Friday, August 17, 2012

Julie Lessman Interview and a GIVEAWAY!

I am SO excited to have Julie Lessman on my blog today! I have read all five of her books that have been released and let me tell you they are my ALL-TIME favorites!!! I can hardly wait to read her THREE new ones, which are:

  • A Love Surrendered (set to be released October 2012)
  • A Light in the Window: A Irish Christmas Love Story (This is a prequel to her first six books about the O'Connors and is Patrick & Marcy's love story. It is set to be released November 2012)
  • Love At Any Cost (set to be released April 2013 - Ugh! That is SO far away!!!)

Interview


What is a typical day like for you? 
HA! Way, WAY less interesting than my books, I assure you!! This is not etched in stone, of course, but I usually get up at 7:00 a.m., suck down hazelnut coffee while I wait for my blueberry bagel to toast (new kick; last year’s kick was peach oatmeal) and look at e-mails. Eat bagel while reading Seeker blog (be sure to check out my link this week entitled “Kiss-ology 101: Warming Up the Pages with Romantic Tension” at http://seekerville.blogspot.com/2012/08/kiss-ology-101-warming-up-pages-with.html) then sit/pray with hubby on deck swing for 20 minutes or so before heading downstairs to the treadmill for 30 minutes with worship music. Spot exercises follow along with Bible reading/prayer/devotional time. Then finish e-mails, FB comments and tackle writing, usually from about 11:00 a.m. till 8:00 p.m. or so with time out for dinner prep and enjoyment. This routine is totally thrown off if I go biking with hubby, have a blog deadline or other commitment. See? Boring!! Which is why I have to put all that angst and drama in my books, right???


Do you have any writing habits that people might find unusual? 
Big grin here. Well, I’m quirky and crazy and just a wee bit off center, so I have a number of rituals with my writing such as the must-haves—a constant cup of hazelnut decaf with Half ‘n Half, peppermint tea or cold peach iced tea, lots and LOTS of lip gloss, Kleenex (for the soggy scenes I write), ear plugs if the squirrels or birds get too noisy, pad of paper and pen for quick notes, and a mirror handy for those facial expressions I’m trying to capture. 

My biggest ritual, however, is ambiance. My family jokes that I am an “Ambiance Queen” because dim lighting with candles during dinner is a must, as well as a mainstay for my winter writing. During the summer months (basically May through October), I sit outside on my lower deck that runs the length of the house, overlooking a lush, green wooded area that has sunlight dappling through the trees. I have my feet up on this cushy lawn furniture we have at all times (like now!), and a fan gently blowing while I sit with my laptop. In the winter I’m in the hearth room with a crackling fire, all the essentials mentioned above and a picture of my husband on the table beside me for the ultimate inspiration. J


What is something that you have always wanted to do, but just haven't gotten around to it yet? 
Going to Boston and Ireland. Sigh.


Do you have a favorite Bible verse? If so, what is it and why is it your favorite? 
Gosh, I have so many, but one of my favorites (which I used to pray everyday) is the last paragraph in Psalm 139, verses 23-24. But a word of warning—don’t pray it unless you mean business, because God will definitely nail you to the wall on a few things! Here it is: 

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. 

However … since I have become an author, I find that the push and pull of success (vying for sales, awards, accolades) is deadly, taking me places I do NOT want to go. So since then, my favorite Scripture has been 2 Corinthians ll:3: Do not let my mind “be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.” 


You recently became a grandmother, is it ever thing you expected it to be? What is the best, worst and most surprising thing about being a grandmother? 
The best? Oh, without question, the giggles and smiles—on both my precious granddaughter’s face AND mine!! The worst? Babyproofing the house—yuck!! 

Well, my prayer partner kept telling me that being a grandmother was THE BEST thing ever, but to be honest, I didn’t buy it. When I used to work at a large company as a travel writer, women would bring their babies in and while all the other ladies would crowd around, I’d head for the ladies’ room because I am just not one to fawn over babies or kids. But … I will say that this little gal (Rory) has made me eat my words and then some. I still remember the day my daughter came home and found me on all fours, gooing and fawning in a high-pitched chipmunk voice over my granddaughter on a blanket, making a royal fool out of myself. “Never thought I’d see the day,” she said with a shake of her head, then promptly got down on all fours and joined me. J


If you were stranded on a deserted island, other than basic necessities, what three items would you hope to find in your suitcase to help make your time there more bearable? 
Oh, that’s easy—BOOKS, including the Bible and tons of Inspy romance novels, a laptop and LOTS of lip gloss. 



If you had the opportunity to go anywhere you wanted, at anytime in history, where would you go and why? 
I would go to Golgotha in a heartbeat on the day that Jesus died because if His death has radically changed my life for the better through mere faith, I can’t even imagine the impact of seeing Him carry that cross for me in person.



If you could spend the day with anyone (living or dead, real or fictional - excluding Jesus, family, and friends), who would you choose and how would you spend the day? 
Oh, I would definitely spend the day with the O’Connors because they have become family to me and are, quite frankly, the family I always longed to have growing up—full of faith, passion and love for everyone within their ranks, no matter the conflicts or hurts endured. We would sit outside around the picnic table talking while Marcy sewed, having a ball laughing at Charity and Katie or praying with Faith, Lizzie and Emma while the wonderful smells and sounds of summer surrounded us with horseshoes clanging, children laughing and barbecue grilling. 


I LOVE the O'Connor family SO much and would love to see another series with them. Do you have any plans of continuing this family's story - maybe with the next generation? I am REALLY hoping you do:) 
Thanks, Meg, I love them too, so you just KNOW I won’t be able to say goodbye to them forever, right?? Yes, I do hope to write a series for each of the cousins beginning with a trilogy for Faith’s girls, a trilogy for Charity’s Henry, Hope and then Gabe and on down the line, each series taking place during the WWII period and definitely including a 2nd-tier love story for the parents. J Don’t know when and don’t know how, but I definitely plan to do that someday. 

Thank you SO much Julie for stopping by!
Thank you, Megan, for allowing me to connect with your readers. I LOVE to hear from reader friends, so they can feel free to contact me through my website at www.julielessman.com, either by sending an e-mail via my site or by signing up for my newsletter at http://www.julielessman.com/sign-up-for-newsletter/. My newsletter is chock-full of fun info on my books and there’s always a contest featuring signed book giveaways including one to have a character named after you in my next book. Also, I have a cool feature on my website called “Journal Jots” at http://www.julielessman.com/journal-jots1/, which is a very laid-back, Friday journal to my reader friends that would give your readers an idea as to my relaxed style of writing. Finally, I can be found daily at The Seekers blog (http://seekerville.blogspot.com/), a group blog devoted to encouraging and helping aspiring writers on the road to publication.


ABOUT JULIE:  
Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. Winner of the 2009 ACFW Debut Author of the Year and Holt Medallion Awards of Merit for Best First Book and Long Inspirational, Julie is also the recipient of 14 Romance Writers of America awards and was voted by readers as “Borders Best of 2009 So Far: Your Favorite Fiction.” Chosen as the #1 Romance Fiction Author of the Year in the Family Fiction magazine 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also awarded #1 Historical Fiction Author of the Year in that same poll and #3 Author of the Year, #4 Novel of the Year and #3 Series of the year. She resides in Missouri with her husband, daughter, son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter and is the author of “The Daughters of Boston” series—A Passion Most Pure, A Passion Redeemed, and A Passion DeniedBook 1 in her “Winds of Change” series A Hope Undaunted ranked #5 on Booklist’s Top Ten Inspirational Fiction for 2010 and is followed by A Heart Revealed and A Love Surrendered


GIVEAWAY!
Julie has graciously offered to give away the winner's choice of one of her books - including A Light in the Window (ebook only) and A Love Surrendered!!! To be entered, just complete the mandatory entries in the Rafflecopter form below and then you can complete whichever other entries you want. The giveaway is open internationally and will end on August 22 at 11:59p.m. (EST). Gook luck:)

a Rafflecopter giveaway




Blogaholic Designs”=

190 comments:

  1. Ooh!!! More books for the O'Conner family?!? Yes please! Also, I love the cover for A Light in the Window, can't wait to get my hands on that one!

