by Crystal Caudill | Jul 23, 2024 | Character Interview
It’s been a while since we’ve had a character interview, and I’m excited to dive in and get to know Bailey Donovan. Bailey is from Carolyn Miller’s latest book, Pointe, Shoots, and Scores. But before we meet this ballet heroine, let me introduce you to the story.
Pointe, Shoots, and Scores by Carolyn Miller
Opposites can attract, but can they dance?
For as long as she can remember Bailey Donovan has loved dance, especially ballet. When her dance studio faces the risk of closure, she takes a God-given miracle of a gig training a complete non-dancer for a TV show. Only problem is, he’s a real grump to her sunshine, and for an athlete, seems to be lacking all the moves. Or does he?
Luc Blanchard has sworn off wine, women, and definitely dancing as it sure doesn’t fit his macho image. He loves hockey, God, and his family, with no time for more, until an unexpected promotion sees him forced to swallow his pride for the sake of his team.
Sparks soon fly as these two opposites spend time together, and TV ratings push for their onscreen partnership to make a fake relationship real. But as they discover a certain magic under the spotlight, will issues from the past ever let them truly soar?
Pointe, Shoots, and Scores is the third book in the Northwest Ice Christian hockey romance series, can be read as a standalone, and is perfect for fans of banter-laden romance with hope, heart and humor.
Purchase Links: Amazon | More Options
Now for our interview with Bailey.
CC: I’m so excited to get to introduce you to my readers, Bailey. Would you mind telling them a little bit about yourself?
BD: Hi! My name is Bailey Donovan. I’m a dance teacher who has danced professionally in Europe and in North America. I like to think I’m encouraging, supportive, and I care for those who have had tough breaks, because I certainly understand what that’s like. I love teaching dance but a girl still has to pay the bills, so that means I work in a cafe and need some other ways to pay off my bank loans. So when this amazing opportunity comes my way, to dance on national TV on Dance Off Canada, I can’t help but think it’s God answering my prayers…
CC: I love the way God can work in the most unexpected ways.Â
What or who is your biggest problem in life?Â
BD: Apart from money issues facing my dance studio, I think the biggest problem is one my family is facing. My sister is estranged from the family after a bunch of terrible events, and it’s really caused tension between us all and fractured us as a family. Not that we ever talk about it. My dad hates anything that might be construed as violent, and it’s causing problems with Luc, my dance partner, who’s been known to stand up for his teammates on the ice. So I guess we’ll see if Dad can learn to let me stand on my own two feet and trust me -and trust God – so I can live independently.
CC: As a parent, I can understand your dad’s not liking Luc’s . . . way of standing up for his teammates, and it’s so hard to let our babies grow up. It will be interesting to see how you manage to stand on your feet with all that is going on. Add a dance competition with Luc as your partner, and I know it can’t be easy.
How would you describe your relationship with God?
BD: I love God, and pretty much always have. God has been my comfort and my strength through some very bad days, and I’m trying to rest in who I am in Him. But it’s sometimes hard to take the performer out of the relationship and just trust and not feel like I’ve got to be perfect. But I know this is what God is wanting me to learn to do. Trust Him, not me.
CC: Ouch. That is a lesson that hits me hard. It’s so easy to slip into trusting ourselves, isn’t it?Â
Tell us a little about the personal journey you go on throughout this story. What areas of growth do you find yourself facing?
BD: I love my family, but something I’ve noticed is that my family has always tended to tiptoe around the truth. We don’t like confrontation, so we’d rather sweep things under the carpet, which is why Luc is good for me as he’s so strong and direct and makes me speak what I actually mean, rather than what I think others want to hear. It’s hard to do though, especially after a lifetime of keeping the peace and being nice. I’m trying to be more honest.Â
CC: Wow. I love that Luc is bringing that out in you and teaching you to speak truth instead of what people think you should say. That can be an uncomfortable journey to walk for sure.
What is your greatest skill that helps you through the story or makes you appealing to a possible love interest?
BD: I think I’m a pretty positive person, because I’m trusting God to work things out for my good, even when things seem pretty tough. I’ve had people tell me I’m sweet, good-natured, and perky!
