~ ~ ~ ~
Welcome back to my blog, Laura. I'm so happy to have you as a guest today. I think you know this already, but I can't say it enough, I love your writing. Your words sweep me away and plant me in another time and place. It's truly an honor and privilege to have you spend some time here today celebrating the release of Love's Awakening, the second book in The Ballantyne Legacy. (You can see my book review here.)
Gabrielle: For readers who might be "meeting" you here for the first time, can you give us a quick history lesson on your publication journey?
Laura: I’m actually a great example of what NOT to do on your journey to publication! My pastor brother actually dared me to do something with my stories. Since I’d been scribbling them from age 7 he believed I needed to share them. But I had no agent, no online presence, had never been to a writers conference or any of those helpful, savvy things. I thought I would prove him wrong and be rejected. So I quietly submitted sample chapters to the Writer’s Edge and was stunned when I was picked up by my publisher, Revell/Baker about six months later. Instead of a one book contract like I expected, they wanted 3 books. Since I didn’t read much in the inspirational market (other than Francine Rivers) and my books are a bit out of the box, this was truly amazing. Still is.
Gabrielle: But that's why I love your books! They are a bit out of the box and fill a need in the Christian Market. I'm especially excited about your current three-book series, The Ballantyne Legacy, following the lives of three generations in the Ballantyne family. We fell in love with Silas and Eden in the first novel, Love's Reckoning, and now we meet their daughter, Ellie, and her hero Jack in the second novel, Love's Awakening. Until now you've only written stand-alone novels. What inspired you to write three generations in three novels?
Laura: My head editor asked me if I’d be interested in writing a generational family saga. My first reaction was panic but after praying about the possibility a small avalanche of ideas began to shake loose. I'd already tucked away this little seed of a novel about an apprentice marrying into the master’s family from research so just went with that. The Underground Railroad theme blindsided me while writing as that was not the way I intended for these Ballantyne books to go – but the Lord had other plans. His ideas are always better than mine!
Gabrielle: I didn't see the Underground Railroad theme coming, either, but I loved that thread in Love's Awakening. It was a beautifully penned story. When I read your stories all else fades away and I become fully immersed in your story world. I feel every emotion on the page and I hold my breath to the very last sentence. I've heard many authors talk about the importance of their writing space and how it affects their stories. For me, I can curl up almost anywhere and let my fingers fly across the keyboard--even with children on my lap, hanging off my shoulders, and sitting on my feet. I'd love to get a glimpse into your writing space and see what inspires you! What things do you like to have around you when you write? Do you listen to music, or do you prefer silence?
Gabrielle: I didn't see the Underground Railroad theme coming, either, but I loved that thread in Love's Awakening. It was a beautifully penned story. When I read your stories all else fades away and I become fully immersed in your story world. I feel every emotion on the page and I hold my breath to the very last sentence. I've heard many authors talk about the importance of their writing space and how it affects their stories. For me, I can curl up almost anywhere and let my fingers fly across the keyboard--even with children on my lap, hanging off my shoulders, and sitting on my feet. I'd love to get a glimpse into your writing space and see what inspires you! What things do you like to have around you when you write? Do you listen to music, or do you prefer silence?
Laura: So thankful my books come alive for you, Gabrielle. As for writing space, since I’m a former teacher and have my own children, I have learned to write anywhere at any time – on buses and in doctor’s offices, to Spongebob blaring in the background, outside on the porch, etc. As long as I have pen and paper with me it doesn’t matter where I am. I do love listening to music when I write and my Kentucky books were written to The Last of the Mohicans and Master and Commander Soundtracks. My ‘boom box’ broke last year and I haven’t replaced it. This reminds me it may be time . I find music very inspiring. And my preference is for a beautiful, peaceful spot to write. I’ve attached a collage of desk spaces I’ve had over the years and one I’d love to have!
Gabrielle: The journey to publication can be a long road with many twists and turns. I'm not published, yet, but already my life looks much different than it did two years ago before I started on the journey. I'd love to know, how has life changed for you since you became a published author?
