Q&A with Jody Hedlund

If you love beautifully written stories, don't go past Jody Hedlund's novels, 
The Preacher's Bride and The Doctor's Lady and if you have any interest in writing her blog is a must read.  

I'm thrilled to have Jody visit today ~ enjoy!

 Jody Hedlund

What appeals to you most about writing fiction?

I love telling stories. I love shaping characters, putting them in impossible danger and seeing how they get themselves out of it! And I love the adventure and the challenge of putting a book together from start to finish.

Why Christian fiction?

I want to glorify God with the gifts he’s given me. And I want him to use my stories to encourage and touch lives.

Name five things you can’t live without (no need to take this too seriously!)

I can’t live without the 5 C’s:

Chocolate.

Coffee.

Chocolate.

My computer.

Chocolate.

Favourite book ~ Favourite movie ~ Favourite TV show


Book: Anne of Green Gables because it played a role in developing my creativity as a writer.

Movie: The most recent version of The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe because it was a fantastic representation of the book!

TV Show: Survivor. I’ve watched almost every season for as long as the show’s been running!

Where is the most interesting place you have been?

I lived in the Middle Ages in Germany for about nine months. I got to visit the inside of a convent, watch the Peasant War from the sidelines, and see medieval torture firsthand. Was quite an exciting adventure!

Credit: Ben Franske

Okay. I’m sure you meant real place (versus the story world I live in during the writing of a book!). The most interesting real place I’ve been is Plymouth Plantation in Massachusetts, which is a recreation of one of the first permanent settlements in the United States. It’s a fascinating place, rich in history, and of course, I’d love to write a book set there at some point!


What did you want to be when you grew up?

A famous author! (I know, boring answer! But it’s the truth!)

What are two things people might be surprised to know about you?

My dad was a twin. My husband’s mom was a twin. And believe it or not, my husband and I were still taken completely by surprise when we found out at a five month ultra sound that we were having twins! Go figure! My twin daughters are now 12.

I grew up a PK (pastor’s kid). And yes, for a while, I was the stereotypical rebellious pastor’s daughter who didn’t want to be known as the goody-two-shoes. But, thankfully God had his hand on my life, protected me, and gave me a rich spiritual heritage that has blessed my life immensely.

The Doctor’s Lady

Which character did you connect to the most?

I probably relate the most with Eli. I’m incredibly independent like he was, and think I can do a lot in my own strength. I have a hard time asking others for help but have been learning to rely on others (especially my husband) during these past few years of juggling a writing career, homeschooling, and mothering.


Which character was the most difficult to write?

I had the most difficulty with Priscilla. In the first draft of the book, I ended up making her too focused on her own problems (particularly her infertility). She was moody, somewhat helpless, and rather selfish. While realistic, she wasn’t entirely likeable! In subsequent rewrites, I worked on making her less fixated on herself.

What characteristics define a true hero for you?

I think heroes can come in all shapes and sizes. I personally like mine to have enough flaws that the average reader can relate to, but then also have qualities that rise above the problems and difficulties we encounter.

What was your favourite scene to write in The Doctor’s Lady or share your favourite paragraph?

I had a lot of fun writing the wedding night scene. Because Eli and Priscilla have agreed to a marriage in name only, they have no plans to consummate their marriage. However, nobody else knows their secret. And so after the wedding, Priscilla’s mother and sister help her get ready for her first night with her new husband. They turn back the covers on the bed, brush her hair, and give her instructions on what to expect. While they’re doing this, Priscilla gets really nervous. And a little later when Eli finally comes into the room and sees her in her nightgown with her hair down, he gets nervous too.

I enjoyed exploring the growing attraction between them, the awkwardness of being thrust together in the same bedroom (after only knowing each other for about a week), and then watching them figure out how they’re going to handle the physical aspect of their relationship for the duration of their trip West.

What’s next in your writing pipeline?

Public Domain

I’ll have another historical romance releasing next year in 2012. I’m really excited about this story because it’s set in my home state of Michigan. It takes place during the 1880’s at a time in history when the lumber era was at its height. Although the story isn’t inspired by a true person the way my first two books have been, I do include several real people, particularly a real villain by the name of James Carr who was notorious in central Michigan for his violence and for introducing white slavery into the state.

The heroine of the story is a young woman, Lily Young, who is looking for her sister who’s caught up into the degradation of lumber camp life. While Lily searches for her missing sister, she fights against the evil that runs rampant around her, and she fights not to lose her heart to the lumber baron who turns a blind eye to the lawlessness of the lumber business.

Anything other than historical novels floating around in your brain?

My daughters are begging me to try my hand at a YA (Young Adult) novel. I may branch into that down the road at some point. But for now, I’m more than busy with all that I have on my plate!

I'm sure my daughters would love that as well :)  Thanks for sharing today and for your generous giveaway! 

