Thursday, February 13, 2014

Interview with Julie Lessman + GIVEAWAY


I am SO very delighted to feature the talented and gracious Julie Lessman on my blog today! Julie's love of life as she walks with the Lord vividly comes across in her writing - and she truly appreciates her readers and loves to chat with them.

She is also giving away one of her books, winner's choice, so please make her feel welcome. Enjoy the interview and then leave a comment or question for Miss Julie. And be sure to check back because Julie will respond to your comments. (Entry details are at the bottom of this post.)

It was so much fun reuniting with the McClare family in Dare to Love Again.  Please see my review here.


1) Dare to Love Again is book 2 in the Hearts of San Francisco series. Tell us a little about this story, Julie - how it fits in with the first book, the overall theme of the series, etc.

As you mentioned, Dare to Love Again is book 2 in the “Heart of San Francisco” series that launched last April with book 1, Love at Any Cost. The series itself is kind of a poor-man, rich-man scenario among three cousins during the Irish-political landscape of 1902 San Francisco. Think Little Women meets Dynasty. J And for those too young to remember the TV show Dynasty, think family wealth and poverty in a political setting.

This series is a bit of a departure for me because it’s a little lighter and I hope a little more fun than the angst and high drama of my two prior series. And, without question, Dare to Love Again is the lightest, “sweetest” and funniest of all my books so far where spontaneous combustion between the two main characters explodes right off the bat! My spunky, hot-tempered Irish heroine goes head-to-head with my hard-as-nails, Italian police-detective grouch of a hero in the first chapter—or maybe I should say the first round. I have to admit, I had WAY too much fun at the expense of these two in a relationship that goes from fireworks to a flaming romance in the short lick of a fuse.

Here’s the jacket blurb.


She’s a sassy socialite burned by love.
He’s a jaded cop burned by the upper class.
When sparks fly … will love catch fire again?

Spunky Allison McClare is determined to be a fearless, independent woman. But when she takes a notion to explore the wild Barbary Coast, she quickly discovers she’s no match for the unsavory characters that haunt the dark streets.

Detective Nick Barone would rather do almost anything than teach this petite socialite self-defense, but it seems he has little choice. Sparks fly every time the two meet until a grudging friendship develops into something deeper. But is he just a fraud like all the rest of the men Allison’s cared for? Or the one man she can dare to love again?


2) Your books are wildly popular with many readers. But for anyone who might not be familiar with your novels, to what do you attribute their appeal?

Thanks, Carole, I appreciate that, but they definitely are not for everybody in the Christian market. I refer to myself as a CDQ (caffeinated drama queen) because I thrive on angst, drama, and passion, so my books reflect that, which is generally not the norm in Christian romance. The romance in my books is definitely more passionate, but then so is the spirituality with multi-layered plots and characters who become like family. When people ask me my genre, instead of saying “historical romance,” I like to say, “historical family-saga romance,” because it really depicts more of what my books are about. Just like much of the CBA readership enjoys Amish and Prairie romance because they harken back to a simpler, less complicated time, my stories harken back to what I think God intended a family and marriage to be—close-knit, God-centered, and human.


3) You seem extremely busy all the time, Julie - constantly giving of yourself to writing, publicizing, and connecting with your readers. And while we may not be writers, I'm sure that most of us also struggle with a similar amount of "busyness" from time to time. Does this affect your personal walk with the Lord and where do you go to recharge spiritually?

Yes, unfortunately, it does affect my personal walk, both with God and my family, which is the main reason I’m pulling back and taking a year off from the demands of deadlines, contracts, and promotion. In fact, my interview with you is the last one scheduled until my next book comes out October 7, book 3 in the Heart of San Francisco, Surprised by Love … which is also my last book for while since I plan to write at my own pace and leisure, at least for the next year. And focus more on God and family!

My biggest problem is promotion, which eats up a lot of my time. And then, of course, I LOVE my readers and like to get to know them better, which also entails a lot of emails. HA! I stopped sending Christmas cards over 30 years ago because I found I had to write a book in each one, and unfortunately, the same is true of my emails—I can’t seem to write a short one to save my soul.

But the truth is, I care about my readers—a lot! Which is why I take the time to respond with lengthy comments and emails. Unfortunately, time and sanity—and God—are forcing me to pull back, so I’m heeding the call.


4) What is the most important insight that you would like readers to take away from Dare to Love Again?

The most important insight I’d like people to take away from Dare to Love Again is that sometimes our hopes and dreams take a detour or don’t pan out the way we hope they will. It’s in these times of discouragement, despair, or even betrayal (such and Alli, Nick, and Caitlyn experience) that we need to hold on to our faith like a lifeline, never taking our eyes off the prize—our love affair with God. A God Who not only “dares to love us” despite our failings and humanity, but dares to offer each of us a hope and a future that is abundantly, exceedingly more than we could ever hope, think or pray.

Thanks so very much, Carole, for hosting me on your blog. Readers can check out my favorite romantic and spiritual scenes from each of my books on the “Excerpts” tab of my website at julielessman.com/excerpts, and I hope writers will visit The Seekers blog at seekerville.blogspot.com, a group blog of 13 published authors that inspires, encourages, teaches, and informs aspiring writers on the road to publication and beyond.

Finally, here are some fun freebies, sales, and giveaways going on right now or in the future:




1.) FREE DOWNLOAD of my debut novel A Passion Most PureAmerican Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Book of the Year, A Passion Most Pure has over 364 five-star reviews on Amazon and some of readers have actually read it more than 20 times! Here are the links for your free download.  AMAZON, BARNES & NOBLE, CBD.COM 



2.) SALE TO END SOON ON 99-CENT A LIGHT IN THE WINDOW! I hope you’ll check out my video for my Irish love story, A Light in the Window, which stars my daughter and has won three awards and garnered 129 five-star reviews. It’s still only 99 CENTS on Amazon, but only for a little while longer, so check out the video here, http://bit.ly/1kkzvlC, and you can download it here: AMAZON.