Laura: I never quite realized how consuming publishing is. Writing is pure joy to me but publishing is work. I usually put in very long days starting early in the morning. Add 2 children to the mix, a husband, and aging parents and my plate is quite full. I homeschooled for 8 years and then my boys asked to go to public school after publishing kicked in. I felt the time was right and they’ve loved it and done well, thankfully. The most stunning change has been spiritually. Since publishing my debut novel I feel I’ve also entered spiritual boot camp. Here’s a Beth Moore quote that sums it up better than I could ever say, “A person has hardly begun to have a real fight on her hands until she starts serving in her full-throttle giftedness and effectiveness. She who proves a threat earns an enemy you can bet will do everything he can to make her sorry.” Amen and amen. But I will say, also, that the Lord continues to meet me at every turn and always supplies what I need to keep going. My trust level in Him has grown leaps and bounds. Here’s another favorite Beth quote that speaks to me and came just when I needed it most: “You surrender yourself to living in the tension where you’ll always be stretched and often be broken...You accept that far easier ways to live exist, but you were born for nothing less.”
Gabrielle: There are so many things I love about this answer. First, the writing is joy and the publishing is work--that deserves an amen! Second, the Beth Moore quotes are stunning. Following this calling to write (or any calling by God) can be an intense journey--but if we're not growing along the way, we're missing one of God's purposes in the calling.
Now on a lighter note, summer is quickly fading into fall, bringing with it a wealth of new activities and events. I'd love to know: What is your favorite season of the year, and why?
Gabrielle: Laura, thank you so much for being here today! Laura has graciously agreed to give away a free copy of her new release, Love's Awakening, to one of the blog readers who comments on this post between now and Tuesday, October 7th at 11:59 p.m.
A QUESTION FOR MY BLOG READERS: What type of environment do you work best in (whatever work that might be)?
Last weeks winner of Rebellious Heart, by Jody Hedlund is:
Jill Weatherholt!
Jill I will be contacting you to get your mail address for Jody! Congratulations!
~ ~ ~ ~
In the spring of 1822, Ellie Ballantyne leaves finishing school and returns to the family home in Pittsburgh only to find that her parents are away on a long journey and her siblings don't seem to want her to stay. Determined to stand her ground and find her place in the world, Ellie fills her time by opening a day school for young ladies.
But when one of her students turns out to be an incorrigible young member of the Turlock family, Ellie knows she must walk a fine line. Slaveholders and whiskey magnates, the Turlocks are envious of the powerful Ballantynes and suspicious of their abolitionist leanings. As Ellie becomes increasingly entangled with the rival clan--particularly the handsome Jack Turlock--she finds herself falling in love with an impossible future. Will she betray her family and side with the enemy?
~ ~ ~ ~
Award-winning historical novelist, Laura Frantz, was born into a family who followed the legendary frontiersman, Daniel Boone, to Kentucky during the turbulent 18th-century and still resides there today. Passionate about all things historical, she writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Celtic themes. Her family lineage is Scottish and Irish.
According to Publishers Weekly, "Frantz has done her historical homework." She is known for the depth of her characterization and research. The author is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant, Literary Agent & Founder, Books & Such Literary Agency of Santa Rosa, California.
According to Publishers Weekly, "Frantz has done her historical homework." She is known for the depth of her characterization and research. The author is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant, Literary Agent & Founder, Books & Such Literary Agency of Santa Rosa, California.
~ ~ ~ ~
Six Authors, One Grand Prize
 |
| The Grand Prize: A $25 Amazon eGift Card (not pictured) from Gabrielle Meyer A stationary and notepad set from Jody Hedlund A handmade jewel bookmark from Laura Frantz A multi-colored peacock necklace from Wendy Paine Miller A copy of the movie Christmas in Connecticut from Melissa Tagg Book one in the Cadence of Grace Series & a worship CD from Joanne Bischof A black & brown scarf from Heather Day Gilbert |
Over the course of six weeks I will be hosting six authors on my blog. Each author
has agreed to offer a free copy of their newest release, as well as an item for
a grand prize drawing at the end of the six weeks! To be entered to win a free
copy of each book, all you need to do is visit my blog weekly (beginning September 25th) and comment on
each author's post. A random winner will be chosen each week. To be entered to
win the grand prize, visit my Rafflecopter below and follow the instructions. If
you do each thing listed you'll earn 45 chances to win the grand prize! Don't
forget to visit here each Wednesday to earn more chances!
