Welcome to Friday Reads!
Susanne's publisher has agreed to give away three (3) print copies of The Blizzard Bride. (US ONLY) You can enter by using the Rafflecopter link at the end of my blog post. (Giveaway ends March 20, 2020.) Share on XIf you are the randomly chosen winner, I’ll contact you.
Q&A with Susanne…
Can you tell me the “story behind the story”/inspiration for The Blizzard Bride?
A few years ago, I had submitted a story to Barbour for consideration, and it didn’t work out, but as a result, I was invited to submit for the Daughters of the Mayflower line with a story set in a specific time period, centering on one of a handful of historical events. One of those events was the Children’s Blizzard of January 12, 1888. I did some cursory research and a story began to formulate in my head. Also, I love writing kids and animals, and I was able to do both in this story.
How much research went into your book?
I did quite a lot of research for this book. The blizzard in the title was a historical event, and I wanted to ensure my characters’ experiences in the snowstorm were as accurate as possible. In addition, my hero, Dash, is a Secret Service operative in the days before the Secret Service protected the president, and I read several books on what it was like to be an agent back then. One tidbit I learned was after the Civil War, 1/3 to 1/2 of all currency circulating in America was counterfeit! It was a huge threat to the national economy.
Wow! That’s interesting. I don’t ever remember learning that. What are you currently working on?
After writing twenty historical stories, I’m trying something completely new: a contemporary! The book will release in a year or so from Love Inspired, and it’s set in California Gold country. I’m writing it now and having a lot of fun with my imaginary friends. This book isn’t without some history sprinkled throughout, though. The heroine runs an antique store!
That’s great you’re able to try a different genre. What’s your favorite historical time period to read or write about?
I love pretty much any time period, but my first love was Regencies, and I will always have a soft spot for them. I’m blessed to have written three Regency-set stories.
What takeaway message do you hope readers have after reading The Blizzard Bride?
Every person we encounter has wounds, visible sometimes, but mostly invisible ones. The world is a better place when we help each other heal and flourish. Forgiveness is a big part of that. The bottom line is following Jesus’ commandment to love one another.
So true! Which character in the story do you relate to the most?
I think there are bits and pieces of me in many characters, but I can relate somewhat to Abby’s carrying around emotional pain for years and realizing it needs to be dealt with. She’s been hurt by the church and heartbroken by people who were supposed to care for her, and she has to confront all those heartbreaks from her past to move forward into the future.
What author do you fangirl over?
The truth is, I fangirl over pretty much everyone I’ve ever read. One of the things that most excited me about writing in the Daughters of the Mayflower series was the list of authors who had already written for it. I truly fangirl over them! Beyond the scope of Christian authors, there’s someone I’d love to meet someday: Susan Branch. When I first learned of her, she wrote cookbooks and watercolors decorations for all the pages. She does so much more, now and I’ve had her calendars up on my fridge for years and years. Her recipes are wonderful, for sure, but her story of finding a dream and pursuing it inspired me to get more serious about my writing several years ago.
I understand! I feel that way about many authors, too 🙂 I’ll have to check out her books. Thanks for mentioning Susan. What would you be doing if you weren’t an author?
I’ve had a hodgepodge of jobs in my time, so I’m not sure. I have a degree in English, but when my oldest child was in middle school, I saw how much fun middle school social studies classes were–history! teachers dressing in costumes!–and I thought oh boy, that would have been a fun job for me! I would also love to work in a museum or in archives. I guess it’s clear I love history!
Thanks so much for taking time to share a bit with my readers. I’m sure they’ll enjoy getting to know more about you and your writing.
My review…
This book is the eleventh installment in the Daughters of the Mayflower series, but it can easily be read as a standalone.
Dietze’s novel is filled with something for just about anyone: drama, suspense, and a bit of romance.
Abby Bracey accepts a teaching position in Nebraska in hopes of helping the government find the man who killed her father. She never expects to encounter Dash Lassiter, her former sweetheart. He, too, is trying to catch the same man, counterfeiter Fletcher Pitch. Dash left Abby six years ago without any explanation. Will she be able to put her feelings aside to work together to find Pitch? Throw in a blizzard, and things get even more interesting.
Characters and scenes are well-drawn and realistic. The mystery angle keeps the reader engaged. Religious elements are woven throughout, but they aren’t preachy. There were a few lulls in the pacing, but things balanced out in the end. I don’t remember ever learning about the Schoolhouse Blizzard of January 12, 1888, so I found the historical details interesting. I also enjoyed the historical note at the end of the book. Themes of forgiveness and trusting God are key.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn’t required to leave a positive review.
