Hi everyone! Today we have with us Julie Lessman, the author of many books including A Passion Most Pure (which I finally read a little over a week ago - loved it! I can hardly wait to get started on the next ones when I have time).
Here is her bio and blurbs of her most recent books:
Julie Lessman is an
award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her
intense passion for both God and romance. Winner of the 2009 ACFW Debut Author
of the Year and Holt Medallion Awards of Merit for Best First Book and Long Inspirational,
Julie is also the recipient of 14 Romance Writers of America awards and was
voted by readers as “Borders Best of 2009 So Far: Your Favorite Fiction.”
Chosen as the #1 Romance Fiction Author of the Year in the Family Fictionmagazine 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards,
Julie was also awarded #1 Historical Fiction Author of the Year in that same
poll and #3 Author of the Year, #4 Novel of the Year and #3 Series of the year.
She resides in Missouri with her husband, daughter, son, daughter-in-law and
granddaughter and is the author of “The Daughters of Boston” series—A Passion Most Pure, A Passion Redeemed, and A Passion Denied. Book 1 in her “Winds of Change” series A Hope Undaunted ranked #5 on Booklist’s Top 10 Inspirational Fiction for 2010 and is
followed by A Heart Revealed and A Love Surrendered. You can contact
Julie through her website at www.julielessman.com.
He
broke her sister’s heart …
will she be next?
Orphaned in Iowa, Annie Kennedy moves to Boston to stay with her
spinster aunt, longing for romance to fill the void of her parent’s death. But
when she falls hard for Steven O’Connor, the man who broke an engagement to her
sister, Annie is worried. Will he break her heart, too, when he discovers she’s
Maggie’s sister?
One
Woman. Two Men.
One stirs her pulse and the other her faith.
But who will win her heart?
Marceline Murphy is a gentle beauty with a well-founded aversion
to rogues.
But when two of Boston's most notorious pursue her,
attraction, dreams and faith only muddle her mind.
Can the light in the window illuminate the path of true love?
Fooled
by a pretty boy once,
shame on him.
Fooled by a pretty boy twice,
shame on me.
Jilted by a fortune hunter, cowgirl Cassidy McClare is a spunky
Texas oil heiress without a fortune who just as soon hogtie a man as look at
him … until Jamie MacKenna, a handsome pauper looking to marry well lassoes her
heart. But when Jamie discovers the woman he loves is poorer than him, Cassie
finds herself bucked by love a second time, sending her back to Texas to lick
her wounds and heal her heart. In her absence, Jamie discovers money can’t buy
love, but love built on faith can set a heart free, a truth he discovers a
little too late … or is it?
Welcome to Christian Bookshelf
Reviews, Julie!! Will you tell us a little about yourself?
Sure thing, Melanie! I’m a baby boomer (how’s that
for side-stepping the age issue?) and CDQ (caffeinated drama queen) married to
a man who makes me feel like I’m living my own personal romance novel. I have a
28-year-old son married to a wonderful girl who is a doctor (and for whom I
have prayed for since my son was a baby!) and a 24-year-old daughter who just
graduated law school and would you believe it—hates to read! And, yes, it’s
true – I paid her $20 just to read the first chapter of A Passion Most Pure. I’m happy to say it hooked her, and the rest
of the book and the others didn’t cost me a dime! J My
husband of 34 years is an artist/designer and we are together 24/7 and actually
love it—working back-to-back in a tiny, little office when I’m not outside on
the deck with my laptop and hazelnut coffee or feet up in the hearth room
during winter.
What inspired your newest book, A Love Surrendered?
My two newest books—A Love Surrendered and also a Christmas
e-book entitled A Light in the Window: A
Irish Christmas Love Story—are the final two novels in the O’Connor family
saga, so I suppose I need to explain where I got the original idea for this
family epic since each book springboards off the prior one.
As most of my readers already know, I
started writing the first book in this saga, A Passion Most Pure, at the age of twelve after reading Margaret
Mitchell’s Gone With the Wind. I
immediately knew I wanted an Irish family coping with a war (like GWTW), but
didn’t have the audacity to try another Civil War epic like Margaret, so I
settled on WWI instead.
As the 12th child in a
dysfunctional family of 13 kids, I also knew I wanted to portray a family the
way God intended a family to be—flawed but steeped in faith. The result is the
saga of the O’Connors, a passionate but imperfect family of six children who
love God and each other in the best way they know how, all interwoven with a
secondary love story between their parents. The first three books in The
Daughters of Boston series highlight the love stories of each of the three
oldest daughters, and the second series, Winds of Change, focuses on the
youngest daughter and two sons. Oh, and the Christmas e-book? Ah … that’s the prequel I’ve been longing to
write and finally did, which details the tumultuous love story of the saga’s
happily married parents, Marcy and Patrick O’Connor.