CC: Those are all attractive qualities in a potential love interest. So tell us about YOUR love interest.
BD: Luc Blanchard is in many ways my opposite. He’s big, intense, and can come across as fierce, but he’s been a total marshmallow with me. He has such a good heart, and yes, he’s not perfect, but he’s perfect for me. He’s amazing how he took to dance, which was something he REALLY didn’t want to do, but he’s doing it for the sake of his mom (who had breast cancer, so he’s raising money for cancer research) and he just committed to the routines and has tried so, so hard. He’s a godly Christian guy, and a real sweetheart. I just love him to bits!
CC: Awww. That is such a sweet thing.Â
So, can you see a future with Luc?
BD: Do I see a future with Luc? Gosh, I’d like to think so. But since some stuff went down in my family (which may have involved my sister’s ex going to jail) my parents are pretty protective of me, especially my dad. He’s not a fan of hockey players, as he thinks they’re too rough, and he’s definitely not a fan of men with tattoos, and as Luc fits into both categories I can’t see that he’d ever accept him. Especially when he sees us in some of the outfits and dances we’ve got to do. I might not think of myself as Daddy’s little girl but he still does, so we’d need a miracle for Luc to ever be accepted into the family. But I’m someone who believes God can do anything!
CC: Ha ha! My husband had to work to earn the approval of my family so I totally get it! I thought it would take a miracle too!
Last question: If there is one thing you could tell the reader, what would it be?
BD: We often are too quick to say ‘I can’t’ when really God is wanting us to remember that ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’. So whether it be stepping out in dance, learning to let go, or having those hard conversations, we can do it; we just need to try. And if we’re Christians, we need to remember that God is with us wherever we go and is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we can ask or imagine. But that means saying yes and having a go, rather than sitting back or sitting on the sidelines. We get one life, people, so make the most of it and live it!
CC: So true and such an important thing to remember. And boy is it uncomfortable stepping out of our comfort zones.
Readers, if you haven’t had the chance to read Pointe, Shoots, and Scores by Carolyn Miller, now is your chance to pick up a copy. Â
About Carolyn Miller:
Carolyn Miller lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen, Georgette Heyer and LM Montgomery, Carolyn loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. Her contemporary romance series includes the Original Six hockey romance series, Muskoka Romance series, and the Independence Islands series, and her historical series include the Regency Brides and Regency Wallflowers series.
Connect with here here: Website | Newsletter |  Facebook |  Instagram | Amazon | BookBub | GoodReads
by Crystal Caudill | Feb 6, 2024 | Character Interview
Meeting the heroes and heroines of the stories before I read them is always a fun taste of getting to know them. Today, I get to give you a taste of Sylvie Miles from The Love Penalty by Carolyn Miller. Before we dive into her story, here’s the story blurb.
The Love Penalty by Carolyn Miller
Sometimes there’s a hefty price to pay when two opposites attract…
With her fondness for tattoos and spider jewelry Sylvie Miles is used to being pre-judged and misunderstood. She has friends and connections but she still feels alone, and works several jobs while daydreaming about finding a guy who sees further than skin deep and won’t shy away from her battered heart. So when a hot pro hockey player with a smile as vast as his skills takes a shine to her what’s a poor girl to do but fall in love?
Ryan Guillemette sure wasn’t looking for romance in a bookstore in his hometown but quickly becomes intrigued by the sassy Goth-like assistant with a snarky way with words. When an accidental kiss proves dangerously addictive she soon becomes embedded in his heart. But even as the romance heats up he’s torn as she’s not following God. Can these two opposites make a match or should he call a permanent time out?
These two are about to learn that those who play with fire get burned, and there’s a hefty price to pay for forbidden attraction.
Purchase Links: Amazon | Other Retailers
Now for our interview with Sylvie.
CC: I’m so excited to get to introduce you to my readers, Sylvie. Would you mind telling them a little bit about yourself?