My review of The Doctor's Lady will be posted next week but I can tell you know, I loved it.  If you adore Laura Frantz, Tamera Alexander and Julie Lessman then you will be a fan of Jody :)

For a short time, her debut novel, The Preacher's Bride is available to download for FREE to your Kindle, Nook or PC ~ don't miss it!

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Eli & Priscilla
View the trailer for The Doctor's Lady
Review of The Preacher's Bride
Visit Jody's website and blog
Enter Jody's 'Be a trailblazer' contest
Buy Jody's book at Amazon or Koorong

Character Spotlight ~ Lisa T Bergren's Lord Rodolfo Greco

Character Spotlight ~ 

Lord Rodolfo Greco

Lisa T Bergren's Lord Greco has divided readers of her fabulous River of Time series, uncertain whether to love or despise him!  Read the books to find out exactly why he has caused such a furore ;-)

Over to you, Lisa:~

Brief physical description

Tall; broad shouldered; dark, wavy hair; dark eyes; powerful intensity

Actor/famous person

I was thinking of a younger Dylan McDermott with dark eyes…

Rel: But I was more partial to Eduardo Verastegui and Lisa wasn't too hard to convince...I wonder why?!?

Strengths and weaknesses

Strengths: Incredibly smart, good warrior, leader, focused, attentive

Weaknesses: Torn between loyalties

Quirk (if any)

He can sneak up on you without you hearing him

Your inspiration for the character

I first brought in Lord Greco purely as an antagonist, but soon saw he went much deeper, and was far more intriguing than I first thought. Since I write by the seat of my pants (rather than outlining), this surprised me as much as Gabi. He just kind of GREW out of his original bit spot to a major role in TORRENT. Good characters often do…

Background to the story

Marcello was such a strong hero for me, and dedicated to Gabriella in such a heart-stopping, and yet traditional, way. As Lord Greco began to steal into more and more scenes, I thought it’d be interesting for him to find himself equally drawn to her, in spite of himself. And, well, since he alternately captures and saves Gabi, and he’s rather, cough, handsome, he has her thoroughly confused about WHAT she feels for him. In sorting out what she thinks of him, she clarifies what she feels for Marcello, and this helps her decide her future.

Ah, Lisa ~ the Greco dilemma!  I so hope we will get to discover what happens to the man :)  

For a sneak peek into what Lisa has planned for the infamous Lord, if future books in this series develop, stop by her blog here for an excerpt of Tributary.

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character interviews with Luca,  Lia, Gabi and Marcello 
Reviews of Waterfall & Cascade
Character spotlight on Gabi, Marcello, Luca & Lia
View the trailer for Cascade
Visit Lisa's author website and her travel website
Buy Lisa's books at Amazon or Koorong

Character Spotlight ~ Suzanne Woods Fisher's Jaime Fitzpatrick & Mattie Riehl

Character Spotlight ~

Jaime & Mattie

Suzanne Woods Fisher returns with one of the season's first Christmas stories.  Enjoy meeting her characters.

Over to you, Suzanne:~

Brief physical description

Two women—unlikely friends—are the main characters in “A Lancaster County Christmas.”

Jaime Fitzpatrick (non-Amish): Age 25, married, no children. Caucasian, curly red hair that she tries very, very, very hard to straighten. Has a natural outdoor beauty—a “cuteness.” Struggling to lose that exasperating extra five pounds. Works as a photographer at Sears Portrait Studio but prefers photographing nature.

Mattie Riehl (Amish): Age 28, married with one six-year-old son. Very plain in appearance—easy to overlook. Petite, fair-haired. Loves being a wife and mother.


Actor/famous person

Jaime Fitzpatrick: A young, red-haired Meg Ryan

Mattie Riehl: Scarlett Johansson without any make-up or touch-up!

Strengths and weaknesses

Jaime Fitzpatrick: A little self-centered and a lot insecure, leans to the materialistic side…but endearing. Very amusing.

Mattie Riehl: Calm, centered, mature, wise. Petite, fair-haired. Recently miscarried and is suffering from a mild depression. She’s the “hub of the extended family wheel.”

Quirk (if any) 


Both of these women are coping with the realization that their lives aren’t turning out the way they had hoped and planned. Jaime Fitzpatrick blurts out whatever thought runs through her head. A total contrast to the Amish reserve. She gets herself into all kinds of awkward, amusing moments with her “lack of filter.” Yet her openness and vulnerability is good for Mattie Riehl, too.

Your inspiration for the characters

There were two threads that wove together to become a story…

In the Amish culture, motherhood is highly valued. I felt as if there could be a story in that: what does a woman do when she feels an inner and outer pull toward motherhood, and yet she isn’t able to have children? A character from “The Choice,” Mattie Riehl, came to mind as a woman who had the depth to tackle that enormous disappointment.

Photo credit

The story of Jaime Fitzpatrick was loosely based on the relationship a close friend of mine has with her father. I’ve known this friend long enough to see how her father’s “on again, off again” interest in being a dad has affected her. Hard stuff!

