Author and publisher Lisa Loucks-Christenson celebrates the success of her award-winning short story “FrostBani,” soon to appear in a holiday story collection releasing on Amazon around Christmas 2026.
(Photo by Rochester Sun Times / Courtesy of Peacock Books & Wildlife Art)
By Lisa Loucks-Christenson, Publisher, Rochester Sun Times News
ROCHESTER, Minn. — I’m thrilled to share some news from the writing desk. My short story “FrostBani” recently received an Honorable Mention in a national writing competition and will appear in my upcoming short story collection, scheduled for release on Amazon around Christmas 2026.
FrostBani began as a spark of inspiration after I took an edX course titled Fire and Ice, which explored Iceland’s geological and cultural contrasts. The lessons and folklore from that course stirred something creative — and soon, “FrostBani” was born when a 24-hour short story contest caught my interest.
The story follows Cassandra Zoda, a young figure skater who endures a brutal competition and an unexpected fall that pulls her into a world of Icelandic myth, transformation, and redemption.
“Even in the coldest seasons, courage burns bright,” I wrote while finishing the piece, realizing it captured the perseverance I’ve seen so often in nature, writing, and real life.
This upcoming Christmas collection will feature FrostBani alongside other new and award-winning stories that explore the ways endurance and imagination intersect — the quiet power of getting up after a hard fall and finding meaning in the ice.
Other Award-Winning Works
“Narrow Paths” – 71st Annual Writer’s Digest Short Story Writing Competition
“Hawk of Wa Pu Ta Creek” – Harlequin® Love Inspired® Suspense Finalist, Search for the Killer Voice
“The Model Maker” – 2nd Place, Writer’s Weekly Short Story Competition
“Don’t Eat Bees!” – Double 2020 Royal Dragonfly Awards: Best Illustrations and Honorable Mention
As publisher of the Rochester Sun Times and lifelong storyteller, I’m grateful for the opportunities to share both my work and the work of others who chase stories with heart.
Keep watch for FrostBani and the full collection on Amazon this holiday season — stories for winter nights, where courage glows beneath the frost.
For updates on Lisa Loucks-Christenson’s latest works, visit her official author site or follow her upcoming titles on Amazon.
Lisa Loucks-Christenson is the publisher of the Rochester Sun Times News and an award-winning author based in Rochester, Minnesota. She has written over 400 short stories and over 100 books exploring themes of nature, resilience, and the human spirit.