3.) FREE DOWNLOAD on Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Inspirational and Sweet Markets coming FEBRUARY 11-15 on Amazon, so mark your calendar and here’s the link to find out more about the book: Romance-ology 101.

Thanks again, Carole, for a fun interview!

____________________

One of our readers will win a book by Julie, winner's choice. To enter, follow these steps:

1) Leave a comment or question for Julie

2) Bonus entry #1 - follow my blog through Google Friend Connect (see sidebar)

3) Bonus entry #2 - "Like" my Facebook page

Be sure to leave your e-mail in a safe format so the winner can be notified. Contest ends Saturday evening, February 15. US mailing addresses only. Winner will be selected by random.org.

108 comments:

  1. I'm so glad Kathleen and Debbie directed me to your blog! I am now a follower both by google friend and email. Thanks for the chance to win one of Julie's novels. I love 'em!

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  2. Julie Lessman is the "Best of the Best" when it comes to writing. I've read all of her books and after "Dare to Love Again" I'm anxiously awaiting "Surprised by Love" (October has never seemed so far away!- GROAN!) The cousin's love stories are great, but I'm beyond excited for Cait & Logan's 'will they/won't they' saga to hopefully come to a happy ending. Would love to see Cait become a little jealous if another woman decided to pursue Logan. The sparks would be something to see/read - wink! wink! Whatever or however things happen, I know Mrs. Lessman will not disappoint.

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  3. Thank you for visiting here, Marianne! Kathleen and Debbie do so much for authors, bloggers and readers. Have you read Julie's books before?

    Don't forget to leave your e-mail in case you win.

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  4. Hi Carole, we met on the banter last night...good to see we have mutual friends in Julie. I always like to stop by and say Hi Julie when I see her along the way. wonderful author and wonderful person, she and I love Rhett and Scarlet. Julie you always look happy when I see you, It just seems to spill from you and make others happy too so keep on being the wonderful person you are and keep on writing those books for us. I would love to be in the drawing here.
    Have a great day Ladies..

    Paula O(kyflo130@yahoo.com)
    Pauline on FB Carole-joined you too

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  5. Amy, I am so with you on the Cait & Logan romance. As much as I love the cousins' stories, it's Cait & Logan who stand out to me. I'm pretty sure they will get their happy ending, but I love your suggestion about another interest. I don't want to rush time, but I am so ready for "Surprised by Love"!

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  6. It's so good to see you here, Paula! I'm pretty sure we're in one or two Goodreads groups together, so I recognized you in Leslie's Book Banter last night. I'm another Gone with the Wind fan because I live in a small town that claims to be the home of Tara. Of course Tara is fiction, but one of the battles close to Atlanta was fought here.

    And I second everything you said about Julie! She is truly special, both as a writer and a person. You are entered, Paula.

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  7. Forgot to include my e-mail, with my comments. Thanks for the opportunity to win one of Mrs. Lessman's books.
    aimmesser@yahoo.com

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  8. Julie
    Im proud of you taking a year of quiet time to recharge.
    God bless you
    Chris
    granvilleATfrontiernetDOTnet

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  9. I followed and liked too
    chris Granville

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  10. Chris, I really don't see how Julie does everything, so I'm very glad she's taking time off to renew, both physically and spiritually. Thank you so much for becoming a follower and liking my FB page.

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  11. Julie is one of the best in the inspirational market. I can appreciate how she might want/need to slow down! I think most of us need to say no more often...

    Pattymh2000(at)yahoo(dot)com

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  12. Hey, MARIANNE, it's SO good to see you here, my friend. I see you all the time on Seekerville, but it's always fun for a familiar face (name) to pop up!

    And I really appreciate you reading my books and coming by -- here's to a win!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  13. AMY, you little vixen, you -- you want to see "sparks" over Cait's jealousy??? HA! Me too!!

    Yes, there will be "jealousy," but not the sparks you would expect, although the romantic tension WILL be high, I assure you!

    Thanks SO much for your kind comment, my friend, AND for reading my books -- MUCH appreciated!!

    I don't know if you post reviews or not, but if you do, I wanted to let you know about a newsletter contest I have going on now through 3/31/14 where posting even one short review for any of my books will enter you to win a character named after you in my next book, a signed copy, and if you are the top poster, a $50 gift card. So if you're interested, just sign up for my newsletter (I send out two a year) at http://www.julielessman.com/sign-up-for-newsletter/, and I will send you the info, okay? But if reviews are not your thing, NO WORRIES, okay? I'm just grateful you read my books in the first place!! :)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  14. CAROLE ... it's SUCH a privilege and pleasure to be on your blog the next few days. I have to say, my friend, that forging a friendship with you is one of the highlights of my writing career, and really -- all the dear friends I've made are THE highlight for me, after writing for God. :)

    And Debbie and Kath are AWESOME, and I love them to pieces. :)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  15. PAULA!!! Seeing your name pop up ALWAYS makes me smile, my friend, so THANK YOU for your support and friendship. :) Doesn't surprise me, though, because anybody who loves Rhett & Scarlett automatically move to my "Best Bud" category! ;)

    Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
    Julie

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  16. Hey, CHRIS, thank you!! I'm proud of me, too, because it took a LONG time for God to convince me to take my hands off the wheel and hop in the backseat. But ... I'll be there soon, and I'm looking forward to the rest and recharge BIG TIME! :)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  17. Haha Julie I love how your a CDQ! So made me giggle!

    I'm so glad you stopped by on here! I really enjoy getting to know authors more through all kinds of ways! I haven't read any of your books (yet), but I am planning to read some this year! I don't like missing out on great authors!

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  18. Also Carole I follow you on GFC and liked your page!

    sylvesternator (at) yahoo (dot) com

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  19. I would love A Light In The Window!

