Forever Free finds romance at the farm

Today’s interview will introduce you to the author of a wonderful new book. Her series has delighted readers with heroes and heroines from different walks of life. Her latest features protagonists who don’t mind getting their hands dirty.

First, we’ll hear from the author, Hope. Then, I’ll fill you in on how to get your hands on this intriguing book. Hint: Comment on this post, and you might win a free copy!

Hope Toler Dougherty holds a Master’s degree in English and taught at East Carolina University and York Technical College. Her early novels are Irish Encounter, Mars…With Venus Rising, and Rescued Hearts. Her Forever series includes Forever Music, Forever Home, “A Hatteras Surprise,” featured in Candy Cane Wishes and Saltwater Dreams, and Forever Free.

She and husband Kevin delight in visits with their two daughters and twin sons.

Jenny: Thanks for stopping by today, Hope. So, can you tell us if any part of Forever Free mirrors your own life? Or, if not, which character do you most closely identify with?

Hope: Phoebe Sinclair didn’t grow up on a farm, but she is connected to one through her grandfather. I grew up on a farm and worked in tobacco fields as a teenager. My father loaned my brother and me an acre to grow cucumbers for two years when we were in elementary school. He wanted us to learn the value of hard work and a dollar. We picked the cucumbers and sold them to a grader who then sold them to grocery stores and pickle companies.

I come from a long line of farmers and was grateful to highlight that worthy vocation in Forever Free.

Jenny: You certainly do have farming experience. Still, there must still be some research to do. What was your favorite discovery while researching this book?

Hope: Healing Transitions is a recovery program for people who struggle with addictions. My master gardener friend, Susan, just happened to mention this program when I interviewed her early in my research process. I used the idea in Heath’s story but changed the name to Helping Hands.

I love when I’m asking questions about one thing, then the interviewee mentions something important in an off-hand comment that enriches the story. I’ve learned lots of information that way.

Jenny:  What is the major take-away you want your readers get from this story?

Hope: Singleness is a gift from God is a tiny theme that runs throughout the story. It’s a biblical idea, but I don’t see churches embracing this thought too much. I wish Christians would value single adults as much as we value families.

Jenny:  I think you have a good point. Hopefully, more churches will agree. While writing, if you need quick inspiration, what is your go-to?

Hope:  The first thing I do for inspiration is pray for wisdom, direction, ideas. Then I get out of my chair and move—ride my bike, take a walk, go swimming, cook. Usually getting my body doing other activities allows my mind to open up to new ideas.

Jenny: Great suggestions. Just sitting in one spot is probably never a good idea. So, once inspired, what is your writing routine like?  Any must-have snacks, music, etc?

Hope: When I write the rough draft, I like to write 1500 words per day, five days a week. That’s my goal anyway. I usually write the dialog in the rough draft and then come back on subsequent passes and add the other sensory details.

I write at home in the quiet. I’m too nosy to write in coffee shops or even libraries. Unfortunately, I love to snack on Cheez-its in the afternoon. When they’re in season, I love to have a bowl of cherries.

Jenny: Excuse me, I need to go get a snack now. Just kidding. So, this has been a really fun conversation.  What’s in your future? Should we be watching for another project, or are you taking some time off?

Hope: I’ve begun a new story, but I have only the two main characters and one minor character in the first chapter. I need to complete the character sketches and figure out what’s happening with these two people.

Jenny: Sounds like a great start. We can’t wait to see what develops from this. Do you have any parting words for our readers?

Hope:  I hope readers will connect with Heath and his story, especially the learning to grieve in a positive way. I hope they enjoy Forever Free and leave reviews. They’re so important!

Thank you for having me on your blog, Jenny!

Jenny: This has been such a great visit. I’m so glad you agreed to talk with us.

Note to readers:  Remember that promise about a free book? Just tell us in the comments about your area of expertise? Hope knows farming- what do you know about?

Use these links to keep up with Hope and her books:

https://hopetolerdougherty.com/

Hope Toler Dougherty Readers Page | Facebook
Hope Toler Dougherty (@hopetolerdougherty) | Instagram

            https://www.pinterest.com/hopetdougherty/
               Hope Toler Dougherty Books – BookBub

Hope Toler Dougherty (Author of Irish Encounter) | Goodreads
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Hope-Toler-Dougherty/author/

Purchase link:  Forever Free