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Wednesday 22 January 2014

Author Interview & Giveaway: Laura Frantz

By Ellie Whyte

Laura Frantz is a lover of history, is the author of The Frontiersman's Daughter, Courting Morrow Little, and The Colonel's Lady, and currently lives in the misty woods of Washington with her husband and two sons.

Passionate about all things historical, she writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Celtic themes. Her family lineage is Scottish, English, and Irish.

Laura Frantz credits her grandmother as being the catalyst for her fascination with Kentucky history. Frantz's family followed Daniel Boone into Kentucky in the late eighteenth century and settled in Madison County, where her family still resides.

The following is a 2014 interview with Laura.

PLUS! ENTER THE GIVEAWAY
Post a comment about this interview at the end of the blog post and enter the Rafflecopter draw for a copy of one of Laura's books - winner's choice. A valid comment on the blog is an entry requirement into the draw. Contest open to entrants worldwide, and ends on Saturday, 25 January.


 The Frontiersman's Daughter
Tell us a little about yourself.
I was born and raised in the southern U.S. – Kentucky – but currently I live way out west in Washington State in a little house in the misty woods with my real-life hero of 20 years, Randy, and our 2 sons, Wyatt (16) and Paul (14).

How did you become a novelist, and did you always want to write?
I wanted to write from the age of 7 when I penned my first story which was and always has been a historical. The journals I kept when I was a young girl say, “I want to be an author when I grow up.” I still have them in an old trunk and it’s interesting to read that wish many years later. Sometimes I think God instills in us our heart’s desire early on J.

What do you think is significant about Christian fiction?
I think the written word is very powerful. Jesus often spoke in parables/stories that are with us today. Christian fiction is often a seeker’s or non-Christian’s introduction to a Christian worldview and is capable of inspiring hungry souls to dig deeper and meet the Savior or get to know Him better than they do. God is so creative in how He reaches us and I’m thankful He chooses books as one way to get His message across.

 Courting Morrow Little
How do you hope your readers react to the stories you write?
My books have been described as vivid and intensely emotional. My goal is to make an emotional connection with readers and that may not always be positive! I tend to write out of the box as I don’t sugarcoat history which sometimes means readers are pulled away from predictability and comfort. My hope is that readers will experience the hope and love to be had in Christ through my characters and their lives, however hard or fraught with heartache.  I always promise a hopeful, happy ending.

What responses to your novels have affected you the most and why?
I love reader mail. It’s such a joy hearing from people who say they can’t explain how my novels have moved them but are somehow enriched because of the stories the Lord has given me to write.

How has being a novelist impacted your relationship with Christ?
I am always very grateful for the gift of writing Christ gave me. It’s humbling to think He instilled a love of the written word in a little girl many years ago and brought that to fruition to benefit people even in a small way.  I always tell people I don’t know how to write a novel and I don’t. I never studied the craft of writing other than being a voracious reader as a child. I believe God gives the gift of writing and so it’s His blessing and is to be used for His purposes. My job is to work as hard as I can and leave the results to Him.

 The Colonel's Lady
Other than writing great novels, what other goals do you have for your life?
My primary goal is to be a godly wife and mother and to love the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind, and spirit, all that is within me. As a writer, I’m always aspiring to write a great novel but never feel I come close to that.

As a writer, what influences have inspired you the most to write, and continue writing?
Since I love to read, books themselves have inspired me - history and historical fiction for the most part starting when I was very small. I believe people are hardwired to write, at least in my case. I'm very conscious that it's a gift and I need to write for the season God gives me. Knowing others will come and take my place is very humbling and keeps my focus on Him. I pray I can keep writing the kind of stories readers love and lose themselves in!

Every writer struggles with various aspects of their writing journey. What has been the most difficult aspect of writing for you, and what come the most naturally?
I am a terrible promoter of my writing ~ marketing is like a root canal for me! I think I would have been better off writing 50 years ago before promo had become such a wild animal, before Amazon reviews and Twitter and Facebook, etc. I am truly a writer who needs solitude away from social media chatter. To me writing has little do to with the marketplace and sales and followers. It's more an act of worship. Writing is my passion whereas publishing is work. Writing itself comes the most easily. In fact, I have to make myself STOP writing or I would not eat or sleep much or take care of things at home. Deadlines are easy for me, thankfully, because writing is not work and never has been.

 Love's Reckoning
What is one piece of advice you would like to give to aspiring writers - either something you adhere to, or something you wish you had known when you started writing?
Write your heart out. Write the story of your heart. Not what someone else is telling you to write or what the market wants or is trendy. Write a story you can't put down and readers will feel the same. You need to want to publish really, really badly to put up with the bumps and challenges along the publishing path.

