Laura Frantz is a Christy Award finalist and the author of several books, including The Frontiersman’s Daughter, Love’s Reckoning, and Love’s Awakening. She currently lives in the misty woods of Washington with her husband and two sons.
Learn more at http://laurafrantz.net/
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Savanna: Welcome to The Engrafted Word, Laura! I’m SO excited to have you as my guest this week. Congratulations on your newest release, Love’s Fortune. I can’t wait to read it! 🙂
While writing this story, did you ever uncover a piece of history that really surprised you?
Laura: So glad you’re ready to meet Wren and cast! Not too much longer now… I did uncover a couple of things that surprised/fascinated me while writing this third book. One was how wildly extravagant high society could be and how competitive the wealthy often were. Not only the gowns and finery but the food! I won’t spoil it for you by being more specific as you’ll find details within the novel itself. Another surprise was how much those abolitionists like Silas Ballantyne risked to help slaves to freedom. Their very lives and fortunes were on the line yet they still behaved selflessly, much like Christ asks of us.
Savanna: What did you learn from the Ballantyne family throughout writing this trilogy? What do you hope your readers take away from the series?
Laura: I became very aware how the choices we make, large and small, impact others in manifold ways for good or ill. Hopefully more good than ill! Silas was the building block for the selflessness and courage his family lived out in future generations. His reach extended beyond the Ballantynes as you’ll see in Love’s Fortune. That said, even a man with character cannot guarantee children and grandchildren of character. I tried to paint a realistic family within the pages of each book, both godly and ungodly. In my discussion questions (http://laurafrantz.net/books/loves-fortune/), I ask readers what they think will happen with future generations of Ballantynes, etc. I hope this series causes readers to ponder their own legacy and the brevity of life. It certainly did that for me as author.
Savanna:Â You mention on your website that you began scribbling stories at age 7. Do you still remember one of your earliest stories and can you tell us a little about it?
Laura: I still have the little novella I wrote at age 12. My family had recently taken a trip to Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts (a 19th-century living history village) and I was so inspired I came home and created a young girl who lived there and loved to ice skate. 🙂 Reading it now kind of shocks me as all the signature Frantz angst was there – lost skates, sickness, heartbreak and such, though it does have a happy ending! And a very sweet romance as only a 12 year old girl could make it!
Savanna: Sounds like an intriguing story to me! 😉 What a special heirloom. It’s clear to see that history is very important to you. If you had to pick just one historical figure from the past, who would you enjoy meeting in person and why?
Laura: That would be my beloved hero, Daniel Boone. In all my research I’ve never found anything bad about him. He was a man of integrity who was truly remarkable in every sense. Fearless and principled and unbiased, even when danger and death surrounded him on all sides. He lost 2 sons to the Indian wars and never held a grudge.
Savanna: What is one of your most unforgettable moments from your writing career to date?
Laura: The moment Revell called me and offered me a contract in 2008. I knew then that the Lord was somehow about to use a gift He’d given me in childhood, in even a small way, for His glory 40 years later. Nothing compares to that realization.
Savanna:Â Â Describe your favorite place to write. What’s your ideal setting for inspiration?
Laura: This summer I’ve done most of my writing and editing on my deck beneath a big umbrella. It overlooks our garden and orchard and woods. My ideal setting for inspiration is the Kentucky woods on a fall or spring day. I am most inspired by nature no matter the season.
Savanna: That sounds lovely. Is there anything else you’d like to add today? Any upcoming projects you can share with us?
Laura: After the Ballantynes, I return to standalone novels set in the 18th-century. Can’t wait! The title and cover art direction for my next book, releasing fall of 2015, is in the works now. I’ll share the official title with you soon!
Savanna:Â Wonderful!! Thank you so much, Laura, for sharing with us today.
Laura: I can’t thank you enough for taking time for my books and inviting me to your beautiful blog. I feel blessed beyond measure, Savanna. Happy reading to you and others!
