Lynn Austin, a former teacher who now writes and speaks full time. Lynn was recently inducted into the Christy Award Hall for Fame for winning eight Christy Awards for her historical fiction. One of those novels, Hidden Places, has also been made into a Hallmark Channel movie. Lynn and her husband have raised three children and make their home in Michigan.
For more, visit her at www.lynnaustin.org
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Welcome to the blog, Lynn. I’m so excited to have you here today. Congratulations on your recent release, On This Foundation. What a beautiful cover!
Thank you so much, Savanna. Iβm honored to be your guest. The cover for On This Foundation is one of my favorites ever!
What was one of your favorite discoveries during your research for On This Foundation?
I had a chance to travel to Jerusalem while I was researching this book and saw the actual remains of Nehemiahβs wall. It was thrilling to touch the stones that he and his men worked so hard to put into place. I could tell by the wallβs somewhat haphazard construction that they had been in a big hurry to finish. Accomplishing it in only 52 days under enemy threats was a miracle. But a close second to my experience of seeing Nehemiahβs wall was discovering this verse in Nehemiah 3:12ββShallum son of Halloheshβ¦repaired the next section with the help of his daughters.β Who were these women who defied convention and risked their own safety to help their father build his portion of the wall? That happy discovery led to one of the main storylines in the novel.
Wow. I bet that was incredible! What do you hope readers will remember the most from your Restoration Chronicles?
I hope theyβll remember that the story told in Ezra and Nehemiah can also be our story. God calls us to return to Him even if weβve wandered far away; we can trust Him to be with us through all the fires and storms in our lives; He wants to help us restore and rebuild what was lost; and He longs to guide us and direct our future.
When did you first start speaking? What is your favorite subject to talk about?
When my first book, Godβs and Kings, was published in 1995, I began getting requests to speak to a wide variety of groups. I didnβt want to talk about myself or make these talks into advertisements for my book. So I spoke about the theme that has been at the core of all 23 of my novelsβGodβs love and faithfulness. I love to reassure my audiences that Godβs love is unfailing and then inspire them to find their unique calling (the way I found mine as a writer) and play their part in building His kingdom.
Out of all the stories you’ve written so far, which one was the easiest to write? Can you explain why?
My novel Wonderland Creek was probably the easiest to write because I had such fun with it. The research trip I made to eastern Kentucky inspired me with its beautiful, rugged scenery. I could easily imagine Alice, my city-slicker heroine, traveling there. She is a librarian and a book-lover but all of her life experiences come from books, not real life. So I decided to give her some real adventures from all the types of stories she lovesβromance, mystery, a treasure hunt, suspense, and so on. It was a lot of fun to dream up all these escapades for Alice, and then adding humor to the story wherever I could. The novel was different from many of my others and a pleasure to write.
Several of your novels have won the Christy Award. Can you share with us a special memory, a special moment, from one of those times?
The very first time my book was a finalist for the Christy Award, I had no idea what to expect. I had worked so hard to get published and trusted God through all the ups and downs of that process. There were so many times I nearly gave up and went back to teaching. I still didnβt feel as though Iβd βmade itβ as an author and questioned whether God really wanted me to keep writing books for a living. When they called my name and announced that Hidden Places had won the Christy Award, I was suddenly overwhelmed with a sense of Godβs presence and blessing. I donβt remember walking up to accept the award, or hearing the applause, or any of that. I felt God smiling down at me and saying βWell done, faithful servant.β I knew He wanted me to keep writing.
Oh I love this. Thank you so much for sharing with us today, Lynn! Is there anything else you’d like to add? Any upcoming projects you can share with us?
Iβm currently finishing the final chapters of my next novel, Waves of Mercy. Itβs what I call a βfamily saga,β where the characters tell their stories from the past, intertwined with the current storyline. I have always loved writing this type of bookβEveβs Daughters, Hidden Places, Though Waters Roar, for exampleβand so I enjoyed returning to it. The setting for this novel is the town of Holland, Michigan and the Dutch immigrant families who settled it in the 1840s when it was nothing but a barren wilderness inhabited by Native Americans. By the 1890s the town was thriving, and the beautiful resort hotels on Lake Michigan attracted wealthy vacationers from Chicago. These two settings are interwoven in what I hope is a satisfying and entertaining story.
Sounds so intriguing! Can’t wait! π It’s been a joy to have you with us today. Have a blessed 2016!
GIVEAWAY!!
Lynn has graciously offered to give away 3 copies of On This Foundation to three lucky winners. Enter below and it could be you!
Thanks for entering!Β Contest is open to US residents only and ends February 16, 2016.Β The winner will be notified by email. Happy Reading, everybody!
I loved Wonderland Creek! It is hilarious, touching, and thought provoking, all at the same time. I also really enjoyed Until We Reach Home.