As a reader, which stories excite you the most to read, and do you have any favourite novelists?
I love well-crafted historicals with depth and richness in both prose and characterization and setting. Thankfully Christian fiction is becoming better and better with more genres and authors to choose from. As far as favorites, I think every Christian novelist excels at something and I find admirable things in almost every book. For example, Julie Lessman excels at passionate romance and also the spiritual threads in her novels whereas Serena Miller is great at riveting storylines and Joanne Bischof amazes with fresh, out of the box writing. I could go on and on...!

 Love's Awakening
What are some of your most favourite places on the internet to visit, that help challenge you as a writer, and encourage you as a reader?
I simply love your beautiful site, Ellie - eye candy and chock full of savvy stuff and more :) (Soul Inspirationz // The Christian Fiction Site) But you already know that! My agent, Janet Grant's site at Books&Such is also a great one for those who are seeking publication. I try not to spend too much time on the internet actually and so I'm not a very reliable source! Brandon Hill, the designer/photographer for my book covers always provides inspiration at his site. I also have to put in a plug for your very own Rel at Relzreviewz. She's passionate about books and is a wonderful support to authors, much like you here.

What can you tell us about your most recent and upcoming novels?
I just came home from the cover shoot in Seattle of my next novel, Love's Fortune. Brandon Hill has designed all of the covers for the Ballantyne Legacy series and he's amazing and gifted as a photographer and designer. It was a wonderful experience meeting the model for my character and touching the lovely period costume and watching her get prepped for the shoot, etc. I can't wait to share more of that with you!

Do you have any parting words?              
I'm thrilled to be meeting more Australian and New Zealand readers. My grandmother loved your neck of the woods when she traveled and instilled a desire to visit one day. I want to thank readers there for taking time for my books and writing to tell me they've enjoyed them. I save each and every email and always write back. Thanks so much for hosting me here!


ENTER THE GIVEAWAY
Post a comment about this interview and enter the Rafflecopter draw for a copy of one of Laura's books - winner's choice. A valid comment on the blog is an entry requirement into the draw. Contest open to entrants worldwide, and ends on Saturday, 25 January.



a Rafflecopter giveaway


Visit Laura's Author Portfolio Page at Soul Inspirationz // Christian Fiction Site to find links to her website and other online hangouts, as well as her list of books and a Featured Author Interview.



ELLIE WHYTE is a long-time supporter of Christian fiction and is the founder and owner/operator of Soul Inspirationz // The Christian Fiction Site which relaunched after a 5-year hiatus in January 2013. Ellie also has aspirations for her own writing career, and has begun working on a project set in New Zealand in the 1850s.  http://soulinspirationz.blogspot.com

Website: http://www.christianfictionsite.com
Blog: http://soulinspirationz.blogspot.com 
Facebook: Soul Inspirationz http://www.facebook.com/soulinspirationz
Twitter: @SoulInspiredNZ http://twitter.com/SoulInspiredNZ


145 comments:

  1. Ellie, Thanks so much for the great interview and the chance to meet readers on your side of the world. Always a joy to see you here ~ or anywhere!
    Laura

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    1. So wonderful to have you here, Laura! And thanks for the shout-out about Rel of Relz Reviewz - she's joining the ACW team so the reasons to keep on visiting this blog just keep on growing :-) I love how international the community of Christian fiction authors and readers has become :-) Kind of like a glimpse of heaven while still on earth.

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  2. I have been wanting to read Love's Awakening

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    1. Sharon, So glad you want to meet Ellie and Jack and cast - would love to send LA your way. Thanks!

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  3. I love all of Laura's books that I have read. I would really like to read Courting Morrow Little and The Frontiersmen's Daughter.

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    1. Hi Julie, I'd love to get you caught up with Lael's and Morrow's world. Both are more historical than romance but reflect my usual out of the box writing. Or so readers say:) Thanks for being here and for your gracious comments!

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    2. Courting Morrow Little was the first Laura Frantz novel I read - and that's what got me hooked! You will love it when you read it, Julie :-)

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  4. Thank you very much for this wonderful interview. Laura, it was fun to read your answers and get to know you a little bit better. I will definitely take your writing advice to heart.

    The only book I haven't read yet, is "Courting Morrow Little" and the only book I own of yours is "Love's Awakening". Still hoping to own them all one day soon.

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    1. Sarah, So good to see you here. Morrow's story is dear to my heart and hopefully will be to yours, too. Glad you have LA so far. I always encourage people to check with their local libraries or ask libraries to order them in. But for books I love I always want a real live copy to own:) Thanks so much for stopping here and also for the share on FB!

