Wednesday, November 12, 2014

My Review: Surprised By Love, plus giveaway!


You know I have to gush about the cover, right?  I just can't resist!  I love this cover - it's my favorite of the books in this series.  The colors are gorgeous and I just adore that hat!  Her expression is also very fitting, she looks elegant, but also ready to take on whatever comes at her.  Okay, I'm good now. :)


Description:
She can turn the head of the man who spurned her - but can she turn his heart?

When Megan McClare left San Francisco to study in Paris, no one would accuse her of being poised and pretty.  But on the other side of the Atlantic, this wallflower blossomed into a beauty with big dreams.  When she returns to California and accepts an internship at the district attorney's office, she's thrilled that her life is taking shape.  But the excited opportunity quickly loses its glow when she discovers she'll be working alongside Devin Caldwell, who mercilessly mocked her at school - and with whom she was hopelessly enamored.
Bram Hughes is the best friend to whom Megan has always turned for support and advice.  But when she seeks his counsel about working with Devin Caldwell, Bram's vision is clouded by his sudden unwelcome attraction to a girl he had always thought of as a little sister.  He advises forgiveness, but can he forgive himself for pushing the woman he loves into the arms of another man?


About the Author:
Julie Lessman is an award-winning author of The Daughters of Boston series, the Winders of Change series, and The Heart of San Francisco series.  The recipient of seventeen Romance Writers of America and other awards, Lessman was chosen as the #1 Romance Fiction Author of the Year in the Family Fiction magazine 2011 and 2012 Readers' Choice Awards.  She resides in Missouri with her family.  Learn more at www.julielessman.com.
(Cover photo from Goodreads.  Description [italics mine] and about the author copied from the back cover.  All rights reserved.)


My Review: 5 stars

I didn’t want it to end!
Surprised by Love is the third book in Julie Lessman’s The Heart of San Francisco series. I loved the first two in this series, so I was extremely excited to read this one. I was positive that Ms. Lessman couldn’t possibly top Dare to Love Again, which is the second book in this series, but she did! I have no idea how, but her books just keep getting better!
The descriptions and details were wonderful, as always. I loved the little known historical facts she threw in here and there, which were very interesting, without detracting from the flow of the story. I was engrossed from page one and didn’t want to put it down. The characters were fascinating and Julie’s writing was fabulous, as expected. Honestly, she could probably write a textbook on some very boring-to-me topic and I’d think it was great. There were several times when it was almost poetic and touched my heart very deeply. Julie has yet to disappoint me and I doubt she will, until she quits writing.
Megan McClare is the “middle” McClare child. We’ve met her in past books and she was always very shy and rather awkward. She had glasses and braces, and was not the thinnest person ever. When she returns home from spending her senior year of school in Paris, no one recognizes her. She grew and changed in many ways. Aside from outward appearance, her aspirations have also undergone a change. I had adored Meg from the first moment we met her, but I truly fell in love with her in this book. She is so sweet and caring, careful of the feelings of others, and always looking out for everyone. She still struggles with self-esteem issues and being confident in who she has become, even though she is no longer the awkward young lady she was before. I loved this quote that is used a couple times throughout the story. “True confidence blooms in the soil of a relationship with God, in following His path rather than one’s own, pursuing His truth rather than the world’s.” - Mrs. Rousseau, page 369 I enjoyed watching Megan grow throughout the story and discover the truth behind this quote.
Abraham “Bram” Hughes is the hero in this story. We know him rather well from Love At Any Cost, the first book in the series. He is the most serious on of the “Three Musketeers,” as the guys call themselves. He is the one most of them turn to for Godly advice and counsel. He is also Meg’s best friend. He is steadfast, strong, committed, kind, loving, handsome, and many other things. I particularly loved his kindness and compassion toward Meg. He is her anchor and has been for most of her life. But, he’s always seen her as a little sister, so when she returns and he suddenly doesn’t see her that way anymore, it confuses things. He struggles with how to still treat her the same and what to do with his unwanted feelings. I loved how realistic he is, especially in his struggles, not just with attraction, but also with his past mistakes. He is weighed down by guilt, but feels he deserves it, so he makes no effort to escape. I enjoyed his journey, as he found love and freedom, in rather unexpected places.
When I first found out this was to be Meg and Bram’s book, I couldn’t figure out how on earth that was going to work out. I was afraid it might be awkward or weird, but it actually made perfect sense the further I read. Who better to fall in love with, than your best friend? I found their romance very sweet and loved following their relationship as they fought to find their footing and adjust to all of the changes in their friendship. Then there was also the on-going relationship between Caitlyn and Logan. I was very excited to see where that would go and also get to know them better. I actually enjoyed the fact that Julie stretched it out through all three books, as it is somewhat secondary and I believe she needed all three to bring it to a comfortable conclusion. Their romance has been on-again-off-again as they struggle through years of history between them, lies, and fears. I’ve loved the progression throughout each story and the anticipation of wondering where they would go from here. I did almost pitch the book somewhere at one point, because I was just so mad at them. I’m glad I didn’t, though, because the ending was so sigh-worthy.
As much as I adore the characters, the relationships, and everything else about Julie’s books, I have to say that my favorite part is always the spiritual journey the characters go on. I love reading Julie’s books because I know I will always be challenged and encouraged in my faith. I love how the theme isn’t the same throughout the story, but rather it changes and progresses as the characters grow. A couple of the main themes that kind of carry on are forgiveness, and giving your plans and dreams to the Lord. I have already mentioned that Bram struggles with guilt, so forgiveness is a big deal for him. He believes he is redeemed and accepted by God, but still feels he must make restitution. This quote just struck me, “. . . he knew in God’s eyes in no one else’s, he was a man redeemed by a humble carpenter from Nazareth who had given His all. A man who had lain His life down so Bram could be free.” - Bram Hughes, page 351 Julie is very talented at taking something that often seems so simple and giving it new meaning. 
As for the other part, Meg, Logan, and Caitlyn all must learn to trust the Lord’s plans and to give their desires to Him. I really appreciated how she handles this subject and the others. She portrays them with honesty. They are extremely difficult and she shows them as such. The characters struggle with them, they fall down, they get upset, but they also get back up again. We are always left with the hope that even when they fail, they can be redeemed.
As a general rule I hate reading the last book in a series and this one is no exception. Don’t get me wrong, it was wonderful, which is part of the problem. I dreaded the end of this book, because I knew it meant saying “goodbye.” I’ve had three books to fall in love with the McClares and letting them go in the space of just a few pages didn’t seem like enough. One thing is for sure, I will be “visiting” the characters and these books again and again.
I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a compelling story with realistic characters that will challenge and encourage you.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in anyway. All opinions expressed are my own.
*Please note, all quotations used with permission from the author. No infringement intended.