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Oh, bummer -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below, so please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Delete
  2. What a great sounding series. I'll have to add it to my ever increasing TBR list.

    Julie, your schedule sounds great. Excitement can be highly overrated. ;)

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    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below, so please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Delete
  3. This is such a great giveaway! I have seen Julie's books at the library before and am going to read them once I get the time. :)
    Bethany

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below, so please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  4. Hi Julie, I loved reading the stories of the O'Connors also, but then I like reading all your books. I enjoy seekerville with your pithy comments. I would love to be in the drawing today. thanks for sharing your comments and your book.
    Paula O(kyflo130@yahoo.com)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below, so please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  5. Good morning, Julie!
    Yes, this is the faithful friend once more, always popping up...
    I had to smile at your 'I'm crazy' comment *grin*
    Very good questions, Megan.

    Blessings to everyone of you and thanks for the giveaway!

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    1. Thanks! Good luck in the contest:)

      Delete
    2. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below, so please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  6. Julie is an author I have not read but looking at the covers of her books and reading about them - I will add Julie to my to read list.

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  7. Hey, LIZ, THANK YOU!!! I "love" the cover for A Light in the Window, too, because my artist hubby did it and it's the first cover I have had complete control over -- not necessarily a good thing!! You see, there I am squinting over my husband's shoulder, saying things like, "Uh, her lips are too pale, Babe, can you make them pinker?" Or "do you think that font works?" The poor man says I'm worse than any client, which as a CDQ (caffeinated drama queen!), makes sense. :) Thanks for coming by and GOOD LUCK in the contest, Liz!

    LOL, HEIDI, YES ... excitement can be "highly overrated" and hard on the nerves at times, BUT ... gotta have it in my books, so if you don't like excitement and a roller-coaster emotional read, you best stay away from them. However, if you DO decide to read one, PLEASE start with book 1 in the Daughters of Boston Series, A Passion Most Pure, although you could read the Christmas e-book first without ruining anything. You see, this is really a family saga that's best read in order due to a number of BIG surprises in book one, including who she ends up with, so I encourage people to start there. And APMP won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009, so somebody thought it was not too bad! ;) And, hey, maybe you'll win it here on Megan's blog!!

    BETHANY!!! Girl, what are you waiting for??? I encourage you to head on over to the "Excerpts" tab on my website to check out a romantic scene AND a spiritual scene from each of my books to see if you like my style. My books are chock full of PASSION -- both romantically and spiritually, so if you are more of a slow-paced, easy and sweet Amish or Prairie Romance reader, they may not be for you. But check out the excerpts to make sure and here's the link: Julie's Excerpts. Thanks for coming by and GOOD LUCK!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  8. PAULA!!! LOL ... you're my new best friend, girl, calling my comments "pithy"!!! Thank you for reading my books AND for coming by today -- here's hoping it nets you a win!! GOOD LUCK!!

    GANISE!!! "Faithful friend" is right, you sweet thing, because I always smile when I see your name pop up and that wonderful enthusiasm pouring forth. Thanks for always being there, Ganise, and for being such a faithful friend and support -- you are a true blessing!

    Oh, JANET, you are JUST the type of commenter I love -- new blood!! ;) I love to connect with potential new readers because it's SO much fun to introduce them to the O'Connors -- arguably the most PASSIONATE family in Christian fiction, both romantically and spiritually. Like I mentioned in Bethany's comment several comments up, check out my Excerpts link above for a sample of both romantic and spiritual scenes from each of my books to give you a taste of my style and then you can decide. And then, like I told Heidi above, if you do decide to read one of my books, PLEASE start with A Passion Most Pure as this is a family saga best read in order due to a number of big surprises in book 1, okay? GOOD LUCK!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  9. Can't wait for A Love Surrendered! And to hear that the stories of this family will continue, how great is that=)

    Patty
    pattymh2000(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  10. Would feel so blessed to get one of your books!!! Teresa

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  11. You haven't been to Boston yet???? What???? :) Even I've done that. If I could take you Jules, I would. :)

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  12. I would love to win any of the upcoming books! Love her books!

    Battles2001@hotmail.com

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  13. Good Morning, Julie.....loved this post; feel like I just had a cup of coffee on your deck! lol
    So anxious to read ALS...and ALIMW (Keith did a great job on the cover!).
    Blessings~~
    Jackie Smith

    jackie.smith[at]dishmail[dot]net

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  14. I would love to win one of her books... I am in the middle of the Daughters of Boston Series and don't own all of the Winds of Change, so could use another one of those!! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  15. Love Julie's books! And would love to read more of the O'Conners!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  16. I would be delighted to choose any one of Julie's books that are shown here. The covers all look wonderful. It is also exciting to find an author that I haven't read. I am always on the lookout for new reads! Thank you for the opportunity to enter this drawing! I hope I win. Blessings.

    Darlene [spangldlady@gmail.com]

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  17. Always eagerly anticipating Julie's next book! A Passion Most Pure got my daughter reading and loving Christian fiction again.

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  18. Enjoyed the interview. Love to win one of the books. I too can't believe how being a Grandma has changed me! These little grandkids are so special and fun.
    pbclark(at)netins(dot)net

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  19. Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  20. Aaah Julie... what an absolute treat for anyone to receive one of your new books!!! And so great to see it's for International readers as well... so I'm putting my hand up, really high! ;) LOVED the interview and your answers to those great questions. I'm with you in wishing I could spend time with the O'Connors... what a fantastic scene you depicted. I just love that family!! Charity would have me in stitches too :) Oh I'd love to chat about everything, but I'll contain myself lol, and just finish off by saying... I CAN'T wait for all these to be released!! :) Bless you!

    noela_63@live.com.au

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  21. I love Julie's books and appreciate her generosity! I wish I had half the energy Julie has but I do get energized when I'm around my grandsons :) They are the best!

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  22. I love to read and LOVE BEING A GRANDMA! Would love to win A light in the window! Thank you
    likesmusic2@consolidated.net

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  23. Julie, what a fascinating interview! You use a mirror to capture facial expressions? Haven't heard that before! Must try that someday soon!

    And your grandbaby sounds adorable. I love the name Rory and that she made a royal fool out of you. :)

    Thanks for the giveaway! biblioprincess15 (at) yahoo (dot) com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  24. Julie:

    You are definitely one of my all time favorite authors. It was so wonderful to get a little glimpse into your life with the interview. Ireland has always been a place I have wanted to visit too. No grandchildren yet for me but two adorable grand- CATS. If I were to be a winner I would probably scream so loud they would hear me in Boston.
    Thanks for the opportunity to enter.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  25. One reason I love these interviews is because I always find a new author. I agree on the tissues. When I do a book review, especially on Christian romance books, I put in the review if tissues are needed.
    Thank you for the opportunity to win.
    Leona
    mnleona@aol.com

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  26. Hi Julie! Wonderful interview (interesting questions, more unique than most blog interviews). Love your routine. As I get older, I find myself more and more a routine person (or is it in a rut?)
    Looking forward to more on the O'Connor family. Congratulations on your new books

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  27. luving the lipgloss :) have you used Rimmel's vinyl? luscious...;)
    great fave scriptures affirming for me this day - TY!
    and I'm def w/ you on that trip to Ireland... just have 2 gals moving in w/ me directly from there w/ their gorgeous accents and FuN FuN ahead for us I can already tell.. they've offered to bake me scones and make homemade soups! how great is that? you're invited to join us anytime~ Welcome...;)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  28. Your books are lovely on the covers which make me think I would like to get to know the characters residing inside the words and your created worlds.

    Thank you for a chance to win my pick. That will be a hard choice should it come to that! Instead of doing Eeny,meeny, meiny, mo I think I would do Any of the many would be find to hold!