Readers, be sure to visit these links below to connect with Laura and watch the cover shoot for Love’s Fortune.
Facebook page ~ https://www.facebook.com/LauraFrantzAuthor
Pinterest ~ http://www.pinterest.com/laurafrantz/
Website ~ http://laurafrantz.net/
GIVEAWAY!!
Laura has graciously offered one copy of LOVE’S FORTUNE to one lucky winner!
–Leave your name and email in the comments below. (You MUST include your email to be qualified)
GET EXTRA ENTRIES:
(Be sure to tell me in the comments below)
-Subscribe to The Engrafted Word
-Like The Engrafted Word on Facebook
-Share this Giveaway on Social Media
Thanks for entering! Contest is open only in the U.S. and ends September 16, 2014.
Winner will be notified by email.
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I would love to win this book. I love the cover and was in awe of the process and time put in to making a book cover. I am a subscriber, I am a fan on FB and I shared on FB. Thank you for this chance to win and sharing about the book! ~ Blessings ~
lisastifler(at)yahoo(dot)com
Lisa, Thanks so much for taking time to watch the cover shoot video. Like you, I am in awe of all that goes into it! I hope/pray you enjoy my books if you read them:) It’s a true pleasure to meet you!
Wasn’t that a fun video? Thanks for following along, Lisa. You’ll receive 4 entries in the giveaway. Hope you get to enjoy Laura’s book soon!
Savanna, It’s a true joy to be here with you and reading friends on your lovely site! Thanks very much for spotlighting Wren’s story and all those Ballantynes. I pray/hope those who read my books are blessed. You sure have blessed me right here!
Waving to Lisa, too! Thanks for the gracious words and for taking time to watch the cover shoot video:)
It’s been a blessing to me just to have you here, Laura. Thanks so much for taking the time in the midst of your busy schedule to share with us. Hope you have a wonderful week, my friend!
Laura is a great historical author! I haven’t read any of this series, but really enjoyed her previous stand alone titles. Especially The Colonel’s Lady.
I am a subscriber to the blog.
I have likes The Engrafted Word on FB
pattymh2000(at)yahoo(dot)com
Hi Patty, So glad you’ve already met Roxanna and Cass and those standalone characters:) I’d love for your to enjoy these Ballantynes. Bless you for taking time here and for your gracious spirit!
I’m sure you’ll love this series as well, Patty. Thanks for joining us today. You’ll receive 3 entries in the drawing. Good luck to you!
Laura is such a talented writer, and a sweet, sweet lady! I loved the first two books in this series and cannot wait to read this one. And I am so excited for her next book so I can meet the heroine, the lovely Miss Menzies! Hehe. 🙂
Thanks for offering this giveaway!
emmamalissa(at)gmail(dot)com
Emma, THANKS to YOU, Miss Menzies is on my editor’s desk:) Such a lovely surname for a heroine. I hope you enjoy her as a character! Thanks for being such an encourager and kindred spirit!
Welcome, Emma! We’re glad you stopped in. Hope you get to read and enjoy Wren’s story real soon. Good luck in the giveaway! 😉
I have always loved Mrs. Frantz’s books, ever since I first read “Courting Morrow Little”. Can’t wait to read this one! My email is lotr1997(at)yahoo(dot)com
Hannah, It means so much to me that Morrow has a special place in your heart/head:) Thanks for that. I’d love for you to meet Wren and cast! Bless you for making time for my books!
Hi Hannah! Thanks for commenting. It’s always fun to meet a fellow fan and reader of Laura’s. 🙂
I love all of Laura’s books and I own all but Love’s Fortune at present. I would love to win a copy and would even be sure to give a review on Goodreads.
meaganl.preston@ky.gov
~Meagan Preston
Meagan, Love that you have all of my books but Wren’s! We must change that:) I’m really thankful the Lord linked us through our mutual love of Godly fiction (I can never write that without a capital G)! Blessings on your day. I hear you’ve been having some great weather back there!
