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Friday, August 30, 2013

Stephanie Landsem: Illuminating History Through Fiction

Everyone's Story welcomes debut author Stephanie Landsem. Ever wonder what it would be like to slip back into the past and live one day out of thousands of years when people did not enjoy the benefits of contemporary life with our medicine, space travels, communication, and, fortunately in many countries, enjoy the right to worship? When I met Stephanie Landsem I knew I had to feature a guest who can guide us down a street from the Biblical-historic era. Visit with Stephanie this week and see how she got her start in writing. She's offering a great Giveaway of her debut novel, THE WELL (see below). Both Stephanie and I are looking forward to your comments and visiting with you.



Book Giveaway:
Stephanie is offering to one randomly chosen commenter a printed edition of THE WELL. The winner will be announced here on Friday, September 6th, between 4-6 PM EST. For convenience, please leave your contact information within your comment. Thanks! 





The Power Of Story by Stephanie Landsem

Since The Well was released in June, I’ve had the chance to talk to many readers and there are two questions I get the most: How did you start writing and why historical fiction? My website says “Illuminating history through fiction” but that’s just the end of the story. The beginning was another matter.

From my earliest days, I loved history and daydreamed of far-off times and places. And I loved fiction: historical fiction, thrillers, mysteries . . . anything I could get my hands on. Still, I was a pragmatist—practical, sensible—writing stories as a career was nothing more than a flight of fancy.

So I went to college ready for hours in the lab as a biology major. Instead, something happened halfway through my freshman year . . . I took my first college level history course. Pragmatism flew out the window and I spent the next four years studying ancient Greece, imperial Russia, and medieval Europe. Unfortunately—and just as I’d suspected— there weren’t paying jobs for people who could write a thesis on the differences between Spartans and Athenians.

As twenty years passed, I exchanged research papers for marketing, and marketing for the joys of motherhood. Four children, volunteering, carpooling, and answering the inevitable what’s-for-dinner had filled my days for so long that when my youngest daughter entered school, I wasn’t sure what to do.

“What would you do if you could do anything?” my oldest daughter asked me one day.

Anything? I had to think about that. My answer came harder than I expected, perhaps because it had been buried for so long—percolating in the back of my mind as I’d changed diapers and read bedtime stories. “I guess I’d write historical fiction.”

“Then why aren’t you doing it?” she asked, with all the confidence of a twelve year old who still thought her mother could do anything.

Why, indeed? Because I didn’t know where to start. Because I’d never taken a writing course in my life. Because I might not be any good.

But my daughter was right. It was time to try. And if I fell flat on my face it wouldn’t be because I didn’t’ give it everything I had. I had a story, one that had come to me one morning as I’d heard the gospel account of the Samaritan woman at the well. And so I sat down to write.

The first day, I felt like an imposter. Who did I think I was . . . Anita Diamant? Francine Rivers? I was no Biblical scholar and certainly no wordsmith. Heck, I didn’t even know what a synopsis was. But I did want to help people experience the kind of life Jesus lived—to imagine meeting the Incarnation face to face. And so I started typing.

It wasn’t easy. But with hours of research, an online thesaurus, and plenty of prayer, I finally saw a book take shape. I was so proud when I wrote ‘the end’. I couldn’t wait for someone to read it. I gave the book to my eldest girl, by that time 14, and paced the floor, waiting for her verdict. It came, quick and brutal.

“Mom, it’s boring.”

Argh! I knew it. I shoved the manuscript in the bottom drawer of my desk and vowed never to write again. But after I had my cry, my daughter suggested gently. “More action, less history.” And I tried again. And again. And again.

Every revision improved and refined the story and taught me something new about writing. By the time I entered The Well into the Genesis contest in 2011, I felt that I might even have a chance.

The Well went on to final in the Genesis and the contest helped me get an agent and a publishing contract for not one, but three Biblical fiction titles. Today, I’m a full-time writer of historical fiction with one book published, another on my editor’s desk, and a third in progress. (That eldest daughter is in college majoring in English, of course.)

My goal each day is simple: to transport my readers into the pages of the Bible; to bring the people, places, and cultures of the past alive through the power of story; and yes, to illuminate history through fiction.