Over Christmas weekend, these two women weave an unlikely friendship that helps them both find what they’re looking for.

One little extra note: Service dogs is a subject near and dear to my heart. A very cool Search and Rescue dog plays a role in this story when a little boy wanders off in a snowstorm. I’ve been a puppy raiser for Guide Dogs for the Blind—many of the pups who don’t become guides are “career changed” into other service organizations—including Search and Rescue. SAR dogs and their handlers are truly heroic—risking life and limb to rescue lost people. I interviewed a friend, Celeste Butrym, who works at GDB and volunteers with SAR—she gave me all kinds of pointers and was kind enough to read the manuscript to make sure the search was accurately portrayed.

Background to the story

This is a story about two couples—one Amish, one English—whose lives intersect for 48 hours (Christmas weekend). Both couples are facing difficulties, for different reasons. And yet they both learn important lessons from each other.

Jaime and C. J. Fitzpatrick began their married life as most couples do--in love and looking forward to a bright future together. But four years later they've drifted apart and are almost ready to call it quits.

Mattie Riehl was hoping to give her husband Sol the Christmas gift they have both longed for--news that a baby was on the way. But as usual, she is disappointed. The holidays bring an acute awareness to Mattie that her dream of a big family isn't likely to become a reality.

Then a winter storm raging outside blows the Fitzpatricks into the Riehl home--and into a much slower pace of life. Can these two couples from different worlds help each other understand the true meaning of love this Christmas? 

Many thanks to you, Suzanne ~ so lovely to have you visit!

Relz Reviewz Extras
Reviews of The Choice and The Waiting
Visit Suzanne's website and blog
Buy Suzanne's books at Amazon or Koorong

It’s Christmas in September!

To celebrate the release of her first Christmas book, Suzanne Woods Fisher has teamed up with her publisher, Revell, to bring you the "Christmas in September" iPad Giveaway! The winner will be announced on 9/27 at the A Lancaster County Christmas Facebook Party! Details below. Tell your friends and join in the fun (9/7-9/27).


Oh and be sure to follow the blog tour here - many of the bloggers have copies of the book to giveaway! 

Suzanne and Revell will be presenting one merry winner with a Christmas Prize Pack (valued at over $600):

• A Brand New iPad 2 with Wi-Fi
• $25 gift certificate to iTunes
• A copy of A Lancaster County Christmas

To enter, click one of the icons below. But, hurry the giveaway ends on 9/26.


But, wait! There's more! The winner will be announced at the A Lancaster County Christmas Facebook Party on 9/27 at Suzanne's author page. During the party she'll be revealing something *BIG* - you won't want to miss it. She'll also be hosting a book chat, trivia contest and giving away a few early Christmas presents! Hope to see you there.

Lessman Hero tally & winners......

 

Composing Amelia ~ Catia

Julie Lessman book of choice ~ Ann LM

Congratulations and enjoy your book :)





And for those keeping count on those Lessman heroes, here's how the final count turned out:

Luke "Cluny" ~ 30
Collin ~ 26
Mitch ~ 15
Brady ~ 13
Sean ~ 7
Patrick ~ 4
Undecided ~ 20

What did you think of the results?

Book trailer for Jamie Carie's The Guardian Duke

Jamie Carie's first novel in her Forgotten Castles series releases in February, 2012 with The Guardian Duke ~ enjoy the trailer.

In the meantime, be sure to pick up a copy of her just released, Pirate of My Heart, from B&H Fiction.

RBC Book Club interview with Mesu Andrews ~ Part 2

 Enjoy Part 2 of my book club's Q&A with Mesu Andrews but be sure to have read Part 1 first.

*Beware spoilers below*

 Mesu talks more about her debut novel, Love Amid the Ashes

RBC:  Has it been a long-term dream to be a writer, or is this something that came about unexpectedly for you?

Mesu:  I had hoped to be a speaker, a Bible teacher, who wrote books that supplemented the retreats, conferences, etc. My speaking schedule was growing, and then one day...I couldn’t get out of bed. Six months in bed, a year+ of wrestling with God—and WALLAH—I’m writing devotionals instead of speaking. The Solomon manuscript came from a weekend retreat I had been presenting since 1999, and the weekly devotionals began so that I didn’t lose my mind while chained to a bed. Nope, writing was never really high on my priority list. Now, it’s one of the greatest gifts the Lord has ever given me.

What does a 'normal' day look like for you, when in the middle of writing a book, considering the impact of your illness on your life?

Whoa! Normal? Yikes! You’ve got it exactly right! With chronic illness, normal is fleeting! But I will say that I try very hard to keep a schedule. I try to put all my appointments and errands on a single day. It makes for a whopper migraine that night, but the other days are a little more bearable if I stick to that. I try to catch up on e-mail by noon and actually start writing soon after. But all that gets blown out of the water with a writing deadline—or if one of my daughters calls and wants Mommy’s attention! Ha!

