Book Birthday Party, Day One: Author Laura Frantz
Thank you all for coming to this special celebration of birthdays and books! I'm so honored and excited to host some terrific authors this week. I hope you will all join me in welcoming the VIPs to this bash everyday starting with Laura Frantz, historical fiction author extraordinaire. Make sure you "mingle" and leave a comment for Laura, I'm sure she'd love to hear from you and you will be entered to win a copy of Laura's latest (and truly phenomenal story), The Colonel's Lady!!!
The Colonel's Lady: Born August 1, 2011, to Laura Frantz and Revell Books
Penniless and out of options, Roxanna is forced to remain at the fort. As she spends more and more time with the fiery Colonel McLinn, the fort is abuzz with intrigue and innuendo. Can Roxanna truly know who the colonel is--and what he's done?
Immerse yourself in this powerful story of love, faith, and forgiveness set in the tumultuous world of the frontier in 1779.
Could you tell us a bit about The Colonel's Lady or share an excerpt?
Last year I was blessed to locate an 18th-century reproduction gown (a long-held dream of mine) so that I could “feel” what it was like to dress like my heroine, Roxanna. It was fun to share more “dress-up” details in the novel as to what a lady of that time period would wear. I wasn't able to do this as much with Lael and Morrow, my two previous heroines, as they weren't true ladies like Roxanna. And since I'm such an admirer of men in uniform, it was wonderful outfitting my hero in his swallowtail coat and all that buff and blue of the American Revolution.
Feel free to add anything that you would like in closing…
My next novel is a mail-order groom story set in Pennsylvania beginning in 1784. I think of this as “Renee's story” as it's in your neck of the woods! I hope you like my apprentice and the two very dissimilar sisters he's forced to choose between. I promise lots of historical fireworks!
Thanks so much, Renee, for the best book bash ever!
![[E71051A476806AF34863DC84F40396F4.png]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9tX0NIG-x53r3o7pv8QFMOFVqFIqPwepHypQKllLsYhJxdbIVvRD_sH76X6x-ToqqBjmXuQpBDxCTf0y5XDSBAda-Wzu04s2KV-vQyBGHkzaO1e4lXYwVZ3HjQU6y-7lfCTITsN85PRMH/s1600/E71051A476806AF34863DC84F40396F4.png)
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From Revell:
Roxanna Rowan may be a genteel Virginia woman, but she is determined to brave the wilds of the untamed frontier to reach a remote Kentucky fort. Eager to reunite with her father, who serves under Colonel Cassius McLinn, Roxanna is devastated to find that her father has been killed on a campaign.
Penniless and out of options, Roxanna is forced to remain at the fort. As she spends more and more time with the fiery Colonel McLinn, the fort is abuzz with intrigue and innuendo. Can Roxanna truly know who the colonel is--and what he's done?
Immerse yourself in this powerful story of love, faith, and forgiveness set in the tumultuous world of the frontier in 1779.
~Available to purchase from Amazon and other booksellers.~
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For those who don't know could you please tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got started writing?
I wrote my first story when I was 7 :-). My mom came in and found me at my dad's desk with this big book about ships spread out and I was scribbling away. After that I was a bit of a copy cat and penned the sequel to Gone With the Wind and Dances With Wolves and other things before starting The Frontiersman's Daughter in my 30's. I'm so thankful many of these stories never saw the light of day. You should be glad, too!
What's the best thing about book birthdays (the release of a new book)?
Hmmm…Reader mail :-). It's always so rewarding to have someone read your book and really “get” what you were trying to do within those pages. Fiction is supposed to entertain but we're blessed within the CBA to reach readers on a spiritual level. It's my prayer that the Lord will put my books into the hands of the right readers, those who would be blessed by them. It's always fun to see where He takes that.
If Roxie were attending this party what would she bring as a gift?
Love the question! I think she'd bring a little parcel of sweets from a confectioner's shoppe like candied rose petals or macaroons - or a pair of knitting needles. She might give a friend clocked stockings (hose with a design on them) or a dried nosegay. Or a pincushion. Ever practical, that Roxie!
I wrote my first story when I was 7 :-). My mom came in and found me at my dad's desk with this big book about ships spread out and I was scribbling away. After that I was a bit of a copy cat and penned the sequel to Gone With the Wind and Dances With Wolves and other things before starting The Frontiersman's Daughter in my 30's. I'm so thankful many of these stories never saw the light of day. You should be glad, too!
What's the best thing about book birthdays (the release of a new book)?
