Today, our guest is an author who loves writing about women who overcome obstacles. I was attracted to her Valley Creek Redemption Series because it takes place in the Arkansas Ozarks. Let’s hear more about the latest book in that series, as well as the beginning of a new one. Vivid descriptions of realistic characters who fight through tremendous odds. Great stories from a lovely Christian author.
Candace West was born in the Mississippi delta to a young minister and his wife. She grew up in small-town Arkansas and graduated from the University of Arkansas at Monticello. At twelve years old, she wrote her first story, “Following Prairie River.” In 2018, she published her debut novel Lane Steen. By weaving entertaining, hope-filled stories, Candace shares the Gospel and encourages her readers. She currently lives in Arkansas with her husband and their son along with two dogs and three bossy cats.
Best of all- Candace is giving away a copy of her book Dogwood Winter. All you have to do is tell us about a woman who has inspired you with her strength.
Jenny: “Hi Candace, What inspired you to write your latest books?”
Candace: “I just released my third book, Dogwood Winter, and then another novel titled Through the Lettered Veil. In both of these books, the heroines are my inspiration. Both of them have physical and emotional challenges to overcome. One has polio and the other one is dyslexic. Their growth has been a joy to watch.”
Jenny: “Tell us about a typical writing day. Do you get up in the morning and write first thing? Or do you get other things out of the way first?”
Candace: “In the summer, I try to write first thing. In between comes the everyday chores and errands. When school starts, I snag a chance to write whenever time allows. We homeschool, so making time to write is challenging. I’m looking forward to taking a few day trips this fall—maybe a few trails and historical stops!”
Jenny: “What are your go-to snacks when you are writing? What about music? Or do you need total silence when you write?”
Candace: “Chocolate or potato chips is my go-too snack with iced tea on the side (unsweet). Yum! I used to need complete silence when I write, but I now enjoy writing with background music. Depending on the scene I’m writing, it helps inspire the mood. My playlist is a mix of Gospel, classical, classic country, jazz, and big band music.”
Jenny: “What is the favorite feedback you have gotten from a reader?”
Candace: “Good question! One of my favorites was from a reader who sent a passage from Valley of Shadows to a person in prison. I can’t describe how this blessed me. I never dreamed anything like that would happen with my stories.”
Jenny: “I like to end with a totally off-the wall question. What song is going through your head right now?”
Candace: “This morning it’s Awesome God. It’s a powerful song reminding me that He is always in control. Nothing escapes His notice. Every single one of us is in the palm of His hands.”
Jenny: “Thanks so much for coming by today. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas season. I hope everyone who reads this will check out your books. They are such a delight!”
Links
Valley Creek Redemption series (available in KU): https://www.amzn.com/B09C6KKJV4
Newsletter: www.candaceweststoryteller.com
Author page: www.facebook.com/inspirationalnovel
Instagram: www.instagram.com/candace.west.posey.10
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/candace-west
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17901230.Candace_West
Dogwood Winter
A Lukewarm Correspondence. A Tattered Reputation. Two hearts at Odds.
He is walking away while she is fighting to walk.
After a springtime swim, Ella Steen is stricken with a dire illness, leaving her without the use of her legs. Meanwhile, Dr. George Curtis, the man she secretly loves, faces ruin. For over a year, the crusty New York City bachelor and vivacious spinster have exchanged dozens of letters and formed a wary friendship.
Neither are willing to open their hearts completely. Until they face each other. The past looms between them, however. Does George still love another or is his heart completely free?
A trip to Valley Creek holds the answers. Instead, when George and Ella arrive, they encounter obstacles that force other truths to the surface. Is George brave enough to confront what he fled in New York? Can Ella confess why she hates dogwood winters? Will their hearts survive?
If only their pasts would keep out of the present.
Through the Lettered Veil
Not all wars are fought on a battlefield. Some are fought in the heart.
Aynsley O’Brien faces a choice—follow her deceased uncle’s demands or fall prey to a ruthless band of brothers whose sights are set on Windy Hollow Farm. Without protection, she will lose it all.
Union Cavalry officer Nolan Scottsdale arrives in the Ozarks to find his family ravaged by the war. Unwelcome at home, he turns to Windy Hollow needing work but finds Aynsley cornered. If he offers his hand in marriage, she may break his heart again.
The entire valley will be embroiled in yet another conflict if Nolan and Aynsley lose the farm. And it won’t be the North and the South—it will be neighbor against neighbor.
While dangers erupt on every front, another war rages in their hearts. If they win the peace, how will they mend the breach between their families? Between themselves?
The truth lies in three letters. If only Aynsley could read them.
An epic story of courage triumphing over evil—Kathleen L. Maher, award-winning author of the Sons of the Shenandoah series
NOW: Add a comment below talking about a woman who has inspired you with your strength. You could win a copy of Dogwood Winter.
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