we could all use some good old fashioned holiday cheer.

Ghost stories have been shared as long as we have wondered what happens to us after we die, and sought to connect with spirits of the departed. Midwinter is the perfect time for them. The nights grow long and dark, and winter weather brings us together to huddle around the fire and share tales.

David Gerrold has been writing professionally for half a century. He created the tribbles for Star Trek and the Sleestaks for Land of the Lost.