This series lived in my mind and heart for several years before my agent sold them. The books took me on an interesting, almost-three-year journey into the far northwest section of the United States. Washington Territory, Oregon, and northern California in 1885, with a side trip to Little Rock, Arkansas.
I’ve always loved history and took history courses for all my electives when in college. Over the last few years, I’ve been fascinated with 19th century US history.
When I started writing the first book, I couldn’t picture Seattle in 1885. I searched for books and web sites, anything that would help me get a feel for the city. I contacted the Seattle Public Library and found that the personnel had digitized both books published in the late 1800s and historical photographs of the time period. They sent me the link to the photographs, which were separated by decade.
I used many of these photographs to re-create a comprehensive picture of the city, the businesses, the churches, hospital, university, and homes. I got business names, street names, and the layout of the whole city. That’s what I used as I wrote the book.
As I moved through all three books, I found books of historical photos of each place featured in the books. So as you read them, then only things that are fictional are my characters, their stories, businesses, etc. Everything else fits the place, the society, and the historical aspects of the period.
Then with Catherine’s Pursuit, the last book in the series, we revisit the other places, as well as learn about San Francisco, California. And Catherine’s Pursuit released today.
And there’s good news for you. Starting today, February 5, and continuing through February 12, the first book of the series, Maggie’s Journey, is free for download for Kindle, Nook, Kobo, and Sony ereaders.
At Christianbooks.com:
On Kindle:
For Nook:
Helping other authors become published really floats her boat, with over 20 signing their first book contract after her mentoring. Three of her books have been awarded the Carol Award silver pins, and she has received the ACFW Mentor of the Year award. The high point of her day is receiving feedback from her readers, especially people whose lives have been changed by her books.
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Looks exciting! Thanks for sharing, Lena. Can't wait to get my own copy of Maggie's Journey!
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