Questions for Stephanie:
How do you slip out of the present and into the world of far ago yesterday to write your stories?

The more research I do in the time period the easier it is to completely immerse myself in the story and characters. The story just seems to flow when I can clearly picture the details of the time period. Sometimes, I'll hit a roadblock—some historical detail I don't know: A character is locked in a room, but did doors have locks? How did they work? What did the keys look like? I found out that I can't let those roadblocks slow me down. I use an @ sign to mark the place where I need to do some more research, and then dive back into the story.

What lessons have your Biblical time era characters taught you that you were surprised is still applicable to today's lifestyle?

The more I write about historical characters and enter into their lives, the more I realize that their motivations and struggles are fueled by the same needs that we have today — needs to belong, to be loved, and to find meaning in their lives and ultimately a need to find and know God.

Have you had to make any unexpected sacrifices in becoming a full-time professional author?

Well, I knew this year would be hard. I have one book out, one in production, and another to finish writing. So yes, I've had to give up any free time that I used to have. I try to still be available for my family, but even that is hard sometimes. Fortunately, I'm blessed with an understanding husband and kids. When I tell them I need to write, they are more than happy to head out the door and get dinner at their favorite restaurant!

Stephanie's Ah-hahs To Tweet:

Meet Biblical-historical author Stephanie Landsem on Everyone’s Story. (Tweet This)


Everyone has a story: biology major Stephanie Landsem turns author. (Tweet This)

Daughter to mother: Why aren’t you writing a book? And, mom, Stephanie Landsem did what? (Tweet This)

Win Stephanie Landem’s #BookGiveaway of THE WELL. (Tweet This)

Author Bio:
Stephanie Landsem writes historical fiction because she loves adventure in far-off times and places. In real life, she’s explored ancient ruins, medieval castles, and majestic cathedrals around the world. Stephanie is equally happy at home in Minnesota with her husband, four children, and three fat cats. When she’s not writing, she’s feeding the ravenous horde, avoiding housework, and dreaming about her next adventure—whether it be in person or on the page.


A Note From Elaine:

In following professionals' advice, I've started an Author's Page on Facebook. I'd love for you to Like it at : https://www.facebook.com/AuthorElaineStock

Thanks ♥


54 comments:

  1. Daughters are wonderful, aren't they. It was my now twelve year old who inspired me to write. She did it by showing me how fun it was to do. She'd been writing her own chapter books since age nine. However, now she's a visual artist. Not sure what she'll do next year, but I'm stickin with writing.

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    1. Hi Connie. I think you've shared that story with me while in Philly, but it was't until I just saw this in print did that settle into my noggin.... so see, definitely stick with the writing :)

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    2. You are so right, Connie. My oldest left for her second hear of college last week and I already miss her. Even when they are young, they have so much to teach us!

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  2. Sounds like a great story. Please include me in the drawing. Thanks, ladies!

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    1. Welcome again, Renee. This does sound like a story you would enjoy! Blessings.

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    2. Thanks, Renee. Good luck in the drawing :)

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  3. I love this post, thanks so much for sharing. Stephanie your story of how you came to write is such an encouragement. I love historical fiction. History has always been a passion of mine and to have it brought to life through story telling is an added bonus. :) I'd love to go into the contest for the book. matt.linsey@gmail.com

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    1. Hi Linsey. I appreciate your visit. Just looking at Stephanie's book covers makes me feel as if I turn the page I'd open a door to yesterday!

      You're definitely entered to win.

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    2. I'm glad it encouraged you, Linsey. It was a long process, but so worth it. And I have my art director to thank for those beautiful covers. He is awesome.

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    3. Thanks Elaine and Stephanie for your return comments. It's lovely that you both took the time to write back.

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    4. Thank you so much, Linsey, for coming back for another visit this evening and sharing such sweet words. I'm really trying to make this blog a comfortable place for people like yourself to visit and to feel comfortable in hope that we can all encourage each other. And so, I believe it's very important to personalize each commenter's thoughts with a response.

      Hope to see you again. Each week I feature a new blog guest and perhaps you will win a future, and of course awesome, Book Giveaway.

      Blessings ♡

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  4. Thank you Elaine for introducing Stephanie and her books to us. The Well sounds like a wonderful read. I would love to win a copy.