    Blessings,
    Janice jsmithg(at)hotmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  29. Hello Julie! So excited about this giveaway thank you! I always love to read interviews with you. I feel like I something learn new thing all the time. God bless!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  30. I have A Passion Most Pure. (Daughters of Boston, Book I) and A Heart Revealed (Winds of Change, Book 1) and don't know which one to read first. I must say that we did live in Boston for a few years, but we haven't been to Ireland. When you get to Boston, go during the summer to enjoy the Boston Pops Orchestra in their outside performances. We loved going to that with the children. I would love to win one of your books.
    Kaye Whitney
    kayewhitney@bellsouth.net

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  31. i think those books are really great and what you're doing is awesome.
    anastacie93@yahoo.com

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    1. Hey, NASTYA ... SOOOOO sorry I missed you in the lineup here, girl!! Thanks for your kind words and for coming by to leave a comment. Hope it nets you a win, sweetie!

      Hugs,
      Julie

      Delete
  32. I liked your comments about being a Grandmother!

    Please enter me for a chance to read one of your books.

    Becky
    ischu9@aol.com

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  33. Such a great interview! I would love to win A Light in the Window, it sounds like such a wonderful story.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  34. I've been meaning to get into Julie's books for some time now. My sister absolutely adores them! Thanks for the great interview! New follower from Book Blogs as well. :)

    Jenna
    http://novelundertaking.blogspot.ca/

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  35. Good morning, to one of my favorite ladies!! What a nice surprise to find this interview in my inbox this morning! :D

    So happy to know that things are going so well with sweet, little Rory! I saw the recent pictures of her on Journal Jots, and she is just too CUTE! :D

    And I would say your day is anything but boring -- it sounds great to me! By the way, what is your favorite lip gloss?

    Thanks for another chance to win a book! You know I can't wait to read all of your latest! :D

    Have a great day, my friend! Love & HUGS, Michelle
    scraphappy71 at sbcglobal dot net

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  36. May I just say what thrilled me the most about this interview was the very first thing that was posted, the dates for her new books! Three Julie books in less than twelve months? It's Christmas!!! I think I am most excited for A Light in the Window since that's one I've been hearing about for a while now and includes my favorite couple, Marcy and Patrick. I will be in romance overload (not a bad thing;-)) for the next few months and I CANNOT wait!

    xoxo~ Renee C.
    steelergirl83atgmaildotcom

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  37. I love the O'Connors!! And when you make it up here to Boston, Julie, I want to visit with you! Or at least come be all "fan girl" at a book signing!! I've read the 1st 4 of Julie's novels...can't believe I haven't read A HEART REVEALED yet as it's about my favorite O'Connor (I think it's his name, but Sean is intriguing all around not just on the surface!). Wishing many blessings to both of you, Julie and Megan :-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  38. I LOVE Julie's books! The new Christmas book sounds so wonderful. I do have an eReader and would love to win a copy. Like Julie...I am a romantic at heart. Thanks for the info on these stories and a peek at the lovely covers!

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    Replies
    1. CARRIE!!! Do NOT know how I missed you, my friend!!! Thanks for coming by AND for your sweet comment.

      Hugs,
      Julie

      Delete
  39. Hi Megan! I'm trying to find you on Klout, but I'm not able to. Can you help me out? Thanks! : )

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    Replies
    1. This is the link to my Klout profile: http://klout.com/#/Celtic_Girl

      Thanks for stopping by and good luck in the contest :)

      Delete
  40. I'm pretty willing to enter all these giveaways you keep having! I've really enjoyed all of your books. I'm glad to hear that you're as attached to the characters as your readers are. So so so many times I finish a series or worse still - a stand alone novel, and feel totally unsatisfied. I want more! I still remember the day I discovered that Gilbert & Lynn Morris had finally released another book in the Cheney Duvall series. I was utterly thrilled! One time I finished a stand alone novel and had to try my hand at writing another book myself because the story was so not done yet. It wasn't anything to share with others, but at least I got to enjoy the finishing of their story. All that to say, I like how you keep showing us what's going on with the characters from the past books and I'm glad you're continuing to write about this same family.
    ~ egilkinc @ juno.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  41. Hi Julie,
    Loved this inteview (as always)...Have a great weekend ;)

    karenk
    kmkuka at yahoo dot com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  42. I love your books. Thanks for the writing you do. I am sure it isn't easy.
    wendy m
    wsmarple/at/gmail/dot/com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  43. I would pick any of these books if I was the winner!!!
    God Bless!
    Sarah Richmond
    sarahrichmond.12@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, drat -- I'm a goose!! I responded to your sweet comment in a separate comment down below before I ever saw the "reply" link. DUH! So please look for my comment with your name, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie "Head in the Clouds" Lessman

      Delete
  44. Hey Mrs. Lessman All of your books look so interesting!!! Can't wait to read them! If I was the winner I would take any of them, but if it is in a series I would take the first in the series! Also I guess maybe I would pick the first of your books. That is if it is avalible. :)

    Thanks for the chance to win!!!
    God Bless!

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    Replies
    1. Thanks, Abigail, and goodness, I would LOVE to have you read them, girl, so GOOD LUCK!! And you bet I would send you the first one in the first series,which is A Passion Most Pure because this is really a family saga that's best read in order due to a number of BIG surprises in book one, including who she ends up with, so I encourage people to start there. And APMP won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009, so obviously somebody thought it wasn't too bad! ;)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  45. Thanks, PATTY, for your enthusiasm for the O'Connors, for A Love Surrendered and for coming by! Just got my VERY first review on A Love Surrendered and it is AWESOME, so I am walking on air!! Here's the link if you want to read it and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!

    1ST REVIEW OF A LOVE SURRENDERED!!

    TERESA ... trust me, girl, I would BE so blessed to be able to send you one of my books. It's all I can do to stop myself from sending free books out to everyone who comments on these blogs, but if I did that, my husband would shoot me!! Here's to a win, darlin'!!

    LOL, MICHELLE!!! Now wouldn't Boston be in trouble if we did that, girlfriend!! Sutton and Lessman, two of the edgiest Inspy writers, loose in Beantown!!! Mmmm ... maybe we need to think about that! Thanks for coming by, Michelle -- SO great to see you here!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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    Replies
    1. Hey, I could show you where to get cheap visors and tee shirts. ( liked downtown Boston. Back in the 1600s the first Suttons landed near there. I can't recall the exact spot and I can't ask my down now since he passed away, but I know it's near Boston Harbor.

      Delete
    2. Oh, WOW, Michelle -- I didn't realize Suttons were Bostonians!!! Or at least, I HOPE that's where they stayed. Knowing you, maybe they made a beeline for the "WILD" WEST ... ;)

      Hugs,
      Julie

      Delete
  46. MELISSA ... well, you're definitely going about it in the right way, my friend, so keep checking out my website calendar for those giveaways, okay? And GOOD LUCK, girl!!

    Thanks, JACKIE, and OH, what I wouldn't give to have a cup of hazelnut on my deck with you, darlin'!! Maybe someday, if you ever get through St. Loo ... :)

    LADETTE, THANK YOU for reading the DOB series, and YES, we need to get the WOC series in your hands too, so GOOD LUCK, my friend!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  47. I loved Julie's 2st two books in Winds of Change series and can't wait to read the latest book. Also want to read her Daughters of Boston series. I love the O'Connor family.
    Thanks for the opportunity to enter giveaway.

    misskallie2000 at yahoo dot com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, MISSKALLIE, I cannot BELIEVE you haven't read the Daughters of Boston series yet, my friend!! We definitely need to get those books in your hands, okay? Hopefully we can start in this contest and work it from there. :) Good luck!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  48. BECKI ... well, girl, you have TWO O'Connor books left in the saga, so good luck in winning one of them today. And if you don't win here, keep your eye on my website calendar for more opportunities, okay?

