Interview with Beth Wiseman and Giveaway!!!

Enter to win a copy of Beth's book, PLAIN PEACE, by answering the question below. Leave a comment including contact information

1. Why do you write the kind of books you do?  I used to think that I was writing books for the enjoyment of my readers and to spread God’s word through the gift of story.  I still believe that, but I’ve learned over the years that with each book, I am also ministering to my own soul—learning not to carry the burdens of the past and growing on my own spiritual path.

2. What are you reading right now?  My writing preferences are all over the place, but right now, I am reading Joyland by Stephen King.  It’s a coming of age story that’s a bit scary as well.  J

3. What is your current work in progress?  I just finished a non-Amish contemporary that was way out of the box for me, and it’s a story that is close to my heart.  It will take the reader from Texas to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. The Promise is totally fiction, but definitely inspired by a true story. 

4. How do you choose your settings for each book?  For my Amish books, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania is the setting, and I’ve traveled there several times to meet with Amish friends.  I chose the town of Paradise in Lancaster County because of the quaint, small town feel—and of course, it is home to a huge population of Amish folks.  I live in a small town in Texas, and I love the friendliness of the people and slower pace.  That drew me to Lancaster County too.  I have also released two non-Amish contemporaries set in small Texas towns—Need You Now and The House that Love Built.   

5. What three things about you would surprise readers?  I’m not really a blonde (although that might not surprise anyone).   I sometimes walk around my house whistling the song from The Flintstones (I have no idea why).  I’ve been on a coyote hunt (and won’t be going again).

6, What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?  I love to paint with acrylics.  I’m not very good at it, but it relaxes me.  And I love to cook and try new recipes.  Luckily for me, my husband will eat just about anything.  There have been a few recipes that didn’t turn out exactly as planned. 

7. What advice would you give to a beginning author?  It’s so cliché, but never give up.  I believe anyone can get published if they study the craft and have even the tiniest bit of creativity.  Most people will give up because they can’t handle the rejection that usually goes with the territory. 
 

8. Is there one particular message or “moral of the story” you hope readers walk away with in Plain Peace?  This would tie back to me ministering to my own sole.  Peace comes from within based on the way we live our lives, our relationships with others, and certainly our relationship with God.  Live your life in a way that nurtures others and makes you feel good about yourself. 

9. How do you see yourself in your character’s story, if at all?  I think there is always a little part of me in every character—even the bad ones, lol.  For example, I tend to carry the burdens of my past.  I forgive others easily, but I have trouble forgiving myself.  And for a long time, I wondered if there was a ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to pray.  Those are just a few examples.  But my cup is almost always half full, though, and not half empty.  I find hope in almost all situations.  So themes of forgiveness, redemption, and hope usually find a way into my stories, and I think good stories are better when we bear our own souls a little bit.   

10. What’s on the horizon for you?  What will you be writing next?  I will be working on a novella in conjunction with eleven other authors for a compilation of  ‘bride’ stories.  I’m the July bride.  J  From there, I’ll write another Amish novella, then an Amish full-length, then another contemporary, more Amish novellas, and so on...  Lots of books on the horizon.  I’ve been incredibly blessed. 

Answer this question to be entered into the giveaway. Who has been your favorite character in the Daughters of the Promise series, and why?

Beth Wiseman is an award-winning and best-selling author who is best known for her Amish novels, but she is now spreading her wings in other genres as well. Her two latest releases—Need You Now and The House that Love Built—are non-Amish contemporaries set in small Texas towns, both of which have garnished glowing reviews. However, her current project will take readers far away from Amish Country and small Texas towns to a dangerous place on the other side of the world. Inspired by a true story, Beth believes this is the book she’s been working toward for a long time. More information on this exciting project will be coming soon!