    Which era is your most favorite to write, to read?

    mandn(at)wisper(dash)wireless(dot) com

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  20. I can't wait to read Dare to Love Again. It is on the top of my reading list! Love all of your books, Julie! I also followed through google friend and facebook. Thanks for the chance to win!
    candicervaldez at gmail dot com

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  21. I'm thrilled to see so many of Julie's friends and followers today! Julie and her writing have become very special, and it's hard for me to express how much of an honor it is to have her with us today.

    Our snow/ice is finally thawing enough for me to go to the grocery store, so I look forward to visiting with all of you when I return.

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  22. I'm so impressed by how involved you are with your readers. I hope you have a wonderful well-deserved sabbatical!

    I'm a GFC and facebook follower!

    colorvibrant at gmail dot com

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  23. LAURA!!! You haven't read any of my books yet??? WOW ... do I have a deal for you!! ;)

    Right now, book 1 of my Daughters of Boston series (about an Irish family in Boston during WWI) is available for FREE DOWNLOAD! I'm happy to say that APMP won American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Book of the Year and currently has 368 five-star reviews on Amazon, so I hope you will give it a shot. Some of my readers (several) have even read it over 20 times, if you can believe that!! Here's the link: http://amzn.to/NGghc0

    And if you "love" CDQs, then, girl, you might be in for a GREAT time since all my books have LOTS of drama, angst, and passion like only a CDQ can add, so good luck in this contest AND do get the download, okay?

    HUGS,
    Julie

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  24. ANONYMOUS ... which era is my favorite to write and read? Great question!

    I would have to say that I'm partial to writing about the Roaring 20s because my O'Connor family saga (about six siblings and two parents who are VERY much in love) spans from 1916 to 1932, and the 20s were an absolute JOY to write! SO much transpired to change our society from a Victorian/Edwardian era to the modernism we enjoy today during those years, so I fell in love with that era. But I basically love to read anything from the early 1900s on, like my current series, The Heart of San Francisco, which spans from 1902 to 1904.

    I would LOVE to send you a copy of A Light in the Window, so here's to a win! By the way, the cover for ALITW was designed by my artist hubby who used my daughter as a model, which was SO fun! I don't know if you have seen the video my hubby created for it, but it's AWESOME, so here's the link to cut and paste in case you haven't seen it and would like to:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGKjHddYNeE&feature=youtu.be

    Thanks for coming by and GOOD LUCK in the contest!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  25. Aw, CANDICE, thank you SO much for your kind comment, and I would LOVE to send you a signed copy of DTLA, so here's to a win!

    And since you've read my books ... I thought I'd let you know about a contest I'm running through 3/31. Like I mentioned to Amy above, I don't know if you post reviews or not, but if you do, my newsletter contest is going on now where posting even one short review for any of my books will enter you to win a character named after you in my next book, a signed copy, and if you are the top poster, a $50 gift card. So if you're interested, just sign up for my newsletter (I send out two a year) at:
    http://www.julielessman.com/sign-up-for-newsletter/

    and I will send you the info, okay? But if reviews are not your thing, NO WORRIES, okay? I'm just grateful you read my books in the first place!! :)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  26. Oh, CAROLE, I am SO glad you are able to get out and about! This has been some winter, hasn't it??

    Hugs!
    Julie

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  27. I have read all of Julie's books and I just keep re-reading them because they're so good. What I love about her books is that they are not just romances, they are Christian romances :) I recently got one of my good friends to read Love At Any Cost and she loved it!! What makes that even more awesome is that she now knows more about God :) Julie is such a blessing and inspiration. I am so blessed to have been able to find her books :)

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  28. It sound like a great book!!!!! so excited!!
    Thanks for the giveaway!
    sydneyharries@gmail.com

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  29. Sound like a great book!!! can't wait to read it!
    Thanks for the giveaway!!!

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  30. Great interview!

    I havent read any of your books Julie, but they are definitly on my list to read!

    How many books do you have?

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  31. Hi, Carole! Great blog and interview! I've subscribed and also "liked" your Facebook page. :-) I recently downloaded "A Passion Most Pure" on my Kindle and am looking forward to reading it! I would love to read more by Julie Lessman! My question is: Was there a certain author or book that inspired you to begin writing family-saga romance? litteraegaudium@aol.com

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  32. I follow you thru GFC.
    I believe you have my email address in case I win.

    Thanks so much for the Giveaway!

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  33. Yay, so the next book is in coming? Can ´t wait!!!
    Julie, so proud of your decision to take time for yourself and your priorities!

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  34. I have been google connected and get your emails, and liked your facebook page while back... and here I am commenting...
    Julie, you will have to send me your mailing address for real letters. I have read a few of Julies books, wishing I had more hours in my day. Homeschooling, Homekeeping and Books... Trying myself to heed the call and do it in a more efficient way here too. I have learned so much this year plus and been blessed of God through Julie and her books, giveaways and my new goal like i said was to have all her books in paperback and not just on my kindle !!! I want my girls to have good , pure , wholesome books to read when older. Julies books are just that.
    Do you all know that Linda Marie Finn will be in Surprized by Love !!! I can't wait, its an honor to be one of Julies characters and I cannot wait till the day comes that my name is in Print, isn't that so cool... Throws her pink feather boa over her shoulder and flashes you a irresistible smile...Hey, did you see my long silky hair and a few finger waves...lol Raising
    eyebrows !!! lol Julie, I just love you so !!! You are the best and we'll be friends forever,even one day in heaven.
    Linda Marie Finn
    faithfulacresbooks @ gmail dot com
    http://www.faithfulacresboks.wordpress.com

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  35. Hi Julie,
    I am finally starting to read "Dare To Love Again" and it is so very good. It is a bit more low-key, but I like the change. Have a good time taking time for yourself. You must feel overwhelmed with all your activities. I've done that since my Dad passed away in November. I'm finally getting my emotional health back and God is so good. He gives us strength when we need it and lets us take a time to reenergize and take time with Him and our families. God bless you. I love you, Julie. I pray our paths cross again soon.

