A new novel from a new author answers this question: Can a relationship that starts during a time of extreme confusion and chaos possibly become close or even permanent?
Today, Christina Rost, author of a new book called The Decision tells about her book, and how her own life experiences inspired the story. This one sounds really good, so let’s get right to it.
Jenny: “Hi, Christina. I’m so glad you’re here to talk to our readers today. I’m always interested in knowing what inspired a story. Was it a song, a story, a real-life person you’ve met?”
Christina: “Several inspirations collided in the making of The Decision. First, my respect and gratitude for the men and women serving in our military. I come from a family of military and I highly honor all they sacrifice to give us our freedoms. Second, my high regard for overseas mission work and underground churches. I grew up learning about missionaries and the importance of their work from a very young age. The comforts they give up for the calling God has placed on their life amaze me and I’ll always be in awe when I hear about the gospel spreading worldwide because so many have answered that call. These inspirations and the courage needed to serve in these capacities led me to the main verse of The Decision:
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Jenny: “I don’t often put missionaries in the same category with the military, but it makes a lot of sense. Both are on the front lines, and deserve so much respect. When you are not busy writing, what other activities do you enjoy?”
Christina: ” I love reading, of course, but I also love to try anything crafty. Lately, I’ve tried my hand at watercolor painting and making earrings out of mediums like clay, leather, and wood.”
Jenny: “Kudos for trying so many different things. When you are writing, do you need complete silence, or do you like to have music playing? What kind of music works best?”
Christina: ” I prefer music in the background! I’ve found this great Spotify playlist called Music For Writing. If I’m not listening to that, I enjoy sweeping epic soundtracks from movies like Braveheart or Robin Hood. Sometimes if I want to dive into a scene, I’ll pick music to match the tempo of what I’m writing. I’ll look for a love song or a great anthem to pull my characters back to their feet and get them back into the action.”
Jenny: “How cool. You really make your music part of the story. I know this is your first Scrivenings Press book. Have you had a reaction from readers yet that has encouraged you?”
Christina: “During my launch for The Decision, I had several of my readers give me play-by-play texts while they were reading. That made my day! Seeing the story through their eyes was like bringing a whole other level of life to the characters and the story. I truly loved the feedback that one of my secondary characters needed their own story. For me as a writer, it meant I added just enough detail to make the reader’s imagination want more!”
Jenny: “There’s nothing that is more encouraging than a reader who wants to read more of your work! So, the last question is totally off the wall. What is the most amazing thing you’ve seen in the past few days?”
Christina: ” Face to face? My son! My oldest lives in California and he surprised us with a visit recently! Seeing him and hugging him was like a boost to my soul. I’m so proud of what he’s doing, serving our country, but I miss him. When adult children show up on your doorstep, it’s the best gift a mother could receive!”
Jenny: “I agree. Seeing one of my kids or grands unexpectedly is the best! Do you have any parting words for our readers?”
Christina: ” Take time this summer to really sit with a book and enjoy its story. Let your imagination connect with the characters in ways it allows you to take a mini vacation without ever getting on a plane or in a car. Reading is a universal enjoyment, so share your recommendations with your friends or start a book club. While life is so busy, reading can be a way we take a moment and pause. If you enjoy a story, reach out to the author and let them know! It warms our hearts when our imaginations can make a reader smile!”
Jenny: “Great advice. Enjoying reading is what it’s all about. Thanks so much for being here today. Best wishes on continued success in your writing career.”
Author Christina Rost is a mother to three amazing children and is married to her high school sweetheart. While she currently resides in Oklahoma City, she’s lived all over the US, a few years in the UK, and loves to travel. When she isn’t spending time with her family or writing you’ll find her chatting over coffee and perusing antique stores for tattered books.
Here’s more to whet your appetite about “The Decision”
Running from her grief, interior designer Ava Stewart makes a hasty decision to join a missionary group heading to Uganda. She’s in the country only a few days before tragedy strikes and a mistaken identity leaves her with an uncertain outcome.
Special Operator Blake Martin is assigned to a humanitarian mission when he’s captured by a group of armed men. Wounded and miles away from his team, Blake’s brought to Ava, and she’s ordered to care for him.
Thrown together in chaos, with the threat of danger pressing in from all sides, Ava and Blake are forced to rely on each other–and God–to escape. An undeniable bond is formed during their flight to safety but opening their hearts to love carries its own risk. A risk they aren’t sure they’re willing to take.
Now, miles apart and living separate lives, they need to decide if the connection they shared in the untamed, wilds of Uganda is strong enough to confront the future. A future where Ava’s fragile heart and Blake’s hazardous job collide, and only God knows the outcome.
Website: www.christinarostauthor.com
Amazon Link:
The Decision: Rost, Christina: 9781649172938: Amazon.com: Books
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