Friday, April 25, 2014

Kate Breslin: A New Author Gripping Readers With Story

Everyone's Story welcomes debut author Kate Breslin. I've had the opportunity to get to know Kate since we share the same literary agent and it has been exciting to see Kate emerge and blossom as an author. I'm halfway through reading her novel FOR SUCH A TIME and I urge all to read this remarkable story, which Kate is offering as a Giveaway. Check out the intriguing and reflective video she shares and the replies to a few questions I've asked her. We're looking forward to seeing your comments.



Book Giveaway:
Kate is offering one copy of her novel FOR SUCH A TIME to one randomly chosen commenter. The winner will be announced here on Friday, May 2nd, between 5-6 PM EST. For convenience, please leave your contact information within your comment. Thanks!






Video of Kate's interview at Bethany House:


Questions For Kate:

I’m currently reading FOR SUCH A TIME and must say that I regret the other demands of my day that pull me away from the novel. What a gripping story. How did you slip back into that time era to capture the lifestyle and speech patterns of Europe in the 1940s?

Thanks Elaine! I think I was able to “mimic” the time period through reading books and watching movies from the era. A few modern day WWII movies that did a great job depicting dialog and dress are Schindler’s List, The Pianist, and Playing for Time.

Your novel focuses on a sad period of history. While writing it, did your heart ever stagger, leaving you to wonder how to finish such a tale?

I did get emotional writing the story. Even during the final review process, I became teary-eyed rereading certain passages. It reminded me of the real, painful stories I’d read about the Holocaust.

As both a reader and writer, the darker side of the human mind intrigues me. As an author for a Christian publisher and as a former bookseller, do you find the face of Christian fiction changing and can you offer any tips on how to appeal to the reader who may have boxed Christian fiction into a tight definition?

Great question! I think Christian publishers are becoming aware that the genre needs to cater to a wider range of readers—not only “cradle Christians” but worldly Prodigal sons and daughters who are returning to Christ. Diversity is good; by offering more “edgy” inspirational fiction, I feel publishers will attract more of the latter group, as well as some of the secular readership. Packaging is extremely important, of course, but stories should offer greater conflict, more relevant and controversial issues, and realistically flawed characters who struggle to find their way back to values and beliefs. Readers also need to be allowed to discover the spiritual message themselves—“less preaching means more reaching.” As a bookseller, I’ve heard this complaint from both Christian and non-Christian readers. Writing workshops teach “less is more” when crafting emotion into our scenes; the same might be applied to our spiritual message. Let the reader figure it out and it will mean more.

Mount Rainier--a view Kate
 often sees.
Was the road to publication short and smooth or long and gravelly?

I have to smile, Elaine—that’s the same metaphor I used in the Acknowledgements for my novel. Yes, it was a long and gravelly road, often full of ruts. I spent the better part of twenty years trying to publish in the general market and have the rejection letters to prove it. While that time did allow me to hone my craft, it wasn’t until I found my passion in writing inspirational fiction that publishing became a reality.

(Administrative note: sincerely and hilariously 
  coincidental, the two of us did create that metaphor
  independently.)

Any fun surprises as a debut author you’d like to share?

I’ve had some wonderful surprises, like receiving the first copy of my book in the mail from my publisher. One day, though, I was out marketing my book at libraries and checked my phone for email. There were several congratulatory messages and I had no idea why. It turned out that For Such A Time received a TopPick! review for inspirational fiction in Romantic Times magazine. I was thrilled!

And the opposite: as a newly published author, were there sacrifices you didn’t expect?

Absolutely! Time no longer exists in my universe. Between improving my online visibility, launching and marketing For Such A Time, and working on the next book deadline for Bethany House, I wish I had two of me right now!

What can readers expect next from Kate Breslin?

I’m working on another inspirational historical romance for April 2015 with Bethany House. The story is set in Britain during WWI. And as I love Downton Abbey, I’m having fun writing in this time period.

And for fun: if time constraints were not an issue, what 3 fiction books would you reread?

There are so many, but I choose: The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, The Secret by Julie Garwood, and Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. I love them all!

Kate's Ah-hahs To Tweet:
Meet up & coming author Kate Breslin on Everyone’s Story. #BookGiveaway (Tweet This)

Kate Breslin: should Christian fiction appeal to the reader wanting a different kind of read? (Tweet This)

Everyone’s Story: #BookGiveaway of FOR SUCH A TIME by Kate Breslin #ChristianBooks (Tweet This)

Author's Bio:
A Florida girl who migrated to the beautiful Pacific Northwest, Kate Breslin lives with her husband, John, and a very spoiled cat named Coco. Kate has written several travel articles, published award-winning poetry, and her first manuscript, a Scottish historical romance, was an RWA Golden Heart finalist. FOR SUCH A TIME is her debut novel. Kate’s writing journey has been one of faith as well as success; after years spent writing novels aimed at the general romance market, she finally heeded God’s call to write stories of how His love brings two hearts together. When not plotting her next novel, she loves spending time with author friends, reading from her mountain of books, or watching anything Jane Austen on BBC. Kate’s also an avid gardener and enjoys taking long walks in Washington State’s many forests. A traveler as well, she’s toured most of the country at one time or another and also been abroad–Paris, Munich, Rome, Pompeii, Athens, even a day trip to Turkey.