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  36. Hey, HEIDI, let me tell you something, my friend -- my reader friends (I HATE the word "fan"!!) are the BEST part of this job, seriously. Some of my dearest friends today are reader friends, and they mean the world to me. I truly enjoy and LOVE all of my reader friends and wish I could spend scads of time chatting with them, and I have up until now. But God is calling me to pull back at the end of this month once all my promo is done, so I heeding His call and will not be doing interviews or much FB promo till my next book is out in Oct.

    But no question I'm looking forward to the rest and writing for sure. :)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  37. Okay, STARLIGHT, STARBRIGHT, you just made me tear up, my friend, because your comment really blessed the socks off of me -- THANK YOU!!

    And thank you, too, for introducing your friend to my books -- SO appreciated! PLEASE tell her about the FREE DOWNLOAD for a A Passion Most Pure right now, if you will, okay?

    Hugs and GOOD LUCK in the contest, you sweet thing!

    Julie

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  38. PATTY!!! Gosh, not sure how I missed you, but I'm glad I saw your comment, my friend.

    Thank you SO much for those sweet words -- there are a TON of fabulous authors in the CBA, so I am honored you consider me to be "one of the best"!! :)

    Yes, we all have to learn to slow down and so "no" at times, but the most important we need to learn (and I'm still learning!) is how to say "yes" to God. :|

    Hugs and GOOD LUCK!

    Julie

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  39. Hey, SYDNEY, thanks for coming by to leave a comment and good luck in the draw.

    And I don’t know if you have read any of my books before, but if not, I strongly encourage you to check out a FREE DOWNLOAD going on right now of my first book, A Passion Most Pure, which won American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Book of the Year and currently had 368 five-star reviews on Amazon. Here’s the link if you want to check it out, and I hope you do: http://www.amazon.com/Passion-Most-Pure-Daughters-Boston-ebook/dp/B…

    Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
    Julie

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  40. HEY, ANONYMOUS, thanks for coming by to enter, and it sounds to me like you may not have read any of my books before, and if that's the case, do I have a deal for you!

    I strongly encourage you to check out a FREE DOWNLOAD going on right now of my first book, A Passion Most Pure, which won American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Book of the Year and currently had 368 five-star reviews on Amazon. Here’s the link if you want to check it out, and I hope you do: http://www.amazon.com/Passion-Most-Pure-Daughters-Boston-ebook/dp/B…

    Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
    Julie

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  41. Oh, MELISSA ... I am SO glad to hear that because I LOVE introducing new readers to the O'Connor family!! ;)

    I have written 11 books -- the first 7 deal with the O'Connors of Boston from 1916 through 1932, then my current series is the "Heart of San Francisco" series, of which our featured book today -- Dare to Love Again -- is book 2. Book 3, Surprised by Love releases Oct. 7, then I have a writers workbook called "Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Inspirational and Sweet Markets WHICH just happens to be on FREE DOWNLOAD RIGHT NOW THROUGH SAT., so I hope you take advantage. Here's the link for you to copy and paste:

    http://amzn.to/1djCe78

    But the BEST thing I have to tell you is that right now there is also a FREE DOWNLOAD for my first book, A Passion Most Pure, which won American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Book of the Year and currently had 368 five-star reviews on Amazon. Here’s the link to copy and paste if you want to check it out, and I hope you do!

    http://www.amazon.com/Passion-Most-Pure-Daughters-Boston-ebook/dp/B…

    Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
    Julie

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  42. SARAH SNIDER ASKED: Was there a certain author or book that inspired you to begin writing family-saga romance?

    LOL ... oh, honey, I can tell right now that I'm a new author to you because everyone who has ever read one of my interviews KNOWS I am a Gone with the Wind freak!

    From the moment Scarlett seared Rhett with a look on the winding staircase of Twelve Oaks, I was hooked, and my “romance-writing career” began! In fact, after reading GWTW at the age of 12, I penned my own 150 single-spaced manuscript that today is the basis for my debut novel, A Passion Most Pure. Clearly for me, GWTW is the greatest historical novel I’ve ever read, not only for the rich and sweeping Civil War tapestry that Margaret Mitchell created, but for the wonderful impact her haunting love story had on me.

    SARAH, thanks SO much for downloading APMP, and if you like it, PLEASE let me know because I have a newsletter contest going on now through 3/31/14 where posting even one short review for any of my books will enter you to win a character named after you in my next book & a signed copy. So if you're interested, just sign up for my newsletter (I send out two a year) at:
    http://www.julielessman.com/sign-up-for-newsletter/

    and I will send you the info, okay? But if reviews are not your thing, NO WORRIES, okay? I'm just grateful you plan to read my book in the first place!! :)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  43. JANKA!!! Oh, girl, you are SOOOO bad for my diet, you know that?? I've been hitting the chocolates up HARD, and my hubby and son-in-law did, too, last night, so you are a bad influence!! ;)

    Seriously, I smile every single time I see that chocolate because I can hardly believe that some sweet person would pay the kind of postage you paid to send me chocolate from Slovakia -- WOW!!

    Anyway, YES, Surprised by Love releases October 7 (or so they tell me!), and it's Meg's story ... and Bram's and Devin Caldwell's too! ;)

    Thanks for your encouragement, my friend, and your beautiful and loving personality. I feel like I know you and yet we just met. :)

    Hugs and GOOD LUCK ... would LOVE to send you a signed book, you sweet thing. :)

    Julie

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  44. LOL, LINDA ... YES, we WILL be friends forever, you sweet thing ... because you are THE LUCKIEST reader friend I have ever had, so I know you'll just keep on winning and winning ... ;)

    Get that feather boa and snazzy hairdo all ready for your debut, my friend, because I am going to make you smokin' in that book! ;)

    Hugs,
    Julie

    P.S. Notice I didn't wish you luck? You are one person who already has it! :)

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  45. WANDA!!! I always love to see you pop up here and there, my friend!!

