Meet author Alyssa Schwarz
An award-winning author of “Fields of Glass,” Alyssa Schwarz is a Colorado native who attended the Colorado School of Mines, got her masters in Geological Engineering, and promptly became a watercolor artist and author (as one does). She loves writing heartfelt romances with happy endings, a bit of mystery, faith, humor, and second chances. When she’s not writing, you can find her cooking, quilting, painting, or doing any number of crafty activities. Visit her website: https://www.authoralyssaschwarz.com/
Tell us about your newest book.
A Midsummer Romance is part of a multi-author series set in the fictional town of Wild Rose Ridge, Washington. A series for each season, the Autumn series includes Fall festival shenanigans, rodeo cowboys, kissing booths (those Meddling Mothers never give up!), a movie set on Main Street, and a search for an endangered hawk that could preserve Wild Rose Ridge’s small-town charm for years to come.
My book, Wild at Heart, centers around two friends Kimmie (wildlife photographer) and Matt (ex Navy pilot) as they work together to document an elusive hawk which could designate the town as a protective habitat from future developers all while navigating some well-meaning but unwanted help by a few meddling mothers. Two-thousand feet above the ground is the perfect place to reconnect, until the lines of friendship begin to blur. With time running out, and still no closer to finding their target, they must decide what they’re willing to do for a chance at happiness, or if the wild is the only place left for them to run.
What inspired you to write your story?
After writing the summer book about Kimmie’s older brother Caleb, I knew Kimmie needed her own story. My mom and I were watching the TV show Northern Exposure at the time (which was actually filmed not far from the town that inspired Wild Rose Ridge!). I really loved the chemistry between the lead characters along with the wacky small-town quirks and thought it would be fun to capture some of that on the page. I’d say the main themes of this story are about discovering oneself and starting over, which is reflective of the season I’ve been walking through recently and trusting that God’s plans are bigger than my imagination.
What genre do you focus on.
I love writing contemporary romances! They are so much fun to write and read which is incredibly important for our mental and emotional health. There is so much drama and stress in real life, I want readers to be able to escape for just a little while into these stories and believe that yes, there is something to hope for and believe in and yes, God is still in control.
Why do you write?
I write because this is the season God has called me into and because it is where I see Him move in the most incredible ways in my life. Rachel Hauck once said that God calls us to the place where we will draw nearest to Him. That’s what writing is for me. It’s a place where I get to create stories alongside the greatest Storyteller all the while witnessing how those very stories are His way of ministering to my soul as well.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
The main characters in this story are Kimmie Weaver, a traveling wildlife photographer, and Matt Goodwin, an ex-Navy pilot who is now starting his own charter flight business back in his hometown of Wild Rose Ridge. Kimmie (Kimberly) is an adventurer at heart and fights the conventional expectations of women (professional housewife is the last thing on her mind), so I wanted her name to reflect that independent spirit. Matt, on the other hand, is a straight-laced, by-the-book pilot who thought the military would be his entire life until a medical discharge changed all that. They each bring out the best in each other which also stretching them to step outside their comfort zones.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
I try to keep to a schedule and separate writing time from other business items, but I often end up bounding between projects on any given day.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
As an indie author, I often feel the struggle of having to wear so many hats: author, marketer, publisher, editor, graphic designer… It can be a lot, but I try and give myself time and space to focus on each one when need be. I recently signed a contract with Sunrise Publishing, and while I don’t miss having to worry about anything other than writing those books, it has been an adjustment keeping to a stricter writing format. Each type of publishing poses their own struggles and hurdles, but they are each so rewarding.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
I love that I get to do something creative. My background is in geological engineering, which oddly enough involves a fair bit of storytelling in itself, but it’s so much more fun getting to dream up stories all day.
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
I only like stories with happy endings, which means I will always ensure my characters get theirs in the end.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
I now know how to write a synopsis! Lol. Actually, I have a long way to go on that one, but writing for Sunrise is teaching me so many new important skills as a writer like time management and collaborating with an editor during the writing process. Writing is a humbling endeavor, one that reminds me every day to lean into God and His strength.
What is your favorite pastime?
Reading, quilting, watching Hallmark movies, and time with friends.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
Yes! I released a book in the Wild Rose Summer series this past June, and the Prescott Series is complete and all available in KU on Amazon. I’m excited to share that the final book in that series, Fields of Glass, won a Christlit book award this fall!