Is this a one-off, or are there plans to treat us to another novel in the future?

I mentioned Love’s Sacred Song as the next contracted work, but my passion is the Old Testament, and I hope to write many more novels about God’s love. So many folks see God as a God of wrath in the Old Testament and a God of love in the New Testament. That makes me sad. He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever; and I’m passionate about revealing God’s love in Old Testament tales.

I hope to begin writing about the Women of Prophets and Kings. We’ll see which one comes first, but I’ve got two under consideration right now. I’ll keep you posted!

I enjoyed Love Amid the Ashes and found it a fascinating read. I am marveled by the research that goes into this.  Do you enjoy this part of the process?

I LOVE RESEARCH!!! It would be easy for me to get caught up in the research and forget to start writing! I’m fascinated when the pieces of a plot begin to fit together. I’m amazed when the Lord begins to quicken my heart, showing me cross-referenced Scriptures and historical data that emphasize seemingly insignificant Bible passages.


Who was your favourite character and why?

I adore Nogahla. She wasn’t even on my original character chart. Maybe that’s why I love her. She just kept stealing the scenes! Ha! I enjoyed the simple wisdom she brought to the confusion around her. She saw INTO people, loved completely, forgave easily. Oh, how I admire that little character!


What inspired you to start writing in the first place?

Preservation of sanity. God created me to study and teach His Word. It’s life-giving to me. When I couldn’t speak to groups (teach Bible studies) anymore, I had to have some reason to study, a purpose for knowledge. The weekly devotionals are my meat and potatoes. Biblical fiction is dessert!

What is your favourite thing to do in your spare time?

Movies! I love movies. We watch lots of movies in our household. I also love water – the ocean, lakes, etc. Though chronic illness makes it difficult to be extremely active, I love to be near water and just listen to the sound.

What aspect of writing do you enjoy the most?

I feel like I’m still ministering to folks. My husband was a pastor when my struggles with chronic illness began. I was a VERY busy pastor’s wife, and then suddenly I had no people interaction whatsoever. Writing, and the many avenues of ministry associated with it, gives me the opportunity to sit quietly in front of my computer and minister to thousands of folks—and still get the rest my body needs to live a relatively normal life. God is SO good!

Can you tell us a little about yourself please?(favourite food, way to spend a day off)

Hmmm. Favorite food. That’s a tough one. I like pizza, lobster, pasta and just about anything sweet. I hate raw onions and peppers. Love fruit and almost any cooked veggie (yes, even Brussels sprouts).

My best buddy is our four-year-old Rottweiler-Pitbull named, Bouzer. He’s a love and sits next to me every moment I write.

My hubby is my biggest cheerleader and best friend. Our two grown daughters are the joy of my life. One got married last summer and the second will be married Aug. 12th this year (18 days!). I’ve waited a long time to get sons, and I’ve acquired the best ones a mother could ask for...BTW getting them this way didn’t hurt nearly as much. My newest son comes with two precious little girls, so I get to be “GramMesu” right away! Woohoo!

I love Jesus but still struggle to get alone-time with Him. I was a pastor’s wife for fourteen years, but I still wake up some Sunday mornings and don’t want to go to church. I try to be nice to the idiot car that cuts me off in the passing lane, but I still say mean things sometimes. Other than that, I’m perfect. J

How did your illness influence your writing of this book?

I’m not sure if I can blame my slow writing on chronic illness (though I might try that! Good idea!), but I do notice when “the fog rolls in.” I’ve been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, POTS, and I’ve had daily migraines since 2005. In all of the first three conditions, symptoms include a sort of neurologic “fog” that causes confused thinking. I can testify to it! I can literally read a sentence (or write one) three or four times, and it makes no sense whatsoever. At that point, it’s time to stop. I think most writers hit a certain point where their creativity goes dead. Some can pull an “all-nighter,” some can’t. I’m in the “can’t” category. My writing window is whatever amount of time that my brain cooperates.

What has been the most rewarding/most difficult part of your writing journey?

Finishing. I’m a great starter and lousy finisher. To actually complete a whole novel was both the most difficult and most rewarding journey of my life. And then to sign a contract, promising to finish a second novel before I’d even written the first word—that was the most terrifying moment of my life!

Why Biblical fiction?

Because I’m a Bible teacher, but no one wanted to publish anything a no-body pastor’s wife had to say! Ha! So I teach through parables, and suddenly the lessons come to life on a page. Cool, eh? It’s why biblical fiction CAN be a very powerful tool. But it’s also why prayer is so crucial to the writing. Reading biblical fiction is just the beginning of the journey. If it doesn’t send a reader to the Author of Truth, it’s not good writing.

Do you plan to write in other genres as well?