About Susanne…
Susanne Dietze began writing love stories in high school, casting her friends in the starring roles. Today, she’s the award-winning author of a dozen new and upcoming historical romances who’s seen her work on the ECPA and Publisher’s Weekly Bestseller Lists for Inspirational Fiction. Married to a pastor and the mom of two, Susanne lives in California and enjoys fancy-schmancy tea parties, the beach, and curling up on the couch with a costume drama and a plate of nachos. You can visit her online at www.susannedietze.com and subscribe to her newsletters at http://eepurl.com/bieza5.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanneDietzeBooks/
Rules for giveaway can be found here.
I don’t really have a specific time period that is my favorite to read. My favorite is any book with characters that make me care about them and what happens to them. A plot line that draws me in and keeps me turning the pages is a must. Whatever the time period, if it’s well-written, I’ll love it!
I agree that it’s the characters and plot that make the book, no matter the time period 🙂
Thanks for stopping by, Candice. Good luck!
Hi Candice! I love character-driven stories, too, no matter the setting! And I always enjoy learning more about different historical periods, so it’s fun to read stories set in many eras!
Have a great day!
I have been reading more different genras and time periods lately. I love a book that I can get into the characters and fill them. I love a book that I can laugh, cry and even get a little frightened.
Beth, I enjoy going through the range of emotions with the characters, too.
Good luck,and thanks for stopping by my blog.
Hi Beth! I love getting invested in the characters–going through the full range of emotions! It touches the heart, doesn’t it?
Hope you’re doing well!
I generally enjoy reading WWII-era novels. I’d love to read more from the Victorian times though!
WWII-era novels are my favorite genre, as well, Nina. I’ve only read a few Victoria ones, but I’ve enjoyed them.
Good luck, and thanks for visiting my blog!
Hi Nina! There are some fabulous WWII-set stories out right now, aren’t there? Very talented authors creating amazing plots!
Have a great day!
My fav period to read about is the roaring 20s, the recession 30s, and WWII
I love WWII-era stories, as well. I have a couple about the roaring 20s in my TBR pile that I’m looking forward to reading.
Thanks for stopping by my blog. Good luck!
Hi Tracy! I love 20’s set stories, too. I’m eager for more!
Have a great day.
I don’t really have a particular time period I prefer over any other. I enjoy reading historical novels in all eras. I love a book where I can get right into it and the characters come alive, with a plot that really grabs me and keeps me turning the pages.
Bonnie Jean, I love when books grab me right away, too!
Good luck, and thanks for stopping by my blog.
HI Bonnie Jean! I agree with you. All historical eras are fascinating, and I love when a book grabs me at page one!
Have a good day!
I love reading about many historical periods. It’s fascinating to compare current life with that of decades ago.
Comparing things certainly puts some of our present-day annoyances and struggles in perspective sometimes, doesn’t it?
Thanks for visiting my blog, Melinda. Good luck!
I agree, Melinda. It’s so fun to read about how things were in the past, compared with how they are today. The heart hasn’t changed, but customs, foods, and culture sure have!
Have a good day!
Thank you so much for hosting me today, Leslie! What a huge blessing.
You’re very welcome, Susanne 🙂
I enjoy WWII set novels.
Me, too, Danielle.
Thanks for stopping by. Good luck!
There are some fabulous WWII set novels out there!
Have a great day!
I also love a good regency tale, and have been reading quite a few of them lately. As far as American history I enjoy reading post Civil war books as more people headed west.
Oh, yes, Regency books and westward expansion 🙂 I enjoy them as well.
Thanks for stopping by, Patty. Good luck!
Hi Patty! Nice to meet a fellow Regency-lover! I, too, love stories set in the old west. So many opportunities for adventure!
Have a great day!
Susanne, thank you for writing such a powerful novel about the Nebraska Children’s Blizzard of 1888. As a lifelong Nebraska resident, I’m excited to read books set in our state, and yours will familiarize many with an important event in our history. Leslie, thank you for featuring Susanne and The Blizzard Bride on your blog today!
(Please do not enter me into the drawing as I already have a copy of the novel.)
You’re very welcome, Valerie. Thanks for stopping by to share your thoughts on Susanne’s book. 🙂
Hi Valerie! Wow, thank you so much for coming by and saying hi! What a blessing.
Nebraska is beautiful. One of my grandparents was born there, and I have a copy of a photo of his parents’ farmhouse.
Hope you have a wonderful weekend!
Hello! I do love a good historical fiction! A fun question for you. In your book the scene is set with a blizzard but you live in California. Do you visit cold climates or do you prefer the warmer weather. As for myself, I love weather where I can wear a jacket with a bonfire and a good book, of course! Thanks for the giveaway chance!
Nancy, thanks for stopping by. My favorite time of year is the fall, when I only need the light jacket. And a book is ALWAYS a must 🙂
Good luck!
Hi Nancy! Great question. I’m a native Californian, but I spent a few years in Pennsylvania. That’s where I learned how to drive in snow! There are also snowy winter spots not too far from my house. However, I’ve never experienced a blizzard, or anything close to it, so I reached out to a few friends and family for help with that research.