    SO glad you are reading DTLA and "low-key"??? Really??? I thought I put enough stick-whacking in there to keep the "key" quite high. :) Actually, it is the "sweetest" of all my books, which means the passion is tamed down considerably, but the romantic tension is still as high, I hope.

    And you are SO right -- God DOES "give us strength when we need it and lets us take a time to reenergize and take time with Him and our families." THANK GOD!! :)

    God bless you too, my friend, and I would really love to sit down and have coffee with you some day as well, so I'm saying a prayer we will. :)

    Hugs and I love you too, Wanda!

    Julie

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  46. I absolutely love Julie Lessman's books. I've read several of them and always look forward to a new one. Would love to win one, but will read "Dare to Love Again" even if I don't win.

    Carol Dyer
    cgdinasia@yahoo.com

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  47. Aw, CAROL DYER, THANK YOU!! What a sweet thing to say, and here's hoping you will win DTLA here!!

    And, Carol, I don't know if you post reviews or not, but if you do, I wanted to let you know about a newsletter contest I have going on now through 3/31/14 where posting even one short review for any of my books will enter you to win a character named after you in my next book, a signed copy, and if you are the top poster, a $50 gift card. So if you're interested, just sign up for my newsletter (I send out two a year) at http://www.julielessman.com/sign-up-for-newsletter/, and I will send you the info, okay? But if reviews are not your thing, NO WORRIES, okay? I'm just grateful you read my books in the first place!! :)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  48. Julie, thank you so much for sharing with us. I enjoy your books very much. I've told Carole this numerous times - I like a book with conversation and action, not so much cogitation! Well, your books deliver the conversation and action that keep me interested long into the night! Thank you for sharing your gift with us. Kim Carole has my e-mail address.

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  49. After reading this I'm very sad. I can't believe it will be a while before Julie comes out with new books. I really feel like crying! Though I understand her decision it still makes me sad! I do wish you well!

    happygurl1807(at)yahoo(dot)com

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  50. Gosh, ANONYMOUS (you're my third Anonymous today ... shy people, perhaps? ;)), thank you SO much for your encouragement and kind words -- that blesses me more than I can say!

    And THANK YOU for reading my books -- it's sweet reader friends like you and Carole that make this biz worthwhile. :)

    Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
    Julie

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  51. Julie, the last "anonymous" was a dear friend of mine named Kim. She and the Carol who posted above her are members of a Christian reading group on the SparkPeople health website. So we read and try to stay healthy at the same time, although sometimes I think reading wins out!

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  52. Julie, I know you'll be back tomorrow, but I want to go ahead and ask you another question:

    For those of us who enjoy your writing, what are some ways we can support and encourage you?

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  53. I would never miss a Julie Lessman book! I've read all of them and can't wait to read this one!! I'm also a friend on GFC.

    marissamehresman(at)aol(dot)com

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  54. Aw, KAYLA, I'll be back in October when Surprised by Love comes out, and if I'm blessed with the time I hope to have, then it's my plan to finish a contemporary I started before I got published and hopefully get it out there for my best-bud reader friends like you sooner rather than later, so PRAY for anointing and supernatural productivity for me, okay?

    Hugs!!
    Julie

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  55. Wow, CAROLE ... the Sparkpeople health website?? Sounds like something I need to join because I could use a little "spark" right now! ;)

    Aw, Carole, you are SO sweet to ask and I can't tell you HOW much I appreciate your support already, my friend. I would say the #1 thing I need right now are prayers to draw closer to God, to follow His leading for my career, and for supernatural anointing to write my next novel. That is both the MOST and the BEST thing anyone can do to support any author. :)

    Love you!!
    Julie

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  56. I would love to read Dare to Love Again! Every interview, review, and excerpt I read just makes me all the more anxious to read it! :)
    I love your books Julie! I hope to own them all in print eventually, but right now I only have one - A Hope Undaunted. Oh, could you tell me what happens with Steven, since I still can't get his book (I know that would be a major spoiler, but I'm dying to know!)? It seems as though I've been waiting forever, even though in reality, it's only been a few months. :)
    Oh, and I liked your Facebook page, Carole.
    God bless,
    ~Sarah

    bookluver1492 [at] gmail [dot] com

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  57. Whew Carole I made it! It's been a long night and day taking care of my mom. I wanted to show my support so I'm so glad I didn't miss this on the first day. :)

    Miss Julie!! I love you Lady and I LOVE your writing style. My question is: I know you tend to get some heat from readers that feel offended by your passionate scenes in your books (I Personally LOVE them!) How does that effect your writing and you personally?

    You know I'm all about a Julie Lessman masterpiece so count me in on the drawing please!

    Wanda Barefoot
    flghtlss1(at)yahoo(dot)com

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  58. Thanks for the chance to win a copy of Julie's book. I loved this interview and the new information learned! I love Julie's books and love the way she is willing to interact with her readers!
    I am a fan of hers on Facebook.
    Nancycooks4u(at)gmail(dot)com

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  59. Carole, What a great interview. I enjoyed your questions and reading Julie's answers. I am always interested in the authors lives, purpose of writing, and most of all relationship with the Lord. I have never read any of Julie's books so am looking forward to putting her on my new-author-to-read this year. Looks like her books would be very catchy! Thank you for sharing this with us readers.

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  60. OH MY! after reading some of the comments I forgot to include my email also. How can I win a book if I don't come back and leave it! :-) So here it is... amylsmith at bledsoe dot net.