    Ann Ellison
    abilene_nana@yahoo.com

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    1. You're back Ann--and am I happy to see you again! Best wishes for this Giveaway.

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    2. Elaine's interview was a lot of fun for me. I'm so grateful for bloggers who are interested in helping me get my books into the hands of readers. Good luck in the drawing, Ann.

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  5. What a sweet story. Love the 14-year-old daughter telling you it's boring. I have SOOOOO been there! I love history and look forward to reading your novel.

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    1. Hi, Lisa. Wow--between you, Connie (the 1s commenter), and Stephane daughter-commentary seems to be quite the motivating factor about you moms turning authors :) Thanks for sharing. Thanks for visiting again. Thanks for making my night.

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    2. Thanks, Lisa. My daughter was right on. She taught me to make sure the story moved fast and kept the reader guessing and turning pages.

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  6. Hi, Stephanie & Elaine!

    Biblical historical fiction is one of my favorite book genres - definitely want to read this book!

    Thanks for sticking with your quest to be an author, Stephanie, & blessing us with this wonderful book! A dream of mine is to visit the Holy Land - have you been?

    bonnieroof60(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. Hi Bonnie. What a joy it was to wake up this morning to find you back here--you just made my day wonderful ♡ I too want to visit the Holy Land... imagine walking on the same soil that Jesus might have. I think I'd have a perpetual case of goosebumps while there!

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    2. I haven't been there but it is on the top of my travel list. Rachel (my oldest daughter) and I have been talking about going for years and I hope that some day we will see it together.

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  7. The Well sounds so interesting. I would love to win it! pat at ptbradley dot com

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    1. I love seeing your smiling face here, Pat. This blog wouldn't be the same without your visits :)

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    2. Wishing you the best of luck in the drawing, Pat :)

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  8. Oh I hope I win!! What a fascinating writing journey, too. And a beautiful lady inside and out! Thanks for this interview. I enjoyed it. kkakins at gmail dot com

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    1. Hi Karla! Thanks so much for your visit. Lovely comments like yours makes me imagine that when my own writing sells that I'd just want to give out a copy to everyone I meet that expresses interest in reading my story. Ha. Maybe everyone I meet! I'm sure when Stephanie reads this she'l smile too.

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    2. I enjoyed this piece quite a bit, not least because I can relate, as an English major, a historical writer, and someone who's been told, "This is boring, do it over." I'm so proud you stuck to it, Mrs. Landsem, and congratulations on your persistence!

      Anthony
      anthonyotten.com

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    3. Welcome, Anthony, to Everyone's Story. So nice to see you! And I'm proud of you for being an English major. This world needs entertaining stories, especially ones that offer hope.

      Do check back in a couple of days for Stephanie's reply.

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    4. Thank you, Karla. I'm glad you enjoyed it. Elaine has a really wonderful blog here and I'm looking forward to reading more of her interviews now that I've found her!

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    5. And thank you, Anthony! Persistence is half the battle, isn't it? My daughter loves her classes as an English major (I'm kind of jealous -- her classes sound so fun). Good luck to you and keep at it :)

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  9. Your daughter showed wisdom beyond her years. But...you don't look old enough to have a college-aged kid!

    Congrats on your novel!

    susanjreinhardt AT gmail DOT com

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    1. Susan, it's a pleasure to see you here again. Stephanie is going to smile a mile wide when she reads your sweet words. Blessings.

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    2. That is VERY sweet, Susan, and made my day. I'm plenty old enough. But I do have a secret ... a really good photographer! :)

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  10. Elaine and Stephanie--great interview! I've always loved history and minored in it, so I understand your love of history, Stephanie. I'm so happy that you are able to use your history background to write historical fiction. I love to read historical fiction, and especially Biblical fiction, from an author who does good research and is going to be accurate with the historical details. Have either of you read Anita Higman's wonderful devotional, Where God Finds You? She does an amazing job of bringing 40 different Biblical characters to life. Thank you for offering a copy of The Well. I am looking forward to reading it and the other two books that are coming up!
    may_dayzee@yahoo.com

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    1. Hi Kay, so nice to see you again ♡ Sounds like you enjoy a story where the characters step off the pages, reach for your hand, and take you back to their time. Best way to learn history, I believe. I'll have to check out your suggestion about Anita's devotional. Thanks for the suggestion.