Hi Katy! So glad you could stop by. I’m so anxious to read both of those you mentioned. They sound amazing! π
Such an interesting interview Lynn and Savanna – thank you!! The story line of each of Lynn’s books mentioned is wonderful- would love to read each one, thanks for the giveaway opportunity!!
I’ve read so many wonderful books which I will never forget. The latest is probably Julie Lessman’s “Isle of Hope” – it touched me deeply and resonated with my past. A beautiful story God is using to change lives, per reader comments!!
Shared post!!
Hi Bonnie! I always love it when you visit. I had so much fun welcoming Lynn to the blog. π Hope we both get to read more of her work soon. π
You know I LOVE sweet Julie and her special stories. π That book really hit home for me too. Thanks for sharing!
I will never forget Gods and Kings by the wonderful Lynn Austin here! The characters really captured my attention. Thanks for the giveaway!
I can’t wait to read that one, Diana! Appreciate you joining us for the interview and giveaway. Good luck!
Congrats on the Honors Lynn! Thank you Savanna for the interview…they make me want to read every one of the books and authors you showcase!
Thank you for joining us, Joanne. π I’m so glad you enjoy the blog. It’s always great to have you here.
Hidden Places…I have lost count of how many times I have read it.
Oh how fun, Amanda! Thanks for sharing that. Good luck in the giveaway!
Cold Mountain is one of the ones I will always remember!
I’ve not read that one, Joanne, but I have seen the movie and the mountain too. π
All of Paige Dearths Books (about Child Abuse) π
I’ve not heard of that one before, Linda. Sounds like a story that would certainly be hard to forget. Such a difficult topic.
Necessary Heartbreak: A Novel of Faith and Forgiveness by Michael J. Sullivan
Hmmmm, I’ll have to look that one up, Janet. It’s new to me. π
I LOVE the Walk Series and the Mistletoe Promise by Richard Paul Evans. There’s other books too that have me and I not only enjoyed but stay with you. π
Hi Wenona! Yes, it’s so hard to choose, isn’t it? I haven’t heard of those. Thanks for sharing! And good luck in the giveaway too. π
One book I will never forget…The Thief.
That one is on my TBR list for sure! Thanks for visiting, Melanie.
There are lots of books I will never forget. π One is definitely “Pearl in the Sand” by Tessa Afshar!
Thanks for this interview and giveaway!
Hi Raechel! I’ve just recently heard about Tessa’s books. They look SO good. Good luck in the drawing!
Great interview Lynn and Savanna! I recently read Lynn’s novel THE STRENGTH OF HIS HAND. It’s chilling to see ISIS wage war with terror as did the Assyrians.
Thank you for the giveaway!
Oh wow, I bet that was an intense read, Caryl! Thanks so much for stopping by. I’m glad you enjoyed our interview.
I have thoroughly enjoyed Lynn’s first two in The Restoration Chronicles and am looking forward to this latest one. One book I will probably never forget is The Last Sin Eater by Francine Rivers. Thank you for this great interview. Here’s hoping!
Wonderful, Anne! I hope you get the chance to complete this series by Lynn. π I LOVE Francine Rivers too. I’ve not read the one you mentioned, though. Thanks for the suggestion. π
Wonderland Creek and A Proper Pursuit by Lynn Austin
and Paul McCusker’s The Mill House
Kathleen ~ Lane Hill House
So many good books, so little time! Thanks for sharing, Kathleen. Happy Reading!
My favorite of Lynn’s books is “A Proper Pursuit”. Thank you for the picture of Nehemiah’s Wall. How amazing that part of it is still there!
Wouldn’t that be incredible to see that in person? I enjoyed her pictures too, Bonnie. Good luck in the giveaway!
Would love to win. Thanks!!
Good luck, Kim! π
Coal River by ellen marie wiseman. She really researches her books.
Hi Kim! Sounds interesting. I’ve not heard of that one before. Thanks! π
One book that had a great impact recently was Secrets She Kept by Cathy Gohlke. It’s a story that goes back and forth following two stories in different times. I don’t think I’ll ever view things the same after that read. I love Lynn Austin’s books…this series has really been a good one!
Thank you for sharing, Rachael! I’ve heard SO much about Cathy’s work as well. I hope you get a chance to finish this special series of Lynn’s. π
Eve’s Daughters was the first of Lynn Austin’s books that I read, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Wonderland Creek has been one of my favorites too. I think that, being a reader, it’s so easy to relate to the heroine. All of the books have so well written.
We’re so glad you could stop by and chat with us, Sharon. I hope you get to read Lynn’s latest book too. π Good luck!
All of the Redemption series by Karen Kingsbury
Hi Joan! I’ve not read that series by Karen Kingsbury, but I’ve enjoyed some of her others in the past. π Thanks for visiting!
I will always remember And The Shofar Blew by Francine Rivers. Also I have enjoyed many of the Lynn Austin books.
Francine Rivers is one of my favorite authors. π Thanks so much for stopping by, Stella. Good luck in the giveaway!