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    2. Sarah, you will certainly love Courting Morrow Little when you get to read it - I sure did! It was the first novel of Laura's I ever read and I became an instant fan. I hope you get to own the rest of collection too one day soon - there are just some books that are MUST HAVE's in paperback form and Laura's are always on that list ;-)

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  5. If i win and i pray i do cause the one book i read was wonderfull, i would like The Frontiersmen's Daughter. thank you
    Shirley B jcisforme@aol.com

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    1. Glad you want to read about Lael and her coming of age story. Thanks for taking time for my books and wanting to read further!

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  6. Thank you for post about Laura and her books. The only books I have not read yet is Courting Morrow Little. and The Colonel's Lady.
    I love Laura's story lines and characters in her books, Thank you

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    1. Jackie, Would love to send CML and/or TCL your way! Wish I had a book for everyone here today. Thanks for your gracious words and wanting to read more. You inspire me:)

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    2. Jackie - you will surely love both of those if you love her other books, without a doubt :-) Hope you get to enjoy reading them soon :-)

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  7. Thank you for sharing! I truly enjoyed reading your interview, Laura..:) Truthfully though, I have only read The Frontiersman's Daughter, so any of the other ones would be fine. When I was at the library, I had the unique opportunity to recommend it to the lady looking at books alongside me..hehe :D

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    1. Julianna, Welcome here:) Always good to see you. And it's fun to learn you've met Lael and cast and want to read on... HUGE thanks for the library shout out! I need you on my marketing team:) Thanks for being a blessed encouragement and entering the giveaway!

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    2. Julianna! A true influencer you are... on the "street team" level too! I hope you get to enjoy reading many more of Laura's books soon!

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  8. I have fallen in love with Laura's books. I just love her writing style. I love every minute of each story. I've always wanted to write my own story and I hope to one day accomplish that goal. I loved learning more about Laura. Thank you.

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    1. Bianca (love your name!), So good to meet you here and get a little insight into what you like about my books and also your own writing journey. I pray/hope you accomplish that goal, too. Oftentimes my most devoted readers are avid or even closet writers themselves. I promise to pray for you and your writing dream/goal. The Lord has a wonderful way of opening doors and bringing things about in His time. Thanks so much for your warm words and entering the giveaway:).

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    2. Bianca, I too love Laura's writing style, and she has inspired me to write, as well, knowing there are stories to tell about the frontier life in New Zealand. I hope you are encouraged to write even more after reading Laura's interview :-)

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  9. Loved hearing about you and from you through a reply to my email. Courting Morrow Little and the Ballantyne Legacy #3 is next on my to read list! :)

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    1. So glad we've connected through email - and then here, too:) We must get you acquainted with Morrow and then on to Love's Fortune, book 3 Ballantyne, yes! I had an amazing time at the cover shoot last month in Seattle and can't wait to share the new cover with you soon. Should be next month. Bless you for being here and taking part in the giveaway!

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    2. You will love Morrow - I haven't met anyone yet who doesn't ;-)

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  10. The only two I haven't read are Love's Awakening and The Frontiersman's Daughter, so I'd love either one of those. I love that Laura's books surprise you and even shock you with unexpected facts about the time period and characters that are complex.

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    1. Pia, I always smile when I see you pop up - and your lovely name is so memorable! Thrilled you like my out of the box writing style and those unexpected twists and turns. Some of my favorite words are "unexpected" and "complex." You're a gem for saying so. Thank you. And thanks for taking time out of a busy Tuesday here! So glad you're in the giveaway!

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    2. Great insights Pia, and you are so right! ;-)

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  11. Loved hearing about you and from you through a reply to my email. Courting Morrow Little and the Ballantyne Legacy #3 is next on my to read list! :)

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  12. I love that you write from your heart and share it with us. I loved The Frontiersman's Daughter. I would like to read Love's Awakening.
    Blessings,Tina

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    1. Mrs Tina, Love that you love that heart writing. I think that is what keeps books from becoming formulaic and cliche and not-so-genre-ish. Glad you've already spent time with Lael in the Kentucky woods:) I'd love to have you meet Ellie and Jack in LA. Bless you for your kindness and time here!

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  13. Fascinating interview - thanks, Laura and Ellie.

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    2. Thanks to you, Iola, for taking time here. Ellie always goes the extra mile!

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    3. Aww, shucks, Laura ;-) And great to see you here, Iola!