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on a book for Sunrise Publishing while writing the next Wild Rose Ridge adventure! (Among many other projects in the works)
Website: https://www.authoralyssaschwarz.com/
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Heart-Autumn-Rose-Ridge-ebook/dp/B0DD94DKX9
Social media links:
– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralyssaschwarz
– Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssaschwarzauthor/
– Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21846420.Alyssa_Schwarz
The Old Maid Marries!
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Finally, the third and final story in the Love at a Lighthouse series is out. Here’s an excerpt from Emma’s Engagement that you might enjoy.
At the ripe old age of thirty-seven, she could hardly believe that this day had finally come—the day she had dreamed of since she was a little girl. As she took her first steps down the aisle, her eyes fixed on the altar where Michael stood waiting for her, a sense of peace washed over her.Top of Form
The soft strains of the organ filled the air, and the congregation stood to watch her. Ada, in her pretty pink dress, was already halfway down the aisle, dramatically scattering wildflowers that matched those on the altar.
Emma’s heart raced as she caught Michael’s eager gaze. He offered her a reassuring smile, his eyes filled with love and devotion. Her smile blossomed so wide it almost hurt.
When she reached his side, they exchanged a tender glance and their hands found each other’s in a silent promise. Michael leaned in and whispered, “Good morning, my love.”
“Good morning, Michael.” Emma smiled at her soon-to-be husband, but out of the corner of her eye, she caught Ada’s, who shot her a narrow-eyed scowl.
Pastor Wiseman, their elderly friend who had matched them up, began the ceremony, his voice echoing through the hallowed halls. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness and celebrate the union of Emma Row and Michael Diepolder in holy matrimony.”
She listened attentively, for she wanted to remember every moment of this day. Amid the solemnity of the moment, a sense of joy and expectancy filled her heart.
“Marriage is a sacred covenant, a union not to be entered into lightly, but with reverence and respect. Emma and Michael, as you stand here today, may your love continue to grow and flourish, may you support and cherish one another through all the joys and challenges that life may bring, and may God lead the way.”
Pastor Wiseman continued the ceremony speaking of love, commitment, and the sacred bond of marriage. Surrounded by their loved ones, they recited their vows, their words carrying a lifetime of promises. With each “I do,” Emma’s anxiety about Ada melted away, replaced by a sense of joy and celebration.
Finally, with a triumphant flourish, the pastor pronounced them husband and wife. The church erupted into applause as they enjoyed their first kiss as a married couple, sealing their union with a tender embrace.
About Emma’s Engagement:
Emma Row embarks on a journey that will test her resilience and love. She marries Michael Diepolder, the Rock Island Lightkeeper and widower, a man who seeks a companion for both himself and his eleven-year-old daughter, Ada. But as she steps into the role of lightkeeper’s wife with a heart full of hope, little does she know that the idyllic setting conceals challenges that will shake the foundation of her happiness. Isolation creeps in, compounded by Ada’s determination to keep her father all to herself. As a storm looms, Emma must grapple with the difficulties of being a stepmother and lightkeeper’s wife. Will she find her place, or will the tumultuous waves of doubt and isolation tear them apart?
For Michael, Emma is not just a wife but the hope for his future. But the lighthouse life and being a stepmother proves harder for Emma than he ever imagined, and Ada’s animosity only intensifies it. When the lighthouse inspector questions Emma’s place due to her Canadian heritage and Ada become deathly ill, the very foundation of their family is shaken. Can their family find solace and unity on this tiny island? Amid the swirling tempest of challenges, Emma, Michael, and Ada must discover the strength within themselves and each other to weather the storm. Emma’s Engagement is a poignant tale of love, resilience, and the enduring bonds that can form in the most unexpected places. This fictional story is based on the actual lives of Michael and Emma Diepolder.
Mark A. Wentling, a descendant of the Rock Island lightkeepers, says, “Although I never met my ancestors Michael and Ada Diepolder, I truly felt transported into their time by Susan’s story. I thoroughly enjoyed imagining their world and the moments they might have shared through Mathis’s storytelling.”
My Rock Island Lighthouse story, Emma’s Engagement, is here!