I know most of you probably skimmed over my review (and I don't blame you, seeing as how it is really long) to find out what's up with the giveaway.  I actually ended up with two copies of this book and rather than being a hoarder (which was my first idea), I thought I would share one with one of my readers.  The giveaway will be open until Wednesday, November 19th.  To be entered, please answer one of the questions below and leave your email address.  You must leave your email to be included in the drawing.  You may gain extra entries by following this blog (options are on the right hand side of the screen) and sharing my giveaway on social media.  If you do either of these, please be sure to let me know!
Everything clear as mud?  Good.  :)

 
Questions:
Have you read any of Julie's books?  If so, which one is your favorite and why?

If you could have coffee (or your drink of choice) with Julie, what is one question you'd like to ask her?

Why do you think people enjoy historical fiction so much?


Oh, before I forget!  In case there is someone who would rather not wait around for the giveaway, here are a few links so you can check out this awesome book in more depth and maybe purchase a copy.  Thank you so much for stopping by!  I hope you will visit again!

Amazon

Christian Book

Barnes & Noble




70 comments:

  1. I think people enjoy historical fiction because you can read and enjoy a story, while learning more about events in history. For me, reading a story set in a particular time period makes the history come alive because I become invested in the characters. I begin to think about the characters in relation to the historical event and I want to learn even more about how life was back then. meaganlwilliford@gmail.com

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  2. I loved the Daughters of Boston trilogy. It was fascinating to not only see the family dynamics but to see how each of the characters grew and changed within those dynamics. I was so happy to have their father return!