    Goodness, DARLENE, I'd like to see you win, too, my friend, because I LOVE introducing the passionate O'Connor family to new readers!! And like I told Bethany in the seventh comment from the top -- do check out the Excerpts link I gave her above if you want to read both a romantic excerpt and a spiritual excerpt from each of my books, okay? That will give you a taste of my writing and help you decide. Then if you DO decide to try me out, PLEASE start with book 1 in the Daughters of Boston Series, A Passion Most Pure, although you could read the Christmas e-book first without ruining anything. You see, this is really a family saga that's best read in order due to a number of BIG surprises in book one, including who she ends up with, so I encourage people to start there. And APMP won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009, so apparently somebody thought it wasn't too bad! ;) GOOD LUCK in this contest!!

    NISE!!! You have NO IDEA just HOW much your comment blesses me, truly!!! I've heard that before from moms and others who didn't like reading till they dove in to the O'Connors and then LOOK OUT!! Sooo glad your daughter was one of them, especially wooing her back to Inspy fiction. Romance just isn't romance without God in the middle. :)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  49. I've really enjoyed all the books I've read by you so far, so Im very interested in this giveaway and books to come :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks SO much, MELINDA, and let's see what we can do about pulling your name out of the hat, okay? GOOD LUCK!!

      HUGS,
      Julie

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  50. RUBYNREBA ... you are SO right, and I honestly am shocked at how much it has softened me!! It is truly like a soft kiss from God in the middle of all the aches and pains of middle age, isn't it?? Well, from one granny to another, here's hoping I can send you a book, grandma!!

    PAT ... well, we will see what we can do about that, darlin', so GOOD LUCK!!

    NOELA!!! Soooo great to see you here, my friend, and just so you know, my giveaways (if I am providing the book) are ALWAYS open to International, primarily because of dear friends like you who live outside the U.S. -- why should I chintz on some of my favorite reader friends??? Good luck, darlin', and here's to a win!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  51. Hey, ANNE, thanks for coming by, girl!! And you wish you had half my energy??? YIKES!! I'm afraid you would be parked on the couch because online ANYONE can "LOOK" like they have energy, but don't catch me snoozing on my lower deck with my feet up!! And, yeah, there is something about those grand kiddos that energizes us, isn't there???

    DEBBIE ... well you and I have a LOT in common, then, girl, because I love to read, love being a grandma and would LOVE to send you ALITW, so GOOD LUCK!!

    RACHELLE ... Oh, honey, a mirror is the ONLY way to go when you're writing emotional scenes, truly!! And I have been known to crawl on the floor in contortions or pull my hubby out of his work chair to get a motion or kiss just right, too! And trust me, it's not surprising that Rory can "make a royal fool out of me" -- it's heredity. I do it to myself all the time! ;)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  52. I have heard so many great things about Julie's novels. It really looks like I am missing out.
    Will have to change that and soon!
    Amy Campbell

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    Replies
    1. AMY!!! Yes, ma'am, you are -- that is if you like lots of emotion, drama and angst along with TONS of passion, both romantically and spiritually, so we need to rectify this situation soon, okay?? Good luck in this contest, my friend, and check out my Journal Jots blog at Julie's Journal Jot Blog for THREE MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO WIN, OKAY?? Good luck!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  53. ANONYMOUS!!! Laughed out loud over "grand- CATS"!!! Soooo darn cute!! And, gosh, I'm tempted to just send you a book for that sweet comment, girl, but like I told Teresa above, if I sent a free book out to everybody I wanted to, my hubby would shoot me!! But ... I sure hope you win 'cause I'd LOVE for them to hear it in Boston ... ;)

    LEONA ... Oh, girl, I am HUGE on tissues and good for you if you alert readers to the need for them in your reviews. Wouldn't it be fun to rate reviews by the number of tissues?? A 1-tissue review would be simply tearing up and a 5-tissue review would be all-out sobbing. :) I actually went through more tissues proofing my last O'Connor book, A Love Surrendered, than any of my others -- 40 Kleenex vs. my usual 12!! Of course, what do you expect -- it's my last one before I say goodbye. :( Good luck in the contest, Leona, 'cause I sure would love to make you cry ... ;)

    RUTHY!!! What a treat to see you here, my friend, and YES, Megan came up with some very unique questions, and I should know -- I've done almost 200 interviews and over 1700 questions!! HA!! Love the routine vs. rut comparison, my friend, but you are definitely NOT in a rut with all the books you're coming out with, girl!! Thanks for dropping by!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  54. FAITH, HOPE, CHERRYTEA!!! OMIGOSH ... Rimmel Vinyl is my all-time FAVORITE lip gloss, the clear one, and I buy them by the droves!! Okay, that settles it -- we are soul sisters, or at least lip-gloss sisters, so you HAVE to tell me your real name. Is it "Faith," "Hope" or "Charity" and PLEASE don't tell me it's "Cherrytea" ... ;) And, OH, I am sooooo jealous that you have two Irish lasses living with you and they will bake you scones. Where do you live?? I will be right over ... ;)

    Oh, JANICE, I would SO love for you to get to know the O'Connors -- a truly close-knit and VERY passionate Irish-Catholic family, both spiritually and romantically. I just KNOW you would love them, so GOOD LUCK in the contest!! And if you win, I will send you book 1 in the Daughters of Boston Series, A Passion Most Pure, although you could read the Christmas e-book first without ruining anything. You see, this is really a family saga that's best read in order due to a number of BIG surprises in book one, including who she ends up with, so I encourage people to start there. And APMP won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009, so apparently somebody thought it wasn't too bad! ;)

    MARGARET, thank you SO much!! Yeah, I usually try to slip some new tidbit in with each interview so my faithful reader friends who comment don't yawn too many times, so I'm glad you noticed! Thanks for coming by, and GOOD LUCK in the contest, girl!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

    ReplyDelete
  55. Enter me these books all look great and I do not care which one I win!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, SHARON, and consider yourself entered, girl!! And if you win, I will send you book 1 in the Daughters of Boston Series, A Passion Most Pure, okay? You see, this is really a family saga that's best read in order due to a number of BIG surprises in book one, including who she ends up with, so I encourage people to start there. And APMP won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009, so apparently somebody thought it wasn't too bad! ;)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  56. Oh, KAYE, I am SOOOOOO very glad you haven't started reading them yet because they are best read in order, so PLEASE start with A Passion Most Pure first, okay? It won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009 and it kicks off the entire O'Connor saga. A Hope Undaunted (which is my FAVORITE of all the books I've written, by the way and was on Booklist's Top Ten Inspirational Fiction List for 2010, is actually the 4th book in the saga even though it is the 1st book in the 2nd series. So thanks for asking, happy reading and GOOD LUCK in the contest!! WHOOPS ... just saw that you said A Heart Revealed, not A Hope Undaunted!! AHR is the 5th book in the saga and book 2 in the 2nd series (confused yet???), but it is a beautiful book about a remarkable heroine who is scarred on her face, whom I tried to pattern a wee bit after Francine Rivers' Hadassah from Mark of the Lion.

    BECKY, you got it, darlin'-- consider yourself entered because the LAST thing I want to do is tick off somebody whose addy is "tickmenot"!! ;)

    EMILY, thank you!! And you know what?? A Light in the Window IS a beautiful story if I must say so myself, and I posted a bit more about it and an excerpt on my blog today, so here's the link if you want to check it out, okay?

    Julie's Journal Jots Blog

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  57. A pleasure to know more about you as a person, Julie. :-) I have never read any of your books, but I definitely plan to. My friends have said good things about your books. :-) Good luck with your writing! God bless! (P.S. I hope you will fulfill your dream of going to Boston & Ireland! I badly want to travel, too!)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. CHARLA, thank you SO much, girl, and goodness, you apparently have good very taste in friends! ;) Thanks for coming by, and if you would like to read an excerpt from any of my books, I do have an "EXCERPTS" tab on my website where you can read both a romantic scene and a spiritual scene from each of my books to see if you like them, okay? Here's the link:

      JULIE'S EXCERPTS

      GOOD LUCK!!