Hmmm…Reader mail :-). It's always so rewarding to have someone read your book and really “get” what you were trying to do within those pages. Fiction is supposed to entertain but we're blessed within the CBA to reach readers on a spiritual level. It's my prayer that the Lord will put my books into the hands of the right readers, those who would be blessed by them. It's always fun to see where He takes that.
If Roxie were attending this party what would she bring as a gift?
Love the question! I think she'd bring a little parcel of sweets from a confectioner's shoppe like candied rose petals or macaroons - or a pair of knitting needles. She might give a friend clocked stockings (hose with a design on them) or a dried nosegay. Or a pincushion. Ever practical, that Roxie!
Could you tell us a bit about The Colonel's Lady or share an excerpt?
Last year I was blessed to locate an 18th-century reproduction gown (a long-held dream of mine) so that I could “feel” what it was like to dress like my heroine, Roxanna. It was fun to share more “dress-up” details in the novel as to what a lady of that time period would wear. I wasn't able to do this as much with Lael and Morrow, my two previous heroines, as they weren't true ladies like Roxanna. And since I'm such an admirer of men in uniform, it was wonderful outfitting my hero in his swallowtail coat and all that buff and blue of the American Revolution.
Feel free to add anything that you would like in closing…
My next novel is a mail-order groom story set in Pennsylvania beginning in 1784. I think of this as “Renee's story” as it's in your neck of the woods! I hope you like my apprentice and the two very dissimilar sisters he's forced to choose between. I promise lots of historical fireworks!
Thanks so much, Renee, for the best book bash ever!
~Be sure to visit Laura online @ her WEBSITE. I know she'd love to hear from you and you will love what she posts.
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Giveaway:
~ To be entered to win a copy of The Colonel's Lady simply fill out the form! US residents only. Void where prohibited.
~ For 2 bonus entries fill out the form, LEAVE A COMMENT on this post for Laura about the book or any questions you might have about her or her career as a writer!
Thank you for entering! Good luck!
Happy Blog Party, Renee!
ReplyDeleteHi Laura! Just yesterday I finished The Frontierman's Daughter and I really enjoyed it! I'm looking forward to The Colonel's Lady. :)
I loved 'The Colonel's Lady'! I want to win a copy so I can give it to my mom.
ReplyDeletehttp://christianbookshelfreviews.blogspot.com/
frequentreader19 (at) gmail (dot) com
*Reminder* I added your button earlier.
Happy birthday (or soon to be birthday...?), Renee!!!
ReplyDeleteAnd happy belated birthday to Roxanna! ;)
Laura, I love this book, your responses to this interview, and you! :D What a fun interview! And might I add that I am SUPER excited for your next book?! Sounds amazing!!
~Amber
Renee, I love the start of your birthday week, and what great questions you came up with for Laura. :o) I especially love the response to the gift Roxie would bring to your party. :o)
ReplyDeleteNo need to enter me as I've already read this fabulous book. So glad that both of us are getting the opportunity to feature Laura on our blogs this week. ;)
Happy birthday!!!
How cool about the next book!
ReplyDelete(not an entry)
Congrats on the start of your Book Birthday Party, Renee! Thanks for adding some excitement to the week.
ReplyDeleteIt's fun to see folks talking about your book all over the internet, Laura! I hope no one who would be touched by reading TCL, will miss it. I'm looking forward to your next story. Already I'm curious about who your hero chooses.
Happy Labor Day! Blessings, all!
Happy Labor Day Laura. As you know, I have your book but just wanted to stop by and say hello. You are a busy lady today hopping from blog to blog. Make sure you have a cup of tea to get you through your busy day!!
ReplyDeleteStacie
PS...Happy Birthday Renee!!!
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday to our hostess with the mostest! Only I think I should say that to everyone who's hosting me - I'm on 5-6 blogs today, bless you!! Love reading your comments here - each means so much. Wow - Sara, thanks for taking time for Lael's story! I miss her:) Wish I could hug every one of you - you, too, Renee - but my arm won't stretch clear to Pennsylvania! Be back later;) And happy Labor Day!
ReplyDeleteThank you everyone for the birthday wishes and the comments for Laura, they're terrific!
ReplyDeleteLaura, I wish you were in PA too but virtual hugs work. :-)
Everyone, I'm sorry if you can't see my sidebar when you're on my homepage. There are some issues apparently with Blogger or something that I can't figure out. Please be patient.
