Humor:
When I first made the decision to write The Forgotten Princess of Elmetia, I knew I would need some kind of target to ensure I finished writing it. I opted to enter the Operation First Novel Contest to give me a deadline, as well as an opportunity to receive professional feedback. The night before I submitted, I asked my eldest daughter, Abigail, who at the time was just 7, to pray for me.
She looked at me with an excited face. “A competition? Do you get a prize?”
“Yes,” I said, “The winner gets published.”
She drew a blanked expression. “What does that mean?”
“Er, well, they would take the story I’ve written, and put it in a book, so that people can buy it.”
Abigail pulled a face. “The prize is… you get to buy your own book?” she flung her arms in the air. “You don’t even get a trophy?”
Whilst attempting to contain my laughter, I tried to explain to her that getting published is better than any trophy, however, she is yet to be convinced.
Camaraderie:
Living in the UK, there are not that many opportunities to link and network with other Christian romance writers, so I decided early on this year to take a trip over to Colorado to attend the Christian Writers Guild conference. The experience was amazing, to be able to meet like-minded people who ‘get you’. I just love the ‘buzz’ of mixing with fellow writers who encourage and inspire each other to continue to fulfil their calling as authors.
Since coming back to the UK, and becoming a Prism author, I can honestly say the camaraderie I find with fellow Prism writers to be totally unique, and I thank God for them. I find it so amazing that through the wonders of technology I can connect with authors across the other side of the world.
Inspiration:
As I write medieval romance, I love visiting historical sites to glean inspiration. I’ve been doing this since I was a child, and now at every opportunity I do the same with my own children.
The Forgotten Princess of Elmetia
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It is 616AD, and one fatal night the ancient Kingdom of Elmetia falls. Saxons kill the Elmetian King, and capture Princess Teagen. Teagen poses as a slave girl and works for the Saxons in the Kingdom of Deira, until she discovers her brother is alive. She finds a way to escape, and her path crosses with Ryce the Warrior.
Struggling with his past, and angry against the tyrant Saxon king, Ryce helps the princess in pursuit of her brother. But just as the connection between them intensifies, obstacles get in their way. The Saxon king now wants vengeance, and will stop at nothing to get it.
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Connect with Rachel through her Website or on Facebook
More about Rachel:
Rachel grew fascinated with the medieval time period as a child. Dubbed a bookworm from a young age, Rachel found herself surrounded by places steeped in history and adventure. She enjoyed trips with her family to visit nearby derelict castles and Roman ruins, and that coupled with a zealous imagination and love for stories, sparked her interest in knights, fortresses and ancient kingdoms.
Born and bred in England, Rachel writes adventure driven historical romance, she is also a pastor’s wife, and has three beautiful little princesses. She minored in creative writing at university and strives to entertain, inspire and encourage others in their own spiritual journey. She’s also captivated by romantic tales… combine it with a little history and a hot cup of tea, and she’s smitten!
Thanks so much, Rachel for being here on my blog, and good luck with your new release.
As always feel free to comment or ask a question.
Thanks so much for having me Suzanne!
ReplyDeleteIt was my pleasure! :)
ReplyDeleteI love this interview! My parents have traveled to England and Scotland, and took pictures of castles for me, as I, too, have always been fascinated by medieval times. Did you have to do a lot of research in order to write your book?
ReplyDeleteYes, I spent a few months doing research before writing my novel. I did have the advantage though, of living near-by these wonderful historical sites to learn first-hand what life could have been like in medieval times. I confess, I love the research part of writing!
DeleteThanks so much for stopping by, Nancy. I'm interested to hear how much research is involved in Rachel's historical.
ReplyDeleteI love the blurb of this book. It sounds like so much fun visiting castles and historic places.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by, Sonya. I agree, doing research can be fun.
DeleteThanks Sonya, yes it is so much fun. On special occasions the larger castles even have live actors and battle demonstrations taking place to give you a flavour of the history. My kids love it.
DeleteGreat post, Rachel. I love historical romance!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for stopping by, Lynn.
DeleteI love historical fiction. It must be great fun bending history to fit your story. I might have to try it sometime!
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by, Sandy. I agree, historical fiction does sound like fun. Especially the traveling for research part. :) Let's go.
DeleteI'm attracted to a sense of humor. The story about your daughter's response is priceless. Thanks for sharing your interesting experiences. We at Prism Book Group are happy to have you with us.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by, Gay. So funny, and kids say the darnedest things don't they?
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