Hopefully then we can add Laura’s newest book to your library! 😉 We appreciate you being willing to give a review as well. Happy reading, Meagan, and good luck in the drawing!
How exciting! I LOVE Laura’s books, and can’t wait to read Wren’s story! Thanks for the chance to win. =) I’m a subscriber, and I liked your Facebook page!
lubell1106(at)gmail(dot)com
Hi Elyssa, So happy to celebrate another release with you! I always smile when I see your name:) Can’t wait for you to meet Wren!
Wonderful, Elyssa! Thanks for visiting. You’ll receive 3 entries in the giveaway. 😉
So excited for another release from Laura Frantz. I love all of her books!
Candy, Oh, you sure bless me with your kind words! I’m thrilled you enjoy my books! I wish I could hand you a book a month! Thanks for waiting for Wren’s story ~ and for being here to help celebrate!
Me too, Candy! Good luck in the giveaway. Hope you enjoy this story just as much. (I’m pretty sure you will!) 😉
I am currently reading The Frontiersman’s Daughter – about 3/4 through and loving it, a very “epic” novel. This trilogy is definitely on my “to read” list! I liked on Facebook and shared on twitter.
Amanda! So happy you’ve met Lael and like her wild world:) There’s a lot of my family history in that book. Thanks so much for being here and making introductions. I’ll remember your encouraging words!
I loved that book too, Amanda. Thanks for sharing. You’ll receive 3 entries in this drawing. Good luck to you and happy reading! 🙂
Love this author, whom I just discovered this summer! So thankful for all the great Christian fiction that is out there these days… quite an improvement over the cheesy stories that were out there years ago. Historical fiction is my favorite, so Laura’s works are outstanding!!
Kelly, I really appreciate your gracious words as I begin yet another story! Thrilled you discovered me this summer:) Thanks for being open to a newer author. Like you said, I do think historical fiction is improving in the Christian market. Some really fine writers out there now:) Bless you for having a heart for historicals!
Historical fiction is my favorite as well, Kelly! We’re so glad you could join us. And we’re even happier you discovered Laura’s great writing. 😉 Good luck in the giveaway!
I love your books. I’m looking forward to reading this new series. Thanks for the opportunity to register for this giveaway.
Brenda, Love your heart for my books ~ thank you! I hope you enjoy these Ballantynes. It’s a great time to read the entire series now that the third is releasing. No wait between books:) Bless you for stopping here!
Hi Brenda! Thanks for stopping in. Good luck in the giveaway. Hope you get to enjoy this series soon!
This is on my TBR list. would love to read it.
I am a subscriber
I like your FB page
D Stevens d_stevens310 at live.com
Deanna, So glad Love’s Fortune and Wren are on your TBR list. I’m honored given the sea of books out there. I’d love for you to win. Thanks for taking time here!
Thanks, Deanna! You’ll receive 3 entries as well. Have a great week!
I am so excited for this book! I hope I win!!!
I subscribe to The Engrafted Word
I like The Engrafted Word on Facebook
I shared this Giveaway on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kathryn.voss.9#
Kathryn, Love, love your enthusiasm! It’s contagious:) I hope you like Wren when you meet her – and Izannah and the rest of the cast. You’re a gem!
Wonderful, Kathryn! Can’t wait for you to read it. You’ll receive 4 entries in the drawing. Good luck! Thanks for following my blog. 😉
Can’t wait for this book! I’ve loved every one in this series, and have been on the edge of my seat to read Wren’s story! Bring it on!
Thanks for the chance to win! I’m a subscriber and I like your page on facebook!
Emreilly303(gmail(dot)com
Emma, SO happy you’ve met these Ballantynes and want to meet Wren, too! Love that “edge of my seat” comment. You are a kindred spirit:) Bless you so much!
Great! I hope you get to read Wren’s story soon, Emma. Thanks for following my blog and supporting these great authors and their stories. 🙂 You’ll receive 3 entries in the giveaway.