As a southern California kid, I have to admit I need the sun. I don’t just like it, I really need it! I have a lot more energy in the spring when the sun is warm on my back and I can get outside and read on the patio! 🙂
Have a great day, Nancy!
I love reading differnt novels but my favorite is Regency.
Thank you for the giveaway and interview. Would love to win a copy
I enjoy Regency novels, as well, Elma.
You’re welcome. Good luck, and thanks for visiting my blog.
I love Regency, as well. One of these days I hope to write a novella tying up my LIH Regency duo.
Have a wonderful day, Elma!
I have always enjoyed reading stories set in the American Civil War or in our Revolutionary War.
There are some great books in those time periods, Irene.
Thanks for visiting my blog. Good luck!
Oh, yes, there are so many wonderful books out right now set in those periods. Exciting!
Have a great day!
I always enjoys Susanne’s books! My favorite era is the Victorian era, although all books set in the 1800s are of interest to me.
Roxanne, I’ve read a couple of her books, and I’ve really enjoyed them.
Good luck, and thanks for stopping by my blog!
Awww, thanks Roxanne! You’re so sweet! I appreciate it!
The Victorian era is so fun. I, too, love stories set in the 1800s!
Have a wonderful day.
I guess I read about the 1800’s the most, but I enjoy reading and learning about a variety of historical periods.
There are a lot of wonderful books based in the 1800s.
Good luck, and thanks for visiting my blog.
Same here, Angie. I gravitate toward the 1800s, but I read a lot of other settings, as well. I learn something in each of them!
Have a great day!
Thank you for the chance to win this book.
You are a new author to me and O haven’t read any of your books!
You’re welcome. I’m glad I could introduce you to a “new” author, Christina.
Good luck, and thanks for visiting my blog.
Hi Christina! Nice to meet you! I hope you enjoy them when you get the chance.
Take care and have a great day!
WWII and how people survived. Since right now the world is in survival mode.
So true, Kim! WWII-era books are some of my favorites, as well.
Good luck!
Boy, you’re right about that, Kim. These are unprecedented times. I’m doing my best to draw strength from the Lord, and I’m on my knees!
Take care of yourself!
I love reading historicals set in any time period, but lately I’ve been drawn to mideivel and colonial America time periods.
Ooh, medieval books! I haven’t read many in that genre, but I have enjoyed them. Colonial era is a good choice, as well.
Thanks for visiting my blog, Amy. Good luck.
Medieval books are so fun! I haven’t read any in a while, though. I need to remedy that!
Have a great day.
I love reading about America in the 1800’s and WWII.
Peggy, those seem to be two popular eras … for good reason!
Good luck, and thanks for stopping by.
Those are always great options, Peggy–and you’re not alone! They seem to maintain their popularity!
Have a great day and thanks for stopping by!
I love reading about many historical time periods, especially late 1800’s, Civil War and WW11.
Those seem to be pretty popular eras, Merry! Thanks for sharing and stopping by.
Good luck!
Hi Merry! Those are definitely popular time periods, for good reason. So many opportunities for adventure!
I hope you’re having a great day.
I’d have to say that the 1890s or there about is what I like to read. Although I have been reading alot of WWII Nazi Germany books lately. My grandmother was born in 1890, so I am curious about that era. Thanks for the chance.
Lois, that’s a great reason to be curious about the 1890s! I love WWII-era books, too.
You’re very welcome. Thanks for stopping by. Good luck!
My favorite historical time period is the founding of our country and up to WW2.
Vivian, I enjoy those time periods, as well. Lots of great story opportunities!
Good luck, and thanks for stopping by my blog.
wow, the 11th installment in this series?! I’m usually the type of reader that likes to start with the 1st book in a series so I’ll have to check out the other books too. But it is nice to know this is a stand alone also.
I really don’t have a favorite time period, I like to read anything…well to be honest, I”m not crazy about Civil War. I did not like Gone With the Wind move or book. But I must say that I am very interested in the North & South series, stories set in the Civil War time. Some of the authors are: Christine Sterling, Lisa Prysock, Cyndi Raye, Marisa Masterson and other great authors. Go figure! LOL.
Thanks for your time Susanne and thank you Leslie for your blog! 🙂
Jean
Yep! It’s a great series. I haven’t read them all, but I’ve read almost all of them. I like reading them in order, too, but it’s nice that they can be read as stand alones.
I hear ya about the Civil War. I had to watch about twenty hours worth of videos on it in high school, and it’s made me cringe whenever I see anything about the Civil War ever since.
You’re very welcome, Jean. Good luck!
The Jazz Age
I haven’t read many books that take place at that time, but I’d bet they’d be interesting.
Thanks for stopping by, Nancy. Good luck!
Hi Leslie! Nineteenth century America is my favorite, although I also enjoy the WW II era.
Hi, Cynthia! I enjoy that area, as well, particularly WWII.
Good luck, and thanks for visiting my blog.