This is a lovely interview. Feels like listening in on a conversation between friends. :) (Just wanted to mention that the collage didn't show, so maybe you can add that as it would be nice to see.) Blessings to both of you, Laura and Gabrielle.
ReplyDeleteCarla, thank you for letting me know about the photo problem! Hopefully I fixed the glitch. :) And it's so easy to talk to Laura. She's a kindred spirit.
DeleteSo good to be here with friends :). Finally got the boys off to school and am checking in a wee bit late west coast time but thrilled to be here nonetheless! Carla, you're always such a support and encouragement. So glad you know Gabrielle!
DeleteOkay, I loved Love's Awakening so much I almost couldn't handle getting to the end. I considered not even reading the last couple chapters so I could spread it out, but then I couldn't make myself...ended up reading the whole book in a day. :) Loved, loved the interview!
ReplyDeleteMy best writing environment is generally one that's distraction-free. I'm just way too good at being distracted. I love writing at my mom and dad's house...they have a pretty sunroom where I like to settle in. And there's no wi-fi...which is the best. :)
Melissa!! Busy as you are, I am so thankful you made time for Ellie and Jack and enjoyed it so much! Love that you didn't want it to end. Thank you. I am just about at the place where I can resume my free reading time and your beautiful debut and Joanne's last in her series is top of my stack :) Can't wait!
DeleteSo interesting to hear about your ideal place to write. I covet that sunroom as it's long been a dream of mine. Happy writing to you! And thanks for being here.
I agree, Melissa! I had to read Love's Awakening over the course of two days, but I could have easily done it in a day. *Sigh*
DeleteI love that I now know what your apartment and your parents' house looks like! It's easier to imagine you there, typing away.
Laura, you'll love Melissa's debut! And Joanne's, as well. Happy reading!
I work best in a clutter free environment! :)
ReplyDeleteLaura, you know I adore your books. You are one of my favorite historical romance authors. I, like Gabe, am continually swept away and awed by your stories and writing. Many blessings!
Jessica, Really honored to have you here! Am tucking these very gracious words away to inspire and keep me going :) Your support means so much.
DeleteI so agree about clutter free. But dust free is another story! My house is pretty tidy but looks like a dust bowl at times when the writing takes over ;) I've heard that we creative types thrive in an orderly environment. I'm sure some messies would disagree with that though! Many blessings to you, too!
I love a clutter-free environment, and I think I do my best work in one, but it rarely happens. I've told my hubby that if I can complete a novel in our house, with the limited hours I have to do it, just think what I'll be able to produce down the road!! :) But I wouldn't change these years for anything.
DeleteLaura, I'm with you. The surface of my house might be clean, but the dust is ever present. Not to mention the smudges, finger prints and muddy floors! :)
Good Morning Gabe and Laura. It is fun to see the writing journey is different for both/all of you just like many other professional paths can be. I think I like working best when the kids are around. Whether they are helping or you can hear their laughter in the background, they add an element to every situation that is not duplicated when you go to work outside of the home. Have a great day!
ReplyDeleteBobbi Jo Champion
Bobbi, So good to meet you here. Love your kid-inclusive attitude:) I've learned to write just about anywhere and am thankful I can tune things out if needs be. I love having my kids close, too, which is probably why I use my office so seldom but sit in the family room.
DeleteThanks so much for being here and entering the giveaway!
Bobbi Jo, I love your perspective. I would have to say it depends on what I do. Since I don't work outside the house, almost all the work I do involves my kiddos. It's fun having them there to help while I cook, or out in the yard, but I enjoy those quiet moments, when everyone is asleep, and I can be in my make-believe world, typing away on my computer. But, like Laura, I've learned how to write just about anywhere. I hope all is well with you and your boys. We miss you at MOPS and church. Let us know if you're ever back in town for a visit.
DeleteAw, some of my favorite people together on one blog! :) I have not yet read this book of Laura's but can't wait to do so. And as for me, I need quiet to write. Maybe that'll change when I have kids (out of necessity!), but I have always done my best work when I'm by myself in my overstuffed chair in my bedroom, or in the quiet section of the university library nearby.