XOXO~ Renee
Happy Birthday Renee! I really enjoyed reading this interview. I've had my eye on this book for quite some time now. I haven't yet had an opportunity to pick it up.
ReplyDeleteI have not read anything by Ms. Frantz to date either. This is the second or third interview I've seen and now I feel confident that I would enjoy this book. The next novel coming out sounds very enjoyable as well!
Great background on your blog too, Renee! It looks very cozy and inviting! :)
Happy, happy birthday, Renee! I'm so excited for the Book Birthday Bash. :)
ReplyDeleteI've heard nothing but great things about The Colonel's Lady and all of Laura Frantz's writing.
Woo-hooo party time has started!! I love these different little interviews to get to know Laura better, so fun! I'm sure I'll be thinking of Renee too when that new story comes out. When do we get a cover, Laura?? :)
ReplyDeleteJulie, Would love to have you as a reader:)
ReplyDeleteErica, Thx so much - I've heard nothing but fine things about you and your work, too - and I just love your cover!!
Casey, Revell is titling the book right now - and I just finished input for cover art so the art team is set to go. Hoping for the big reveal in October! Bless u for asking! Covers and titles are always a favorite part of publishing:)
a fascinating storyline,Laura ~ was it difficult to capture the language/expressions of the time and culture?
ReplyDeleteHapPy B'day Renee! thx for celebrating with us '')
YaY Renee!
ReplyDeleteenjoy your celebrations ~
Happy Birthday, Renee!!
ReplyDeleteI saw the book's b'day at the top and thought it was Laura's birthday. I was going to comment how our birthdays are very close. Then I realized it was for the book. ;P
If Laura is being featured on 5-6 blogs, I better start searching. I've found 2 already. :)
Lord willing, in a few more weeks, I can stop saying I've heard wonderful things about the series and say that I loved it as well. And I know I will!
Hey, Renee, looking forward to this week!
ReplyDeleteLaura, I'd love to read this book! The cover is stunning. :) I love your picture (the colors are beautiful)! Also love that you wrote sequels...hilarious! :)
Oh, and Renee, I have had the button up on my blog since early September...the first, I think. :) So extra entries for that, please!
Amy, Such a good question! It really wasn't hard to capture them as I grew up reading so much history and then rec'd my training in 18th-century literature and culture in college. On the other hand, I'm having to make the leap to the 19th-century for the next book I'm writing and am finding there are quite a few historical holes to be dealt with as I'm not as savvy. Hallelujah for great research books:) Bless you for your thoughtful question and comments!
ReplyDeleteBluerose, Have I ever told you I LOVE your blogger name:)? It's so memorable and romantic! I've never seen a blue rose but have heard they exist. I'd love to have you for a reader. I really appreciate your comments here so much:)
ReplyDeleteCharity, The sequels really are funny in retrospect! What on earth was I thinking, I often wonder now! And thanks for your sweet comments - I love the color pink and this is the only photo of me I've ever liked:) Thanks so much for stopping here and celebrating with Renee and all of us. You're the best!
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday, Renee! I'm so glad this week has arrived for you as I know you have some great things planned :)
ReplyDeleteLove Laura and her stories! Hi Laura - great to see you featured here!
Hugs to you both, ladies xo xo
Hi guys! I'm back from my Labor Day picnic but don't worry I'm not partied out. ;-)
ReplyDeleteI love seeing all these comments from you and from Laura. It's fun to get to know our favorite authors and their characters isn't it?
Hope you all had a great holiday. Please stop by tomorrow and visit with Julie Lessman.
XOXO~ Renee
What fun! I've not been to a book's "birthday party". I'm a lover of Christian historical fiction and of Laura Frantz in particular. I just finished TCL and it did not disappoint! TCL completed a trilogy that is one of my all time favorites. I'm not leaving this comment to enter the contest; I just wanted to share in the fun. I'll be back tomorrow, Lord willing.
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday, Renee!!!
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed reading the interview, ladies. What is it about writing a sequel to GWTW, I believe I sorta wrote one back during my teenage years too.
I can't wait to read this book! I loved Couting Morrow Little! Laura, do you plan to write just historical fiction or modern-day fiction?
ReplyDeleteOh, bless you Mary, Rel, Michelle, and everybody, Please forgive me if I can't reply to every comment today - am trying to host a picnic and blog hope but I'm feeling my age;)
ReplyDeleteMarissa, I only plan to write historical, sadly. Since I don't have a cell phone and have to ask my children to turn on the TV for me, any modern day novels would sound so dated, I'm afraid! So glad you loved Morrow's story:) I miss that one so much. Bless you all!