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  3. I'll answer Question #1... I loved "A Heart Revealed" and "A Passion Denied." Thanks for the giveaway! :)

    writer_weaverATyahooDOTcom

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  4. I think people enjoy historical fiction, because it was a simpler time. I have read almost all of Julie's books! I love them all. I don't know if I could pick. I love Charity's story. The entire series is so great. If she writes it I will love it! :-)
    Nancycooks4u(at)gmail(dot)com

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  5. Cnnamongirl@aol.com

    While Julie and I sipped our cups of green tea. I would ask her if she was a history buff when she was in school. Julie, what was your ahha moment that made you say, I have to write these story ideas down that are in my head ? I think people enjoy historical fiction because it takes us to another time and place. Historical fiction is different from the modern time frame we are in now and it's a small way of experiencing that historical time frame. Historical fiction also is well researched and many true facts are in it so we can learn from it as well. I don't know how many times I will read historical fiction and look things up on my computer to find out more about what I read. I have not read any of your books but sure would love to have the opportunity to have the experience.

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    1. DEANNE!!! Make that a cinnamon hazelnut coffee, and we have a deal, girlfriend! ;)

      My "ah-ha" moment was at the age of 12 when I read Gone With the Wind. I just KNEW I had to sit right down and write my own novel, so I did -- 150 single-spaced pages that became the basis for my debut novel over 40 years later. :)

      Hugs!
      Julie

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  6. I have read many of her books and it would be hard to pick a favorite...although Passion Most Pure and Hope Undaunted are two of my faves. I always find myself pleasantly surprised to read another book in the O'connor Family Saga!

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  7. I think people enjoy historical fiction because it allows you to experience a different time and place. You also learn a lot too.


    jandmterry@yahoo.com

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  8. I love historical fiction because of the simplicity of the time. People were treated with respect and life was so much easier. Of course there were hard times but people were so much more willing to jump in to help out. I'm on the second book in this series so I can't wait to see how Megan's life plays out in the third.

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  9. I've read several of her books, always good. My coffee comment, how much time to you spend researching history or is it something that you've always read so much of it is already in the recesses of your mind.

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  10. I've read many of Julies books, and love each one! She makes each character come alive! They become real. I love Historical fiction and Julie makes it even more wonderful because of her books!

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  11. If I could have coffee with Julie, I would ask her how she decides what she writes. Does she think of the characters or the storyline first? Alauderman00@yahoo.com

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    1. AMANDA ... believe it or not, it starts with an opening line, or in the case of A Passion Redeemed, the last scene popped in my head before I ever started the book, so I wrote it really quickly, and then started the book. :) Kinda crazy, I know, but I'm a seat-of-the-pants writer who can be off and running with a line that intrigues me. :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  12. Oh, yes, I've read her books and they are fantastic. I've read the "Daughters of Boston" series and the "Winds of Change" series. I've also read "Love At Any Cost." I love them all, but the "Daughters of Boston" are my favorite. It was so hard to put them down once I started reading them. I always adore a good series and Julie definitely has them. You won't be disappointed.

    Looking forward to reading more of her work.

    Thanks so much for the giveaway.

    Lesley
    annielato@yahoo.com

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  13. Jennifer Davis moseylion@aol.com I do not have a favorite because I have not read all of them yet

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  14. Love, love, love Julie Lessman!! Love her PASSION!!! :) Thank you for this review! I agree with you on so many aspects of Julie's writing...she really makes you 'feel' as you read, makes you think and ponder the character's situations, and just flat out is a wonderful writer! I've never read anything boring by her, that's for certain! I loved "The Winds of Change" series, with "A Heart Revealed" probably my favorite. It's so hard to choose, though, because I find little things I am drawn to with each character! Love her heroes.... so swoon-worthy! Ahhh! I might ask her, if we were to have coffee, how she researches her heroes, questions she asks to come up with them, etc. As for why I like historical fiction... I like the history that's not written in textbook fashion! I find it much more palatable written in this story context... but that's just me. ;)
    Thank you for the giveaway and the chance to win!
    Blessings!
    Kelly Y
    kelly *at* dkcountryarts *dot* com

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    1. KELLY!!! I love YOUR passion too, my friend -- THANK YOU for your sweet comment AND for reading my books!