SM: Some people might see my tattoos and call me tough. Some people might judge me by my past behavior and think I’m not good enough. I’m used to being misjudged, and people’s prejudice, especially from those who call themselves Christians and like to look down their nose at me. So anyway, I went to help my best friend Bree when she had twins, but then when her family came, I had to scram, which meant finding a job, and facing all kinds of discrimination again, just because I look a little different to most of the people around here. So what if I like wearing black and spider earrings? Just as well, there are some nice people in this world. People like Ryan Guillemette, who might play hockey but is a big softy at heart. But whether he can handle someone with my background remains to be seen…
CC: It’s hard to trust anyone when you’ve been judged so much. Does it bother you with how others view you?
SM: People think I’m scary just because I have tattoos and wear black clothing and like spiders and stuff. I don’t mind if it means people stay out of my face, but sometimes I wish they’d go a little deeper than judging someone by the ink on their skin. Aren’t Christians supposed to be all about loving others? I haven’t seen that. Well, apart from Bree and Mike. They’ve been good to me. I just wish others could see how prejudiced they really are sometimes.
CC:Â So, how does that affect your relationship with God?
SM: God? Well, if he or she even exists, I’m pretty sure God isn’t paying attention to me. I mean, I have tried to pray in the past, but it didn’t work. I guess that’s to be expected because I know I’ve done plenty of bad things in my life, so why would God want to help me? God only likes good people, like my best friend Bree and her husband Mike. He answers their prayers because they’re good. I don’t think he sees me, let alone cares.
CC: Oh, how my heart hurts for you. Can you tell us a little bit about the personal journey you go through in The Love Penalty?
SM: So, after I have to leave Bree’s, I have to find a job in a town where my mom left years ago. My grandparents still live there, and I’m having some trouble hunting them down, even though I’m not sure I want to see them, as I’m pretty sure they’ll just judge me like the last time they kicked Mom and me to the curb. But there are some nice people, including at the old folks home, with people who really do seem to care about me. Well, I care about them too. And about Ryan. And his family. They’re SO good to me, even though I know I’m not exactly the kind of person they’d like hanging around. But some people can see further than skin deep. They’re the ones I’ll pay attention to, even if they’re talking about how God cares about me. I guess they back up their words with their actions, so kudos to them. I think they’re the ones I can trust.
CC: It’s easier to face life when you have people you can trust. What is your greatest skill that helps you through the story or makes you appealing to Ryan?
SM: I think Ryan really likes my honesty, which, okay, sometimes leaks out as snark. I’ve never been too good at playing games, so pretending to be polite just isn’t me. But it also gets me into a lot of trouble– which can mean a lot of jobs, because not everybody knows what to do with me. So I think he likes my confidence to be myself. Well, that and the fact that, apparently, I’m an excellent kisser. He likes that too. (Ask me how I know…)
CC: LOL, I’d rather not. And honesty that leaks out as snark. I’m definitely familiar with the consequences of that particular trait . . . Tell us a little bit more about Ryan.Â
SM: Ryan Guillemette is a beautiful man, which sounds weird, but is true. It’s like he has this light inside, this glow about him, like nothing bad has ever dimmed his switch. I love the fact he’s so innocent in some ways. He makes me want to be a better person. His mom is kinda scary intense, but Ryan is just the opposite, as quiet and easygoing as his dad. I love that I can relax with Ryan, that he seems to accept me despite all my mess. He’s fierce on the hockey rink but so sweet and gentle and thoughtful with me. I love him, and I really hope this time things work out.
CC: He sounds like a sweet and steady guy. If there is one thing you could tell the reader, what would it be?
SM: I really wish people would give those of us who look different or have different backgrounds a chance. We don’t all have Hallmark families or have grown up in the church, but I’m understanding more and more that God doesn’t care about that stuff. God sees the heart. And if the Bible is true, it says that while we were still sinners Christ died for us. So I guess that means we’ve all sinned, nobody is perfect, so therefore nobody should look down their nose at another person. Because Jesus died for that person too. Just like He did for me. So yeah, don’t judge a person by their cover. Jesus died for them too.
A beautiful truth. May we all be that light to someone. Thanks for talking with us today, Sylvie. Readers, check out this story of love, redemption, and acceptance. It’s a message we could all use and spread.
Reader Question: What other books have you read with characters that people tend to judge before they know them?
