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Mikal Dawn is an aspiring inspirational romance author, wedding enthusiast and proud military wife. She also blogs for a local ministry, works as a social media assistant, and volunteers as a Key Spouse for her husband’s squadron. When she isn’t writing about faith, fun, and forever, she is obsessively scouring Pinterest (with coffee in hand, of course!) for wedding ideas for her characters. Mikal lives in Nebraska with her husband, Mark, and their three children and one ferocious feline.
For more, visit her at mikaldawn.com.
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Welcome to the blog, Mikal! I’m so excited to have you join us today!
When did you first start writing?
Do I have to give years? That would admit my age. 😉 I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember. I used to write “books” when I was super young and staple them together. The best thing ever, though, is I found a “book” my 7-year-old daughter has started writing when I was cleaning her room (which can be an entire blog post topic of its own… *shudder*).
What are you working on right now?
I’m writing a romantic comedy! And I’m having a blast doing it. Probably because I think I’m hilarious. That’ll remain to be seen, however. This involves a safe, straight-laced accountant (cliché, but she has some things about her that really aren’t cliché, I promise!) and a former NFL star cornerback who is now running an extreme outdoor adventures company. Writing some of those scenes is a hoot! Especially that first “meet” scene.
Can you tell us about one of your favorite characters you’ve written so far?
Wow. This question is hard!! And I don’t even know why! Ha! Maybe because I love them all? I think my favorite, however, is my current hero, Tyler Hawk. He’s a former NFL star cornerback who retired at the top of his game. So he didn’t go out on an injury, he doesn’t have any bitterness, and he didn’t get traded until he was let go. He retired because he achieved what he wanted and wanted to move on to a new challenge. Don’t get me wrong, though, he definitely has his flaws. What I love about him, though, I didn’t even notice until a friend pointed it out: he laughs easily and hard. Despite his flaws, he has joy, and it shows in his laughter. I love a man who can laugh. 🙂 Come to think of it…he reminds me of my husband. Maybe that’s why he’s my favorite.
That’s adorable! Love it! 😉 What’s something you love about your home state?
Ah, but I don’t have a home state! 🙂 I’m originally from a city just outside of Vancouver, Canada. British Columbia is absolutely lush, full of mountains, water, and beauty. The tag line on the license plates used to be (I don’t know if they still are) “Supernatural British Columbia.” I think it’s now “Super. Natural. British Columbia.” Either way, it fits. I married into the US Air Force, though, so I immigrated to the US almost ten years ago. I now live in Omaha, Nebraska, and it’s been my favorite state! The sunshine, trees, hills (which I totally didn’t expect), skyline, and everything to do in this city, along with the people and especially my church, is fantastic. We actually want to stay here when my husband retires from the military!
What’s one of your favorite books?
Ack! Just one?! Um…I don’t know if this question is fair. I mean, I have favorite books in each genre…and subgenres. So I’ll give you one: my favorite Medieval Romantic Time Travel (see? Subgenres are where it’s at!) is Dreamspell by Tamara Leigh (all her books are phenom!!).
What is one of your favorite Scripture verses?
Again, just one? Honestly, my favorite Scripture verse changes with each season of life or even with my moods. Today it’s Hebrews 6:19: “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, sure and strong. It enters behind the curtain in the Most Holy Place in heaven” (New Century Version). Jesus is my hope, my anchor, my sureness and my strength.
Beautiful! Can you share with us a special moment from your writing journey so far?
In all honesty, it’s the relationships. I always thought writing was a lonely journey, isolated. When I joined American Christian Fiction Writers, I found a few other women who I clicked with immediately, and we began our own little critique group. One is published, the other two are polishing their manuscripts. (We had three more join our group after several months.) I met these three ladies in person at a conference in Omaha in April, and it was just as I’d expected: like we’d known one another our whole lives. We’re truly sisters of the heart. I’ve also had the immense honor of meeting and getting to know several authors that live in and around Omaha who are such fun blessings! One in particular has become a dear, dear friend and encouragement.
That’s wonderful! Gotta love ACFW and our fellow writers. 😉 What’s been one of the most challenging aspects of writing?
The discipline! For me, sitting down and putting fingers to keyboard on a daily basis can be a challenge. I tend to overextend myself in commitments. But my family is super supportive and encouraging…and that one author I mentioned in the above question who is super encouraging is pretty bossy about getting my word count in for the day before I do anything else. 😉
Name a few authors who inspire you.