      You asked me about my heroes, and I'm a bit ashamed to say that I don't research them at all. I know some writers have personality sheets they put together, but I never have. I just KNOW them when I start writing them. And I'm a hero-driven author, so I know them pretty well. ;)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  15. I love Julie Lessman!!!!! I have enjoyed all of the books of hers that I have read!! She is such an inspiration to me as a writer. I would have to say, my favorite book that she has written, so far, would have to be A Love Surrendered. I loved the drama, and Charity's mischievous side. I was always wondering what she would do next, which kept me hooked until the very last page. I cannot wait to read more of her works!
    Mackenzie
    mackenziecdufries@yahoo.com

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    1. MACKENZIE!!! Thanks SO much, you sweet thing, and oh, girl -- if Charity's one of your faves (as she is mine), you will love my new Christmas novella, A Whisper of Hope. It's part of the Hope for the Holiday's Historical Collection, and the story itself is a Mitch/Charity subplot that was cut from A Love Surrendered because the publisher felt the book was too long. :) So I hope you get the chance to read it. It's only $2.99, and you get three other novellas with it by Mary Connealy, Ruth Logan Herne, and Myra Johnson, so here's the link: http://amzn.to/1pYi9Jq

      Hugs!
      Julie

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  16. My name is Jennifer Davis. My email address is moseylion@aol.com
    In answer to your question I do not have a favorite book due to the fact that I have not read them all yet. I am currently on the last "Passion" book. I am only missing 3 of her books and really hope to win!

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  17. I think people enjoy historical fiction so much because its a way for people to escape from this time period. They can see how life was like for people in a different time and the different circumstances they face. You can be transported to a completely different world and yet still be on the same earth and the story is still about humans. Its not a fanstasy world or about aliens or elves etc. I also think people like to read historical fiction because you can see how people lived through certain times or dilemmas that they would only understand. And yet they are still human and completely relatable to this time period. I think people enjoy seeing how people are still people and still go through the same life struggles and hardships even through we are separated by hundreds of years. And I don't know how much of this is true for others but I know for me I love reading about little historical facts nestled into a story. I find history books can be a bit boring but when you read historical fiction you can get those facts in a personal story about cheacters you are invested in. I like that because I'm a little nerdy and like to know cool weird facts about different time periods.
    And for the giveaway: my email is mjbrown629@gmail.com

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  18. Historical fiction just takes you back to a slower time & a different world. I have one of her books on my Kindle, just haven't had the pleasure of reading it yet ! dkstevensne AT outlook DOTcom

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  19. I was also super excited when I heard that this book would be about Bram and Meg. They stood out to me from the beginning of the series, because I love the idea of best friends suddenly realizing that there's something special happening between them! And my favorite Julie Lessman book is definitely "A Passion Most Pure." I started reading it during finals week of my sophomore year of college. Needless to say, I spent much more time reading Julie's book than reading my class notes! :) I was hooked from the very first page. Faith's story made me laugh, cry, and gave me renewed hope of having my own love story one day. I can't wait to read her latest work!

    Lauren Oliver
    lauren_2125@hotmail.com

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  20. Love Julie Lessman books! rrtroyer@gmail.com

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  21. Love your books....would love to win!
    Sunnygarden7@aol.com

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  22. Love your books...would love to win...
    Sunnygarden7@aol.com
    Judy welbaum

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  23. I have loved reading these books since my mom gave me A Passion Most Pure then read the rest of The Daughters Of Boston Series then the Winds Of Change. email nicoleolivia2003@yahoo.com Shared on facebook

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  24. I loved her second book in this series because it was so eye opening to China Town... I definitely had no idea. I love reading historical fiction because I love learning about history! Its good to know the things of the past and what happened and where we came from. Can't wait to read this book!! :) biancarachele@gmail.com

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  25. Hey, EVERYONE, thank you SOOOO much for coming to Sarah's blog to leave a comment, and since this is simply Sarah's generosity instead of one of my scheduled "interviews/giveaways," I'm not responding to every comment (that would be kind of pushy, I think), but just responded to those who asked a question.

    I wish everybody could win!

    Hugs and GOOD LUCK and THANK YOU for reading my books!!
    Julie

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  26. The daughters of Boston series are my favorite
    Dfunk_11at yahoo dot com

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  27. Thanks for the beautiful review of "Surprised by Love", Sarah!!

    Julie has been one of my very fave authors since the first few pages of the first book of hers I read - I have both the paperback and eBook of every book (including her manual on writing, and no - I'm not a writer, so that shows you how much I love to read EVERYTHING she writes). Nancy M. said it so well in: "if she writes it, I will love it"!