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  61. For my Bonus entries... I follow you every way I can. LOL Email, Google +, GFC, and facebook!! Love your blog!! :-)

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  62. Julie has to be one of the best Christian writers of the century. I love the passionate tension between the characters and family dynamics. I'm so glad to know there is someone out there that has such a passion for romance as I do. Living in a world where pure romance is usually frowned upon I am so happy to find someone so like myself.

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  63. Wanda, you must be exhausted from taking care of your Mom and I appreciate the extra effort it took to stop by here. I hope you get some good rest tonight.

    Amy, thank you for your sweet comments. You and I think alike because I like to know about an author's personal and spiritual side.

    Sarah, glad you made it! The worst thing about a series is having to wait until the next book to find out what happens with a character we care about. Hope you get to read about Steven soon!

    Nancy, I'm glad you enjoyed the interview and appreciate you stopping by.

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  64. I'm a fan of julies. I just love her books. thanks for sharing .

    ABreading4fun [at] gmail [dot] com

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  65. gfc follower

    ABreading4fun [at] gmail [dot] com

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  66. I follow you on Facebook! Thanks for the giveaway! I love Julie's books!!!Shelia Hall sheliarha64@yahoo.com

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  67. Good evening, Julie and Carole!

    I loved your review, Carole, as well as the interview!! Julie knows I'd "read the telephone book", so to speak, if she wrote it!!

    The ironic thing is that I bought all of her books before reading the first one - she laughed, and asked how I knew I would even like them!! I KNEW I would love them because I had fallen in love with their author because of her love and kindness shown to her readers, and more importantly - because of her love for God, and her zeal to not only make Him the center of her life, but the center of her books, and to use them to draw others closer to Him!!

    Carole, your use of the word "vivid" to portray Julie's placement of God as the center of her books is SO accurate!! There is never any doubt as to His place in her books, and her life - His light shines so brightly through her!!

    I will miss "seeing" her online for the coming months - her joy and enthusiasm lights up the online pages, just as they do in her books!! But - I'm thrilled that she is taking the time off to rest, regroup, spend time with family, and "wait on the Lord", and am excited to see what He has in store for her future!!

    THANK YOU, Julie - for the love you ALWAYS show everyone, THANK YOU for using your writing genius to bless us, and THANK YOU for letting God use you to be such a wonderful inspiration!! Love you!!

    Thank you, Carole, for hosting Julie!! I have "liked" your Facebook page, and am a Google Friend Connect follower!!

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  68. Bonton, please leave your e-mail in case you win! I appreciated your words so very much; you and I are a lot alike because I bought several of Julie's without having read a single one - and that was because of her enthusiasm, honesty and faith that were so evident online.

    Thanks again to all who have posted! Your support and encouragement for Julie are greatly appreciated.

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  69. Here's the e-mail Carole - sorry I didn't leave it in my previous comments, thought maybe you had it since I signed in with it on Google to enter the comment!! Thank you!!

    bonnieroof60(at)yahoo(dot)com

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  70. Carole, what a wonderful interview. I love getting to know authors better. I love Julie's books. She always brings strong characters to fall in love with and her plots flow effortlessly which pulls the reader in. Looking forward to reading more of her books.
    We are friends on Facebook and I follow you on Google.
    Thanks to both you and Julie for sharing.
    Blessings
    Katrina
    eppersonkatrina(at)yahoo(dot)com

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  71. Thank you, Bonnie. When I clicked on your name previously, all that came up was your Blogger page, with no way to contact. But I found you on FB just now and sent a friend request.

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  72. How nice for the free downloads! I really enjoy Julie's books, but don't have this one! would love it. Thanks for the wonderful opportunity. Sonja dot Nishimoto at gmail dot com

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  73. Ooh, a contemporary? I'm definitely intrigued ... honestly, I think I would read anything written by Julie Lessman!

    My question is regarding the cover art in the Heart of San Francisco series. What was the book cover art process like? Was it any different from your previous series?

    Thanks so much for the chance to win!

    jafuchi7[at]hawaii[dot]edu

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  74. GFC: Lady DragonKeeper

    jafuchi7[at]hawaii[dot]edu

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  75. Liked your Facebook page (email me if you need the name)

    jafuchi7[at]hawaii[dot]edu

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  76. Julie, I love your character names! How do you come up with them? Do you have names before having a story concept or do the names develop as you work on your story? kosterbind (at) gmail (dot) com

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  77. Carole, I 'liked' your FB page! kosterbind (at) gmail (dot) com

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  78. When did you know you wanted to become an author?

    admin (at) spitupisthenewblack.com

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  79. I subscribed to your blog!

    missionwife AT hotmail DOT com

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  80. I'm a google follower!

    missionwife AT hotmail DOT com

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  81. I 'liked' your FB page!

    missionwife AT hotmail DOT com

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  82. I love Julie's statement - never take your eye off the prize!

    missionwife AT hotmail DOT com

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  83. SARAH, bite your tongue, girl!! You know I can't tell you what happens to Steven -- you HAVE to read it!! ;)

    There are TWO BIG twists that will blow you away, so I cannot ruin that for you, can I? Besides, it's the O'Connor swan song with an epilogue guaranteed to make you cry, so do you have a library close by that you can borrow it from or request that they purchase it? They will, you know, if you ask them.

    Or ... if you know anyone who has the ebook, you can ask them to lend it to you for a couple of weeks free, which Amazon allows them to do. Check your loops to see if anyone will do that for you, okay?

    Hopefully you will win DTLA here and who knows ... if you do, just maybe there will be something else in the package. :)

    Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
    Julie

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  84. WANDA!! Do you always take care of your mom?? Was she sick ... did I miss that? Saying one for you (and you) RIGHT NOW!!

    SO glad you came by because it wouldn't be the same without you, my friend.

    You asked: "I know you tend to get some heat from readers that feel offended by your passionate scenes in your books (I Personally LOVE them!) How does that effect your writing and you personally?"