Oh man. This question is hard! Not because I can’t think of anyone, but because I don’t want to leave anyone out! I have many authors who inspire me, and I’m excited to call most (almost all!) friends, so if any of them are reading this and I don’t name you, believe me when I say YOU inspire me, too! The authors off the top of my head, though, are Tamara Leigh, Ronie Kendig, Pepper Basham, Jennifer Slattery, Sarah Monzon, Holly Michael, Shawna Young, and Teresa Tysinger. (Shawna and Teresa aren’t published yet but are getting close!)
Can you share a word of advice to other writers out there on the road to publication?
The roller coaster has many, many (many!) ups and downs. It’s an emotional ride. One day you’ll be flying high, the next you’ll be so down in the dumps and discouraged you won’t be able to see a way out. In both those moments, first look to God and remember His calling on your life: to write His story. Second, surround yourself with other writers who get you, who love you, who are honest, and who know you and your work. They’re invaluable. Third and most importantly, pray. Don’t underestimate the power of prayer that He’s given to us.
Thank you so much for sharing with us, Mikal. I’m so excited to read your work! 🙂 Praying the Lord continues to bless your writing for Him.
Thank you so much, Savanna! This was such fun! 🙂
Let’s spread the love, reading friends! You can help encourage and support Mikal’s writing by connecting with her on the following sites.
Website: http://mikaldawn.com/
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/mikaldawnauthor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MikalDawn
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mikal_dawn/
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GIVEAWAY!!
Mikal is giving away a copy of “A Twist of Faith” by author Pepper Basham to one lucky winner. Enter below and it could be you!
Thanks for entering! Contest is open to US residents only and ends September 27, 2016. The winner will be notified by email. Happy Reading, everybody!
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Fun interview! And what a great verse. Jesus, our anchor, our Savior, our rock, and our guide. 🙂 That verse makes me want to do a study on the Holy Place in Old Testament times–such rich truth woven about Christ throughout Scripture!
Heh heh heh… I think that’s a FANTASTIC study idea!! His Word is amazing! <3
Hi Jennifer! I love that idea. 🙂 So glad you could join us!
Favorite author… Oh my, there are quite a few. The ones that first come to mind are Sharon Kay Penman, Ariana Franklin, Edward Rutherford, Bernard Cornwell, and Kristin Billerbeck. Yes, the first four are medievally centered 🙂 Lovely lovely interview. Thank you!
Thank you so much, Tam!! As far as those authors go…yes to Kristin Billerbeck!! The others, well, I’ve added them to my TBR list. Because if they’re *your* favorites, they must be fab! <3
Well, I have to tell you, dear Mikal, that Sharon Kay Penman and Edward Rutherford are beloved for the way they speak medieval history in such a way it’s immensely entertaining. But Ariana Franklin and Bernard Cornwell–very exciting. If you can find Ariana’s medieval coroner tales in audiobook, you won’t regret it. Have a great day!
Ah! Good to know! I’ll have to hop on Audible and see if I can find her books. I *do* have a couple of credits waiting for me. 😀
Thanks for sharing, Tamara! I’m so glad you enjoyed our little interview. Have a blessed day!
What a fun interview, Mikal and Savanna! I can’t wait to read your book, Mikal. I think you’re hilarious, too, and I love romantic comedies. You named some of my favorite authors, too. Others I enjoy are Kara Isaac, Dawn Crandall, Melissa Tagg, Sarah M. Eden, Sarah Ladd, and Julianne Donaldson. Oh, and Amy Matayo, Catherine West, Susan May Warren and Tammy L. Gray. I guess I’d better stop there, although I know I’ve missed a bunch. 🙂
LOL Winnie!! I adore you. 🙂 And yes!! I love all those authors, too. Buuut, I thought if I name everyone, I would never finish. 😉 I can’t wait to share Tyler and Allegra’s story, though! <3
Thanks for stopping by, Winnie! You listed some of my favorites too. How fun! 🙂
Favorite author: I have to pick just one!
I will have to say Julie Klassen.
But there are actually about 15 at least.
It was actually unfair of me to ask that question, Connie. LOL! I can’t stand it when I’m asked who my favorite author is! But Julie Klassen IS fabulous.
Haha! That’s okay, Connie. We all have a LONG list, I imagine. 😉 I love Julie Klassen’s books too.