Okay, don’t laugh. I know everybody is writing Amish fiction nowadays but... Before my husband and I moved to the West Coast, we pastored a church in a small Amish community, and many of those in our congregation left the Amish culture to attend our church. We lived out a few extremely intense “thriller/suspense” kinds of stories with some folks, and I’ve considered asking permission to write about them. But for now, my heart and mind is totally consumed with God’s love in the Old Testament. We’ll have to wait and see what the very distant future holds. :)

Please share something of your faith journey

Well, I’m a spiritual mutt. My family has a rich and varied theological heritage, and I was thoroughly confused by the time my teen years rolled around. I rebelled against my parents and God and was an alcoholic by age nineteen. The Lord got my attention through a broken relationship, and when an old high school friend showed me proof of a changed life, I finally believed God was real. As a young wife and mom, I formed my early theology from my kids’ Bible story books. When my hunger for Truth grew, I attended Bible Study Fellowship and studied God’s Word on my own. When my husband’s coaching career ended, he said he was called into ministry. I said, “Call me when you’re done.” But I went along—under protest. Pastoral ministry was the best of times and the worst of times. My heart loved people in ways I never imagined possible, but my heart was also broken into a million pieces. Through it all, God was faithful and drew me closer than I’d ever been, and He helps me love His people through the power of the Cross. Today, I minister as a broken vessel, a cracked pot, certain of God’s goodness and convinced of His love.

Thanks Mesu ~ Rel on behalf of RBC Book Club

Thanks to you, Rel! This has been so fun!

Relz Reviewz Extras
RBC Book Club interview with Mesu ~ Part 1
Q&A with Mesu
Visit Mesu's website
Buy Mesu's books at Amazon or Koorong

Character Spotlight ~ Jody Hedlund's Eli Ernest & Priscilla White

 Character Spotlight ~ 

Eli & Priscilla

Jody Hedlund's debut novel, The Preacher's Bride, was a winner and I am confidant her second story will be just as captivating.  Enjoy meeting this pioneering couple!


Over to you, Jody:~

Brief physical description

Dr. Eli Ernest: He’s a tall, broad-shouldered man with blue eyes the color of a winter sky. Due to his long months traveling west during an exploratory trip, he has a tanned, weathered face and dusty brown hair that is over-long with sun-bleached streaks. He also has a mysterious scar that cuts a thin white path from the corner of his left eye to his cheek.

Priscilla White: She is known for her beauty and poise. She’s of medium height, blond hair, grey-blue eyes that are large and soft, unspoiled skin, “text-book” perfect form, and lady-like in every sense of the word. (This description is taken from an observer of the real Narcissa Whitman who is the inspiration behind the book.)

Actor/famous person

Dr. Eli Ernest needs to be played by Kevin Costner whose rugged, scruffy look in Dances With Wolves is exactly the way I envisioned Dr. Ernest.

Priscilla White needs to be played by Gwyneth Paltrow. Priscilla is a beautiful and elegant lady with Gwyneth’s looks in Emma.

Strengths and weaknesses

Dr. Eli Ernest: Eli is a man full of passion and unafraid of danger, and yet he’s willing to learn and grow through the challenges he faces. His biggest weakness is that he’s too independent, wanting to accomplish too much in his own strength without having to rely upon others during the journey west. He comes to understand his need for the people God brings into his life.

Priscilla White: She’s not physically strong and she’s a bit naïve, and yet she’s determined and courageous. Her biggest weakness is her pride. At the beginning of the story she believes she is the perfect missionary candidate because of her piety, education, and upbringing. But during the dangerous trip, she begins to understand that when God chooses to use someone, he looks much deeper than a person’s outward qualifications.

Quirk (if any)

Priscilla has a special cameo pin that plays an important role throughout the book. And as I mentioned, Eli has a mysterious scar on his face as well as on his hands.

Both the cameo and the scar play roles in each of the characters’ growth throughout the book.

Your inspiration for the character

This book is inspired by the true-life story of Narcissa Whitman, the first white woman to brave the dangers of the overland trail and travel west. In early 1836, she married Dr. Whitman and then the next day left her childhood home and would never return for the purpose of starting a mission among the Nez Perce natives.

It was my hope in this story to bring Narcissa Whitman to life. This heroic woman has often been ignored and at times even disparaged. In reality, she exuded incredible courage to attempt a trip many proclaimed foolishly dangerous. It was called an “unheard-of-journey for females.” Because of her willingness to brave the unknown, she led the way for the many women who would follow in her footsteps in what would later become known as the Oregon Trail.

Background to the story

Priscilla White bears the painful knowledge that she’ll never be able to be a mother. Having felt God’s call to missionary work, she determines to remain single, put her pain behind her, and answer God’s call.

Dr. Eli Ernest wants to start a medical clinic and mission in unsettled Oregon Country. He’s not interested in taking a wife because of the dangers of life in the west and the fact that no white woman has ever attempted the overland crossing.

But then Priscilla and Eli both receive news from the mission board: No longer will they send unmarried men and women into the field. Left scrambling for options, the two realize the other might be the answer to their needs.