Mmmm … well, I’m not a girly-girl,
meaning I’m not big on diamonds and flowers and shopping, contrary to my
daughter! In fact, about 20 years ago, the diamond in my engagement ring fell
out of its setting while I was cleaning, and I never did find it. Told my
husband I didn’t want another one because a diamond on your hand just gets
caught on fabric and things like that, a real annoyance to a dirt-practical
bottom-liner like me. But oh, boy, cheap costume jewelry, especially dangle
earrings?? To die for!!
What would you say is your most
interesting writing quirk?
HA! My family jokes that I am an “Ambiance
Queen” because dim lighting with candles are a mainstay for my winter writing,
along with a constant cup of hazelnut decaf with Half ‘n Half or peach iced
tea, Kleenex (for the soggy scenes I write), and a mirror handy for those
facial expressions I’m trying to capture on paper. Oh, and definitely lip
gloss—lots and lots of lip gloss!!
Where do you like to write?
During
the summer months (basically May through October), I sit outside on my lower
deck that runs the length of the house, overlooking a lush, green wooded area
that has sunlight dappling through the trees. I have my feet up on this cushy
lawn furniture we have (like now!), and a fan gently blowing while I sit with
my laptop. In the winter I’m in the hearth room with a crackling fire, all the
essentials mentioned above and a picture of my husband on the table beside me
for the ultimate inspiration.
What is the best and/or worst part
about being a writer?
Oh, hands-down, the best are the reader
friends I’ve made, some of which have become dear friends. And then, of course,
writing dramatic, breathless and compelling love scenes is certainly no
snoozer!! Sigh.
The worst? Without question, the
emotional roller-coaster one goes through AFTER getting published. Like a lot
of unpublished writers, I thought all the anxiety and self-doubt would
dissipate after I signed on the dotted line. I mean that would validate me,
right? Give me confidence as a writer? But I discovered (AGAIN!) that true
confidence is not in accolades from your editor or a really good review, but
instead in where your heart is with God. HE is my confidence when my sales
rankings on Amazon.com are high or low or that nasty review tries to take me
down.
Do you have a favorite Bible
verse?
Gosh, I have so many, but
one of my favorites (which I used to pray everyday) is the last paragraph in
Psalm 139, verses 23-24. But a word of warning—don’t pray it unless you mean
business, because God will definitely nail you to the wall on a few things!
Here it is:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and
know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me
in the way everlasting.
However
… since I have become an author, I find that the push and pull of success
(vying for sales, awards, accolades) is deadly, taking me places I do NOT want
to go. So since then, my favorite Scripture has been 2 Corinthians ll:3: Do not let my mind “be led
astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.”
Here are a few this-or-that
questions:
Snowstorms or Thunderstorms? Oh, definitely snowstorms because
my husband and I are fortunate to both work at home so we can enjoy the snow
without the worry of having to go into work.
Tea or Coffee? Uh-oh … dilemma!! For hot
beverages, GOTTA have that cup of hazelnut decaf every day and throughout the
morning, but then in the summertime I switch to peach iced tea in the
afternoons and on those frosty winter afternoons, hot peppermint tea.
Print or eBook? Oh, man—another lip nibble here!
LOVE the feel and look of print books because I have the habit of constantly
turning back to look at the cover throughout the book, which is a pain on a
Kindle. But … the dirt-practical side of me sure loves being able to read my
Kindle in the car at night or in bed when I don’t want to keep my hubby up with
the light.
Early-bird or Night-owl? Definitely night-owl! LOVE to read
in bed after hubby is snoozing, either for an extra 15 minutes or two hours,
depending on the book. And when I get close to deadline, I have been known to
stay up till 5:00 AM burning up the computer.
Cats or Dogs? As a drama queen who needs emotion, I am definitely a dog person, but I do love cats with personality. I’ve put dogs in all my books except for A Heart Revealed because I felt Emma was a cat person, so I gave her a maimed cat who was scarred a kitten, just like Emma was scarred as a young girl, forging a gentle bond between the two. Believe it or not, from that point on, I’ve developed a fondness for cats.
Are you currently working on any
new novels? If so, could you give us a hint?