ReplyDeleteLindsay, I'm with you - love getting together with some favorite people here! And I really enjoyed looking at photos of you and others at ACFW. You were glowing :). I so wish I could have come! Babies tend to rock writing worlds but in an entirely good way. A baby beats a book any old day! But like you, the quiet is often kinder to creativity and I get far more done without interruptions. But give me a baby any day, lol...!
DeleteLindsay, before the babies come along, you're more than welcome to come back to my house and spend as much time with my children as you'd like! :) They'll offer you a crash course on motherhood! It's easiest to write in a quiet atmosphere, but having little people around sure makes it more interesting. You just learn to adjust and adapt. Children are the best kind of distraction.
DeleteLaura, I can't tell you how many times I thought of you at ACFW. I wish you had been there, too. Even though I was there, it was still fun to come home and look at everyone's photos. It's such an incredible experience.
I would love to win this, I am always looking for new authors.
ReplyDeleteI hope you'll come back each Wednesday to meet the other authors I have visiting, as well. I love readers who are looking for new authors! There are so many wonderful ones out there and Laura is at the top of the list! Good luck.
DeleteJean, Thanks for making time here today. Gabrielle's site is such a treat whenever and whatever she posts! I always feel honored to be her guest. Thanks for entering the drawing!
DeleteLaura has such a unique writing voice. I look forward to reading this book.
ReplyDeleteI do not have a job outside of the home, but like any homemaker, I have plenty to do. We turned a small bedroom into an office. That's where I pay bills, sell things on Craigslist, and do other computer related things. I must have quiet! If it's possible, I do like to have the window open to listen to the birds.
Martha, I adore Laura's writing voice, too! If you've enjoyed her other books, I know you'll enjoy Love's Awakening. It's a beautiful tale. I'm also a homemaker, so I understand your need for a little space to call your own. My husband and I recently finished our basement and I now have an office! It's a wonderful place to go for a bit of quiet. I'm happy to hear you have your own space, as well! And there's nothing quite like the sound of birds. Thank you for stopping by today!
DeleteMartha, YES to birdsong :). And thanks for being here and saying such kind things about my writing voice. This giveaway is a wonderful one!
DeleteLaura is my fav author. I love all her books and wont miss a single one.
ReplyDeleteI'm so happy to know there are so many of us out there! I won't miss one of her books, either. :) Thanks for stopping in today!
DeleteSo honored to be listed a a fav author. I pray/hope I can keep writing the kind of books that delight your heart. Thanks so much for being here!
Deletei want to win please , i need a new read thanks
ReplyDeleteShirley, thank you for stopping by and putting your name in the hat! Good luck.
DeleteI LOVE your story, Laura. I esp. loved this Beth Moore quote: "A person has hardly begun to have a real fight on her hands until she starts serving in her full-throttle giftedness and effectiveness. She who proves a threat earns an enemy you can bet will do everything he can to make her sorry.” I know many of us feel God has led us into writing and we have to be braced for opposition at every turn. And yet, the reward of serving Him whole-heartedly and sticking TO it will outweigh the rejections and disappointment along the journey. "Having done all, to STAND," as the verse says. Anyway. I'm buying one of your books today because I admit I haven't gotten my hands on one yet! Time to remedy that! And you are one of the sweetest authors I know!
ReplyDeleteHeather, isn't that one of the best quotes? It encouraged me a great deal when Laura first shared it with me. Whether we like it or not, there is an enemy and those who follow God's calling are his greatest threat. Stand! Absolutely. And, oh!!! I'm so happy you'll be buying one of Laura's books (but I'm afraid once you buy one, you'll soon be buying them all!). My first, and still one of my very favorites, is The Colonel's Lady. The hero is at the top of my swoon list! But you can't go wrong with any of her books! Good luck choosing and happy reading! :)
DeleteSo glad the quote speaks to you, too, Heather. So glad we can STAND together! Thrilled, too, to know He goes before us and the battle has been won. We just have to stay in and fight and follow His leading. Bless you for your thoughts. You, too, are one of the sweetest authors I know - with one of the most stunning covers I've ever seen!
Deletethank you for this interview. I have not had a chance to read any of Laura's books but hope to change that soon.
