Welcome to Christmas Lake Creative!
We’re a full-service, multi-hyphenate company designed by writers for writers—the complete creative home you’ve been looking for.
Check out our books!
“Tom and Christmas Lake were extraordinarily helpful in assisting my efforts as a new author. My original manuscript required editing and composition assistance, as well as formatting and graphic composition. The process was seamless from the initial conversation through final publication. Their hands on approach and attention to detail made the difference in obtaining a professional product, and I would recommend Christmas Lake Press without reservation to all new authors and seasoned professionals as well.”
— Greg Lawrence, author of With You
“Christmas Lake Press blew away my expectations. I’m not sure a first time author can understand the importance of a good editor until they have one. Christmas Lake provided a clear process, continuous meetings, multiple iterations, insightful comments—just a commitment to making my book as good as it could be.”
Adam Lenain, author of Last of the Famous International Playboys
“Working with Thomas Fiffer has been nothing short of transformative for my writing and my career. As someone who has worked with some of the most prominent writers and editors on Yale’s faculty—writers who have won all the major literary prizes and whose names grace the shelves of bookstores and top-seller lists everywhere as well as editors from The Yale Review—I can unequivocally say that Thomas matches, if not surpasses, their expertise in coaching, editing, and refining prose. His insights into narrative structure, character development, and the delicate craft of storytelling are razor-sharp and deeply intuitive. Thomas doesn’t just polish a piece of writing—he brings out its soul, ensuring every line carries emotional weight and purpose.
When I approached Thomas, I was preparing to submit my novel and short stories to several MFA programs, including Columbia and NYU, both of which I had dreamed of attending. With his meticulous guidance, I gained acceptance into both these top-tier programs, the former of which awarded me their most prestigious merit-based scholarship. His ability to zero in on what makes a piece work—and, equally important, what’s holding it back—was invaluable in shaping my application materials. He challenged me to think deeper, write sharper, and push my creative boundaries, all while offering the kind of steady support and encouragement that every writer dreams of having.
What sets Thomas apart is his unique combination of literary rigor and human connection. He’s not just a brilliant editor and coach; he’s a storyteller himself who understands the emotional and intellectual demands of the craft. He listens closely—not just to your words, but to what you’re trying to achieve—and then helps you articulate your vision with clarity and power. Whether it’s untangling a messy plotline, tightening a scene, or offering the exact phrasing you didn’t know you needed, Thomas consistently elevated my work to a level I hadn’t thought possible.
What’s more, Thomas approaches every project with a true editor’s eye for detail. His feedback is precise, incisive, and delivered with a generosity of spirit that makes the process feel collaborative rather than intimidating. It’s rare to find someone who can balance constructive criticism with a deep respect for the writer’s voice, but Thomas does this seamlessly. And his partnership with his partner Julia brings an added layer of unparalleled expertise and care that ensures no stone is left unturned. Both are extraordinarily brilliant, and together, they forge a synergy so dynamic, it feels like pure alchemy—like nothing short of magic.
If you’re serious about your writing—whether you’re crafting your first short story, polishing a novel, or submitting to MFA programs—Thomas is the coach you want in your corner. Working with him isn’t just an investment in your writing; it’s an investment in your creative future. I can say, without hesitation, that his coaching was instrumental to my acceptances into multiple top MFA programs (e.g. Columbia, NYU) and in securing the top merit scholarship, as well as my growth as a writer and person. He is not just the gold standard, but the platinum standard of writing coaches, and I cannot recommend him highly enough.”
— Jay Wong, Fiction Editor | Columbia Journal
Creative Writing Instructor | Rikers Island Education Program
Columbia University | MFA Creative Writing Program | Fiction Concentration
University of Michigan Medical School | MD Program
Yale University | BA
Please inquire at info@christmaslakecreative.com for more information.