      HUGS,
      JULIE

      Delete
  58. Can I suggest cranberry bagels (with a blueberry schmear)?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. WALT!!! Yes, you CAN, my friend, and let me tell you -- it sounds DEE-LISH because I LOVE cranberries, although I have never had blueberry schmear before, but am willing to give it a try! Thanks for taking time to come by!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  59. JENNA!!! Cannot believe you have not borrowed them from your sister, girl -- don't make me come down there ... or up or wherever!! Seriously, PLEASE thank you sister for me for even reading my books, and I'm hoping you can win one here this week so you can tell her, "Neiner-neiner"!! ;) Good luck, sweetie.

    MICHELLE!!! Oh, girl, my face ALWAYS lights up when I see your beautiful picture on a comment, so thanks for coming by!! And like Faith-Hope-Cherrytea said above, RIMMEL VINYL LIP GLOSS IS THE BEST IN THE WORLD -- I'd buy it by the case if I could, truly. I keep one outside on my lower deck, one in my hearthroom chair, one in my kitchen drawer, one in Keith's office, one in my toothbrush holder AND three in my purse. Nothing obsessive about me, is there??? Hey, when I'm passionate about something, I'm passionate, okay??? And, yeah, that Rory is a cutie-pie, that's for sure. :)

    RENEE!!! Oh, another one of my faves who I haven't seen in a while. How have you been, girlfriend??? And did you say, "Three Julie books in less than twelve months?" Bite your tongue, girl -- it's THREE JULIE BOOKS WITHIN SIX MONTHS! AND almost FOUR BOOKS in a little over 12 months!! And I think you will LOVE A Light in the Window because it is not as "dramatic" as my other books (smile), which is something I know you prefer, nor is it as passionate. It's really more of a CBA market book -- shorter, sweeter and way less passionate. :) If you want to read an excerpt, there's one on my Journal Jots blog today at the link I gave above in my response to Emily's comment.

    Hugs,
    Julie

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    Replies
    1. Dear Julie aka Head in the Clouds,
      I've read ALL of the excerpts that you posted within the past few weeks those are a few reasons why I'm SO excited!! Squee! The only reason I mentioned "3 books in less than 12 months" in my previous comment is because I'm so used to waiting (errmm...make that suffering!) for each book in the Winds of Change series that I think all these books in shorter period of time is suh-weet! Thank you and your publisher for this wonderful gift!

      xoxo~ Renee C.

      Delete
  60. Well, what a very nice, delightful interview. I agree with you, Julie, about Psalm 139 - meditating on verses 23 and 24 an really meaning them can open a veritable can of worms and are we really ready to do that. But then, as His servants and Christ is our redeemer how can we do anything less that ask and seek God to search our heart.

    I read (and reviewed) A Passion Most Pure and thoroughly enjoyed it. I would love to win the next book in that series if my entry is a winning entry. ;)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. VERA, YES!!! Psalm 139 will make a new person of you ... if it doesn't kill you first! ;) Thank God for His mercy, eh??

      And thank you for reviewing APMP! Hope it was a good one ... :| The next book is my favorite of that series, A Passion Redeemed, and I would be honored to send that to you if you win, my friend, so GOOD LUCK!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  61. You can never make a big enough fool of yourself with a baby :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. LOL, TIFFANY, well said!! Although some of us are more talented at making a bigger fool of ourselves than others ... ;)

      Good luck in the contest, sweetie!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  62. TAMMY!!! HOLY COW, it's old home week here!!! Soooo good to see you here, my friend, and TRUST ME, TAM, if I EVER get to Boston, you and I WILL have coffee if I can help it, okay?? Would LOVE to sit down and chat with you, truly, to hear what's been going on with you and your books and your mom!! And oh, girl, I absolutely fell in love with Sean O'Connor writing A Heart Revealed and really didn't expect to because I just always saw him as the easy-going big brother, but WHOA, BABY, did he open MY eyes!! And his heart for Emma is SO beautiful that even now writing this, tears come to my eyes over a particular scene where he realizes that God ordained him for the privilege of loving and restoring with that love one of God's most precious broken children. I hope you get the chance to read it, Tam, because it really is a beautiful story, if I have to say so myself. :)

    EGILKINC ... WOW, I have never heard of a reader sitting down after a book to rewrite the ending!! I am totally impressed, truly!! Are you a writer? If not, maybe you need to give it a shot. :) And, YIKES, I sure hope you never had to rewrite any of mine ... :| Gilbert Morris is WONDERFUL, so I can understand why you were excited!! Good luck in the contest, sweetie, AND in your writing!! ;)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  63. Hey, KAREN, did I ever respond to your last e-mail??? Sometimes when I don't have the time to respond like I want to, I will minimize an e-mail to save it for later, but then if my computer crashes (which happens more than I like), I have to reboot and loose all the minimized e-mails I'd planned to answer. Hope I did respond -- my colander brain NEVER remembers!!

    WENDY, you are MORE than welcome, sweetie, and it's actually easier than you might think ... uh, if you're a CDQ like me who LOVES drama and angst and LOTS of passion!! ;)

    SARAH sweetie, it sounds like you haven't read any of my books, so if that's the case, then I would definitely send you A Passion Most Pure first if you win, okay? You see, this is really a family saga that's best read in order due to a number of BIG surprises in book one, including who she ends up with, so I encourage people to start there. And APMP won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009, so obviously somebody thought it wasn't too bad! ;) Good luck!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  64. Those three new books looks so good! As someone who is a great fan of the O'Connor family and working to acquire all the books in both series, I'm a bit disappointed that A Light in the Window will just be an e-book. How can it sit on the shelf with the other books if it's just an e-book? I hope the publisher reconsiders this. I've read all the books out so far so am eagerly awaiting these new books. Thanks for the chance to win one of Julie's books to add to my collection.

    pmk56[at]sbcglobal[dot]net

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    Replies
    1. Hey, PAM, there's a very good reason ALITW is only an e-book at this point and that is because my agent and I are publishing it ourselves, not Revell. We did pitch the concept to Revell two years ago and they did offer to buy it, but they only wanted to e-pub it as well for release in 2012 with a paperback release in 2014. So my agent and I declined and decided to do it ourselves. The good news is that if you win one of my giveaways, I will be happy to send you a printed copy of the ms., okay? And, honestly, if the e-book does even half as well as my paperback books, I will probably go ahead and print it myself because the profits on a self-pubbed e-book are WAY higher than on a book published by a traditional publisher, so I will have the money to do that. So say a prayer the e-book does well, okay? And GOOD LUCK in the contest, my friend. :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  65. I loved reading this post. The interview was so good. I love that your faith shines through in your words Julie. Thank you for being an inspiration to your readers!

    Blessings!
    Judy

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    Replies
    1. Hey, JUDY, thank you!! And I am SO happy that you THINK my "faith shines through my words," my friend, because that is the ultimate compliment!!

      Blessings right back!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  66. Aw, JUDY, you're gonna make me cry, girl! Admittedly not too hard with a weepy CDQ like me, but still!! Thank you SO much for your kind words and the credit for the great interview questions goes to Megan -- she ROCKS!!

    HUGS,
    Julie

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  67. Nice interview. I like books about families.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh, BN100, if you like books about families, girl, you are gonna LOVE the O'Connors, arguably the MOST PASSIONATE (both spiritually and romantically) and close-knit family in Christian fiction that I know of, so I hope you will get to know them too.

      Here's to a win -- thanks for coming by!

      Hugs,
      Julie

      Delete
  68. This was a wonderful interview. I've heard so much about Julie, but I learned a lot more about her personal life and habits in this interview. I see why her books are so touching and romantic now that I can see a bit of Julie's personality. Thanks for offering this giveaway!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Aw, NANCEE, your comment blesses the socks off of me, girl -- THANK YOU!! What you see in this interview is what you get in my books because the O'Connors flow from my fingers, with all their laughter and tears, foibles and passions, problems and successes. I love them, and I hope you will too!

      Good luck in the contest and thanks for stopping by!

