Interview with Heather Greer and #Giveaway!!!

Today we welcome Heather Greer to my blog. Heather is graciously giving away one print copy of her book and a handmade wooden ornament. Leave a comment (with contact information) to enter. USA only.  Picture at the end of the post.

 Heather, good to have you. Tell us about the book – can you share the blurb?  

Sometimes it’s the unexpected path that leads you on your journey back to fath.

Katie McGowan left her parents and their faith behind years ago. However, when faced with a devastating betrayal, Katie is ready to go back to Carbondale, Illinois to help her elderly parents despite their tempestuous relationship. Drained by the constant friction, Katie finds emotional support and encouragement in Austin. His practical, simple faith speaks to Katie, and she finds herself yearning for a new connection to God. As their friendship grows, so does the attraction between Katie and Austin.

Before her fledgling faith and thoughts of romance have a chance to take root, Katie’s cheating fiancé returns, remorseful and promising change. Can her tentative faith strengthen their past love? And if her heart breaks again, will Katie’s journey to faith end before it has really begun?

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

It varies with each book. The inspiration for Faith’s Journey came from the idea of what a woman goes through when she’s been betrayed. No matter where the betrayal comes from, the hurt and insecurities can affect the choices of the one who was betrayed. This is what drove the story of Faith’s Journey.

What's your key environment that helps you get to writing? Do you have a writer’s nook, corner, getaway? Where do you do your most productive writing?

With three teenage boys at home, there isn’t a lot of personal space. I usually end up writing on my living room couch. Instead of privacy, I use music to shape my writing environment. Not only does the music help block out distractions, it also helps me keep the tone of what I’m writing.

 What are you saying in your book(s) that will encourage Christians today?

No matter what, there is hope. You’ve not gone too far from God to come back to Him. He still has a plan for your life, and it comes through seeking Him first.

How do you pick names for your characters?

I consider a lot of things in naming my characters. Their personalities, jobs, and the geographic area they come from are some of the criteria that affect what name I give them. Depending on the story, the time period and ancestry might also play a part. The name has to fit the character I’m writing. In Faith’s Journey, I paid respect to my great-grandmother by using the name Katie McGowan. Though my great-grandmother would never have let others call her Katie instead of Katherine, the name fit my main character.

How important are reviews to you?

I don’t think most readers realize how important reviews are to authors. As Christian authors, we want to encourage, challenge, or inspire readers while we entertain them with our stories. But our reach only goes so far. Good reviews go a long way in extending that reach. It lets what we write be seen by more people and lets the message in our books be heard. And writing a review is easier than people think. All it takes is telling others what you liked about the book. It doesn’t need to be complicated.

Who are some of your favorite authors? What genre is your favorite? What books have you enjoyed lately?

My favorite author is Kristen Heitzmann. I also enjoy Liz Curtis Higgs’ fictional books and Melanie Dickerson. I usually read Christian fiction. Though I’ve been reading more contemporary, I also enjoy historical settings. I like a bit of romance thrown in, but it doesn’t have to be the main thrust of the story. I’ve read a lot of newer authors recently, and I’ve found several I enjoy. Callum’s Compass by Sara Foust, A Melody for James by Hallee Bridgeman, and Don’t Ask Me to Leave by Micki Clark are three I’ve recently had the pleasure of reading.

Bio

I grew up as a pastor’s kid in rural Southern Illinois and have been a pastor’s wife for the last thirteen years. When I’m not busy with other ministries or writing, I enjoy reading, baking, crafting, and spending time with my husband, four children, and my grandson.

Links – social media and to buy

Book review/devotional blog: bythebook724.wordpress.com

Twitter: @Heather_Greer1

Instagram: 1heather.greer

Facebook: @AuthorHeatherGreer

Faith’s Journey can be purchased on Amazon in e-book and paperpack

Here is the picture of Heather's giveaway!  Leave contact information in comments!