Places to connect with Kate: 
Website
Blog
Twitter
Facebook
Pinterest
Goodreads



47 comments:

  1. I've seen Kate's book and it sounds so interesting to me. I'm thrilled publishers are delving into the more difficult time periods of history like this. Hope always shines through, thank the Lord. Would love to win and sharing this on twitter!

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    1. Thanks for visiting, Heather. I'm reading Kate's book now and really wish I had more reading time to finish it because I'm so curious to know what happens! Thanks for your Tweets. Do come back and see what Kate replies.

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    2. Heather, thank you! Yes, I'm all for spreading the Word to those who don't currently read the Christian genre. I hope you get the chance to read For Such A Time and let me know what you think. I'd love to hear from you!

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  2. Elaine- you come up with such great books! Sounds like another I would enjoy. Love time period -sounds interesting. I tweeted for you.

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    1. Barbara, thanks for your visit and kind words. I'm grateful you enjoy my guests. And thanks for the Tweet… I always appreciate promo help. Understatement!

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    2. Barbara, I hope you get the chance to read the story. I'd love to hear from you, and thank you for your interest!

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  3. I was blessed and have already won a copy of this book. It's a wonderful book. One of the best I have read lately.

    Ann Ellison
    abilene_nana@yahoo.com

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    1. Ann, since I'm 3 hours ahead of Kate time-wise, I'm sure that when she wakes to find your sweet words that you will plant a smile on her face. You certainly made me smile just by your visit.

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    2. Yes, I know Ann, and I am smiling! She gave For Such A Time a lovely review. :) Ann, thank you for posting!

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  4. Hi Kate, congratulations on the release of your novel. A retelling of Esther - wow, and in WWII time, a second wow. It sounds intriguing.

    Sounds like "For Such a Time" is quite relevant a title for you - it's this time in 2014 when the world gets to meet you. God is always on time, so this is your time. May it be a long and fruitful season for you and your novels.

    Elaine, once again, thank you for introducing us to another exciting new author.

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    1. Ian, you deserve a wow as well! What a strong & loving reminder about our God who knows what's best for us--at the most right & perfect time. I hope you're enjoying a good, kind season as well.

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    2. Ian, you are so right! The crafting of this novel lent more to my journey in faith than I'd ever imagined. I am where God wants me to be. Thank you so much for your beautiful insight!

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  5. Amanda GeaneyApril 26, 2014

    Kate, You have a beautiful testimony. It is incredible how God used your desire to write to draw you closer to Himself. I pray that He continues to bless you with a rich knowledge of himself as you use your talents to write for His glory.
    I am following your adventures on-
    twitter (@iStudyScripture), Facebook, GoodReads,
    and Pinterest - where I made you cover the cover to my "TBR" board http://www.pinterest.com/Geaney/
    I've also signed up to be a Kate's Crusader.

    Amanda Geaney
    geaneymail@gmail.com

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    1. Amanda, welcome to Everyone's Story. Kate has a devoted fan in you--what a blessing.

      Hope to see you again.

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    2. Amanda, I'm touched by your words. Thank you for your continued prayers in my work for Him, and for being such a great support to me. I feel so honored!

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  6. I'd love a copy of this book. Count me in! cbalmony at yahoo dot com.

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    1. Connie, you've brought me joy with your visit! You're definitely in the book drawing.

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    2. Connie, thank you for your interest. Let me know what you think!

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  7. I have Kat's book sitting right by my bed! Unfortunately, I have 2 other great stories to read & review before I get to it. But I'll be there soon :)

    Thanks for sharing this interview, Elaine! And congrats, Kate, on all the wonderful things my reader friends are saying about your book! Blessings, ladies!

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    1. Renee, thanks for visiting. You've brightened my day. Happy reading.

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    2. Oh, Renee, thank you! I remember that you were the first to re-pin FSAT's cover art on Pinterest! :) You've been so supportive throughout this journey and I am grateful. I hope you enjoy the story!

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  8. I love history and this time period has always fascinated me. Difficult and sad occurrences are a part of life and we cannot ignore that they happened but we can try to prevent them occurring again.
    I wish you much success.
    Connie
    cps1950@gmail.com

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    1. Hi, Connie. Welcome to Everyone's Story and thanks for your visit. I agree--we as a human race should not push aside what happened in the past in order to make sure it doesn't happen again. This is a strong theme in my own writing.

      Hope to see you again.

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  9. Amen, Connie. Let us never forget. Thank you for your kind words!

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  10. Loved this post! Totally agree that a subtle Christian message will attract the general population. I believe Christian writers write for 2 reasons: so that the body of believers will have something decent to read and to reach those who don't know Christ through their stories. Would love to win the book. pat at ptbradley dot com

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    1. Pat, I'm so grateful for your visit--always am!

