Not so long ago, SARA ELLA dreamed she would marry a prince (just call her Mrs. Charming) and live in a castle (aka The Plaza Hotel). Though her fairy tale didn’t quite turn out as planned, she did work for Disney—that was an enchanted moment of its own. Now she spends her days throwing living room dance parties for her two princesses and conquering realms of her own imaginings. She believes “Happily Ever After is Never Far Away” for those who put their faith in the King of kings.

For more, visit her at http://saraella.com/
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Welcome to the blog, Sara. I’m so excited to have you join us here today. I LOVE the cover of Unblemished and can’t wait to read it!

Can you tell us what first inspired “Unblemished”?

I had horrible acne as a teen so that definitely inspired the main focus for the story. My own experience with self-image influenced El’s character and how negatively she feels toward herself.

I also adore Beauty & the Beast, and the theme of true beauty can most certainly be found in Unblemished. Those familiar with fairy tales will see them woven throughout. I find the stories I grew up with very inspirational and love the hidden messages behind them.

Finally, music is a huge inspiration for me and the chapter/ act titles are actually lyrics and song titles from popular musicals.

What was your favorite thing about writing this book? And what was the hardest part about writing it?

My favorite thing? Hmm . . . that’s a tough one. I loved writing Ky’s character. He grew so much throughout the writing process and I was really pleased with who he turned out to be. He makes me laugh. I definitely think he has the best lines.

The hardest part is always simplifying for me. I tend to feel the need to explain things to death in order for them to make sense. This was especially true with the scene in which Joshua is telling El about the different types of kisses. Thank goodness for my amazing editor who helps me simplify and tighten!

I read on your website that you’ve attended the ACFW conference for several years. Can you share with us a special memory from your very first conference?

Oh, yes! ACFW is my home away from home. My first conference was a whirlwind, and they get better every year. My favorite part about my first time was meeting so many amazing people! I learned the author community is full of nerds and weirdos like me. I remember sitting next to Nadine Brandes at the first timer’s orientation and being so nervous. I just kept thinking, “Wow. I’m sitting next to a published author!” I also remember walking up to Mary Weber and being scared to ask her to sign my book. She greeted me with a hug and invited me to sit at her table. The conference ended with me winning the Genesis award and that was truly humbling. I’ll never forget my first time at ACFW.

Love this. It’s been a couple years for me and I still remember so many priceless moments. I can’t wait to attend the conference again this year. I’ve missed those sweet author hugs! 😉

I see you’re a fan of Once Upon a Time. Me too!! 🙂 If you could be any character from the show, who would it be and why?

Haha! How could you NOT be a fan of Once? I love that show and have followed it from the beginning! Oh man, ANY character? The show has evolved so much. I never would have thought I’d say this, but as the characters stand now I think I’d want to be Regina. She has an amazing arc and I love the person she’s becoming. Of course, I’d probably want to be Emma too, if only so I could spend the day kissing Captain Hook. 😉

Haha! That does sound like fun. 😉 And I know what you mean about Regina. I’ve loved watching her journey unfold. Such a fun show!

What is one of your most unforgettable moments from your writing career to date?

I would have to say the first fan letter I received stands out in my mind. She was so kind and excited about the story and the characters. Those kinds of moments are why I write. <3

Is there anything else you’d like to add? Any upcoming projects you can tell us about?

Unraveling, book 2 in the Unblemished trilogy, releases July 11, 2017. It’s available for pre-order on Amazon now.

I also want to add, don’t ever let anyone make you feel inferior. You are beautiful as you are, inside and out!

Can’t wait to read Unraveling as well. 😉 Thank you for sharing! So glad you could join us today, Sara.

It was my pleasure! Thanks for having me and for asking such great questions!

GIVEAWAY!!

Sara has graciously offered to give away a signed copy of Unblemished to one lucky reader. Enter below and it could be YOU! ;)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thanks for entering! Contest ends April 25, 2017.  The winners will be notified by email. Happy Reading, everybody!

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