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  14. Laura and Ellie, great interview! Laura, thanks for visiting with us today. Last year I visited Washington, and saw the Cascade Mountains and northern Washington during my train trip to Chicago. A beautiful part of the world, and I hope you'll have the opportunity to visit Australia and New Zealand :)

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    1. Narelle, So interesting to hear you've been in my neck of the woods, literally! A train trip is one of life's best inventions/enjoyments. I try to travel that way as often as I can. Thanks for the gracious invitation to come your way. I'd love to do that someday!

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  15. Laura- I love that you live in Washington. I live in Oregon and think the Pacific Northwest is a wonderful place to live.
    Thanks for the interview and the chance to win a book! I would choose Love's Awakening.
    rdewey17(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. Rebecca, We're neighbors:) The Pacific Northwest is truly a remarkable place. All that rain we have makes for great writing weather! So happy you want to meet Ellie and Jack in LA. I'd love to send a book your way!

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  16. What a lovely interview! I love to see that kind of passion for words, I truly agree that it is very influential!
    I would love to read Courting Morrow Little.

    Laura, God bless you a lot!

    janka(dot)halcinova at gmail(dot)com

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    1. Janka, Bless you right back:) Thrilled you want to meet Morrow in CML. I have more reader mail about that book than any other, I think. Would love to send a copy your way!

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  17. great interview.all of Laura's books sounds wonderful. Please enter me in contest. Thank you for the opportunity to win.

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    1. Emma, So glad you think my books look like something you'd want to read. Bles you for being here and making the drawing more fun!

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  18. Great interview. I love Laura's pins on Pinterest. I would love to read Courting Little. Thanks for the giveaway!

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    1. Courting Morrow Little..not sure what happened to the first name. ;)

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    2. I knew just what you meant even without Morrow :) So glad you're here and want to read her story. I get a lot of reader mail about that one! Bless you for being in the giveaway!

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  19. Thanks for the interview and chance to read a good book. I would like to read Love's Reckoning

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    1. I'd sure be happy to send Silas and Eden and cast your way. Thanks for joining in with us today!

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  20. I would love to win. angelachesnut246@gmail.com

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    1. Hi Angela, Your name is in the hat - thanks so much!

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  21. Great interview, Ellie... and welcome to Laura!! So good to have you join us, today. I've just come back from our summer beach holiday where I read Courting Morrow Little! Loved it :) Thanks so much for a great story and for sharing more of your writer's heart with us.

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    1. Dorothy, So happy to see you here - and I'm thrilled Morrow shared your holiday :) Wow. Honored. Would love to send another book your way. Your name is so familiar to me and I hope we're Pinterest friends?! Thanks for your gracious words and for taking time here today!

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  22. Absolutely LOVED your interview, Laura!

    God, truly, has given you the gift of arranging words in such a beautiful, melodic, way! Your words are to one's mind as music is to one's ears - music is one of my most wonderful passions, along with reading.

    I SO agree with your statement that writing is a gift from God, and is to be used for His purpose. Your words that writing is "an act of worship" are priceless, and beautiful!

    As you know, I am currently in a reading marathon of Julie Lessman's books, and look forward to starting yours when I finish (for the present, I continue to enjoy, and love, the words of your blogs). In what order should they be read?

    Excited to hear that you're writing, Ellie! Any publication for us to look forward to - in the near future? Thanks SO much for the interview with Laura (and the opportunity for me to win my first of her books) - I have already come to love her through her words on her beautiful blog!

    bonnieroof60(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. Bonnie, Love that BONTON - it has a French scent to it :) Thanks for your wonderful comments. I treasure them. And excellent question about order of reading. Strangely enough, I would start with THE COLONEL'S LADY and then read CML and TFD. If you read the Ballantyne books last you might have that third one, Love's Fortune (releasing this Sept) and then you'd not have a wait between books!

      I'm thrilled Ellie is writing, too. We need more Australian and NZ historicals. I, for one, am fascinated with their history. Bless you for taking part here, Bonnie :)

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  23. Laura, we have a similar heritage (British Isles mix). I really enjoyed Frontiersman's Daughter and look forward to reading one of your newer books.

    I love to hear authors recognize that their writing is a gift from God and take responsibility of being a good steward.

    Carol crwg96@aol.com

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    1. Carol, You said that so well about gifting and stewardship. Thank you. I'm thrilled you've met Lael and would like to read my newer books. I'd love to send you one! Interesting we share the same heritage. Such fascinating history in the British Isles. Bless you for your kind words here today!

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  24. LOVE your books. My favorite is The Colonel's Lady.

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    1. Heather, Smiling at your wonderful comment. I'm still not over Colonel McLinn myself and would be happy to be stuck in a fort with him irregardless of the century :). Thanks for being here and entering the drawing!