I would have to say the book I’ll never forget reading is Francine Rivers “Redeeming Love”. It was one that profoundly touched my life in a way I needed it to at that time. The relentless pursuit of God after our hearts is so very powerful that words simply can’t describe it!! Reading the story brought it to life for me as I can picture everything that happened in it happening to me. WOW π
Lynn, I sure enjoyed the author interview. It must have been such a thrill to actually touch Nehemiahβs wall, knowing you were in the place he was century’s ago. To touch a piece of Biblical history would be reverent for me! I’ve also read a few of your Civil War novels and 2-3 other ones as well. You have a talent for bringing your stories to life! Thank you for your generous offer for a copy of “On This Foundation”. Since I’ve not read your Biblical stories, I think it would be just as enjoyable as any of the other ones π
Thanks Savanna! Always enjoy all the authors you feature here on your blog….blessings you two!
Yes, Trixi, “Redeeming Love” is one of my absolute favorites ever!! Still remember it to this day and it’s been years since I read it last. π Such a special message of redemption.
Good luck in the giveaway, my reading friend. So glad you could stop by!
My favorite Lynn Austin so far has been Fire By Night. The great thing about finding an established author is you have lots of great reading ahead. Thus far, I’ve read five Lynn Austin novels.
That’s great, Staci! I’m sure you’ll love this one too, then. π Good luck in the drawing.
1st, The Bible! Then, Dee Henderson’s book: Full Disclosure
Yes! π Do you have any particular favorite books in the Bible, Barb? I love Psalms, Ephesians, James… just to mention a few. π
A couple memorable books that come to mind are Gods and Kings and Rebekah’s Treasure by Sylvia Bambola. Both reveal more about what people in Biblical times likely experienced, giving me a deeper appreciation for the history aspect of the Bible.
Hi Beth! I’ve really enjoyed the Biblical fiction I’ve read too. I’ll have to look these up as well. π
Oh my goodness. There’s so many seared into my brain! A couple of years ago, I read The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, and that one in particular has stuck with me. It’s so amazing and yet sad. I also find the medical aspect of fascinating. The book whose words really stick with me, though, is the Book of Mormon. Okay, two books. The Bible too, of course! Scripture stays in your mind and heart if you let it, and I love that!
Hi Karen! I love that too!! So glad you could join us and share. π Good luck in the drawing!
I read almost a book a day. One book doesn’t stand out in my mind as the best. I would really love to read this one. Thanks for the giveaway. I really enjoyed the interview.
Oh that’s great, Brenda! You’re a fast reader. π So glad you enjoyed our interview. Good luck in the drawing!
Great interview. As a book lover myself, Wonderland Creek was amazing!
I have so many books that speaks to my heart. Pride & Prejudice because it introduced me to the world of classic literature and historical fiction and Jane Austen. A Passion Most Pure by Julie Lessman because it was the first Christian fiction that I’ve read that felt so REAL to me. And recently, Isle of Hope by Julie Lessman also will be one that I’ll re-read and re-read and know that I will come out differently each time depending on my journey in life at that moment. Thanks Lynn for the giveaway and thanks Savanna for a great interview. =)
HI Annie! So glad you visited. I loved your comments and totally agree. Each one you mentioned were stand-outs to me and still remain some of my favorites of all. π
I will never forget Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. Thank you for the chance to win.
I won’t forget that one either, Lucy. What a beautiful story! Good luck in the giveaway!
Eve’s Daughters will forever be one of my favorite books. I have loved reading all the multi-generational stories Lynn tells. Thanks for sharing the interview and the generous giveaway, Lynn and Savanna.
I’ve not read that one yet, so I’ll be adding that to my list. Thank you, Alison, for joining us. Good luck in the giveaway!
My all – time favorite book is “Christy” by C. Marshall!Current favorites are by books by romantic suspense authors, like Dee Henderson.
Oh yes, I love “Christy”. Such a special one too. π I’ve not read any by Dee Henderson… yet! π Thanks for stopping by, Janice!
I love The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd.
Adding so many new-to-me books to my reading list. π Thanks, Connie. I appreciate you visiting!
Tough question, at least for me for some reason. But as far as more recent reads, I think I would say Burning Sky by Lori Benton.
Hi Patty! I have that one sitting on my shelf, but haven’t got to read it yet. I LOVE Lori Benton, though. I’ve enjoyed every book of hers I’ve read so far. π
I love reading the bible, and I think it would be a good way to build up my knowledge about the bible in general by reading this book, and the whole series. Thanks for offering this giveaway.
Blessings to you!
Yes, exactly, Nancy! I hope you get the chance to read and savor this whole series too. We appreciate you stopping by!
This story sounds like one I wouldn’t be able to put down! I love those!!! π
I agree!! Hope you get the chance to read it. π Always appreciate you stopping by…. Mom. π Love ya!