    I dearly love all that passion, angst, twists and turns, inspiration, realistic characters that steal my heart, beautiful story lines, and happy endings - that Julie puts in EVERY one of her books!! And I love, even more, that she is even more sweet and inspiring than the characters in her books!!

    I grew so close to the lovable O'Connor family, I didn't think I could love another book family - however, I fell in love with the McClare's also. "Surprised by Love" is the perfect ending to the series - however, I greatly anticipate Julie's coming contemporary series - her first - "Isle of Hope".

    Sarah, you'll be glad to know that there will be future novellas on characters from each of Julie's series. Also, Deanne and Deanna - did you know that you can get the eBook of Julie's "A Passion Most Pure" for FREE now?? One thing is certain - after reading one of Julie's books, every reader will want to read each of the other books she has written. Each is just as wonderful as the previous ones - she is a masterful author who inspires, entertains and never disappoints!!

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  28. Hey, Sarah ... a sweet reader friend of mine named Bev Gluck tried to post a comment here and it wouldn't take, so she emailed me her comment, and I am posting it for her to enter her in the contest, okay? Here's her comment:

    Please don't ask me to pick a favorite...it is impossible! I am an addict though of the O'Connor family and the six books in the two series Daughters of Boston and The Winds of Change. I have lost many hours of sleep and have re-read them several times (always find something new every time)! Julie's unique style leaves no emotion untouched and I find it spiritually and emotionally encouraging. Definitely gives one hope, and a learning experience in life, scripture, and history that truly touches one's soul!
    Having coffee with Julie would be a "wish box" dream come true, and I think I would like to know about some of the crazy things she did early on in life, and what occurred to bring her to this faithful point in her life.
    I think we enjoy historical fiction because we are intrigued (I am, at least) by the times when life seemed more simple, more family oriented, more romantic (at least in novels), and it gives us a glimpse of what life may have been like for our ancestors. Even with wars, depressions, and much of the same we experience in our family lives, it seems there was a deeper appreciation for things taken for granted today. Especially with historical Christian fiction, I have learned a lot with being able to reference scriptures used with incidences within the books. My most recent experience being in Julie's "Surprised By Love", where I learned a great lesson on the difference between "resignation” and genuine "acceptance". This book , by the way was my favorite of this series.
    Beverly Gluck email: baaj45@yahoo.com

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    1. Oh, WOW, Bev ... you want to know some of the crazy things I did to bring me to God??? Talk about opening a can of worms, girlfriend, you know not what you ask! :)

      I was a real pistol, doing things like laying out in my bikini on the roof of the theatre where I worked at age 16, then doing the same thing at the end of the parking lot when I worked at a big company in my 20s. I was just a real brazen gal who wore mini-skirts and platform shoes and LOTS of black eye makeup. I used to cuss like a sailor and was into everything from witchcraft to transcendental meditation, you name it. But I met an amazing woman by the name of Joy when I was 23 and she led me to the Lord, and my life has never been the same. I never really knew real "joy" till I really knew HIM!!

      Thanks for your sweet comment, my friend, and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  29. A Light in the Window" is my favorite.
    I would love to have a cup of coffee with Julie, and ask her what her favorite color, food, and song are! :o)
    I believe people love historical fiction because it is so well written, and also, it is so much fun learning history in the form of a good story!

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    1. LOL, DEB ... purple, turkey and dressing, and Try a Little Tenderness by Three Dog Night or anything by Bread. :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  30. Hello Ladies, always like to stop when I see Julie is in the house...I love to read her books and to get a freebee would be great. thanks for sharing. I will answer the question about liking historical fiction because this is one of my favs. many authors do lot of research so we get to know lot of history about area of the story and fictional work makes it pleasing to the eye. Usually the past is less hectic then our world today and that peace just sort of sinks into your soul while you are reading.
    Paula O(kyflo130@yahoo.com)

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  31. Julie- thanks so much for answering the questions. Reading the responses have been fun. Especially your answer to Bev's comment. ;-)

    Have you ever thought about writing a book based on yourself (would be interesting!) or have you already based a character on yourself? If so, who?

    I have read MANY great books, but no characters have impacted me or stayed with me as much as the O'Conner family.

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    1. Gosh, JEN, you sure know how to make a girl's day, my friend -- THANK YOU!!