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  25. I have a couple of Laura's books in my TBR pile. I think I will have to move them closer to the top.
    susanmsj at msn dot com

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    1. Susan, I'm thrilled you even have 2 of my books in your stack! Honored and blessed by that. I'd love to add another. Thanks for taking time for my books!

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  26. I read Love's Awakening before her other books so now I'm excited to read Love's Reckoning!

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    1. Heidi, I love that you're reading in reverse:) Somehow that delights me that you've met Ellie and Jack first! And now you need to meet Silas and Eden in their younger years, that is. Bless you for taking time for my stories. And for being here today!

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  27. Love's Awakening is the only one of Laura's books I have not read. I have enjoyed every one of them. Thank you for this opportunity.

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    1. Tammy, Thrilled and blessed you've read all but LA. I so want you to meet Ellie and Jack - and enjoy them, or so I hope! Thanks for your gracious words and being in the drawing today"_

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  28. I really enjoyed The Colonel's Lady and I look forward to reading more my Laura. I always love historical fiction.

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    1. Miss C, So well said - "I always love historical fiction." Amen to that. God is so good at giving us the gift of books. I'm smiling that you've read TCL. And want to read on! Bless you for that!

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  29. I have Love's Awakening and so look forward to reading it the very second I am done with Julie Lessmans new book, as you said Laura she writes novels full of passion and they keep you hooked waiting for the next one. I like that you are biblically doing what you are to do, striving for the godly wife, mother and seeking God with your whole heart. It is sweet to learn about you and your life in Christ. I so look forward to reading your books.
    Linda Finn
    Faithful Acres Books
    http://www.faithfulacresbooks.wordpress.com
    faithfulacresbooks@gmail.com

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    1. Hi Linda, I always smile when I see you and Faithful Acres. It creates a wonderful word picture! Thanks for sharing what you like about my books and also this interview. I sense your heart for Him in your gracious words here. Bless you for being in the giveaway!

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  30. Thank you for the interview! It's great to hear from authors. I really enjoy hearing what authors like to read! I also enjoyed reading Julie Lessman and Joanne Bischof. Cournting Morrow Little would be fun to read again! Thanks for the opportunity to win a great book!

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    1. Miss P, So glad you read Julie and Joanne :) And want to reread Morrow! I appreciate your being here and entering the drawing!

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  31. This southern writer speaks from the heart. I liked the way she spoke so passionately about her craft. I too believe that you have to love what you do in order for the product to be authentic. I would like to read Laura Frantz's Love's Awakening.

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    1. Dear Daniel Quinn, I sense a southern kindred spirit here:) Thanks so much for your kind words. Love your word "authentic." One of my favorites. I'd be so glad to send one of my books your way. I just wish I could do that for everyone here!

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  32. This southern writer speaks from the heart. I liked the way she spoke so passionately about her craft. I too believe that you have to love what you do in order for the product to be authentic. I would like to read Laura Frantz's Love's Awakening.

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  33. Thanks for the tips on how to write. I have one of your books (The Colonel's Lady) but would love to have any of them other.

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    1. Connie, Glad The Colonel's Lady is at home with you - I'm thrilled! I miss that story world. And I'd be so happy to send another your way. Bless you for taking time here!

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  34. It's so refreshing to hear (or read) Laura say that writing is more like an "act of worship." I'm so thankful God provides so many ways to worship him with such creativity and surrender! :) I'd love to read The Colonel's Lady.

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    1. Oh, so beautifully said! Creativity and surrender and worship are some of His best gifts to us. Thanks for your wonderful thoughts and taking time here. I will remember your words:)

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  35. Thanks for the wonderful author interview and giveaway! I love all of Laura's books and would love an opportunity to win one! Have a blessed day!
    Bethany

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    1. Bethany, So happy you're here and wanting one of my books! That sure blesses me. Have a blessed week:)

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  36. I love how you said that your primary goals in life involve your relationships with the Lord, your husband and your children. So many times we get so caught up in other things that we forget what our main priorities should be. I know I do! I am looking forward to reading Love's Awakening. :-)

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    1. Kelly, You're so right about priorities. Oftentimes we overlook the gifts right in front of us and choose the things of lesser value! I'd love for you to meet Ellie and Jack in LA:) Thanks for your great comments!