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    2. Thanks for the suggestion, Kay. I'll have to take a look at that book. I hope you like The Well and good luck in the drawing.

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  11. Thank you so much, Elaine, for having me on your blog and for keeping the conversation going while I was camping with my family in Wisconsin. I'm home now with a pile of laundry and a lot of good memories. Feel free to ask me any questions about writing or The Well, I'm glad to hear from you!

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    1. You're very welcome, Stephanie. I hope there's been more fond memories than laundry!

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  12. Excellent post, Stephanie. I love Medieval history (Vikings, to be specific), and I know what you mean about having to stop and look up those niggling details like locks on the door! Your book sounds great--I've noticed the cover art and love it. I'm glad you accomplished your dream! I'd love to win it. heatherdaygilbert (at) gmail (dot) com.

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    1. Heather, thanks for visiting this evening. I'm not surprised Stephanie's cover of THE WELL caught your eye--it's really appealing. And don't you just admire the one for THE THEF?

      And I'm sure you're well on your way to making your dreams come true as well ♡

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    2. Thanks so much, Heather! I'd love to do some research into the Vikings myself, or just read some good Viking historical fiction. Let me know if you have a recommendation!

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  13. What a beautiful story of persistence. I've had very similar comments from my daughter. My daughter-in-law is a little more kind. She begins with,"Well, ah...." :-) I would love to have my name in the drawing. I'm sue@sueharrison.com.

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    1. Thanks for the visit, Sue. So nice to see you. One just always has to smile with family!

      Check back tomorrow (Friday) evening for the lucky winner! Blessings.

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    2. Haha, Sue. That is so true. I'll tell my mom something straight up, but with MIL you have to be a little more diplomatic :) Thanks for visiting the blog!

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  14. Sue K.--tsvak.mn@netzero.netSeptember 06, 2013

    I'm embarrassed to say that I have not yet read 'The Well'. I shared in Stephanie's excitement over it's release, but haven't bought it yet. I will if I don't win it! Thanks for the offer.

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  15. Don't be embarrassed! I hope you win it!

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    1. Welcome, Sue. I sure do appreciate your visit today and hope to see you again. Each week Everyone's Story features a new guest. Often, we're blessed with a wonderful Giveaway :)

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  16. Everyone's Story wraps up with a feel of autumn in the air--invigorating and exciting, which nicely sums up this past week with guest Stephanie Landsem. Thank you, Stephanie for your appearance here and working around your vacation. From the looks of the comments here, and the many viewer hits you've received, it appears as if you have many new fans! Thanks too for your generous Giveaway of THE WELL.

    And the winner of Stephanie Biblical fiction novel THE WELL is... Connie. Yea, Connie ♡ Both Stephanie and I will be in touch with you shortly.

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    1. Thank you, Elaine. It was truly a pleasure to meet you and your readers. And congratulations, Connie! I hope you enjoy The Well and good luck with your own writing journey.

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  17. Wow what an awesome writing beginner's story! I love how our kids help us put into action! :) Definitely would love to win this one!

    sylvesternator@yahoo.com

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    1. Laura, I'm happy you could join us this evening, but unfortunately Stephanie's book giveaway ended not too long ago earlier this evening. You're welcome to leave a comment for my new guest, Sandra Orchard. She's also giving away one of her novels if you enjoy romantic suspense. Blessings.

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    2. Thanks, Laura, kids are pretty amazing at inspiring us. Sorry you missed the drawing, but watch my Author Facebook page and there will soon be another chance to win The Well.

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  18. Thank you for sharing your story! I'm a Minnesota girl and writing my first novel. My eldest (now 16) is guiding me too! Love those daughters. Thanks for the inspiration to keep at it...I needed that! =)

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    1. Rachel, so glad to see you here. I'm glad Stephanie has inspired you. Keep reading, keep writing! Blessings.

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    2. I'm glad my story encouraged you, Rachel. Especially since you and my oldest daughter share the same name :) Enjoy the beautiful Minnesota weather this weekend, winter will be here before we know it!

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