Dee Henderson–I love her characters & the way she interweaves suspense & an intelligent plot…
Yes! Dee Henderson truly knows how to weave an intelligent tale, doesn’t she? Thank you so much for stopping by!!
Hi Barb! I actually haven’t read any of Dee’s yet, but I need to. Thanks for mentioning her. 🙂
Wow I had so much fun reading this interview! Mikal (also, how cool is that name?), I love funny books and look forward to reading yours!
My favorite author is probably Francine Rivers, because of her inspiring characters who are strong in the faith. Sometimes I’d rather have a character I want to be like, rather than one I can merely relate to.
There are so many gifted authors out there!
I’m glad you enjoyed the interview, Diana. Francine Rivers is one of my favorites for sure! 😉 Good luck in the giveaway!
Diana, thank you so much!! 😀 My parents tormented me with the name, but I’ve grown to love it. 😉
Francine Rivers is a phenomenal talent, but I agree: there are SO many gifted authors out there, it’s definitely hard to choose just one favorite. Thank you so much for stopping by!
Oh goodness, just one…? Well, one of my favorites is Jen Turano. She knows just how to make you laugh! Her characters are wonderful!
I am also looking forward to reading your books Mikal! Thanks for the giveaway!!
I’ve heard so many good things about Jen’s books. I need to read them asap! 😉 Thanks for visiting, Megan!
Megan! Jen is FAB!!! And so hilarious. And waaaay funny in person. I adore her!!
Thank you so much for stopping by!! <3
I hate to pick just one author because there are several that I love. Katie Ganshert’s books are just amazing.
I agree, Merry. Katie’s books are so good! 😉 Thanks for joining us!
Wasn’t that cruel of me to make you pick just one, Merry? 😉 But I agree, Katie is wonderful. Thank you so much for stopping by!!
I so enjoyed this post and learning more about you and your writing journey, Mikal. Thanks to Savanna also. It was such a joy meeting you last month in Nashville!!
So many wonderfully gifted Christian Fiction authors – however, some at the top of my list (in the order I began reading their work): Liz Curtis Higgs, Julie Lessman, Laura Frantz, MaryLu Tyndall, and on and on, LOL!!
Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!!
Hi Bonnie!! So glad you could join us. I’m so jealous you two got to meet in Nashville. 😉 So hope to make it next year!
You named some of my favorite authors too. Such amazing women and writers!
It was one of the best weeks in my life, Savanna, and such a honor and blessing to meet so many gifted authors and reader friends. I so hope you can make it to the next CFRR, would so love to meet you!!
Bonnie!! I LOVED meeting you in Nashville. You are such a treasure to so many of us. <3
And all those authors you named…YES. To all. Because they're incredible.
Love you dearly!
Would love to read this one.
Good luck in the drawing, Kim!
Kim, you won’t be disappointed!! It’s a fun read!
My Favorite author is B.J.Hoff. She writes many Irish theme stories.
Joan
I need to look her books up! Thanks, Joan. 🙂
Joan, funny story! When I worked for an author in Canada, BJ Hoff was hired to write some devotionals under our company name for Focus on the Family. She was so sweet. 🙂
Thank you so much for stopping by!
Laura Frantz is one of my favorite authors. Her historical fiction really comes to life!
Yes, I love her and her books!! Thanks for sharing, Joan.
Joan, if you ever have the chance to meet Laura Frantz in person, DO. She’s such a beautiful woman, so sweet and fun!!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
This is a hard thing to do. I have so many favorites but right now Sydney Betts comes to mind. I love her 2 books she has and can hardly wait till her 3rd one comes out.
Oh yeah! One reason the books are about Native Americans and another reason she writes in such a way that makes you feel like you are there and that you really do know the characters. The way she describes the Bible passages is another reason.
Hi Brenda! I love hearing why you love her stories so much. You make me want to go read her books right now! 😉 Good luck in the giveaway!
Oh yes! Please read her books! They really are great!
Brenda, thank you so much for sharing!! I need to go look her up. I love authors who can write in such a way that we feel like we’re not just watching the story, but part of it. <3
My favorite author, how to pick just one. I’ve been a fan of Kim Vogel Sawyer for a long time. She is great at drawing you in with her real life characters. TY
Lucy, you know, I’ve never read Kim Vogel Sawyer! I need to rectify that. 🙂 I’ve heard she’s great!! Thank you so much for stopping by!
I think you will really like her. Let me know what you think.
I need to check out her books too. 🙂 Thanks for sharing, Lucy!