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    2. Pat, thank you for posting and I hope you get the chance to read For Such A Time. I learned so much from writing it! God bless!

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  11. I'm sure it was difficult to write this book, considering the subject matter. Focusing on current world events, I would say For Such a Time's publication is timely. I love the story of Esther and recently reread and studied that book of the Bible, so I am especially looking forward to this modern story. Isn't it just like God to strengthen your faith, Kate, through the writing of this novel? I know that many people will be blessed as they read it. Elaine, thanks for introducing your readers to Kate.
    may_dayzee(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. Kay, I always appreciate your visits. Thanks for sharing those wise words on the subject of God's timing for both the release of Kate's book and the time in her life. I'm learning every day the His timing is never off. Fascinating subject.

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    2. Kay, thank you for your insight! God IS timely in all things. The story was difficult to write, but also a labor of love. Today is Holocaust Remembrance Day, and I hope For Such A Time will offer readers a better understanding of the time period so that we never forget.

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  12. Hello Elaine. Thanks for having Kate as a guest today. It was a very interesting interview. I truly enjoyed reading it. Hi Kate. Since this is your Debut Novel, does that mean your first manuscript still waits to be published?I love a setting in WW ll. I was only in the 9 and 10 year age but remember it well. My oldest brother served in that war. Also, 3 brother-in-laws(later on), cousins, uncles, and many friends. Some never came home. My brother is now 89 in 2 months. One of the brother-in-laws even had pictures of Hitler's wife and sister. You see their company had taken that home as a base. Said they were nice and not liking what Hitler was doing.We moved to Houston, Texas for my daddy to work in the shipyards. It was a time of sacrifices for many Americans and they all, women and men did whatever they could to help.This book sounds really good and I have already tried to win it, but no luck yet. Thanks for the give-away. Maxie mac262(at)me(dot)com ( Please use this email )

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    1. Maxie, I'm glad you enjoyed the interview. The glimpses of your childhood you've just shared sent shivers down my spine. I am thankful that era is over but the world has sadly seen to many other similar horrors these past decades since the ending of WWII. Let's pray that mankind can stop practicing hatred and instead share the love and kindness He wants us to. Blessings.

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    2. Thank you, Maxie. This is my first published novel, though I have written other manuscripts. I'm fascinated and moved by your snapshot memories of the war. It was a time of hardship and sacrifice, yet everyone pulled together. So different from later wars and conflicts. I echo Elaine's sentiments, let's pray that love and kindness will one day overpower fear and hatred. I hope you'll get the chance to read For Such A Time. God bless!

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  13. Kate, I have a similar story of writing for the mainstream market and never finding a 'home.' My first novel will come out with Choose NOW Publishing in early 2015. I feel that I am now in a place where I can best grow as a writer. :) FOR SUCH A TIME is on my "to read" list. I can't wait!

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    1. Thanks for visiting, Sara. I think not only does God have us experience different seasons in life, but also seems to have us learning different themes--kind of like how many writers choose a new word-of-the-year as a New Year's resolution. A theme for me that keeps reoccurring is: God's timing is perfect.

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    2. Thank you, Sara. I hope you enjoy the story, and I wish you the very best in your writing journey!

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  14. I have been hearing such good things about this book. Can't wait to read it!

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    1. Beckie, thank you, and I hope you get a chance to read the story and let me know what you think!

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  15. whoops! rebeccalyn73(at)Hotmail(dot)com

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  16. Welcome, Beckie, to Everyone's Story. You're definitely in Kate's Giveaway drawing. Hope to see you again.

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  17. Your book sounds amazing, Kate!!

    morganleanna16(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. Morgan, so nice of you to visit. Do check back on Friday for the winner of Kate's book.

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    2. Morgan, thank you! I hope you enjoy the story! :)

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  18. I loved this book. I read it with my Mom. Every good character stole my heart- especially precious, precocious Joseph, who was the first thing Stella allowed herself to love. If I win, I'll be sending my extra copy up to my Aunt, who will love Stella and Aric as much as we did. Faith at mickeydog@myfairpoint.net

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    1. Faith, thanks for your visit. I'm sure you will bring a smile to Kate's face today! I am a bit more than halfway through her novel and adore Joseph too--and am curious about the recent development...

      Hope to see you again.

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    2. Faith, thank you so much for your kind words. Yes, I am smiling! Joseph is very special to me, too. :) God bless!

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  19. Viewers, I hope that this past week has been as much of a joy for you as it has been for me. Kate, I thank you for taking the time from your busy writing schedule to appear on this blog. It's been a pleasure to host you. I truly hope the over 1000 viewers (Praise God!) will enjoy your novel and many more to come and will help to spread the word on you.

    Thanks too for your giveaway of FOR SUCH A TIME. And the winner of Kate's book is…

    Connie Almony. Congratulations, Connie. Kate and I will be in direct touch with you in private emails.

    Blessings to all.

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