Priscilla and Eli agree to a partnership, a marriage in name only that will allow them to follow God’s leading into the mission field. But as they journey west, this decision will be tested by the hardships of the trip and by the unexpected turnings of their hearts.

Thanks for the fabulous spotlight, Jody ~ now my copy has arrived, I can't wait to dive in!

Relz Reviewz Extras
View the trailer for The Doctor's Lady
Review of The Preacher's Bride
Visit Jody's website and blog
Enter Jody's 'Be a trailblazer' contest
Buy Jody's book at Amazon or Koorong

News & Notes

Lisa T. Bergren has posted an excerpt of her uncontracted and tentatively titled fourth River of Time novel, Tributary!  Check it out here and see what the enigmatic Lord Roldofo Greco is up to!

Waterfall, Cascade & Torrent are generating pretty impressive buzz around the place and for very good reason.  Here's some places to visit:

Waterfall Wednesdays ~ read along with other bloggers and readers and participate in weekly discussions about the chapters read.

Like and chat with the River of Time characters on their Facebook pages ~ yep, those 14th Century boys have become quite internet savvy ;-D

Marcello Forelli

Luca Forelli

Gabi Bettarini

Lia Bettarini

Lord Rodolfo Greco

Thanks to Missie of The Unread Reader you can even choose your team and post your 

allegiance on your blog!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The supremely talented Jody Hedlund has a fabulous contest running to celebrate the release of her second novel, The Doctor's Lady, which arrived in my mailbox today ~ yay, I can't wait to read it!

The Grand Prize Winner of Jody’s BE A TRAILBLAZER Contest will receive:

•   An antique wooden trunk
•   An antique sterling silver rose ring (just like Priscilla’s wedding band!)
•   The award-winning Oregon Trail DVD
•   The Pioneer Women: The Lives of Women on the Frontier coffee table book
•   A leather and antique lace embossed travel journal
•   A pheasant feather quill pen and ink
•   Two packets of Lupine flower seeds
•   and a 6-pack of Bear Valley Fruit & Nut pemmican bars

Go to Jody's contest page for all the details and to enter!

Jody's contest was put together by the always fabulous Kelli Standish and her brilliant team at PulsePoint Design.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

If you love historical romance with some spice, don't miss your chance to read the lovely Julie Lessman's A Hope Undaunted for FREE!  Yes, you can download a digital copy to your Kindle, Nook, iPhone, PC and more.  BUT it is for a limited time so don't delay!

To make it easier for you, here are some links:

Amazon

CBD

Sony e-reader

Barnes & Noble

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The September issue of FamilyFiction's digital magazine is out now!  Read it online or download it to your computer (I found I had to use IE rather than Firefox for some reason).

I had the privilege of writing articles on Julie Lessman, Sandra Byrd, 10 Essential Voices in Medieval Fiction, Romance & Historical News and Missions Minded Fiction feature.

Look for my FamilyFiction Plus posts coming soon to my blog for this edition, where I post the full author interviews with exclusive details not seen in the magazine.

Check out the magazine here

BBAW Best Author Interviews Shortlist

I'm feeling quite chuffed and surprised at making Book Blogger Appreciation Week's shortlist for the niche category of BEST AUTHOR INTERVIEWS :)  Mind you the honour really goes to the amazing authors who give of their time and effort in responding to the questions put to them :)

These are the other gals I'm nominated with in this category:

Presenting Lenore

Stacked

There’s a Book

Unabridged Chick

There are some fabulous blogs out there celebrating books, including my fellow nominees, and they are all worth a visit!

Fee free to check out my author interviews here.  It has been a real delight to highlight authors in this way and get to know some of what makes them tick and write the stories they do.

And if you feel so inclined, you can register to vote with your Twitter or Google login, in my category as well as many others, and discover lots of new book loving bloggers!  Voting closes on 10th September, 2011.

Be sure to vote for these great girls, all of whom are brilliant bloggers and friends, who were shortlisted for BEST SPIRITUAL/INSPIRATIONAL/RELIGIOUS Book Blog for 2011:

Books, Movies and Chinese Food


Edgy Inspirational Romance

The Parchment Girl
 

Character Spotlight ~ Julie Lessman's Emma Malloy & Sean O'Connor with giveaway

Character Spotlight ~ 

Sean & Emma

Julie Lessman returns with the long awaited story of Sean O'Connor and Emma Malloy in A Heart Revealed.  Enjoy getting to know them and be sure to enter the giveaway via the form below!