About Carolyn Miller:
Carolyn Miller lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, with her husband and four children. A longtime lover of romance, especially that of Jane Austen, Georgette Heyer and LM Montgomery, Carolyn loves drawing readers into fictional worlds that show the truth of God’s grace in our lives. Her contemporary romance series includes the Original Six hockey romance series, Muskoka Romance series, and the Independence Islands series, and her historical series include the Regency Brides and Regency Wallflowers series.
Deal Alert: Get Muskoka Shores for $0.99 for a limited amount of time.
by Crystal Caudill | Aug 30, 2022 | Author Interviews
Today it is my pleasure to introduce to you, Janet Ferguson. I’ve “known” Janet online for several years now, and she is a joy to keep up with. But let me introduce you to her properly.Â
Janet W. Ferguson is a Christy Award finalist and the FHL Readers Choice Award-winning author of realistic inspirational fiction. An avid reader, she loved books so much she found a job as a librarian so she could be around them all day. Then she turned that love of story into writing faith-filled novels with characters who feel like best friends. You’ll laugh and cry as the quirky heroes and heroines chase their happily ever after. ​Janet and her husband live in Mississippi where they say y’all a lot, and she forces him to visit the beach as often as possible. They have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a cat that allows them to share the space.
You can connect with her through:
Website | Facebook | GoodReads  |  BookBub Â
*If you sign up for her newsletter, you will get her Christy Award finalist novella, Falling for Grace for free. Click here!
Now for the fun stuff! I have to admit I am partial to my Fast Five. 🙂 So settle in as I hit Janet with rapid-fire.
CC: Milk or Dark Chocolate?
JF: Both!
CC: Print or E-book?
JF: Love print but since my eyes are aging, eBooks are easier to read now.
CC: Cat or Dog Person?
JF: Both again. 🙂
Morning Person or Night Owl?
JF: Night for sure. Mornings hurt!
CC: Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter?
JF: Summer and beaches.
Now for a couple of fun personal questions:
How can we pray for you?
JF: That the stories I write glorify God and spread the Good News of His love and grace.
CC: Amen! Amen!Â
What is your favorite Bible verse?
JF: So many! But I love Isaiah 55’s invitation,
“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost. Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare.”
We think we need so much, but really God supplies our true needs.
CC: It is so easy to get wrapped up in the “things” of life instead of what we truly need.
What are you reading right now?
JF: I am finishing a novel by Tosca Lee called A Single Light. It’s a thriller for sure.
CC: I’ve not read anything from her, but I have heard her writing still keeps you on the edge of your seat.
What do you like to do when you aren’t reading or writing?
JF: Walking outside, trying new restaurants, traveling, Bible study, and taking pictures of nature keep me happy.
CC: Those are all great hobbies. My family especially loves trying new restaurants.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
JF: In 2012, both my parents passed away, along with my mother-in-law within 2 months. I’d had a story idea for about 7 years. After those losses, I realized life was short, and I began writing my first novel which became Leaving Oxford.
CC: Realizing the brevity of life can be a kick in the pants for so many things. I am sorry for your losses, but so glad good came out of them in the form of your writing.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
JF: A lot of times, I write sitting on my bed, LOL! My room is quiet and I have a stack of pillows piled up and research books spread out all over.
CC: That would be far too tempting for me to take a nap instead of write. LOL
What is your writing Kryptonite?
JF: I hate editing. It’s just so hard to rethink something once it’s finished, especially part of the plot or story.
CC: I’m the opposite, but I can see where that could be difficult.Â
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing?
JF: I’m not the best at having a schedule anymore. I’ve decided to write one book a year, giving it my best work. If I get behind on my deadline though, I’ll go to a library or coffee shop to finish those last chapters. Sometimes I have to get away from distractions at home.
CC: Distractions at home are the hardest. You literally have to leave in order to escape them. One book a year sounds like the perfect pace to me!Â
What has been the biggest challenge for you on your writing journey?
JF: Writing the stories of heroines who’ve gone through abuse was incredibly hard, because I had to dig into how that must have felt and how it affected them. The emotion of that is tough.