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  37. Hi Laura,
    Your book, 'Courting Morrow Little' was one of my favourite romance reads of 2012, so it's lovely to meet you, especially on one of my home turfs. The emotions you evoke and the historical detail are wonderful.
    I can certainly relate to your analogy of marketing and the root canal. Things are certainly different now than they used to be for authors before our time. It's encouraging to see that you feel the same way I do.
    Ellie, thanks for thinking of great interview questions too.
    Blessings,
    Paula Vince

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    1. Paula, So happy you're here - and that Morrow was a fav of yours in 2012! Thanks for telling me what you like about my writing - you've summed it up so well! Emotions and detail are what I strive for.

      Yes, marketing is a bear. Grrrr. I appreciate you taking time out of your day to stop here and make this more fun. Would love to send a book your way!

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  39. It must have been amazing to have met the model for Love's Fortune! I can't wait for that one, Laura! I have read all of your books but Courting Morrow Little has been my favorite (though Silas and Eden are an extremely close second). If I won I would definitely want Courting Morrow Little. Thank you for the opportunity!

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    1. Glad Morrow is dear to your heart, Brooke:) I sure had great joy writing that story so perhaps it shows. Glad Silas and Eden come close, too! Bless you for being here - I am praying for you and your own writing!

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  40. Great interview. Thanks Ellie for helping us learn more about Laura and her books. Another new author for me to investigate.

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    1. Dale, Welcome here - one of the best parts of giveaways is meeting new readers. I'm so glad my books look interesting and you'd like to read one. Bless you!

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  41. I have enjoyed several Laura Frantz books, and Courting Morrow Little is my favorite so far! Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!

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    1. Oh, so thankful Morrow means she's a favorite:) I miss her world! Thanks for joining in and making the giveaway even more fun!

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  42. I've not yet had the chance to read any of Laura's books, but I'd certainly love to!! I've had my eye on Courting Morrow Little for quite some time now! :)

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    1. Micaela, Oh, so hope you can meet Morrow! And like her story and her hero, etc. It's quite a different tale with a very different hero:) Would love to send her your way!

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  43. I have loved Laura's books since I read The Frontiersman's Daughter years ago! I love the way I feel like I'm stepping right into history and into the lives of her characters. I enjoyed the interview and learning about how Laura started writing! It's neat how God has a plan for our lives and even makes it evident at a young age. I have stacks of journals myself and I think it's neat to be able to go back and look at how God has guided our steps. Laura...I love your books and I love your taste in movies and such. If you're ever in Georgia, let's have some girl time ; ). God bless, Stacey

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    1. Stacey, Always wonderful to see you! And I would give nearly anything to pop into Georgia and spend time talking books and seeing a movie and that sort of fun:) Bless you for your hospitable spirit! You're so right about those journals - a great testament to God's faithfulness. Beautifully said! Bless you right back:)

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  44. I have not yet read any of Laura's books, but all of her covers are so beautifully designed that I can't help but want to. I enjoy hearing how writers discover they wanted to write, and as an indecisive person, I'm always amazed when someone ends up with the same career as an adult as what they wanted to do when they were seven years old! You can tell Laura is passionate about what her writing, and I love that.

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    1. Mallori, So happy you like my covers - the art team works really hard to make them "pop" as they say:) And I'm really touched by your comments here. God really does have a plan for each of us and often it starts very young. I always say follow your passion because then your work is never really work but more joy:) Thanks for wanting to read my books. I'm honored by that!

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  45. Hello Laura! Thank you for visiting us, its always inspiring to hear about your passion for writing.
    I recently read Loves Reckoning. I loved Courting Morrow Little and as always, I wondered how another book could match the experience. You did more than that - you blew me away!

    We would love you to visit our neck of the woods anytime Laura, and you would be warmly welcomed by all the Australasian writers.

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    1. Catherine, So happy Silas and Eden won you over - love that "blew me away" - bless you for that! Glad Morrow has some company now:) LR was truly a work of the heart and a leap of faith for me. I was changed while writing it so it's always gratifying to know it touched you in some way.

      Would love to meet you and other Australasian writers - love your hospitable spirit! I've heard so many wonderful things about your neck of the woods, so to speak. You've given me such a warm welcome here and I sincerely thank you!

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  46. Love all Laura's books.can't wait for the next.

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    1. Catherine,
      Thrilled to see you here and know you're excited to read my next novel. I will have a cover to share with you soon!

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  47. cant wait to try one of those lovely books,crossing fingers!!

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    1. Karin, Fingers crossed for you:) Thanks for being here!

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  48. I'm a regular reader of Christian fiction and yours are among my favorites! I love that they are not predictable, and the tone of your writing is captivating. Please keep them coming...can't wait for the next!

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    1. Jill, So thankful for you and your support of Christian fiction! That's so encouraging. I pray I can keep writing the stories you love and He gives. Bless you for being a blessing!