Remember Julie loves to chat with her readers so feel free to leave a comment about this post and who you might have chosen for Emma and Sean and she will be sure to respond :)


 Over to you, Julie:~

HEROINE — EMMA MALLOY

Thirty-one-year-old Emma Malloy was beautiful once, before her husband scarred her with a pan of hot grease. Red welts on the left side of her face have now faded to pale and mottled scars that only slightly disfigure her lip and steal most of her left brow. But in an era where eyebrows are now shaved and drawn on, her penciled brows are dressed with petroleum jelly for that stylish, shiny look and her heart-shaped face lends itself to a delicate and graceful air. Soft, grey/green eyes that her husband Rory claimed “a man could get lost in” evoke the gentleness of a fawn. A willowy 5’4”, Emma’s “classic” nose is strong and straight with the barest upturn at the tip, and her rich, chestnut hair is styled in the latest Joan Crawford look, parted on the side with curls below her ears and wisps of bangs that feather her forehead.

HERO— SEAN O’CONNOR

At 6’2”, thirty-four-year-old Sean is muscular from a wide array of sports and has twinkling blue eyes and full lips that always hold a hint of a smile. With a spray of freckles on his tanned face, he wears the carefree air of a mischievous Huck Finn and is generally in a good mood, the stalwart big brother who always takes care of everyone else.

Actor/famous person

EMMA: Originally I had pegged actress Emmy Rossum for the role of Emma, but Revell surprised me with a model who ended up being an exact replica of how I saw Emma (see above), so they nailed it, I believe, with their chosen model for the cover.

SEAN (EXCEPT WITH BLONDER HAIR): When I started writing Sean and Emma’s story, I surfed the Web for the image I had of Sean O’Connor, and I found the perfect model shot, albeit shirtless, a grown-up Huck Finn, if you will, with lots of muscles, blond hair, freckles and a little-boy smile. Unfortunately, it’s a stock photo that I cannot use, so I had to scour the Net for another, and although the shot of actor Bradley Cooper below on the left doesn’t really epitomize how I see Sean, it’s as close as I could get to the original model shot that I loved. The shot on the right is a model who also comes close, so maybe a merge of the two?!

Strengths and weaknesses

EMMA: For all of her shy and quiet manner, Emma Malloy is one of the strongest characters I have ever written, emanating a spiritual strength that immediately calms anyone in her presence. As the manager of Dennehy’s Department Store, she is fair and kind to all in her employ, yet strong and resilient enough to dicker with a salesman over surcharges on a foreign shipment, battle a shipping agent over late delivery, and soothe a disgruntled customer, all in one day. She always thinks of others before herself, constantly making brownies for her employees at work, dinner for her neighbors, and slipping her landlady extra rent money during a depression that has sucked everyone dry. Her biggest weakness? Seeing herself through her past rather than through God’s eyes of grace and forgiveness.

SEAN: Sean is the eldest in a family of six siblings who sees himself as caretaker and encourager for the family. A bit of a clown, he has a great sense of humor, a wealth of kindness and is very even-tempered …that is, until his past catches up with him. He’s a hard worker and a natural athlete who loves and coaches kids, but a confirmed bachelor who has resigned himself to not having any himself. His greatest weakness is his unwillingness to face his past, which he buries deep, preferring to present a calm, easy-going front to everyone else.

Quirks

EMMA: Emma applies cocoa butter to her scars every night and loves to dance with her cat to the music of Duke Ellington.

SEAN: Sean is addicted to Snickers and gets nervous and tongue-tied when a female has him in her sights. As a natural athlete, he wins at every sport he plays, but cannot win at chess to save his soul.

Your inspiration for the character

EMMA: This is going to sound crazy, I know, but Charity O’Connor was my inspiration for Emma Malloy. You see, I needed a friend who would love and encourage Charity in A Passion Redeemed, so I crafted a woman who was the total opposite of Charity. :)

SEAN: This one is easy. I modelled Sean O’Connor after my son, Matt, because like Sean, Matt is good in sports, gentle and kind, and always reaches out and lifts others up, just like Sean. In fact, I dedicated A Heart Revealed to my son with the following dedication:

To my amazing son Matt—

whose uncommon kindness, gentle strength and

love of sports provided the perfect framework for the hero of this book.

May Sean O’Connor touch the hearts and lives

of my readers just a glimmer as deeply and powerfully

as our son has touched ours.

MY OWN PERSONAL JACKET BLURB:

The ring on her hand belongs to one man …

but her heart belongs to another.

As a battered woman, Emma Malloy fled Dublin for Boston ten years ago, seeking shelter for a heart badly bruised by both her husband and guilt. But when she falls in love with Sean O’Connor, a man who wrestles with demons of his own, fear and shame almost destroy her … until she is finally set free by a heart revealed.

Such a pleasure to have you back here, Julie!  Thanks for taking the time to share about these two :)

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Cluny & Katie
Reviews of A Hope Undaunted, A Passion Most Pure, A Passion Redeemed & A Passion Denied
Character spotlight on Lizzie & Brady
Interview with Julie
Visit Julie's website
Buy Julie's books at Amazon or Koorong

An Ocean Away by Lisa Harris

Despite her American heritage, Lizzie MacTavish is a child of the African bush, raised along the Zambezi river by her missionary parents and determined to carry on their dream of reaching the Rhodesian villagers with the love of Jesus.  Immersed in their language and culture, Lizzie is at home amongst her beloved African people and can't imagine being anywhere else.