      Hugs,
      Julie

      Delete
  69. Great blog post and interview. I enjoyed reading it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks, BRIT, and I hope you get a chance to read some of my books too, sweetie, so good luck in the contest!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  70. memememememememememememe I'm back to grab one of your books!!!! or two or three... Kathleen
    lanehillhouse[at]centurylink[dot]net

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. LOL, KATH, it wouldn't be the same without you here, darlin', so here's to a win ... or two ... or three ... ;)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  71. I love the fact that you and your husband take the time to pray together every day! If more couples did that I'm pretty sure the divorce rate would drop.
    I have yet to read a Julie Lessman book but I have been really wanting to! Thanks for the chance to win!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hey, ABBI, one thing you WILL notice if you read a Julie Lessman book is the strong presence of conversational prayer because I pray about EVERYTHING at the drop of the hat, and I incorporate that natural style of conversation with God in the O'Connor family as well. Prayer is CRITICAL to daily living and like breathing for my family and me, just like it is for the O'Connors. And I think you're right -- the divorce rate WOULD drop if prayer and God were at the center of more marriages, no question.

      And, Abbi,I LOVE to connect with potential new readers like you because it's SO much fun to introduce them to the O'Connors -- arguably the most PASSIONATE family in Christian fiction, both romantically and spiritually. Like I mentioned in my response to Bethany several comments up, you may want to check out my Excerpts link I posted in her comment above for a sample of both romantic and spiritual scenes from each of my books to give you a taste of my style. And then, like I told Heidi above, if you do decide to read one of my books, PLEASE start with A Passion Most Pure as this is a family saga best read in order due to a number of big surprises in book 1, okay? And if you win this contest, I will be happy to send APMP to you, so GOOD LUCK!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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    2. I really wish my prayer life was like that! I actually have had a rather weak prayer life and that is something God has been really challenging me about. I've never been a good conversationalist so talking to God has always been difficult for me. Thank you for being a wonderful example!
      My sister actually has the whole Daughter's of Boston series and I'm planning on borrowing them soon. I always try to read stuff in order-I hate spoilers-and I usually do research to make sure what I'm reading is first.

      Delete
    3. Hey, Abbi -- GOOD GIRL!!! On reading the books in order, that is -- SOOO important with this series!!

      And saying one RIGHT NOW that prayer becomes like breathing to you too ... ;)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  72. I ADORE your books!! You write about an era of time that so few people write about but that has always fascinated me, especially from the point of Christians. What little there is out there about this time period is usually about the Mob and Gangsters...There is so little about life as a "normal" person during this time and I loved the one book I have read of yours! I have all the rest on my "To Read" list! It would be wonderful to win one so I could read another! I enjoyed your interview!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. WOW, AUDREY, thank you SO much for your sweet comment!! Sooo glad you enjoyed reading one of my books and I'm with you -- l want to get another in your hands ASAP, so here's hoping for a win!!

      And I love the 1910s, 20s and 30s time period, too, because you are right -- it is SO interesting to see how normal people (if you can call the O'Connors "normal"!! ;)) lived back then. My next series, The Heart of San Francisco, is set in 1902, which is another fun era, so I have lots of time periods to take you, girl -- get busy!! ;)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  73. As always I love the interview & can NOT wait to get my hands on these three stories. I have all the release dates in my planner but I'm always game for a chance at a free book from Julie! And I've gotten more friends/family hooked on your books Julie :) May be time for a book club!

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    Replies
    1. Oh, SARAH, you are SOOO darn cute -- putting my release dates on your planner, no less!! Heck, even I don't do that!! ;) And THANK YOU, THANK YOU for spreading the word about my books, my friend -- cannot tell you HOW important that is to an author and HOW much I truly appreciate your support.

      Hey, a book club sounds SUPER, and I'll Skype it with bells on if you want, sweetie, just give me the word!!

      Good luck in the contest and I can't wait to see what you think of the next three books coming ... :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  74. Hi -new follower here from Bookblogs. This was a great interview, thank you. I'm a writer, currently penning my first historical novel and it's always great to hear about successful authors and gather a few tips along the way. It's reassuring in a strange way because it makes the whole world of writing feel accessible to those of us still working up towards publication.
    The best thing is, I've now been introduced to Julie Lessman and her books and I must confess, I'm very intrigued. I'm off now to find them. It's great that bloggers are able to spread the word, bringing authors and books to the surface of the literary world.

    Best Wishes
    Suzy

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    Replies
    1. SUZY!!! Sooooo good to meet you, and a fellow historical author -- YAY!! Boy, do I have the blog for you, girl -- Seekerville, a group blog I belong to that supports, prays for, encourages and teaches writers on the road to publication. We started out as 15 unpubbed authors who are all now pubbed five years later, so I hope you join us. The link is up above in the interview, in the first question, and it will give you an idea of what we offer each other as writers.

      And, Suzy, just so you know, I garnered 45 rejections on my debut novel, A Passion Most Pure, which then went on to win American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009, so I hope that encourages you on the path to publication.

      I am SO excited that you are "intrigued" by the prospect of checking out my books and if you want a sampling of my style, you can check out the Seeker link I told you about above in the first interview question, entitled "Kiss-ology 101: Warming the Pages With Romantic Tension OR you can check out the "Excerpts" tab of my website (the link is posted above in both my response to Bethany's comment and Charla's) for a good sampling of both romantic and spiritual scenes from each of my books to give you a taste of my style. And then, like I told Heidi above, if you do decide to read one of my books, PLEASE start with A Passion Most Pure as this is a family saga best read in order due to a number of big surprises in book 1, okay? And if you win this contest, I will be happy to send APMP to you, so GOOD LUCK!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  75. Julie,

    I think you would LOVE Boston. So much great historical stuff there. Chris and I went in college with a group of friends and haven't been since so we are planning a trip next spring.

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    1. Oh, JULIA, I just KNOW I would love Boston too!!! I have always had a fascination with it since I started eating Boston Baked Beans candy as a kid (they were my faves!) and watched a Disney show on back then called Swamp Fox about Frances Marian and the Revolutionary War. I love history (go figure, since I don't like to do research for my novels), so I'm pretty darn sure Boston would be a hit with me. :)

      Thanks for coming by, sweetie, and GOOD LUCK!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  76. Hi Julie -
    So looking forward to sitting on my back porch with one of your new books (or all 3)! I'm so drawn into your book(s) when reading them, that I'm oblivious to everything else around me!

    Blessings,
    Edwina

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    1. Aw, EDWINA, that makes me smile! I can just see you with your feet up on your back porch, peach iced tea or hazelnut coffee by your side while a soft breeze rustles the pages of a novel. Oh, wait -- that's ME I can see doing that!! :)

      Thanks for your sweet comment, my friend, AND for coming by. Here's hoping it nets you a win. :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  77. Megan - Great interview! I love all of your unique questions. :)

    Julie - Can't wait to read the new books you have coming out in the next few months!

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    1. Hey, BROOKE, YES -- Megan has interviewing down cold, doesn't she?? A true professional and one of the best interviews I've ever had.

      And THANK YOU for your enthusiasm for my new books -- MUCH appreciated. Now ... hopefully they will be worth the wait ... :|

      Good luck in the contest, sweetie. :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  78. Julie! You say boring, I say productive! =)
    It's a good thing I don't need ambiance. Good Lord, if people could see this room and desk right now, LOL.

    Anyone who is not familiar with Julie Lessman's novels, you're missing out on some fantastic historical romance.

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    1. HA, NANCE -- I like how you think (and write!!).

      And, LOL ... so you're one of THOSE people who can tune everything out and write, huh?? I am SO jealous!! When I used to write in the same office with my hubby, he had to have the radio on and I needed absolute quiet, so he would wear headphones. But then, he'd tap his fingers in time to the music, and it would drive me CRAZY!!! Now I write in the hearthroom during the winter (with a fireplace!!) and down on my lower deck the rest of the year, but I'll be honest. I've been known to wear earplugs to drown out particularly noisy birds as well as this one neighbor who appears to have an unhealthy fascination with blowing leaves. Of course, it doesn't help we live in the woods ... ;)

      Thank you for your kind words about my novels -- SO appreciate you and your support, my friend. GOOD LUCK in the contest!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  79. Ah, Julie, me friend, the Irish in me would love ta rrrread the Irish Chrrristmas love story. ;o) After all, one who was born a Mullvain and marrried a mulligan is Irish thrrrough and thrrrough.