I am
halfway through book 2 in The Heart of San Francisco series, working title Dare to Love, which
is my ninth novel. Like book 1 in the series, Love at Any Cost, which releases April 1, 2013, there is
spontaneous combustion between the two main characters right off the bat! My
spunky, hot-tempered Irish heroine goes head-to-head with my hard-as-nails,
Italian police-detective grouch of a hero in the first chapter—or maybe I
should say the first round. I have to admit, I’m having WAY too much fun at the
expense of these two in a relationship that goes from fireworks to a flaming
romance in the short lick of a fuse. Here’s the premise: A sassy socialite
burned by love twice butts heads and hearts with a jaded cop burned by the
upper class.
Oh! It sounds really good! Thank you so much for being here,
Julie! Is there anything else you’d like to tell readers and where can we find
you on the web?
Thanks, Melanie, for allowing me to
connect with your readers, and I’m looking forward to giving one of them a
signed copy of any of my books, including A
Love Surrendered or an e-book of A
Light in the Window: An Irish Christmas Love Story. Just leave a comment
telling me WHICH is your favorite O’Connor book and why. And if you haven’t
read any, that’s okay too—just let me know, and if you win, I will make sure
you get the first book in the series. GOOD LUCK!!
Of course, I LOVE to hear from reader
friends, so they can feel free to contact me through my website at http://www.julielessman.com,
either by sending an e-mail via my site or by signing up for my newsletter at http://www.julielessman.com/sign-up-for-newsletter/.
My newsletter is chock-full of fun info on my books and there’s always a
contest featuring signed book giveaways including one right now to have a
character named after you or a loved one in my next book. Also, I have a cool
feature on my website called “Journal Jots” (http://www.julielessman.com/journal-jots1/),
which is a very laid-back, Friday journal to my reader friends that would give
your readers an idea as to my relaxed style of writing. Then finally, I can be
found daily at The Seekers blog (http://seekerville.blogspot.com/), a
group blog devoted to encouraging and helping aspiring writers on the road to
publication.
Giveaway!
As Julie mentioned above, you can enter to win a copy of one of her books (winner's choice). This giveaway is open Internationally!
Enter via the Rafflecopter below. The mandatory entry is to leave a comment on this blog post letting Julie know which is your favorite O’Connor book and why (if you haven't read any, just say that). After you do that, the optional entries will become available. Happy entering and I look forward to reading your comments. :)
haven't read any!
ReplyDeleteALISON!!! Oh, girl, we have to remedy that FAST!! But to make sure you even WANT to read my books, I highly encourage you to read an excerpt or two on the "Excerpts" page of my website. I list my favorite romantic scene AND spiritual scene for each of my books, so that will give you a good idea of my style. My favorite romantic scene is from A Hope Undaunted, so if you only have time for one, scroll down till you get to that one, okay? Here's the link:
DeleteJULIE'S EXCERPTS PAGE
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
WOWSERS!! Just read the excerpt from A Hope Undaunted, IVE GOT TO READ IT FIRST ....FOR SURE NOW!! LOVED EVERY BIT OF IT!!! You've got great talent Julie!! ;-)
DeleteI haven´t read any yet. I looove all the covers! So beautiful. And I have read much about all your books, Julie, and am really looking forward to start reading them.
ReplyDeleteAnd the 139 verse is one of my absolute fav. ones too. So powerful!
Katrin W
Thanks, KATRIN -- Revell does an exceptional job on book covers, AS does my artist husband, who actually designed my Christmas e-book, A Light in the Window, using my daughter as a model. LOVE that cover because of that!!
DeleteOh, wow, that 139 verse is responsible for more changes in my character than any other, Katrin, so YES, VERY powerful!!
Good luck in the contest, sweetie!
Hugs,
Julie
I think A Passion Most Pure would still have to be my favorite. I was an emotional wreck while reading it (and that's a good thing, what fun is reading if you don't get into it I say) and couldn't put it down till I was finished!
ReplyDeleteLOL, LIZ!!! An "emotional wreck"??? Yeah, that's pretty much what I'm going for when I write a book because I LOVE emotion, drama and angst and it's either put it in my books or my marriage, so I'm sparing my husband. :)
DeleteThanks for reading my books, darlin', despite all the roller-coaster emotions, and here's to a win in this contest!!
Hugs,
Julie
Sadly I still have not read any of Julie Lessman's book. I have been wanting to read them for ages but as I do not own any of them I keep getting sidetracked by my stack of TBR's. My sister has the whole first series and I will borrow them as soon as my TBR stack lowers enough!
ReplyDeleteGreat interview! Woohoo for night owls!