      Interesting you should say that about writing a book about myself. I am a bit of a pistol, so heaven knows it would raise a few brows, but my latest manuscript -- Isle of Hope -- is actually a contemporary loosely based on my life. It's the story of a young woman who used to be a wild girl. Her almost fiance is a pastor's kid who planned to be a minister himself, but after her dad kicks her out of the house, she ends up leaving town without saying goodbye to her boyfriend or best friend, and doesn't come back till eight years later. Only this time she is a Christian back to make amends to her father, her boyfriend and the best friend and the exboyfriend is now a wild boy who's bitter at God because his pastor father had an affair with the heroine's mother, completely destroying both families. So it's a complete role reversal for both hero and heroine, which has been very interesting to write. It's a story of hope restored, which is why the setting of Isle of Hope, Georgia -- which is a real place -- is so perfect.

      LOL ... an O'Connor character based on myself? Well, to be honest, Faith is my spiritual self, Charity is my carnal self (before I came to Christ), and Lizzie is my dreamer self, so the answer is yes, I have put a bit of myself in some of my characters. :)

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK, my friend. :)

      Julie

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  32. Opps, email is jen@renewanation.org. Would love to win a book! I plan to have all your books in my personal, hard copy collection one day.

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  33. Sarah, you are so funny, as well as open and honest in expressing your thoughts! Your enthusiasm is contagious and it is always a pleasure to visit your blog.

    And Miss Julie, I hope you know how eager I am to start reading Surprised by Love and being with you in a few weeks! Sarah and I want many more readers to discover your writing.

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    1. Hi Carole!
      Haha! Thank you! I'll take that as a compliment. :) I just can't resist talking about books I love. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

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    2. CAROLE!!! YES, my friend, I am excited about coming to your blog, and you're still planning on sending me the questions after you read the book, correct?

      I'm definitely looking forward to spending time with you on your blog, sweetie, so talk to you soon!

      Hugs and more hugs!!
      Julie

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  34. My favourite book of Julie's is Love At Any Cost :) I love how the different characters' lives are interlocked and I love the ending :)

    If I could have hot chocolate with Julie, I would ask her why she decided to start writing.

    I think that people are interested in historical fiction since society back then was so different now. I am personally fascinated by the social class differences and love looking at historical costumes.


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    1. Hey, STARLIGHT ... started writing at the age of twelve after reading Gone with the Wind. The moment Scarlett seared Rhett with a look on the winding staircase of Twelve Oaks, I was a goner, my brain irrevocably branded with the burning desire for romance. Heaven help me, I was only twelve, but that novel captured me like no other work of fiction had done, instilling in me a desire to embark on my own romance-writing career. And so, I immediately sat down to write a 150-page, single-spaced manuscript that eventually became—some forty years later—the basis for my debut novel, A Passion Most Pure. And to think it all started with the gift of a book! Today, I like to think that not only are Margaret Mitchell’s fingerprints are all over me in my religious devotion to romance, but God’s as well—merging my passion for romance with my passion for Him. :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  35. No she is a new author for me. Have a stack of books by my bed so will read on of hers as soon as I can.

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    1. I hope you love them, Kim!
      I do need your email to enter you - sorry. It's just, if you were to win, I'd have no way to contact you and get your address. Doing it this way just makes it easier all around. If you leave it, I'll be sure to toss your name in the hat!

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    2. Hey, KIM ... since you've never read any of my books before, I sure hope you take advantage (or have already taken advantage of) the free download of my debut book, A Passion Most Pure. It was American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Book of the Year and currently has 586 five-star reviews on Amazon, so it's not a dog, I promise. :) Here's the link:

      http://amzn.to/1qxWNTk

      And if you DON’T have an ereader, you can always download a free Kindle app that will allow you to read APMP on your PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, or Droid, so let me know if you want the link, okay?

      Thanks for coming by and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  36. I still have yet to read a book by Julie although i have several on my TBR list.. meme_braddock@yahoo.com

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    1. Hi Mia!
      Oh, I hope you get to read them soon! You'll be hooked for life, then! :)
      You're entered!

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    2. MIA!! Mmmm ... now what can we do to motivate you to move A Passion Most Pure to the top of your TBR list? How 'bout we make a deal? If you read it next or at least before November 30 and you like it and post a review, you just let me know, and I will send you an arc copy of my Christmas Irish love story, A Light in the Window absolutely FREE. Deal is on the table, so what do you think? :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  37. Thanks for passing on your extra copy!