ReplyDeleteWilani, thank you for stopping back this week! I hope you'll get a chance to read one of Laura's books very soon. Her writing is truly breathtaking. Good luck in the drawing! I hope to see you here again. :)
DeleteWilani, So good to see you again! Would love to have you meet some of my characters :). Thank you.
DeleteI love that second Beth Moore quote, and am learning that it's true--and to accept it and not look for an end to that tension. Wonderful interview, Laura and Gabrielle. I'm reading Love's Awakening now and only wish I had time to simply sit and turn those pages faster. It's funny that a love of reading leads us to a love of writing, but eventually success with the writing puts a crimp in the reading time. Thank God for audio books, which can be read while doing other needful things. :)
ReplyDeleteLori, I think that's why I love that Beth Moore quote. It reminds us that we do have an enemy, and that we're a great threat to him. It also encourages us that if we're in the midst of a battle, it probably means we're also working for great things in the Kingdom of God. I hear you with the reading time. I used to read numerous books a month, but now that I'm writing, my reading time has been cut drastically. I love when books like Laura's come along and I can give myself permission to curl up and get lost in one of the things I love the most!
DeleteI do miss reading time, too. Just when I think I can reach for that TBR stack an endorsement comes in but I've learned to look at that as delightful reading time, too. If only I didn't like to write so much I could read more...!
DeleteLaura, so good to see you out and about! Thanks (I think!) for the Beth Moore quote. It's reassuring and frightening at the same time. So glad you've chosen to follow your giftedness.
ReplyDeleteSarah, the wonderful thing about being in the battle is that we know Who the victor is! I love that God has equipped us for the battle by giving us the proper armor. Salvation, righteousness, truth, peace, faith and the Word! It doesn't mean we always show up to battle with our armor on, but it's always available. Thanks for stopping by today! I can't wait to have you on my blog when your book releases!!!
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteSarah, Always good to see you:) I do think these Beth quote should come with a caveat - mainly that we highstrung types tend to take these things harder most. I envy those authors who take things in stride, read all their reviews without flinching, and can laugh about the entire process. I am not one of them but will say I feel closer to Him than before and am always, always learning.
DeleteCannot wait to hold your book in hand!!
I work best around EVERYTHING....If I hide away...THEY find me...you know? If I am right in the middle of things, it's good.
ReplyDeleteI believe there are seasons in our life that we don't have much control of the environment we have to work in! It's good when we learn how to make the best of it. :) Thanks for stopping by.
DeleteWell said!
DeleteWhat an interesting interview!! Thank you for sharing and for the giveaway! Gabrielle, thank you for hosting.. Laura, I love that you listen to soundtracks too! That's how I get much of my work done..I guess that I work better in uncluttered surroundings because my mind is prone to wander if I have others things around distracting me...ha ~ Juli
ReplyDeleteJuli - Pls see reply below. Blogger isn't behaving for me this morning! Thx!
DeleteJuli, thank you for stopping by today! I find I am most inspired when I listen to music as I work, but it's often the sound of little people (my kiddos) that I hear the most often. :)
DeleteThank you for being so real and honest about the whole process Laurie, and it is so true that when you are invested to use your God Given talents, it upsets the enemy BIGTIME! What a wonderful thing that God has been faithful and met you at every turn, as you said! So blessed to hear a testimony so powerful and encouraging!
ReplyDeleteMelony, Love your transparent heart <3. Thank you. SO TRUE about the upsetting the enemy bigtime! It really is a battle doing what we're called to do and it's wrong to think we won't have opposition. Scripture speaks so clearly to that and we have only to look to the book of Acts and follow Paul!
DeleteBless you for being so encouraging and a light here today.
When I first read Laura's responses to my questions, that was my first thought, too, Melony. I'm so thankful she's real and honest about the process.
DeleteJulianna, So good to see you here! Yes, soundtracks rock :) I miss them so much when I DON'T have them handy. And I'm always on the lookout for another inspiring one.
ReplyDeleteYour words about clutter distracting are so true. Glad dust doesn't do that! I'm tidy but dusty. Have a great day there! Thanks for entering the drawing!
I really enjoyed reading this interview! Laura, your books have been favorites of mine since I first read "The Frontiersman's Daughter". I love your writing style and attention to detail. Whenever I read one of your books, I almost feel like I am watching a movie! And I especially love that I can share them with my college age daughter and she loves them, too!