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  49. I'm a Christian fiction reader and it was so nice to read this great interview. I have read Love's Awakening and know that the other books must also be as good as this.

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    1. Sonja, Thanks for spending time with LA and Ellie and Jack and wanting to read on:) I hope you enjoy my others, too! Thanks for being in the drawing!

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  50. I love Laura's books, though I haven't read all of them. Great detailed story lines.

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    1. Michelle, Thanks for making time for my books and also for stopping here today. You make the giveaway more fun!

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  51. I just discovered you through a link on Facebook, of all places. :) I enjoyed this interview. Especially what Laura shared about writing being an act of worship. As an aspiring author, I want to remember that thought. Because truly God does give talents and gifts to be used for His glory. May my words be an act of worship for Him.

    What a great interview! It was nice to get to know both of you a wee bit better. :)

    Oh, if my name is drawn, I'd love to have a copy of Courting Morrow Little.

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    1. Glad Facebook connected us here:) Really appreciate your thoughtful comments above. Your name is familiar to me and I'm wondering if we're fellow Books&Such clients? If so, that's great. If not, that's great, too:) Thanks for wanting to read Morrow's story. She and her hero have a special place in my heart.

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  52. Ellie, thank you for a wonderful interview. Laura, I love your goals...to be a loving Christian woman, to be a good wife and mother and to love God. That is exactly what I always wanted for myself. My family is precious to me and without God first in my life, I know I would have nothing. You saying that you aspire to be a great writer but don't feel like you get there is the human side self doubting. You, my dear, are a great writer and are a wonderful example in your writing. Thank you so much for what you do and thank you for the giveaway.

    mauback55 at gmail dot com

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    1. Melanie, So happy to see you here. I think the Lord has blessed you with the gift of encouragement. Thanks so much for your gracious words. They truly uplift and make the heart glad:) Thankful you're in the giveaway - would love to send a book your way!

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  53. I haven't read anything by this author, but I'd love to!!
    susanlulu@yahoo.com

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    1. So happy you're open to new authors - thank you!!

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  54. "My goal is to make an emotional connection with readers and that may not always be positive! I tend to write out of the box as I don’t sugarcoat history which sometimes means readers are pulled away from predictability and comfort."

    These words from Laura's interview are exactly why I love her novels. They truly stand out in the CBA world, giving us readers a realistic yet hopefully world to get lost in.

    Thanks for the chance to win!

    Beth

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    1. Beth - It's YOU:) So happy to see you here (and that lovely, memorable bridal pic). Glad you like that out of the box history! I couldn't do this without you and others. I pray I can keep writing stories you love to read.

      Would love to mail a book your way:) Bless you so much!

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  55. Have not yet read any of Laura's books but I would love to. Hope i win so I can!

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    1. Teresa, One of the best things about these giveaways is meeting new readers like you. Thanks for the gift of your presence here!

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  56. I love that Julie sees writing as an act of worship! Very beautiful thought... I think anytime we are using our gifts for good it can be an act of worship.

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    1. You're so right, Patty. Any good gift used for Him can be an act of worship, down to the smallest details. Well said. Thank you for entering the drawing and for your thoughtful comments here:)

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  58. Great interview! I loved Laura's comment about Christian fiction... it's always so encouraging to see why Christians write what they do. =)

    I've read all of Laura's books and can't wait to see what she has up her sleeve for Wren in Love's Fortune!

    lubell1106(at)gmail(dot)com

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    1. Elyssa, I would know you ANYWHERE, my sweet friend! Your comments mean so much to me. Thank you. And I cannot wait to introduce you to Wren! Cover coming soon...!

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  59. Laura said "I believe God gives the gift of writing and so it’s His blessing and is to be used for His purposes. My job is to work as hard as I can and leave the results to Him."

    This is a very powerful statement and, no doubt, why your books are so popular and powerful. Too many times authors take the credit instead of giving credit to the ONE that works THROUGH them, Christ Himself! This was a great interview! Thank you Miss Laura and Miss Ellie for sharing!

    Wanda Barefoot
    flghtlss1(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. Dear Wanda, Thrilled to see you here - and bless you for your very wise, godly words. They carry a special blessing. I will keep them close to heart. So glad you're in the drawing!

      BTW, I love seeing you on Pinterest, too!

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  60. I two Laura Frantz books I've read and I currently have Love's Awakening on my shelf and I can't wait to read it but I am swamped with review books right now so it unfortunately has to wait! I can't wait to see the cover for Love's Fortune since the other two in this series are gorgeous!
    gatorade635(at)gmail(dot)com

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    1. Abbi! I so understand that reading backlog! Sometimes I just tuck series books away so I can read them back to back:) No rush, my kind friend. Ellie and Jack can wait! I hope you like Wren's cover very much. I haven't seen it yet but it should appear very soon and I'm counting down...! Bless u for being here!