    Question #1 - All Julie's books are great, but I think if I had to pick my favorite I would say 'A Heart Revealed'

    I signed up to follow your blog!

    pattymh2000(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. Hi Patty!
      You're brave to pick a favorite - I just can't choose one! Maybe a favorite of each series, but even that is difficult for me! A Heart Revealed was great, though. :)
      Thanks for stopping in! You have 2 entries!

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  38. My question would be. .. where do you come up with this stuff?

    I'm following your blog!
    I shared on Facebook!

    I'm sure glad you ended up with 2 books!

    missionwife@hotmail.com

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    1. Hi Melody!
      That's a great question! As an aspiring author, I know my ideas just come randomly from things I've read, or heard, or observed. I'm always fascinated to hear where authors get their inspiration.
      Thanks for stopping in! You have 3 entries!

      Delete
  39. I could NEVER pick a favorite book of Julie's......'cause I read them all and LOVE them all!!! Can't wait to read this one.
    I love historical fiction 'cause it portrays the simple days, and people were so caring then!
    Thanks for the giveaway.
    I will follow your blog!
    jacsmi75 at gmail dot com

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    1. Hi Jackie!
      I love the "old fashioned" values like that. Helping your neighbor and being generally kind to everyone has become so lost now. So I definitely love reading about it. :)
      Thanks for stopping in! You have 2 entries!

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  40. So far I've only read two of Julie's books (though I have almost all of them in both paperback and kindle formats :) ) but my favorite would probably be A Passion Most Pure....I just loved Faith O'Conner!! And then of course there was Collin ;)

    My email is bookworm9404(at)gmail(dot)com

    Thanks for the giveaway and a great review!

    ~Micaela

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    1. Hi Micaela!
      A Passion Most Pure was definitely great - Conner and Faith are great characters and I loved watching Faith grow and mature throughout the story. :)
      Thanks for coming by! You're entered!

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  41. I've read all of Julie's O'Connor books and the first of the McClare's. I'm hoping to get this last book so I can read Dare to Love Again and Surprised by Love one after the other. If I have to have a favorite, I'll say A Passion Most Pure since it's the book that started the wonderful series and introduced me to the O'Connor family.Thanks for your review. I've read several reviews lately of Surprised by Love. Yours is the most in-depth I've read. Thanks also for sharing your extra copy; I'd love to win!
    pmkellogg56[at]gmail[dot]com

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  42. I also am following your blog. The info on the right of the page wasn't showing until after I submitted my earlier comment. Thanks for the extra entry.

    pmkellogg56[at]gmail[dot]com

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    1. Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed my review! I'm sure you'll love Dare to Love Again and Surprised by Love - they were both excellent and DTLA had me literally laughing out loud several times (which is hard to do). :)
      Thanks for coming by! You have 2 entries!

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  43. Yes, I'm a Julie fan. I've read her books. Which is my favorite.....hard to say guess the one that I'm reading at the time you ask the question. Julie is awesome. I love her books thanks for the chance to win .

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    1. I think my favorite is usually whichever book I've read most recently. :)
      I need your email to enter you!

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  44. Historical fiction serves many purposes for the reader. It can be an escape back to simpler times where values were more evident than we see today. It can be an adventure where the reader can feel they have traveled to explore anither part if the country or world. It can be a learning experience of another period of time's customs, struggles and beliefs. For me, I love to visit different places in time where life was simpler and I can get away from the stresses of today. I love watching the struggles the characters go through to find God and their deepening faith. It is inspirational to me and can be applied to my life. It shows me a never changing God of hope, forgiveness and love throughout the ages.

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    1. I agree with all of this Janice and couldn't have said it better myself!
      Thanks for coming by! You're entered! :)

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  45. If I could have coffee or tea with Julie, first we'd have to talk about the characters in her books, you know get an update on what's going on with them. :) Actually, I would probably quiz her on her faith walk, even though I've read lots of it in her interviews and Journal Jots. Just talking with another woman of faith can be so encouraging and I'll be we'd cover lots of topics.

    Kathy - kauppatgridcomdotnet

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  46. I'll bet we would cover lots of topics.

    Kathy :)

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  47. I have only read one of her books but would love to read another! Thank you for the give away. myrenterp at gmail dot com

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