ReplyDeleteAs far as the environment I work best in, I definitely need quiet but with a view of Nature! :)
Love that you can share my books with your daughter, Laura. Bless you for that! Thrilled you met me through Lael's story. That debut seems so long ago now but it really wasn't! I've heard that after a few minutes of reading a good book a movie begins to play in our heads and your interesting comment reminds me of that:)
DeleteI second a room with a view! Nature provides the best inspiration. Blessings on you and your daughter!
Laura, I smiled when I read you share Laura's books with your daughter, as I share Laura's books with my mother and sister (and aunt, and cousin, and friend, and anyone else who will listen to me gush about her!). :) I also love to have a view of nature. We've been blessed to live in a home on the banks of the Mississippi for the past two years--I'm looking at it now. :)
DeleteI liked the interview. I think stories about the underground railroad are fascinating.
ReplyDeleteSusan, Good to see you here and learn you are fascinated by the UR like I am. I'm finding that's it a very popular part of history that continues to be shrouded in mystery. I'd love for you to meet these Ballantynes of mine :).
DeleteSusan, I'm happy you enjoyed the interview! I always look forward to having Laura here. The Underground Railroad has always fascinated me, but I'm even more now that I've read Laura's story. I'm sure much of it will forever go unknown, though.
Deletethis interview was very interesting especially about the underground railroad. I 'm a homemaker but need quiet desk area. So looking forward to reading your books. I love your story lines.
ReplyDeleteJackie, Thanks so much for the kind comments. I'd love for you to meet Ellie and Jack and the rest of the cast. All names and incidents regarding the UR and slavery were taken from history in this book which provided a lot of inspiration. Thanks for being in the drawing!
DeleteJackie, thank you for stopping by to leave a comment and share some time with us. I hope you are able to get your hands on one of Laura's book soon! Good luck in the drawing.
DeleteBeautiful! Would love to read the book!
ReplyDeleteConnie, Would love for you to read LA, too. Bless you for being here!
DeleteConnie, I highly recommend any of Laura's books! Each one is one of my favorites. :)
DeleteI work at a school, so the classrooms can get quite busy at times. I do fine with that, but sure enjoy my quiet time of reading during my lunch break. At home, when doing things like cooking, I like to listen to music.
ReplyDeletePam, I have four children, so I can't imagine a whole classroom! When I worked out of the home, reading during my lunch break was one of my favorite times of the day. Thank you for stopping by!
DeleteI admire your schoolwork, Pam, as I worked in that environment for several years. Quiet time is especially nice after a noisy classroom! Bless you for being here and wanting to read!
ReplyDeleteGreat interview, Gabrielle and Laura! I loved the Beth Moore wisdom, too. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteMissing you Gabrielle. Hope you're having fun back in the real world. xx
Miss you, too, Dorothy! Thank you for stopping by and sharing the interview on Facebook. Hope you're adjusting back to your real world and time zone!
DeleteSuch a great quote by Beth Moore, I love it! Thanks for sharing here, Laura, and thanks, Gabrielle, for having her over at your blog. Such fabulous, engaging interview, and it blessed me. I can't wait to read Ellie and Jack's story!
ReplyDeleteSince I don't have a desk or office area yet, I do my best work in a quiet room with no distractions (which I have to write in the wee hours of night or morning to get) preferably, my rear in my favorite recliner-rocker, a little praise or instrumental music in the background, and my computer on my lap. :-)
Thank you for stopping in, Gwen! You'll love Ellie and Jack's story! I love how you put your answer: rear in my favorite recliner-rocker. :) That's the best way to get work done, isn't it? Good luck in the drawing!
DeleteNice post! Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Susan! Thanks for taking the time to visit with us today.
DeleteWould love to read our book. To work, I need a quiet environment with minimal clutter or otherwise I will just be thinking about straightening everything up! I always have shades open so I can look outside.
ReplyDeleteDebbie, I do the same thing! It's hard to concentrate when clutter is about. I hope you get a chance to read Laura's books, she is a master at writing and her stories are so engaging...I've been known to not even notice the clutter when I'm lost in one of Laura's books. :)
DeleteSo nice reading everyone's comments and hearing what works best as far as work spaces and places. Thanks to everyone for taking time here. The giveaway basket is just beautiful and I can't wait to see who wins these books, too!