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Finally, the third and final story in the Love at a Lighthouse series is here! It’s called Emma’s Engagement and here’s what it’s about:
Emma Row embarks on a journey that will test her resilience and love. She marries Michael Diepolder, the Rock Island Lightkeeper and widower, a man who seeks a companion for both himself and his eleven-year-old daughter, Ada. But as she steps into the role of lightkeeper’s wife with a heart full of hope, little does she know that the idyllic setting conceals challenges that will shake the foundation of her happiness. Isolation creeps in, compounded by Ada’s determination to keep her father all to herself. As a storm looms, Emma must grapple with the difficulties of being a stepmother and lightkeeper’s wife. Will she find her place, or will the tumultuous waves of doubt and isolation tear them apart?
For Michael, Emma is not just a wife but the hope for his future. But the lighthouse life and being a stepmother proves harder for Emma than he ever imagined, and Ada’s animosity only intensifies it. When the lighthouse inspector questions Emma’s place due to her Canadian heritage and Ada become deathly ill, the very foundation of their family is shaken. Can their family find solace and unity on this tiny island? Amid the swirling tempest of challenges, Emma, Michael, and Ada must discover the strength within themselves and each other to weather the storm. Emma’s Engagement is a poignant tale of love, resilience, and the enduring bonds that can form in the most unexpected places. This fictional story is based on the actual lives of Michael and Emma Diepolder.
Here’s an excerpt: The Night Sky
When they reached the parapet, Emma poured them each a glass of tea and handed them a cookie. The night sky unfolded before them, a vast canvas of twinkling stars. The cool breeze tousled their hair, and Ada’s eyes sparkled with excitement. She studied the sky and pointed. “Look, Emma. Over there is Orion, the mighty hunter. See those three bright stars in a row? They make up his belt. And if you follow the belt down, you’ll see his sword hanging from it.”
Emma’s eyes widened, captivated by Ada’s enthusiastic explanations. “That’s incredible, Ada. I’ve heard of Orion, but I never knew how to identify him in the sky. You truly are an expert.”
Ada beamed with pride. “Papa taught me all I know. He’s the brilliant one. But thank you. Orion is my favorite constellation. Cassiopeia is my second. See that group of stars over there? It looks like a big ‘M’ or ‘W’ depending on how it’s positioned.”
Emma stared at the sky for several moments and frowned. Michael helped her see it by coming behind her and pointed within her field of vision. Finally, she exclaimed, “I see it! I see it, Ada! Show me more.”
Ada grinned wide. “Your turn, Papa. I want to eat my cookie.”
Michael chuckled. “You can have mine, too. You need to put some meat on those bones, my girl.”
She rolled her eyes and took a bite, while Emma waited expectantly, her eyes trained on the stars. What a glorious night, having both of his girls with him on this clear, still summer’s eve!
He searched for the next constellation he could introduce her to. “Look there, just above the horizon. That is Ursa Major, the Great Bear.”
Emma nodded. “I only knew one until now. There…those seven stars are the Big Dipper.”
Ada clanged her glass on Emma’s, almost making her spill it. “Good for you. That’s a start. And now you know lots more. Won’t your friend be pleased?”
“She will indeed.”
The hour slipped away as they immersed themselves in the celestial spectacle above them. They marveled at the beauty of the stars, connecting the dots to form mythical creatures and heroes of ancient tales. Laughter and whispers filled the air, blending with the distant sound of crashing waves.
Suddenly, a streak of light shot across the sky, leaving a trail of shimmering stardust in its wake. The three of them gasped in unison, their eyes fixed on the falling star.
Emma cheered. “Quick, make a wish!”
Meet author Lynne Tagawa
Lynne Tagawa is an educator, author, and editor living in South Texas. Best of all, she’s a mom of four and a grandma to six. She loves writing historical fiction with a theological emphasis. A Fallen Sparrow: A Novel of the American Revolution, is a 2023 Selah Awards finalist. She sometimes falls down rabbit holes in her research, and her husband enables her by ignoring the dust.
What inspired you to write your story?
The Root of the Matter was inspired by John Winthrop, the first governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. I’d read bits of his journal and was amazed at the depth of his heart. Not a cold man or harsh magistrate. But I didn’t know how to communicate this long-ago era until I had an epiphany: a character who goes back in time.
What genre do you focus on.
I love history and love historical fiction because it brings history to life. My passion is to be accurate but at the same time relatable and entertaining!
Why do you write?