Adventurer Andrew Styles is on a mission of a different kind.  Commissioned by Lizzie's Uncle and Aunt to return Lizzie to New York to claim the inheritance left by her grandfather, Andrew is stymied by Lizzie's adamant refusal to return.  Frustrated and intrigued in equal measure to Lizzie's dedication to the people she lives with, Andrew soon finds himself in the role of protector as a village kidnapping spirals out of control as tribal divisions run deep.

Forced to flee as the danger escalates, Lizzie and Andrew return to New York to unravel the conditions of her grandfather's will.  Out of her depth in society, Lizzie soon discovers that the danger has followed her across the ocean and Andrew may be her only hope of finding her way home.

Lisa Harris skillfully blends adventure, romance and suspense in An Ocean Away set in 1920s Rhodesia and New York.  The Dark Continent comes alive with its wide savannahs, caring people and the occasional rampaging hippo!  There is an appealing authenticity to Lisa's characters as both Lizzie and Andrew reveal their weaknesses, fears and secrets.  The story encompasses many threads without confusion from tribal wars, missionary life, high society, greed, spiritual revelations and much more.  As Andrew confronts his past and Lizzie contemplates her future, the romantic element is played out with refreshing depth and insight.  The primitiveness of Africa and the exclusivity of New York high society play out through the eyes of these characters, revealing the good and the bad of both.  The suspense is woven throughout the story with enough clues and red herrings to keep the reader guessing for the most part.  Lisa's familiarity and love for Africa shines and no doubt her own experiences as a missionary add to the intensity of this engaging tale.

As seen at TitleTrakk

With thanks to Summerside Press for my review copy

Relz Reviewz Extras
Character spotlight on Paige & Nick (Blood Covenant)
Review of Blood Ransom
Character spotlight on Natalie & Chad (Blood Ransom)
Interview with Lisa
Visit Lisa's website and blog
Buy Lisa's books at Amazon or Koorong

Character Spotlight ~ Alison Strobel's Amelia & Marcus Sheffield

Character Spotlight ~

Amelia & Marcus

Alison Strobel never shys away from the tough issues in her novels and Composing Amelia is no exception.  Enjoy meeting Amelia and Marcus.


Over to you, Alison:~

Brief physical description ~ Amelia

About 5' 7 and 150 pounds, with a typical Irish complexion and long, curlyish red hair. I can't remember what color her eyes are! I want to say green, though. :)

Actor/famous person

I actually pictured my sister-in-law, Kelli, when I envisioned Amelia. The main difference between them is that Kelli is far more laid back and even-keeled. Amelia has a bit more fire in her, emotionally.


Strengths and weaknesses

She's an encourager, and she's assertive and determined. A very hard worker.  Unfortunately, she can be a little selfish, a little myopic, and a little melodramatic.

Quirk (if any)

She's not that quirky, really. She *does* occasionally play compositions on her knees as though she's playing them on a piano.

Your inspiration for the character

Tori Amos, who I mention a few times in the book, was who I envisioned when I pictured Amelia playing--that kind of passion and abandon. Tori is more introverted, however, whereas Amelia is more extroverted and socially bold.  Actually, now that I think about it, I think I envisioned her physically, too--so Amelia is really a combination of Tori and Kelli. :)


Brief physical description ~ Marcus

About 5'11, 180, brown hair, blue eyes (I think!), with a very open and friendly face. The kind of person whose default expression encourages people to talk to him.

Actor/famous person

I pictured Matt Damon, but but a more engaging face. Damon always strikes me as being a little more serious and introverted.

Strengths and weaknesses

Marcus is outgoing, engaging, and loves to help people. He also tends to be a bit blind to his own faults, especially as they pertain to his role in conflict.

Quirk (if any)

No quirks for Marcus!

Your inspiration for the character

I wanted someone who was pretty straight-up normal, someone who would be a good foil for the artistic Amelia. I knew I had to make him interesting enough that Amelia would fall in love with him, but not so interesting that he'd overshadow Amelia in the story.

Background to the story

In 1996 my best friend developed bipolar disease. The following couple of years were a major struggle, both for her and for me. She had virtually no support from her family, who were in complete denial over it all, and none of her other friends were as close to it as me because she and I were roommates, so I bore most of the support role. There was very little out there in the way of resources for Christians struggling with mental illness, or for their support system, and even though writing wasn't even on my radar as a career at the time I thought, "Someday I'm going to write a book about Christians and mental illness." I really expected it to be non-fiction, but God had other plans. :)

Thanks Alison ~ lovely to have you back!

Relz Reviewz Extras
RBC Book Club YouTube interview with Alison
Visit Alison's website and blog
Buy Alison's books at Amazon or Koorong