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  61. WOW, great interview, Laura and Ellie, and may I say I simply cannot WAIT to get my mitts on Love's Fortune, girlfriend!!! I sure hope you ask Revell if I can read for endorsement, pretty please???

    Thanks SO much for the shout-out, Laura -- you are such a blessing that way and truly a dear friend. :)

    I am praying you are able to make it to ACFW this year because I would sure love to get together. :)

    Love you!
    Julie

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    1. Julie, You deserve this little shout-out and far more! You'll be getting a copy of LF for sure. I can't wait to see your new cover, too, as we're both fall releases:) When I saw your cover model's gown I was just giddy!

      Thanks for being such a light and blessing to so many, myself included. I hope we can meet up again at ACFW, yes!

      Love and prayers to you!

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  62. Great interview! I've read all of Laura's books, and can't wait for Love's Fortune to come out! Silas and Eden are two of my favorite characters, and I was actually thinking about how much I missed them just this morning. I'm so excited to see what you have in the next installment!

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    1. Emily, Thanks for being excited about LF:) And having a special place in your heart for Silas and Eden. Love that you miss them! Me, too! It was so interesting aging them in these books. By 1850 in book 3 they are truly antiques:) Can't wait to share the new cover with you soon. Bless you for being here and entering the giveaway!

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  63. I enjoyed reading all your answers in the interview, but I think my favorite one was telling of your journals that you wrote, and still have. I think it's great that God gave you this gift and you knew early on what your gift was and that you wanted to do it very much. I must be honest and tell you I have not read any of your books, but I have found you now, and I have added you onto my must read author list. Thank you for the chance to win one of your books. My family came over on the Mayflower, I think it's great that yours followed D. Boone.. Thank you again. B

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    1. Barbie, Your thoughtful comments make me appreciate the journals even more, thanks:) I'm so glad you want to read my books. I love meeting new readers especially those who love history. You have a fascinating family history, too! I've been intrigued by the Mayflower since I was small. Bless you for being in the drawing!

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  64. Great interview --I'm reading a Christian fiction book written in the 1990s and ... Mrs. Frantz hit the nail on the head --it is so awesome to see how much Christian fiction and writing has grown since then!

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    1. So good to see a familiar name here, too:) Thanks for your comments and being in the drawing. Glad you're still reading the older fiction in the Christian market. I have some former favorites, too:)

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  65. Ellie and Laura. This Rafflecopter is all mixed up. When you click where it says, it shows Julie Lessmans interview and says win one of her books. This is when you click on the comment for an entry. I loved the interview. So hope this works, for I really want to win Laura's "Frontiersman's Daughter" But don't know how will work with the mess-up. Thanks, Maxie mac262(at)me(dot)com

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    1. Maxie, So sorry about the Rafflecopter! I will let Ellie know. A couple of other people had some trouble entering, too, so we added them in a different way and will make sure you're in the giveaway, too. Bless you for your patience. I am so glad you want to meet Lael in TFD, my first novel. Have a blessed weekend!

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  67. Love your stories. I have read each and every one...what an inspiration you are...a great interview. If you have not read one of her stories you are ib fir a treat..m

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    1. April, Oh, your words bless and inspire this cold winter's day! Thanks so very much. I'm honored you have kept up with all my books and even took time to leave a comment here. Thank you for being in the giveaway - and for your beloved faithfulness!

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  68. Ellie Thank you for the interview It was great God bless you
    Laura Your writing sounds so alive Thank you God bless you as you continue

    Chris Granville

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    1. Chris, Thanks so much for your warm words -- love your comment about writing sounding so alive. Beautiful! Thanks for taking time here and entering the drawing!

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  69. I enjoyed the interview, I have read a couple of Laura's books "Courting Morrow Little" and "The Frontiersman's Daughter" I loved them both and look forward to reading more by her.

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    1. Hi Marilyn, So glad you've met Lael and Morrow and want to read more. That blesses me. Thanks for being here today!

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  70. Congratulations to MICAELA WOOD for winning the drawing for a copy of a Laura Frantz novel - thank you for participating, I hope (in fact I know you will!) enjoy reading your chosen Laura Frantz novel :-)

    Thank you to everyone for participating and making this blog entry so much fun! I hope you all enjoyed it and will return to ACW often to read the daily blog posts :-)

    Blessings to you all!

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