For me, it’s an empty-nester thing. My kids are grown, and I don’t know how to sew. And all my plants die.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Geneva Fielding is an archivist in the Department of Applied History at Harvard of the (near) future. Geneva is a reference to Geneva, Switzerland, a hub of the Protestant Reformation. It is also the name of the Bible translation the Pilgrims and Puritans read.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
I try to write a little every day, but it doesn’t always happen. Sometimes, it just happens in my head. It marinates before I set it down.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
The discipline. To keep writing. I love it, but still.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
Coming to the end of the story—putting the final polish on it—there’s a lot of satisfaction there.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
I’ve learned the craft of writing over time, of course. But I’ve also learned from my research. I’ve had to study the history and the theology woven into my stories. So, when my readers say they learn a lot from my books, well, I have to say, so have I!
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
I’ve written a series set during the 18th century, and it’s NOT time travel. Just straight history—from the Great Awakening to the American Revolution. The first in the series is The Shenandoah Road: A Novel of the Great Awakening.
What are you working on now?
The sequel, of course! Geneva Fielding goes back in time to investigate Anne Hutchinson and the craziness of those couple of years. I plan for the American Puritans series to be a trilogy—at least!
Website: www.lynnetagawa.com
Link to book: https://amzn.to/3KsK6uA
Social media links: X: @LynneTagawa
Facebook: Lynne Basham Tagawa
Meet author Lauralee Bliss
Lauralee Bliss is a published author of over thirty romance novels and novellas in both historical and contemporary. Lauralee enjoys writing books that are reminiscent of a roller-coaster ride for the reader. Her desire is that readers will come away with both an entertaining story and a lesson that speaks to the heart and soul. Besides her love of writing, Lauralee is a passionate long-distance hiker, having completed many trails including the famous Appalachian Trail. Lauralee makes her home in Virginia with her husband and furry pals Skye, Belle, and Beau.
Tell us about your newest book.
When the Avalanche Roared is set in the Cascades of Washington State in 1910 during a traumatic time of relentless snows that buried the rail towns serving the Great Northern Railway. During this time, an unlikely union springs between an assistant postmistress from Everett who has come to care for her pregnant cousin, and a slow railroad laborer facing ridicule among his fellow workers for his inability to read. But all is cast aside when the town of Wellington teams together to rescue passengers and workers buried under snow and steel from an avalanche that pushed trains into a ravine.
What inspired you to write When the Avalanche Roared?
I have always had an interest in the human spirit during the worst of catastrophes. When Barbour Publishing began a search for stories set in the backdrop of disaster, the worst avalanche in U.S. history became an intriguing backdrop to share the story of determination and strength in a race against time.
How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?
Lillian Hartwick is in Wellington, Washington, caring for her expectant cousin and assisting the postmaster when February snows bring all train traffic to a halt. Slow-witted but kind Griffin Jones, who works odd jobs while enduring taunts from rail workers, tries to gain Lillian’s interest, but she is awaiting her fiancé’s arrival from California. Predawn thunderstorms on Tuesday, March 1, 1910, trigger a devastating avalanche, sweeping trains down Stevens Pass. Lillian and Griffin work together to help survivors, including Griffin’s tormentors, and their feelings for each other grow. But is it enough when Lillian’s fiancé finally arrives in the spring, ready to claim her as his own?
What genre do you focus on?
I love historical fiction. I enjoy traveling and history, and so I search out unique aspects of history to set into a novel, anywhere from the tuberculosis hospital housed deep inside Mammoth Cave in Kentucky, to children rescued from Nazi control in war-torn Amsterdam, to trains swept into a ravine by an avalanche.
Why do you write?
I have always liked to tell a tale of adventure, mixed with the goodness of God. If I can impart a spiritual lesson that ministers to the heart and soul while telling a page-turning story, then I am very happy. Never bury your gifts but use them for God’s glory.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Lillian Hartwick, an assistant postmistress hailing from a wealthy family in Everett, and Griffin Jones, a common railroad laborer, are the main characters in my book. As for their names, they just came to me. I have no set formula, though in the past, I have used the names of family, friends, or acquaintances.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
The times that you let your writing get sidelined when you should be focused. Procrastination can be a tough enemy to beat. Sometimes your thinking gets attacked, wondering if you can tell a story others will enjoy. Or if it will make a difference. It can be a constant battle but one authors must win.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
Seeing readers changed by reading one of my books. Then it truly feels like I am God’s instrument for the written word, using biblical principles woven into the art of storytelling to change lives.
