Writer Behind the Words

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Jeanne Takenaka

Jeanne Takenaka writes contemporary fiction that deals with real life issues with a heart to draw women closer to God and to those around them. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and My Book Therapy. She is wife to one amazing man who is her real life hero, and mother to two exuberant boys who hope to one day have a dog of their own. She loves being God’s girl always learning about His grace, hanging out with friends, and enjoying a great cup of coffee. She and her family live near the mountains of Colorado. You can connect with her on her blog, Facebook and on Twitter.

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Welcome to the blog, Jeanne! I’m so excited to have you join us today. When did you first start writing?

I’ve had this secret desire to write all my life. It wasn’t until six years ago when a solid story idea came to mind, and I grew brave enough to attempt writing it. I prayed about it, talked to my husband, and he encouraged me to write the story.

What are you working on right now?

I’m getting ready to begin my fourth book. It’s a story about a chemist who wakes up with amnesia. She must discover if her life as a scientist is the one she was meant to live, or if her destiny waits in the hometown she fled from to mend her broken heart.

Can you tell us about one of your favorite characters you’ve written so far?

I like all of my characters. The heroine from my most recent manuscript is named Tiana Emory. She’s got spunk and a bit of snark. She’s strong but tender and a widowed single mom trying to do the best she can for her children. She never expects to run across the man who broke promises to her and her dead husband. Watching her grapple with life-defining moments from her past and come out victorious draws her close to my heart.

What’s something you love about your home state?

I grew up in and currently live in Colorado. I LOVE the mountains. Seeing them snow-capped and majestic leaves me in awe of the One who created them. I also love the beauty and the colors we have in our four seasons.

Ah, I love the mountains!! One of these days I hope to take a vacation there. 😉 What’s one of your favorite books?

Only one? Sigh. I love, The Wedding Dress, by Rachel Hauck. She writes with such depth and the story is so poignant, it moves my heart every time I read it.

What is one of your favorite Scripture verses?

God has used many Scriptures for the seasons I’ve walked through. I think one of my favorites is Zephaniah 3:17—

Yes! That is such a beautiful one.

Can you share with us a special moment from your writing journey so far?

I’ve had a few special moments. I think one of the most memorable for me was hearing my name called as the winner of the My Book Therapy Frasier award at the ACFW conference in 2014. Color me shocked! It was the first contest I’d won, and it was a dream-come-true. When I struggle with doubt or discouragement, the Lord reminds me of that evening.

That is so exciting! What a fun memory. 🙂

What’s been one of the most challenging aspects of writing?

For a person who struggles with rejection issues, I sometimes wonder why God set me on this journey. It’s hard not to take those “no’s” personally. I’m coming to realize that this journey isn’t so much about getting published as it is drawing closer to Jesus. I struggle with the times I haven’t received the “yes” I’d hoped for, but I know that God is working His plan in my life in His perfect timing.

Name a few authors who inspire you.

There are so many! Rachel Hauck, Susan May Warren, Beth Vogt and Ronie Kendig, and the ladies over at Seekerville would top my list. Each of them has been instrumental in helping me along on this writing road.

Can you share a word of advice to other writers out there on the road to publication?

How about two things? One: remember that God’s plan for your journey is more than getting an agent and being published; it’s about us drawing closer to Him and writing the stories He’s given us to write. Two: we are the only ones who can write the stories He’s given us. No one else can write from our viewpoint with our voice. We are uniquely gifted and enabled by Him to write His stories.

Thank you so much for sharing with us, Jeanne. I’m so excited to read your work! 🙂 Have a blessed 2016!

Let’s spread the love, reading friends! You can help encourage and support Jeanne’s writing by connecting with her on the following sites.

Website: http://www.jeannetakenaka.wordpress.com
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/Jeanne-Takenaka-660085564026392/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeanneTakenaka

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Do you have a question for Jeanne? Leave a comment below! 😉