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    1. Oh, ANE, honey, I simply do NOT know why we don't hang out more often, darlin'!! You are just so delightfully Irish that I just know we would have a blast. :) Mullvain and Mulligan -- sounds like a match made in heaven ... or Ireland, which in my book (and books) IS heaven!! I am SO jealous. I am only 1/4 Irish and I bet you are 100%, aren't you, you little brat! ;)

      Thanks for coming by to rub your wonderful Irish heritage in my nose. I think I need to write a book about you because heaven knows you are a very fun and interesting girl, and, it goes without saying -- IRISH! :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  80. I am really looking forward to reading more about the O'Connors! If I was able to meet any fictional characters in real life I would definitely would pick them :)

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    1. WOW, Samantha, that is SUCH a blessing to hear, girl -- THANK YOU!! I am a wee bit partial to that brood myself (uh, ESPECIALLY Luke and Mitch -- hubba, hubba!!). Of course, both Katie and Charity would scratch anybody's eyes out who even looked at either of those fine boys, which is why I like Katie and Charity SO much as well!! Gotta love that spunk, eh? :)

      Thanks for coming by, Sam, AND for reading my books. Here's to a win in the contest!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  81. Julia,
    To me the pic of your hubby in your writing area as inspiration is the best. If it were not for the support of my husband I wouldn't be able to carve out time, polish words, and buff up a pitch. I remember him coming to the class you taught at the last conference. What a sweet supporter.
    Second, I don't know that I would have the strength to be at Golgatha, knowing what He was really doing for us at the time and the affect for all time. I couldn't breathe. But I would so love to go there today, and see where He gave His life for all.

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Clarification, I just reread what I wrote. I remember seeing your hubby come to the conference class and how he was your sweet supporter.
      My hubby didn't attend, and probably wouldn't have come to that fun class!

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    2. Thanks, MARE ... I am pretty blessed with the support my husband gives me, emotionally, professionally AND financially! He's the breadwinner, which is fine by me because I can focus on writing books without worrying too much about selling them, right?? ;)

      Yeah, I hear where you're coming from on Golgatha, but I am one of those people that likes to "feel" to the nth degree, and I would want to feel my heart bursting with gratitude and love and downright worship for the God who saved my sorry soul. We are SO blessed to know and love Him!!

      Thanks for stopping by, Mary, and GOOD LUCK!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  82. Having trouble with the raffelcopter just retweeted cabin fever tweet 08/18/12

    (at)LiteraryChanteu

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    1. Hey, Margaret, not sure what that means, darlin', but thank you for tweeting! :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  83. I love Julie's books

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    1. Aw, thanks, DEB!! I hope I get to send you one, darlin'! :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  84. Hey Julie,
    I can not WAIT for the three new releases!!! As you know, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the O'Connor books!!
    I pray that each release is more successful than the last. :-)

    Best,
    Ashley Roberts

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    1. ASHLEY!!! How the heck are you, my friend??? I pray for you all the time, so shoot me an update on school and the guy, okay??

      And I cannot WAIT for you to read your name in A Love Surrendered, girl -- hope it makes you smile as much as it does me. :)

      Hugs and more hugs,
      Julie

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  85. Loved this series so much! Can't wait to see what you have in store for us (and the O'Connors) next!

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    1. LOVELY_ENIGMA ... first of all, LOVE your addy, girl -- VERY COOL!! Secondly, I am thrilled you are excited about the O'Connors. There are only two books left -- Steven's story, A Love Surrendered, and Marcy and Patrick's prequel, A Light in the Window: An Irish Christmas love story, so I hope you enjoy the final installments of this very passionate family.

      Thank you for coming by and GOOD LUCK in the contest!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  86. Thanks Julie for your great books, I've enjoyed reading your winds of change series. Keep on writing, you rock.

    sonflower277 at gmail dot com

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    1. ANONYMOUS ... THANK YOU!! I am SO glad you enjoyed the Winds of Change series, and I trust you also read The Daughters of Boston series as well?? If not, I encourage you to do so, beginning with book 1, A Passion Most Pure, Faith and Collin's story, then A Passion Redeemed, Charity and Mitch and finally A Passion Denied with Lizzie and Brady.

      I SOOO appreciate your support and kind words AND just reading my books -- you ROCK too, my friend!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  87. I just read the first 5 books over the past couple of months and loved them! Can't wait until A Love Surrendered comes out! I'm so glad to hear you have plans to continue writing about this family.

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    1. Oh, TERRI, you are SUCH a sweetie -- THANK YOU for reading my books!! I am excited to say that I got my FIRST review for A Love Surrendered this weekend, and I was doing cartwheels because it was AWESOME, so I hope you like it too. :)

      Good luck in the contest, my friend, and happy reading!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  88. Hi Mrs. Lessman!
    I am sooooo excited for the new books coming out!!
    I am also definitely ready to hear more about the O'Conner family! Yay for you!
    Thanks so much for the opportunity to win one! :)

    ReplyDelete
  89. Hi Mrs. Lessman!
    I am sooooo excited for the new books coming out!!
    I am also definitely ready to hear more about the O'Conner family! Yay for you!
    Thanks so much for the opportunity to win one! :)

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  90. Hey, HANNAH, I sooooo appreciate your enthusiasm for my upcoming books, so THANK YOU, my friend!! Thank you you coming by, and hope it nets you a win!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  91. I am a church librarian and have not yet been able to read the first two in the series because others are reading the books. I've already pre-ordered the third book. But, until I came to your web site, I didn't realize that you had written a Christmas book. It sounds absolutely delightful! I'd love to win a copy for my church library. It certainly woudl get read.

    ReplyDelete
  92. Hey, CARLA, thank you SO much for pre-ordering my books, my friend -- SO appreciate that!! Just curious -- when you say you have not been able to read the first two books in the series, do you mean you haven't yet read my books at all yet?

    Libraries are incredibly important to authors, and I especially love to hear that my books are in church libraries because purity is such a crucial issue to today's young Christian women who have to live in our amoral society. And of course, if you've read my books, you know that purity is the key issue I address in a manner than I hope young women are more likely to receive it.

    Regrettably, my Christmas book is only an e-book only at this time because it is a project I have tackled on my own with my agent. But ... I am hoping that it does well enough for me to publish it as a paperback as well, so say one for me, okay?

    Thank you again, Carla, for not only making my books available in your library, but for coming by to leave a comment today. Good luck in the contest!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  93. Hi *Ms.* Julie!

    I'm ecstatic to hear you have plans to continue the O'Connors story someday!
    And in response to your reply on Seekerville's blog --it is a blessing! Though sometimes I just need another perspective to see them. =)

    Thanks for the chance to win!

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    Replies
    1. LDK ... yes, a different perspective helps A LOT, doesn't it??? I will be going on a bike trip with my hubby, which entails LOTS of drive time, but as long as I have my laptop ... I can haul, so I see any "wait" or "drive" time as a blessing now.

      Yes, I can't just let the O'Connors fade away into obscurity, right??? ;)

      Good luck in the contest, my friend!

      Hugs,
      Julie

      Delete
  94. Ambience is so important when you write. I'm glad to hear you set yourself up outside in nature in summer and with a romantic setting in winter. It sounds like a great source of inspiration for you!

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    Replies
    1. Oh, AMEN, SWISS MISS!! And even your addy has ambiance, girl!! Swiss Miss conjures up steaming hot chocolate with a dollop of whipped cream while sitting in front of my hearth fire writing during a snowfall. :) I'll be your an Ambiance Queen as well, eh?

      Good luck in the contest!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  95. Even if I don't win one of these I will definitely keep my eyes open for them! I really need a good historical romance to read right now!