CC: That is definitely a huge challenge and one that also becomes a spiritual battle in and of itself.
Let’s talk about your newest release, Healing Skye.![Healing Skye: A Coastal Hearts Novel by [Janet W. Ferguson]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41AZIyFFjTL.jpg)
People can’t be trusted.
Animals always made more sense than humans did to marine biologist Skye Youngblood. After her mother’s tragic death, she left Alabama and never looked back. These days, she pours her heart into protecting nature’s sea creatures. When she returns to Dauphin Island, Alabama, for a temporary manatee migration study, her dark past is much too close. She can’t let her guard down. But how can she keep her heart hidden when a kind man with a genuine smile makes her want a fresh start?
Charter fishing pays the bills for widower Pete Thompson and his little girl, but like his father, a pastor, Pete can’t help but fish for men. Only, after growing up under constant scrutiny as a preacher’s kid, Pete’s ways are a bit more unconventional. And the bulk of his life revolves around raising his precious daughter.
When he witnesses the car wreck of a new marine biologist on the island, it doesn’t take a genius to see that more than just her physical pain needs tending. Pete feels called to help Skye find true healing, but he’s navigating dangerous waters. And he’s not at all sure he’ll walk away unscathed.
Purchase your copy here.
CC: Who was the most challenging character to create?
JF: Probably this last character Skye. She’s had such a hard childhood with a terrible stepfather and a mother who suffered from depression.
CC: Those traumatic backgrounds can really make for reluctant characters–even for us the author. I’m so glad you stuck with it.
Which character was the most fun to create?
JF: My hero of For the Love of Joy, Davis, showed up in The Art of Rivers as a side character and he was just hilarious. He was also in Star Rising. At some point I knew he had to have his own story. I think God gave me Davis as a gift and a joy to write.
CC: That is so sweet. I love how those recurring side characters eventually get their own stories.
What was some of your favorite research for Healing Skye?
JF: For Healing Skye. I loved researching manatees. I even went to swim with them in Florida! They are truly gentle giants.
CC: My family saw the first time in the wild this summer. They really are fascinating and so gentle.
How did this story affect you as you wrote it? Did God teach you anything through the writing?
JF: A couple of things came to me through this story. Sometimes we don’t think God is with us because of the bad things in life, but if we really look, we can see that He was there walking with us, sometimes carrying us, all along. Another thing I processed is that the church is made up of broken people, but it is still Christ’s bride.
CC: Amen to all those hard lessons!
If you could be any of your characters, which one would it be?
JF: I love Rivers from The Art of Rivers. She’s artistic and kind and though she might come off as weak, she’s truly strong in her core because of her faith.
CC: I love that. The core of our faith is really our strength.
How do you select the name of your characters?
JF: Oh goodness, I spent hours looking at websites with names and baby names and historical names and name meanings. It’s a rabbit hole for sure. I keep a long list of names. If I meet someone or hear of an interesting one, I make a note.
CC: I love capturing names as I meet new people. Writing historical, it’s rare that I get to use them, but there are some fascinating names out there.
What do you hope readers will take away from your story?
JF: We have a God who cares about your pain. We have a God who loves purely—a Savior who heals.
Thank you so much for joining me today and providing all of us with a wonderful distraction. As my final question, I have my usual “Fun Question”.
What are the top three things on your bucket list?
JF: They all involve travel, I think! I’d like to see Scotland, the rest of the United States that I haven’t gone to, and New Zealand.
CC: Travel never gets old. Or at least the dream of it, and your location selections are excellent!
Thanks for getting to know Deb Kastner with me. Don’t forget to check out her book, Healing Skye, and answer the question below to let us know what your bucket list items are.
by Crystal Caudill | Aug 9, 2022 | Author Interviews
As my reading has been sporadic and my ability to write book reviews has been limited, I am relieved that I can at least provide you with introductions to some great authors and characters. This week I have the privilege of introducing you to Rachelle Paige Campbell. Â
Rachelle Paige Campbell writes contemporary romance novels filled with heart and hope. She believes love and laughter can change lives, and every story needs a happily ever after.