ABBI ... "Sadly" is right!!! And, gosh, you don't even have to BUY them??? Your sister has them right there for you to pick up!! Trust me -- TBR lists NEVER lower enough to get to all the books, so I will challenge you to get your mits on them with this: if you read book 1, A Passion Most Pure, and like it well enough to continue and post a brief review on each of the books in the series, I will send both you and your sister the Christmas prequel free (which actually begins in summer and ends at Christmas, so it's not strictly a Christmas book). So the gauntlet has been thrown down, my friend ... :)
DeleteHugs,
Julie
Wow! I'm up for the challenge! I'll have my sis bring the books the next time I see her! And since I'm trying to review all the books I read that'll be easy! Thank you!
DeleteI haven't read any of these yet, but they sound good.
ReplyDeleteHEIDI ... WOW, all these gals who've never met the O'Connors yet!! I encourage you, my friend, to do what I encouraged Alison in the first comment above -- to read an excerpt from my "Excerpts" page of website, and I gave Alison the link up above. If you like passion, both spiritually as well as romantically, AND lots of drama and laughter and just plain family feel-good scenes, then my books are for you!
DeleteThanks for coming by and here's to a win!
Hugs,
Julie
Unfortunately, I haven't read any of these yet, but I'm looking forward to! :]
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for the giveaway!
Marijana Sitar
Oh, MARIJANA!! Girl, you are just the type of reader I'm looking for -- fresh blood!! ;)
DeleteI'm going to tell you what I told Alison up in the first comment -- if you want to see if you will like my style of writing, feel free to check out my "Excerpts" page on my website at the link I included in my comment to Allison.
These two series are more than just a love story between a hero and heroine -- it's also a love story between the mother and father and a love story between the family and God. So I hope you will consider giving them a shot. If you do, PLEASE start with book 1 in this family saga, A Passion Most Pure, which was American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year for 2009 and has 141 5-star reviews on Amazon. You see, this is a family saga best read in order due to a number of BIG surprises. And GOOD NEWS!!! APMP is only $5.79 on Kindle right now ... hint, hint ... ;)
Anyway, thanks for entering and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
Hugs,
Julie
I haven't read any yet, but I love historical so they are on my list. Thanks.
ReplyDeletemagic5905 at embarqmail dot com
WOW, JOY ... Mel's blog today is a WEALTH of readers who have never read my books before, so I hope you won't take as long as Mel did to find out just why A Passion Most Pure (book 1 in this passionate family saga) won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009 and has 141 5-star reviews on Amazon!!
DeleteIf you love historicals, girl, then these books are for YOU!! Book 1 (APMP) begins pre-WWI and the last book in the series, A Love Surrendered, which comes out NEXT MONTH takes place in 1932, so you get all the richness of the Downton Abby era of WWI plus all the jazz and pizzazz of The Roaring 20s and Prohibition, so LOTS of history!!
Good luck in the contest and here's to a win!
Hugs,
Julie
LOL, Julie, I did take too long to read APMP, BUT I will be reading the rest of the books this month (most likely) because I should be getting A Love Surrendered from Revell for the blog tour in October and I don't want to read them out of order. :)
DeleteAll of these books look so good, it would be hard to choose which one I wanted. Looking forward to reading them. Keep up the good work bringing us news of great authors and books. Check out my blog at http://www.melinathereader.com I also have an FB page https://www.facebook.com/#!/MelinasBookBlog
ReplyDeleteHey, MELINA, thanks for coming by and if you win, no decision to be made, girl. I will be sending you a signed copy of book 1 in this VERY passionate family saga because these are definitely two series best read in order due to a number of BIG surprises that would be ruined otherwise.
DeleteIf you want to check out my style of writing, I strongly recommend you check out the "Excerpts" link I included in my comment to Alison in the very first comment above, where I list my favorite romantic AND spiritual excerpts from each of my books. Take a peek and if you have time for only one, make it the romantic excerpt from A Hope Undaunted since that's one of my favorites, okay?
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
i can't choose a favourite...i love them all :) looking forward to reading more from julie.
ReplyDeletekarenk
kmkuka at yahoo dot com
KAREN!!! Goodness, it's SOOO nice to run into someone who HAS read all of my books, girl -- thanks for coming by!!
DeleteI have done over 175 interviews and I have NEVER run into this many commenters who haven't read my books before, so I am THRILLED to get this kind of exposure on Mel's wonderful blog!!
Karen, have you checked out the reviews coming in on A Love Surrendered yet? They've been great so far, so I am hoping you like it too, my friend!!
Thanks for coming by to cheer me on and GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
I have not read any of these books.