    ReplyDelete
  96. Oh, Rhianna, if you have never read one of my books before, I will make you the same deal I made a gal on another blog giveaway. I told her if she bought and liked the first book and then the next three (all are on sale on Amazon) and wrote one brief 2- or 3-line generic review saying she liked my books and posted that one for each book, I would send her the 5th book in the series free. She did it, LOVED THEM and is now one of my most ARDENT reader friends and a HUGE supporter of my books. So ... what do you think?

    The first book in this very passionate family saga, A Passion Most Pure, is $5.60 for paperback and $5.79 for e-book on Amazon and it won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut of the Year for 2009. So, I'm offering you the same deal I offered her. Let know if you are interested, okay and if not right now ... then I hope you'll consider reading my books down the road OR maybe win here!! GOOD LUCK!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  97. I find myself with more time to read now (finally!!) that my son is 15 months and can entertain himself much easier. These look fantastic! I definitely want to win, but would like to read them either way! Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!

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    Replies
    1. STEPH, good for you, girl!! That's a great age for little ones, when they're just beginning to explore the world around them while Mama hopefully gets to explore some books!! ;)

      And, Steph, do I have the books for you!! If you like LOTS of passion in your reading, both for God and for romance, then let me introduce you to the O'Connors -- arguably the most PASSIONATE family in Christian fiction, both romantically and spiritually. Like I mentioned in my response to Bethany several comments up, you may want to check out my Excerpts link I posted in her comment for a sample of both romantic and spiritual scenes from each of my books to give you a taste of my style. And then, if you DO decide to read one of my books, PLEASE start with A Passion Most Pure as this is a family saga best read in order due to a number of big surprises in book 1, okay? And if you win this contest, I will be happy to send APMP to you, so GOOD LUCK and thanks for coming by!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  98. Love, love, love anything by Julie!! She is amazing. I am impatiently waiting for the next release :)

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    1. Aw, ATHENA, THANK YOU, sweetie -- your kind words are MUCH appreciated!! I hope you like Steven's story, A Love Surrendered. Just got my first review on it the other day, and I am thrilled to say it was AWESOME, so hopefully you will like it too. :)

      Good luck in the contest, girl!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  99. Loved your interview! I haven't read any of your books yet but I'm always looking and open to new authors. I am an avid reader and love Christian Fiction! Your books sound delightful!

    Marie Ferland
    mariefluffy@yahoo.ca

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    1. No, MARIE, YOU sound "delightful" darlin', so THANK YOU for coming by!!

      If you like LOTS of passion in your reading, both for God and for romance, then I'd love to introduce you to my books and the close-knit O'Connors -- arguably the most PASSIONATE family in Christian fiction, both romantically and spiritually. If you'd like to read an excerpt from my books to see if you like my style of writing, I recommend checking out my "EXCERPTS" tab on my website at Julie's Excerpts.

      Then if you DO decide to read one of my books, PLEASE start with A Passion Most Pure, book 1 in the Daughters of Boston and American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year for 2009. You see, this is a family saga best read in order due to a number of big surprises in book 1, so it's best start there, okay? And if you win this contest, I will be happy to send APMP to you, so GOOD LUCK and thanks for coming by!!

      Hugs,

      Delete
  100. Hi Julie!
    All of your books sound wonderful :) I hope to one day visit Ireland as well. From the pictures I've seen it looks beautiful!

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    1. Hey, NA ... thanks for coming by!! Here's hoping both of us get to go to the Emerald Isle before all is said and done. BUT ... until we do, we can always visit via my novels, two of which (books 1 and 2 of The Daughters of Boston series) partially take place in Dublin!!

      Like I told Marie in the comment above, you can check out my writing style (PASSIONATE ... both spiritually AND romantically!!) via my Excerpts tab of of my website (link in the comment above), so I hope you will. Then if you decide you'd like to read one of my books, PLEASE begin with book 1, A Passion Most Pure, American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year for 2009. You see, this is a family saga best read in order due to a number of big surprises in book 1, so it's best start there, okay? And if you win this contest, I will be happy to send APMP to you, so GOOD LUCK, girl!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  101. Hi Julie..love the covers of your books..:D
    this sin't unique I know..but I do heart authors who wrote historcials..:)
    You rock Ms. julei..:D

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  102. Thanks, ABBY!! My publisher, Revell, has done a great job on all of my covers so far, and then, of course, my own artist hubby did the cover for my most recent book -- A Light in the Window -- since I am e-pubbing that on my own with my agent. And that cover is pretty special to me because it also features my daughter on it!

    Thanks for your kind words, ABS, AND your support!! Good luck in the contest. :)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  103. im so excited about your upcoming books!! i cant wait to get my hands on them! Julie, i read about 20 books a month. that adds up to a lot of books per year. ive read so many christain romances, and out of all, this is my list of favorite authors. margaret mitchell, julie lessman, and francine rivers. also laura franz and julie klassen

    ReplyDelete
  104. WHOA, BONNIE ... those are some serious names, girl, and I am BEYOND THRILLED to be in that last, WOW and THANK YOU!!! Ironically, your list is my list as well with a few more additions. :)

    Hope you enjoy the finale of the O'Connors, A Love Surrendered, and of, course -- the PREQUEL to see how it all got started. :)

    Good look in the contest, girl, and here's to a win!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  105. I've never actually got around to reading one of her books but she seems like an awesome person and her books look amazing. I can't wait to read one!

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  106. Hey, HEATHER, well then, sweetie, it's about time we correct that unfortunate situation, don't ya think?? Let's see if we can' pull you win out of this giveaway and get you started, okay?

    And if you want to check out my writing style, you can do so via my Excerpts tab of of my website (the link for it is in my comment to Anonymous about six comments above), so I hope you will.

    Then ... if you decide you'd like to read one of my books, PLEASE begin with book 1, A Passion Most Pure, American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year for 2009. You see, this is a family saga best read in order due to a number of big surprises in book 1, so it's best start there, okay? And if you win this contest, I will be happy to send APMP to you, so GOOD LUCK, girl!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  107. Oh, My Word! How did I not know about "A Light in the Window"?! I've got to get with the program! ;)

    I'm with you on the babyproofing! :P Not fun. I also went on a blueberry bagel kick a few months ago(with honey cream cheese), so I'm with you there, too.

    I can't wait to catch up on all these wonderful new books!

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  108. TAMMY!!! How the heck are you, girl??? And I haven't talked too much about A Light in the Window in my newsletter -- only in my weekly Journal Jots blog where I included an excerpt and the cover here:
    Julie's Journal Jots.

    LOVE blueberry bagels, and honey cream cheese sounds TO DIE FOR, but I stick with a tiny pat of butter (also to die for!!).

    Hope all is well with you and your family, sweetie, and GOOD LUCK in the contest, Tam!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  109. I can't wait for these three beauties to be released! Julie's books are so yummy! Thanks for the giveaway!

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    Replies
    1. Hey, KANDRA, thank you SO much, sweetie!! I can't wait either ... :)

      Good luck in the contest and thanks for coming by!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  110. Hi Julie,

    LOVE your books!!!!! Great interview!!! It is VERY nice to sit outside to write on our tiny tiny deck!!! :)
    That would be soooooo AWESOME to continue the O'Connor family with the children. It would be fun to especially see how Collin and Faith and Mitch and Charity deal with the problems of their kids!!!
    Can NOT wait for my copy of ALS to get hear!! I already pre-ordered it!!

    Jacinta Rose
    magenta321mysteryreader@gmail.com

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  111. Aw, BLESS YOU, JACINTA ROSE, for pre-ordering ALS!! I hope you like it and it's worth the wait. :)

    I agree -- writing outside is THE BEST, in my opinion, rain or shine, so I'm glad you get to do that too!!

    Thank you for your kind words and for coming by. Good luck in the contest, sweetie.

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  112. A friend introduced me to a book by this author and I loved it. I believe it was the first book in this series. I cannot wait to read more.

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  113. LISA, YES!!! Sooooo glad to hear you enjoyed A Passion Most Pure AND that you read it first since this is a saga best read in order. And BLESS your sweet friend -- give her a hug for me, okay?

    Good luck in the contest, sweetie. :)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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