I would love to win your book.
Maureen, I’d love for you to win LF, too! Thanks for taking time here and wanting to read. That’s a real gift to me!
Thanks for visiting, Maureen. Good luck to you!
Hi Laura! I would be honored to have another of your books! Such inspiring stories!
Love you! Susie Frantz
Susie, SO happy to see you here! I could hand deliver this one if you win:) With pleasure! Thanks so much for stopping as I know just how busy you are!
Welcome, Susie! We’re glad you could join us. Good luck in the giveaway too! 😉
I love reading historical, Christian romance, and I grab one of Laura Frantz’s books ever chance I get. She always writes so well. I would love to win a copy of this one. Thank you for offering me the opportunity.
Janice, You make me want to write on, thanks to your very gracious comments. I’m very happy you enjoy my books and find them well written. I sure try. Would love for you to meet Wren!
Hi Janice! So glad you stopped in. Hope you get to enjoy this book as well! Have a great day.
I love your covers!!! they are soooo pretty!!
sierrafaith327(at)gmail(dot)com
I like Engrafted word on FB and Subscribed!
Sierra,
We’re kindred cover spirits, I think:) Cover art is my favorite part of publishing! Thanks for wanting to read!
I know! Aren’t they beautiful, Sierra! Thanks for joining us today. You’ll receive 3 entries. Good luck!
Your covers are intriguing! Can’t wait to read!
Ashley, Oh, love the “intriguing” word – so glad you think so! A good cover should be that, I think, too:) Would love for you to meet Wren. There are actually 2 heroes and 2 heroines in this one!
And her stories are even more intriguing! 😉 Thanks for visiting, Ashley. Good luck in the drawing.
One of my favorite authors and favorite series.
Welcome, Carissa. So glad you could join us. Hope you get to enjoy Laura’s newest book in the days ahead. 😉
Thank you for this very insightful interview with Laura Frantz. We would ALL do well to remember that “our decisions have descendants” and make wise choices in all that we say and do. I am looking forward to reading “Love’s Fortune”. I subscribe to The Engrafted Word, like The Engrafted Word on facebook and have shared this giveway on my facebook page.
Caryl, Thanks for the gift of your wise words about the legacies we leave. I’d love for you to meet Wren and the whole cast in Love’s Fortune. Bless you for taking time here on Savanna’s lovely site!
I loved the way you put that, Caryl. Very wise words, indeed. Thanks for sharing. You’ll receive 4 entries in the giveaway.
THis is really a great read, and I highly recommend it. I can say that these books really do stay true to life. Just because one is reared in a Godly home doesn’t make them Godly. This series has made me look at myself and our family differently. They are books that truly render thought and spark the imagination. They also make one consider one’s life, responsibilities and work for God; and His ultimate design for us. I so loved Wren’s story. ewe_r_merritt(at)yahoo(dot)com
I like Engrafted Word on FB and am a subscriber.
Rachael, Your encouragement is always so needed and appreciated! I’m still smiling about your review(s). Each one is so unique and heartfelt and wise. Thanks so much for stopping here!
Thank you, Rachael, for sharing with us today. It makes me all the more eager to read this book myself! 🙂 So glad to hear it blessed your heart and challenged you. I’m so grateful for authors like Laura, aren’t you?
Sounds wonderful!
Liked on facebook, subscribed, shared on facebook.
Thanks. 🙂
Genny, So glad to meet you through Savanna here:) Thank you for wanting to read Wren’s story!
Thanks, Genny! You’ll receive 4 entries in the giveaway. Good luck to you!
I just finished the story of Morrow Little, and it was wonderful. I am looking forward to reading more of Laura Frantz’s books!
Cindy, Oh joy! Thrilled you’ve met Morrow and enjoyed her story so much:) That makes my day! I hope you like these Ballantynes just as much! Thanks for taking time for my books in the sea of books out there!
