Lenora Worth Interview and Book Giveaway

14 Dec 2011 36 Comments

by Heather H. in 12 Days of Christmas, Book Shelf

It’s day three of the 12 Days of Christmas. And if you’re like me you’ve probably (okay definitely) indulged in some homemade goodies this Christmas season. One perk (and temptation) of working in a library is being spoiled during Christmas with sweets and goodies from patrons.

Today I’ve got a waist-line friendly treat-a short but sweet interview from author Lenora Worth. If you frequent the book aisle of your local big box store you’ve probably seen Lenora’s books. She has published more than 50 titles for Love Inspired and Harlequin Superomance, among others. She’s written books for just about every genre from historical romances to romantic suspense, and many faith inspired novels, all with the common thread of loveable characters and strong stories that will make you both eager and sad to make it to last page of the book.

Now through Dec. 23, you can enter to win her new release “Southern Reunion“-just comment on this post. (Details are at the end of the post.) And don’t forget, you still have time to enter each giveaway of the 12 Days of Christmas.

Interview with Lenora Worth

OA: How long have you been writing?

LW: I always wanted to be a writer since grammar school. I made up stories and sold them on the playground!

OA: In Inspirational novels, the spiritual element is an important part of the plot. Which comes first for you, the character’s spiritual journey or the plot?

LW: I usually come up with a plot, knowing there will be a spiritual element in the story. I choose my (Bible) verses based on the characters and the theme of the book–forgiveness, suspense, redemption, etc.

OA: How do you craft an inspirational story that doesn’t  “preach” to the reader?

LW: I try to show my characters just “being” Christians. Or if they are struggling, I show that struggle. It’s more organic and natural to write it that way.

OA: When I asked Gail Gaymer Martin if she has a favorite character, she told me it was like asking her to pick a favorite child. Do you have a character or novel that’s close to your heart?

LW:  Yes, that’s a tough one. I loved Eli Trudeau in “Heart of the Night”. He really needed his own story. He was a very troubled man.

OA: I’m sure writing a novel is like most things-you have things you love and dislike about the process. What are your favorite and least favorite things about writing?

LW: Favorite–getting the initial idea and creating a story around it. Least favorite–never having enough time to make it better.

OA: Many readers are also writers, too. On your website you have some valuable advice for writing an inspirational romance. What do you recommend to writers who are working to finish a novel?

LW: Read, read, read. Learn all about revisions. The first draft is not a book yet. Keep polishing and learning.

OA: I hope this 12 Days of Christmas blog will become a tradition for me. What Christmas traditions does your family enjoy?

LW: We like to decorate the tree together. On Christmas Eve we drive around after the church service to see all the lights.

OA: What can readers expect to see from you in 2012?

LW: Lots of stuff. I’m working on another Superromance right now and I have a Love Inspired and a Love Inspired Suspense contracted. I’ll be very busy next year, thankfully!!!

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Now for the contest. But First the Rules. Please read over them, they’ll likely answer any questions you have about the giveaway-if not, ask away.

This giveaway is open to US Residents, with the book mailed to the winner by the author. (Sorry international friends, postage is expensive!)

Here’s how you can enter to win a free copy of “Southern Reunion.”

1. Simply leave a comment under this post, with your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win! Email addresses are used for this contest only. I don’t collect or sale email addresses.)
   

BONUS ENTRIES (Leave a Separate Comment for each action you complete stating what you did along with your name and email.)

1. Visit Lenora’s website
2. Like Lenora on Facebook
3. Follow Lenora on Twitter
4. Visit any (or all) of the charities that Lenora supports.
   
   • Volunteers of America
   • Dress for Success
5. Visit Lenora’s publisher Love Inspired
6. Watch one of Lenora’s book trailers.
7. Subscribe to my blog.
8. “Like’” my blog on Facebook.

The giveaway closes on Friday, Dec. 23 at 11:59pm. Winners will be announced on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 2p.m. Please check back every day through Dec. 23 for a different giveaway and interviews with authors. You can enter all of the giveaways but you can only win once.

*This post may contain affiliate links.