    HA! Me personally? I cry a lot! :) I still remember the very first 1-star review I got on Amazon for APMP. It started out with: "This is simply a horrible book." I cried all the way from my office at work to the parking lot across the street and all the way home, devastated.

    Well, since then (and some 39 one-star reviews over 11 books, which is only 3.5 one-stars per book versus 1,446 five-stars over all), I've learned to take those one-stars in stride for the most part. But it's the really nasty ones (i.e. the one that called my writing "scum reading" or "smut," and the one that maligned me, my husband, my marriage, and asked people to pray for me) that really do wound me still. So much so that I prayed about quitting the Christian market altogether and writing secular instead. But God told me to stay in the CBA, so I am.

    How does it affect my writing? Well, believe it or not, it's tamed me down somewhat, at least for the San Fran series, which I wrote in a sweeter vein to please my husband.

    But the next book I write? It will be a stand-alone contemporary that I hope will be my modern
    version of APMP, meaning it will be my contemporary love letter to God, so it will follow the same passion of the O'Connor saga, both spiritually and romantically.

    Man, I'm as long-winded in my comments as I am in my books. Sigh.

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  85. Hey, NANCE, yeah I pretty much spill my heart in these interviews, so readers will learn something new in almost every one, guaranteed! :)

    Good luck in the contest, my friend!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  86. AMY SMITH!!! You are JUST the type of gal I'm looking for -- someone who HASN'T read one of my books yet, so do I have a deal for you, girlfriend!! ;)

    I have TWO books available for FREE DOWNLOAD right now, so I hope you will take advantage.

    Book 1 of my Daughters of Boston series (about an Irish family in Boston during WWI) is available for FREE DOWNLOAD at the following link, which you can copy and paste in your browser:

    http://amzn.to/NGghc0

    I'm happy to say that APMP won American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Book of the Year and currently has 368 five-star reviews on Amazon, so I hope you will give it a shot. Some of my readers (several) have even read it over 20 times, if you can believe that!!

    Then the second book I have available for FREE DOWNLOAD is a writer's workbook entitled ROMANCE-OLOGY 101: WRITING ROMANTIC TENSION FOR THE INSPIRATIONAL AND SWEET MARKETS. It's only free through Sunday, so if you are a writer, I hope you check it out. Here's the link to copy and paste:

    http://amzn.to/1djCe78

    And good luck in the contest!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  87. GOD'S WINK!!! Holy Cow -- "one of the best Christian writers of the century"????

    WOW, girl, I should send you a free book just based on that comment alone!! ;)

    Thank you SOOO much for your incredibly kind words. And trust me, I AM SOOOO "glad to know there is someone out there that has such a passion for romance as I do" TOO!!!! We are two peas in a pod, girlfriend, and I sure wish there were more of us so we could reach a world obsessed with Shades of Gray, you know??

    Thanks SO much for coming by and I would LOVE to send you a signed book, so here's to a win!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  88. APPLE BLOSSOM!!! So good to see you here, Abs,and let's hope it nets you a win, okay?

    HUGS!!
    Julie

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  89. Hi, SHELIA ... good to see you here, my friend, and maybe THIS is the giveaway that will make it happen for you, so GOOD LUCK!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  90. BONNIE!!!

    YOU SAID: "The ironic thing is that I bought all of her books before reading the first one - she laughed ..."

    LOL ... OUT LOUD I laughed, as a matter of fact, because I just couldn't imagine why anyone would buy all my books before reading even one!!

    You see, I did that VERY thing with an author I read who SO blew me away, that I immediately searched for all of her books. I was OVERJOYED when I discovered she'd written a 6-book series prior to the 3-book series I had just devoured. So I immediately set about purchasing all six, only to discover that books 1 and 6 were the only two still in print. I was devastated, so I only ordered book 1. And WOW ... was I glad because apparently this series was the first one she wrote, and to be honest, I could NOT even finish the book, which rarely happens. If I had bought all six, I would have been sick. :|

    That's why I laughed -- because I tried to do the same thing, but failed, thank God!! :)

    Bonnie, you are SUCH a treasure, and a true blessing in my life, so thank you for all you do for me, my friend. :)

    Love you!
    Julie

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  91. OH MY GOODNESS, CAROLE ... you too??? Bought SEVERAL of my books before reading even one?? Well, God bless you, my friend, that is TRUE faith!! ;)

    Glad I didn't disappoint you, girl, especially after all the mouthing off I did on Goodreads!! ;)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  92. KATRINA ... thanks SO much for coming by to leave such a sweet comment -- MUCH appreciated!!

    And here's hoping it nets you a win, my friend, so GOOD LUCK!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  93. Hey, SONJA, yeah, those freebies are nice, aren't they? I have about 50 on my Kindle and I plow through them very S-L-O-W-LY, but I do get to them eventually.

    Good luck in the contest!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

    P.S. Whoo-hoo ... good luck captcha was "Scarlet," the perfect one for a GWTW freak!! ;)

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  94. Hey, LDK ... yeah, it will be fun to see what you think of my contemp, but THANK YOU for your faith in me! Hopefully I won't disappoint you, God willing ... :)

    You asked: "My question is regarding the cover art in the Heart of San Francisco series. What was the book cover art process like? Was it any different from your previous series?"

    It was a lot different from the DOB series, I can tell you that, because I had a LOT of input on those covers. For instance, originally Faith's hair was down, but it looked like a prairie romance, so I asked them to sweep it up for a more Bostonian look, which they did. Then they had a pic of Collin that made him look like a namby-pamby. It was SO bad, that I promptly started crying when I saw it. :) So I asked the Revell artist if that was the only pic they had of him, and she said, "No, there's one more, but he's angry looking, and nobody up here thought that would work." "WHAT???" I said, going on to explain that it worked perfectly because Collin WAS angry that he was attracted to a woman he couldn't have. :) So they went with it, and the rest is history.