You can connect with her through:
Website |  Newsletter | Instagram |  Amazon | BookBub | GoodReads
Now for the fun stuff! I have to admit I am partial to my Fast Five. 🙂 So settle in as I hit Rachelle with rapid-fire.
CC: Milk or Dark Chocolate?
RPC: Dark
CC: Print or E-book?
RPC: Print (I love bookstores.)
CC: Cat or Dog Person?
RPC: Dog
CC: Morning Person or Night Owl?
RPC: Morning person
CC: Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter?
RPC: Summer
Now for a couple of fun personal questions:
CC: How can we pray for you?
RPC:Â I want to pray that we all recognize our similarities over our differences. Our communities make our country strong and we can’t be ripped apart from each other.
CC: That is definitely something our country needs in a big way. It has broken my heart to see our country so divide.Â
What is your favorite Bible verse? Why?
RPC: John 8:32. “You will know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” I feel this so deeply in my soul. When you are guided by Him, you can’t be dissuaded by (sometimes petty) other influences.
CC: Amen. It’s so important to stand firm with him. It makes things so much easier to deal with life, even when life isn’t easy.
What are you reading right now?
RPC: At the moment, I’m reading craft books as I edit two manuscripts. I’m looking forward to the next batch of Love Inspired suspense books.
CC: I have a soft spot for LIS. I have few waiting for me as well.
What do you like to do when you aren’t reading or writing?
RPC: I love to garden. I live in the Midwest so I have a limited season. I take full advantage of the warm days.
CC: I envy your ability to garden. I have a black thumb. Although, I am very proud of the ONE tomato I have. . . even if it isn’t really growing anymore or turning red . . .
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
RPC: I’ve been telling stories since I was a kid. It wasn’t until I had my first child that I decided to pursue my dream.
CC: I think storytelling just runs through must writer’s blood. Â
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
RPC: When I’m writing a first draft, I “see” the plot. I end up editing to make sure my readers can “feel” the book.
CC: That makes sense to me!
What is your writing Kryptonite?
RPC: The words “hey mom” snap me out of my writing groove in a second. It’s a little complicated writing over summer break but I figure it out.
CC: Boy do I feel that one. Interruptions are TERRIBLE.
What is your work schedule like when you are writing?
RPC: I do my best writing in the morning. Over my morning coffee, I review my notes for the next scene and think about it while I’m walking my dog. When I get home, I’m ready to dive in.
CC: Routine makes such a difference when you have the ability to write.
What has been the biggest challenge for you on your writing journey?
RPC: At the start, I wasn’t hitting goals as fast as I “thought” I should. Learning to embrace my process and my path has made so much difference in my mindset. I love the journey I am on and am so grateful for every step on the way.
CC: Learning what is realistic for yourself and your life is really key. I’m struggling to learn that one myself.
Let’s talk about your release, Love Overboard.
Forced to share a stateroom with her ex-fiancé, Caitlyn fakes amnesia to stay on board her dream Alaskan cruise. Torn over deciding his future, Cruise Director Gregory tumbles into helping her. As they grow closer, unspoken secrets threaten to rip them apart, for good.
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Google Play | Kobo
CC: Which character was the most challenging to create?
RPC: Caitlyn was a challenging character because she is shy. My dad is a very shy person. I’ve grown up watching people make assumptions about him based on his reticence. The opinions are always wrong so I wanted to explore shyness from the inside out.
CC: Having personal insight into that must have been helpful and helpful for understanding your father.Â
What was some of your favorite research you discovered while preparing for Love Overboard?
RPC: While writing Love Overboard, I discovered a slew of old travel videos available on Amazon Prime. I watched hours of Alaskan cruise videos from the 1980s and 1990s, produced by cruise lines. It was like traveling back in time to my childhood.
CC: Oh, that is fun. I didn’t even realize they had those!
How do you select the names of your characters?
RPC: When I’m selecting character names I first check to make sure I haven’t used the name already. I am not trying to create a universe populated with relatives across my non-series books. Then I figure out the year they were born and look up the popular names from that year on the social security database.
CC: That Social Security database is SO incredibly useful for that!
What was the inspiration for your story?