Whoops, excuse those typos! Happy Labor Day and can't wait to join Julie on the morrow! Her book is really making waves!! And I'm SO THRILLED to have one coming my way:)
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday month, Renee! My husband and I celebrate birthdays for an entire month too. :)
ReplyDeleteLaura, I read Courting Morrow Little last fall (?) and absolutely loved it. The Colonel's Lady is in my stack to read soon. Can't wait!!!
Oh, Brooke! So happy you liked Morrow's story. I'm still trying to get over Red Shirt;) Praying Roxie's story blesses you, too. You've sure blessed me by being here. I just love meeting new readers!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday, Renee, and thanks for the giveaway! BTW I'm not a Browns' fan but I am a Chiefs' fan! Is that okay?!?!?! :-)
ReplyDeleteLaura, I've always wondered where writers come up with the names for their characters. Is it personal, draw names out of a hat, etc.?
Hey Laura!!
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to be late to the party! I was moving into my dorm room yesterday and was exhaaaaaaaausted last night! So I did not turn on the computer until today lol.
I have heard so many phenomenal things about The Colonel's Lady! It's been on my TBR list since I read the excerpt. I absolutely love the cover. That blue is gorgeous, makes me want to open the book right up and read it! LOL! Your new book coming up sounds great too! A mail order groom story? I've heard of them but have not read any before. I love mail order bride stories so I don't see why I wouldn't like this! Will definitely have to try and pick it up : )
Renee,
Happy Birthday, beautiful!!! How's Coco doin, by the way? What spectacular authors you have this week! Shows how cool you are ; ) Have another great day, darlin!
Muah!
Hannah C.
Laura, Nice to meet another Laura here! Love that name, BTW;) Writers are crazy and snag names all sorts of ways - I have to REALLY LOVE a name to use it in a novel, even my villain's have to have great names, like Liam McLinn, for example... Your hat idea might not be a bad idea! Bless u for being here today!!
ReplyDeleteHey PJ;) Happy you're IN and took time to come here - and so glad you want to read TCL. The cover is killer but I can't take any credit. My readers asked for that gorgeous blue gown and got it:) I just submitted that mail-order groom story so please stay tuned. Title and cover coming soon. Bless u bunches!
ReplyDeleteI LOVED The Colonel's Lady! I haven't read many books that show the Revolutionary War from the point of view that you used! I will definately read this book again! :)
ReplyDelete~Lauren Zuck
LAURA AND RENEE -- WHAT A WAY TO KICK OFF A BIRTHDAY WEEK, WITH ONE OF MY FAVORITE AUTHORS IN THE WHOLE, WIDE WORLD!!!
ReplyDeleteI just finished The Colonel's Lady and it was PHENOMENAL and hands-down one of the BEST historical romances I have ever read in my life. In my humble opinion, Laura ranks up there with Francine Rivers and Liz Curtis Higgs and if I didn't love the woman so darn much and if she wasn't one of the kindest, sweetest human beings on the planet, I would be jealous of her talent. But as it is, she gives me nothing but joy with her writing and especially her friendship.
Love you to pieces, my friend.
Hugs,
Julie
Renee, what a pretty blog. I esp. love the doors and arched windows on the left! Always enjoying reading what Laura has to say, she is so charming. LOVED TCL! Great book!
ReplyDeleteWoohoo! I'm so glad that this party isn't a dud...but then how could it be with cool people like Laura and all you wonderful commentors! Thanks for keeping this party rockin' into day two!
ReplyDeleteHannah- Coco is great and she says thank you for asking. :-)
XOXO~ Renee
Lauren, Oh, so thankful you're my reader!!
ReplyDeleteJulie, You are always a RAY OF SUNSHINE and I'll never forget your unfailing support of me. God is so good to have brought us together!!
Carrie, Renee's blog is so memorable, like you say. It's wonderful to see you here. You are another HUGE encourager and I can't thank you enough - or Him!
Renee - what a party! You sure know how to throw them;) Bless you bunches!!
This book sounds totally wonderful. I defintely want the chance to read it! I love the cover!
ReplyDeleteHope you are having a totally terrific week with this wonderful birthday bash!
countrysunset40 (at) aol dot com
This book sounds awesome - and I love your story about the "dress up" :o) Also super intrigued by the idea of a "mail order groom" -- heard of mail order brides, so this promises to be entertaining, hehe
ReplyDeleteRebecca F