    On the San Fran series, however, I gave Revell what I thought were wonderful cover suggestions since this was to be a lighter, funnier series. I had a profile shot of Cassie in a gorgeous Gibson-Girl-style evening gown with a lasso in her hands behind her back and a sassy smirk on her face. Then for Alli, I had her with a pair of boxing gloves dangling in her hands behind her back, also with a sassy smirk. Finally I had Meg with a pair of thick-lensed glasses behind her back since she goes from an ugly duckling with braces and glasses to a swan beauty after her year in Paris. The background on each book was to be a different San Fran scene -- the bay for Cassie, Chinatown for Alli, and Sausolito or the Wharf for Meg. Unfortunately, Revell decided to go with a cover more like Laura Frantz's sweeping Love's Reckoning cover, which ended up not working at all. So at the last minute, the artist had to hustle and do the sassy model shot you see on LAAC, and the other covers followed suit. But all's well that ends well, right?

    Sorry, I'm rambling again ... ;)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  95. KELLY O. ... great question!!

    I actually picked the names for the O'Connors when I was 12 years old, which is when I started writing A Passion Most Pure after reading
    Gone With the Wind. The only differences were that Charity O'Connor was originally Delatha O'Connor (don't ask!) and Collin was ... are you ready for this?? ... Bart!! You see I was in love with Bart Maverick back then, which was a TV show WAY before your time, I'm sure. :)

    Then for all the rest of the names in both my O'Connor series and the McClare series, I pulled from an Irish name list off the Internet. Nice and simple, eh? :)

    Hugs and Good LUCK!!

    Julie

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  96. Oh, ASHLEY, I knew from the moment I read Gone With the Wind! That amazing book inspired me to begin my own novel at the age of 12, a 150-page, single-spaced manuscript that is actually the basis for my debut novel, A Passion Most Pure.

    In fact, I was so hooked on romance after reading GWTW, that when I was in high school, I actually dressed up as a nun to go to a free showing of GWTW for the local religious and clergy. One of my friends had a sister in the convent, so she loaned us novice habits and off we went! I sat there mesmerized, shoving free popcorn into my mouth as I watched the tug-o-war between Rhett and Scarlett. It was one of the most fun times of my teens … until we ran into the nuns from our high school! Whew, we got into trouble … but it was soooo worth it (at least at the time!).

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  97. MEL!!! Girl, you're popping up all over the place, my friend, so you must REALLLLY want this book! We'll see what we can do in this contest, sweetie, so GOOD LUCK!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  98. I love Julie's books! I just recently started reading them and now she's taking a break! Well, I guess that'll give me a chance to catch up on them without missing a new one...lol. I would love to read Dare To Love Again. Thanks for the giveaway!
    Rachel (smileytwin10 {at} gmail{dot}com)

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  99. Followed at GFC!

    Rachel (smileytwin10{at}gmail{dot}com

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  100. Liked your FB page! :)
    Rachel (smileytwin10{at}gmail{dot}com

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  101. LOL, RACHEL ... I'm SO sorry, sweetie, but I'm not really taking a break from writing ... just from FB, interviews, emails, and contracts. I am starting my first-ever contemporary soon, and then book 3 of the Heart of San Fran releases Oct. 7, so I'll be popping up then. :)

    Thank you SOOO much for reading my books, and I trust you have already read the Daughters of Boston and Winds of Change series AND the O'Connor prequel, A Light in the Window???

    If so, I don't know if you post reviews or not, but if you do, you may w know about a newsletter contest I have going on now through 3/31/14 where posting even one short review for any of my books will enter you to win a character named after you in my next book, a signed copy, and if you are the top poster, a $50 gift card. So if you're interested, just sign up for my newsletter (I send out two a year) at http://www.julielessman.com/sign-up-for-newsletter/, and I will send you the info, okay? But if reviews are not your thing, NO WORRIES, okay? I'm just grateful you read my books in the first place!! :)

    Hugs!!
    Julie

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  102. I LOVE Gone With the Wind! In fact, I'm rereading it right now for the fourth time and have about 100 pages left!

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  103. Sarah, would you believe I live in Atlanta and have never actually read Gone with the Wind?! I know everything about it, though, and have it on my Kindle to read soon. You and Julie have permission to stay on my case until I read it!

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  104. Congratulations to Paula O, winner of her choice of Julie's books!

    I appreciate all of you who came to support Julie. Keep reading her books and posting reviews online!

    And to Julie, my deepest appreciation because this has been an incredible experience with a gifted author who has such a passion for the Lord. I hope we can do more of these in the future!

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  105. SARAH, another GWTW freak, YES!!!

    Well, girl, if you lean toward GWTW, then I'm hoping APMP will appeal as well because Margaret is my inspiration for this novel ... LOVE all the drama and passion in her book!! NOT that mine is even remotely close to the caliber of novel of GWTW -- I'm definitely not saying that, but the drama, passion, and angst? Oh, yeah ... ;)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  106. CAROLE, say it ain't so ... you have NEVER read GWTW or gone to the museum in Atlanta??? Well, I will forgive you since you do have it on your Kindle and plan to read it soon, RIGHT??? ;)

    It was an absolute pleasure being on your blog, my friend, and you bet we'll do this again -- say October??

    WHOO-HOO, PAUL ... WAY TO GO, GIRLFRIEND!! And mega hugs to everybody else who came by -- I wish you could all win. :|

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  107. Carole Jarvis, have you ever had this much traffic on your blog ? smile lol
    Julie just has such a following and we all know why...
    Smokin huh Jules... Linda blows out the fire on my fingertip of my index finger... lol
    Can't wait
    Linda

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  108. excited that I won and got to choose a book that I have not read from Julie's books. I can see we have lot of folks that liked GWTW too, great people to be around.
    I will visit this blog again and hope others do too, the interview and all the comments great to look back on.
    Thanks Carole and Julie..

    Paula O

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