Wonderful, Cindy. Hope you enjoy more fun reading soon! 😉
I don’t have much time to read anymore, but Laura’s books are some of the few that I will make time to read! Can’t wait to read this one 🙂
Marissa, You are SO busy and knowing that, it means all the more that you’re ready/wanting to read this one! I appreciate you more than you know. Blessings on you and all you’re doing!
Welcome, Marissa! Thanks for joining us today! Good luck in the giveaway.
Such a beautiful interview, Laura and Savanna!!
I love the history in Laura’s books, as well as the angst, romance, beautiful words, inspiration, exciting story lines,and wonderful characters that become friends that dwell in my heart. The risks portrayed by the abolitionists in this series has caused me to give more thought to the sacrifices made by previous residents for the sake of the underground railroad in my small town. Yes, our choices do greatly impact future generations – I am reminded of how some of my choices have affected my family.
I would love to have met Laura as the 12 year old writer, as well as meet the wonderfully masterful writer that she is today. She is one of my very favorites – I cherish each of her books and so joyfully anticipate each new release.
Thank you for sharing your writing gift and shining your “light” for Him, Laura!!
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I already have “Love’s Fortune”, Savanna!!
Dear Bonnie! So glad you mention the Underground Railroad as that is such a theme in these books though I hadn’t intended it to be. You live right in the heart or hotbed of where it was perhaps the most heated. Likewise, thank you for shining your own light with your graciousness and enthusiasm!!
As always, thank you so much for taking the time to write a personal note and share such kind words with us. You’re a treasure, Bonnie. I’m so glad you enjoyed this book. I agree, I would love to meet Laura as well. Hopefully maybe we’ll both get that chance someday… to thank her in person and give her a hug. 😉 I’d love to give you a hug as well. Have a blessed day!
I adore these book covers. I haven’t read any of her books yet but they look right up my alley. I would love the chance to win. I’m looking forward to her new novel to – I am so intrigued with stories that take place in the 18th century.
Thanks!
Amanda
libraryofmyown at gmail dot com
I follow Engrafted Word via email and I tweeted @vegasbookgirl
https://twitter.com/vegasbookgirl/status/509702549302419456
Amanda, Thrilled you enjoy 18th-century stories:) I’ve written 5 of those and now 2 in the 19th-century and they are very different centuries, that’s for sure! It’s a pleasure to meet you through Savanna. Thanks for taking time here!
Hi Amanda! Definitely check out Laura’s books. I’m sure you’ll love them as much as I do. 🙂 Thanks for following my blog. You’ll receive 3 entries in the giveaway.
Thank you for an interesting interview. Laura is a well-loved author and I am excited about this new book.
I subscribe to Engrafted Word.
I like Engrafted Word on FB.
I shared on Twitter
https://mobile.twitter.com/cps1950/status/510072080759414785
Thanks for this giveaway.
Connie
cps1950@gmail.com
cps1950 at gmail dot com
Hi Connie! Thanks for joining us and helping spread the word. We’re glad to hear you enjoyed the interview. You’ll receive 4 entries in the drawing. Good luck to ya!
I have read several of Laura’s books and love them! She is one of my favorite authors! I’d love to win this book.
I subscribe to Engrafted Word and like on FB.
jarning67@hotmail.com
Joan, Thanks for being here today. I’m really touched that I’m one of your favorite authors. Can’t wait for you to meet Wren!
Love to hear that! Hope you get to read and enjoy this story as well, Joan. You’ll receive 3 entries. 😉
Would love to add this book to my library. Thanks for the chance.
Liked on Facebook.
Hope you get to add it soon, Amanda! 😉 Thanks for visiting. You’ll receive an extra entry in the drawing.
I have not yet read one of Laura’s books, but I think I would like to do so! mjromine@knology.net
Ohhhh, Melissa, we’ve got to get Laura’s books in your hands then! 😉 So glad you could join us for the interview. You’ll receive an extra entry for subscribing. Thanks and good luck!
Oh, I also subscribed to The Engrafted Word