What’s one unusual fact about you?
I am one of only a few women to complete the Appalachian Trail both north and south.
And so with that….
What is your favorite pastime?
Hiking! I’ve traipsed 15,000 miles of trail from the Appalachian Trail to Arizona! I’ve been at 13,000 feet and below sea level. I’ve camped among the palms, the cactus in the desert, and above tree line. And I have been blessed to enjoy the creativity of God in so many ways.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
Yes indeed! Here are a few –
Escape from Amsterdam delves into the rescue of children in the Netherlands from Nazi control
Cavern’s Curse follows intrigue in Mammoth Cave, Kentucky after death haunts a troubled widower and his nephew
My hiking adventure series follows my real Iife backpacking trips in Mountains, Madness, and Miracles – 4000 Miles along the Appalachian Trail and Gators, Guts, and Glory – Adventures along the Florida Trail.
Website: https://lauraleebliss.com/
Link to book: https://lauraleebliss.com/books/when-the-avalanche-roared/
Social media links:
The Joys and Challenges of Writing Julia’s Joy
Writing Julia’s Joy presented several unique challenges, particularly due to my commitment to accuracy and authenticity. My dedication to portraying real places and historical figures demands thorough research and collaboration with experts, making the writing process both rewarding and complex.
One of the primary challenges I faced was ensuring that the historical context of the Thousand Islands, particularly Sister Island and its lighthouse, was accurately represented. Given the region’s rich history during the Gilded Age, I wanted to capture the essence of the time while remaining faithful to the actual events and people associated with the location. This meant delving deeply into historical records, which required meticulous attention to detail.
To achieve this level of accuracy, I engaged a Thousand Islands historian to review my manuscript. Collaborating with an expert added an extra layer of scrutiny to my work and provided invaluable insights into the historical nuances of the era. While this collaboration was beneficial, it also required me to be open to feedback and willing to make adjustments to my narrative based on expert advice. Balancing my creative vision with historical fidelity can be a delicate process.
Sister Island is now privately owned, which posed another research challenge. Access to information about the island’s history and its lighthouse was challenging, making it essential for me to dig deeper to unearth relevant details. I scoured various sources, including historical archives, books, and online databases, to piece together the story of Sister Island and its significance.
Incorporating historical details into the narrative while ensuring the story remains engaging is a balancing act. I aimed to create a vivid backdrop that reflects the era without overwhelming readers with excessive information. Striking this balance required thoughtful integration of facts into the storyline, ensuring that the historical context enhanced the narrative rather than detracting from it.
The extensive research and revisions necessitated by my commitment to accuracy also posed challenges in terms of time management. Balancing the demands of research, writing, and revisions can be daunting, especially when striving for a high level of authenticity. I had to navigate this complex workflow while maintaining my creative momentum and ensuring that the story flowed naturally.
Beyond the logistical challenges, I also faced emotional hurdles. Writing about loss, healing, and the complexities of relationships can be deeply personal and sometimes overwhelming. Julia’s journey, filled with heartache and growth, required me to connect with my character’s emotions authentically. This introspection can lead to moments of vulnerability that, while enriching the writing process, also require resilience.
About Julia’s Joy:
She came to claim her inheritance, but the mysterious scarred lighthouse keeper makes her question all her plans.
When Julia Collins reluctantly sets foot on Sister Island, compelled by her wealthy grandmother’s will, she is intent on claiming her inheritance and moving on. But when she experiences the peaceful, faith-filled island life, and connects with the handsome lightkeeper, William, Julia finds herself confronting her open wounds from her parents’ deaths.
William Dodge, lightkeeper of Sister Island, harbors a heart hardened by a past betrayal. Between that and his chronic pleurisy, he wants nothing to do with love. But when Julia arrives on the island bursting with vitality and unconventional notions, William’s world is turned upside down. As she chips away at the walls William has built for himself, he finds his reluctance waning.
But just as love begins to blossom between them, Julia is faced with a tempting proposal from a prominent Brockville family. Will she succumb to societal expectations or choose the richness of her island life and the love of the steadfast lightkeeper?
Buy links: Amazon | Barnes&Nobles | Wild Heart Books