We’re back with author Robert Elmer. What was the greatest challenge with “Wildflowers”? “The scenes where Hanne found herself in the worst trouble were the hardest for me to write. It was an emotional challenge, and I think readers will recognize those scenes.” What resources helped you the most in your research? “Books written during the forties, first person accounts… good thing I can read Danish!” Why do you think accuracy so important in historical fiction? “It’s fiction, but as writers of the genre we’re making the proposition to our readers that “this could have happened.” In order to stay true to that proposition, we need to do our homework,...
Interview with Robert Elmer
Welcome Robert Elmer, author of more than 50 books, including Wildflowers of Terezin, which I reviewed here. Here is a little about his books and writing journey. Who are your major influences? “Many of my fellow Christian writers have influenced my stories, people whose stories I’ve read and thought, “I’d like to write something like that!” Right offhand I think of Francine Rivers (Leota’s Garden), Lisa Bergren (The Bridge) and Bill Myers (Eli).” What is your favorite historical era? What draws you to that era? “I hate to use the word “favorite,” because it was an awful time, but World War 2 was a crucible of conflict and character that...
Thoughts on characters
What makes a great character? The Elizabeth Bennetts, the Scarlett O’Haras, the Harry Potters…What is it that captivates the audience and molds those characters into literary history? My official conclusion: it’s the quirks. There must be something unique about the character that sticks in your mind. The stereotypical characters are quickly forgotten. But when it is a stereotypical character with something so unforgettable, he or she becomes exactly that. Unforgettable. One of my favorite examples: Violet from Lynn Austin’s A Proper Pursuit. This Christy-Award winning book is full of rich historical detail surrounding the 1893 Chicago World Fair, but what makes it a truly beautiful read is the characters. We’ve...
Interview with Jillian Kent, Day 2
Back for day two of the interview with author Jillian Kent! Will you give a quick synopsis of your books? “May 3, 2011 is the tentative date for the release of, Secrets of the Heart, which is Book One of, The Ravensmoore Chronicles, a tale of romantic suspense where an English noblewoman meets a titled gentleman whose desire to practice medicine could ruin any chance for love. You can read the first chapter on my website under the Books tab. I’ll be sharing more information on books two and three at a later time based on recommendations at Strang/Realms.” Can you share your journey to being contracted? What was the...
Interview with Jillian Kent
Author Jillian Kent joins us from Cincinnati, Ohio, the home of Skyline Chili and Graeter’s Ice Cream. Her first novel, Secrets of the Heart is coming out in May 2011 from Realms. When did you first start writing? “I’m not one of those folks who can say they always wanted to be a writer. I really started writing back in 1990 when I discovered a local writing group. My timing was awful because I’d just had my first baby and was working full-time. I joined Ohio Valley Romance Writers of America and became a member of its parent organization Romance Writers of America. I don’t think I finished my first manuscript...