RPC: I have always wanted to take an Alaskan cruise (still dreaming about it). I have been lucky enough to take several Caribbean cruises. On one trip, my husband and I found a hidden room in a fake smokestack with a beautiful view and a baby grand piano. The discovery sparked a story (and you’ll see this in a scene).
CC: Oh that is cool! Now I’ll have to be searching for secret rooms if I ever make it onto a cruise!
What do you hope readers will take away from reading your story?
RPC: I hope readers will be encouraged to take the trip, take the chance, and fully embrace their lives.
CC: That is an exciting encouragement.
Thank you so much for joining me today and providing all of us with a wonderful distraction. As my final question, I have my usual “Fun Question”.
If you could travel anywhere without worry about cost, where would you travel?
RPC: Alaska is my dream trip and I hope to go one day.
CC: I am right there with you. It’s definitely on my bucket list.Â
Thanks for getting to know Rachelle Paige Campbell with me. Don’t forget to check out her book, Love Overboard, and answer the question below to let us know where you would travel.
Reader question:
What do you think about historical stories? Should they portray things with as much accuracy as possible to the time, or should authors make adjustments for today’s cultural perspectives?
by Crystal Caudill | Oct 5, 2021 | Book Reviews
Husband Auditions
by Angela Ruth Strong
So this is one of the super rare times that I’m going to share a contemporary romance review. As many know, this season has been a rough caregiving season, and during the first few very intense days of post-surgery caregiving I found myself needing something different. I’d seen people all over talking about this romantic comedy called Husband Auditions and it just seems like exactly what I needed to get a light-hearted laugh and entertainment.
Husband Auditions delivered. There were scenes I straight up laughed out loud over. Like when Gemma asked Meri to duck tape her to a chair . . . I don’t want to spoil the fun, but it was perfect and hilarious, and something my suspense writer friends and I would totally do. However, the book wasn’t just something you laugh your way through, finish, and then set aside to forget about. This story dealt with Meri who had built marriage up as an idol in her life and Kai who struggled with laziness after so many failures in his life. I don’t believe I’ve ever read a more realistic portrayal of the struggle or a healthier resolution to a love story. It is a story I would really encourage all my unmarried friends especially to read. Not only will you get a laugh, but you’ll also get a really healthy perspective of marriage before you say “I do.”
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Portland, OR
Plot Overview:
How far would you go to find the perfect husband? All the way back to the 1950s?
In a world full of happily-ever-after love, Meri Newberg feels like the last young woman on the planet to be single, at least in her Christian friend group. So when she’s handed a strange present at the latest wedding–a 1950s magazine article of “ways to get a husband”–she decides there’s nothing to lose by trying out its advice. After all, she can’t get any more single, can she?
Her brother’s roommate sees the whole thing as a great opportunity. Not to fall in love–Kai Kamaka has no interest in the effort a serious relationship takes. No, this is a career jump start. He talks Meri into letting him film every silly husband-catching attempt for a new online show. If it goes viral, his career as a cameraman will be made.
When Meri Me debuts, it’s an instant hit. People love watching her lasso men on street corners, drop handkerchiefs for unsuspecting potential beaus, and otherwise embarrass herself in pursuit of true love. But the longer this game goes on, the less sure Kai is that he wants Meri to snag anyone but him. The only problem is that he may not be the kind of husband material she’s looking for . . .
With droll comic timing, unbeatable chemistry, and a zany but relatable cast of characters, Angela Ruth Strong has created a heartfelt look at the reality of modern Christian dating that readers will both resonate with and fall for.
What I loved:Â The healthy, Biblical resolution of their relationship and personal growth at the end. I really hope I get to read a novella or something with them again.
Favorite Character and Why: Gemma was a hoot. I really loved her odd and quirky ways, and the duck tape scene? That was pure hilarity.Â
Who would like this? Anyone looking for a fun, quirky read that also has truth to chew on.Â
Rating and Why: Five stars. While not my usual read, it was funny, quirky, and I was completely blown away by the end. It has stayed with me and left me chewing on what I took away from it since I read it. I’d share what I took away from it, but I don’t want to ruin the end. 😉
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