ReplyDeleteLaura, I've had so much fun with you here. Thank you for all the time you took to visit with each reader. You're one of my favorites. :)
DeleteI loved reading the interviews! Very fun.
ReplyDeleteSara, Bless you for being here and entering the giveaway! Happy almost Friday :)
DeleteI'm so happy you enjoyed the interview, Sara! Thank you for visiting!
DeleteJust loved this interview, ladies!
ReplyDeleteLaura, I fall more in love with you & your writing with every interview I read. Just wish I didn't have several other books in line to read - so that I could read one of yours, but - I will, eventually get around to it, as I have heard too many wonderful things about your books, your writing style, & the person that you are.
My perfect work environment is with praise & worship music in the background. It lifts my spirits, & fills me with joy!
The way in which you received your first writing contract, says to me, that writing truly is the path the Lord has chosen for you. And - I can certainly identify with the quote from Beth Moore, the times that I have been most firmly planted in the Lord's plan for my life have been those of the greatest trials in my life - but, also the times in which I have most spiritually matured.
Love your comments and I thank you for your interest in my books! Your praise and worship environment sounds so inspiring. I find that that type of music lifts us above these earthly cares of ours. So thankful for that.
DeleteYou really understand that the greatest trials often bring the greatest blessings. I often think if I only trusted Him more life would be one unending song of praise no matter the circumstance. Bless you for being here!
I would encourage you to move Laura's books up to the top of the to be read pile! Her books are as wonderful as you've heard--and so is she. :) Thank you for stopping by!
DeleteThanks for another great interview, Gabrielle! And, thank you so much for the great surprise! I can't wait to read Jody's latest book. Thank you! Where can I find your e-mail address?
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome, Jill! I just sent you a Facebook message! Happy reading!
DeleteThanks! Enjoy your weekend!
ReplyDeleteHi, Gabrielle. I just found this site now and heard of this new author for me as well as you. I see I am too late for the contest? I just wanted to say I loved the interview. It was very interesting! Would still love to win. Mary Lou K
ReplyDeleteMary Lou, Welcome here! So glad you've found Gabrielle and myself. You're not too late!
DeleteI'm smiling at your name because my family calls me Laura Lou:) Have a blessed Sunday!
Oh, I forgot my email :
ReplyDeleteflowersmarylou85@gmail.com Thanks!
I've read a lot interviews with Laura as the featured author, but haven't read her story of publication (what can I say, once "met" Lael, I was hooked to Laura's writing for life!), what a neat story! God is so surprising like that sometimes.
ReplyDeleteThank you ladies for the great interview!
Beth
Beth, You're so gracious and wonderful. I know I've said this before but I so LOVE your bridal pic! I hope you never change it! I just created a bridal board on Pinterest and you deserve to be on it.
DeleteThanks so much for making time for us here. So glad you're in the giveaway! It's great to touch base with you again!
I haven't read any of Laura's books. It was so fun to read about her start to be published. God certainly had His hand in that! I love the way that Laura lets God guide her writing, and I'm very anxious to read the Ballantyne series. The cover on Love's Awakening is beautiful. Sorry I missed the giveaway. I was out of town and didn't haven't computer access most of the time.
ReplyDeleteI so enjoy reading any of your books, hard for me to say which one I like the best......good, clean stories .....very thankful for. Thank you! Blessings.....
ReplyDeleteI'm a bit late on the scene here, but I am still trying to fathom writing books when homeschooling... I have three children 11, 10 and 5 and just the time to homeschool , care for my DH and my Home take allot of time. sometimes I feel like I don't even get any time to do books, kindle will help with that as it reads them to me if busy. I love a good moral story and one that continues in a family linage . I so look forward to someday reading your books but I have not been able to as of yet.
ReplyDeleteBlessings
Linda Finn
Faithful Acres Books
faithfulacresbooks@gmail.com
http://www.faithfulacresbooks.wordpress.com
I've been wanting to read her books. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI work best in near silence-if it's completely quiet my brain starts screaming so I need some background noise whether it's a heater, a fan, or even music!
ReplyDeletegatorade635(at)gmail(dot)com