ReplyDeleteLOL, AMY, I'm proud of you tracking down all these giveaways, girl, because that is THE way to win a signed book, I'll tell you!!
DeleteSo good luck and here's to a win!!
Hugs,
Julie
I love, love these books!! I only started reading them about 3 mod ago (at most), but I have loved everyone I've read. The first is still my favorite, but that's okay. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the interview and the giveaway!
LADETTE!!! YAY, another O'Connor fan -- SO thrilled to see you here, girl!! And don't worry about saying APMP is your fave. Most people feel that way and I think that's because Faith O'Connor makes such a STRONG impression on readers. Also, this is the very first of my books, so I suspect people are shocked when they read it because it's such a departure from the norm in CBA romance. It's not really the market in the CBA -- these books are too passionate romantically to suit some and too passionate spiritually to suit others and they're longer and more complicated and wreak havoc on the emotions, so it's not your normal cup of tea in Christian romance.
DeleteAnyway, sweetie -- THANK YOU for coming by and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
Hugs,
Julie
Acco
I have been collecting Julie Lessman's books for a few years now, but I haven't read any!! I follow her on Facebook, and she is a very classy lady. I know I will adore her Passion series, it took me the longest time to get book 3, and I had not wanted to start the series until I had book 3 in my hand. And then review copies got in the way of reading for pleasure but I am finally working my way to the end of that dark tunnel. I need to get book 3 (pick me!)A Love Surrendered, so I can start that series too.
ReplyDeleteMARIE!!! Goodness, girl, WHAT am I going to do with you??? You are one of those diehard series readers who has to have ALL of the books in hand before you crack the first one, eh? I dare you to break down and read A Passion Most Pure to see if the O'Connors compel you to read further and further, my friend -- I would LOVE to know!!
DeleteEither way, THANK YOU for "collecting" them and GOOD LUCK in this contest!!
Hugs,
Julie
Hi Julie!!! Loved the interview! And love your books! My favorites being A Love Surrendered and A Passion Most Pure. I read The Winds of Change books before The Daughters of Boston though! How silly of me! Anyway, always great to read an interview with you! Looking forward to the new series and Patrick and Marcy's story!!!!
ReplyDeleteJulie@ My Favorite Pastime
JULIE!!!!! Thank you for coming by, you sweet thing!! You are definitely one of my favorites, my friend, and I always smile when I see you pop up!!
DeleteGOOD LUCK in the contest because gotta feeling you're waiting on that e-book, aren't you???
Hugs,
Julie
You Betcha Julie! I can't wait for the e-book!!!
DeleteI haven't read any of these yet but I'm putting them all on my wish list!
ReplyDeleteHey, MAMABUNNY!!! Girl, we need to grant you that wish, so here's hoping for a win!!
DeleteAnd like I told Alison WAY up in the first comment -- check out the "Excerpts" link on my website (I gave link in my comment to Alison) to see if you like my style of writing because I provide both a romantic and spiritual excerpt from each of my books. Then check out the reviews on Amazon for A Passion Most Pure, which is the first book in this family saga, which has 141 5-star reviews, okay?
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
I have read all of Julie's books and I have to say I think they get better and better. I think with each book you get more and more attached to this family and you want to know what is happening in all thier lives. I havent read A Love Surrendered yet so I don't know If I can pick a favorite because it is all one story to me. Thanks for a great series!
ReplyDeleteJANETTE -- bless you, my sweet friend for your VERY kind comments!! Every author wants to hear that she's getting better and better, especially since I don't feel I am. But ... people tell me I am, so maybe I'm just jaded.
DeleteOh, and girl, I hope you LOVE A Love Surrendered as much as some of the people who have been reviewing (particularly sweet Julie G. from My Favorite Pastimes blog two comments up!). She said ALS is her favorite along with APMP, which totally blessed the socks off of me!
Thank you again, my friend, for your encouragement AND for just reading my books in the first place!! I pray that I get to send you the winning copy of ALS here ... ;)
Hugs,
Julie
Hey, JANETTE ... originally the blog wouldn't let me type a reply to you here, so I typed your comment below under your name, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I still haven't gotten around to reading any of Julie's books yet, but I have the first 2 on my shelf... I'm going to be reading them with my friend (who LOVES Julie's books!), so I'm really excited to start them!
ReplyDeletelubell1106(at)gmail(dot)com
ELYSSA ... for some reason, the blog would not let me reply to you here, so I typed my response to your comment further down under your name, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I haven't read any yet!! But would love to win the first one!!! :D
ReplyDeleteCAITLYN ... for some reason, the blog would not let me reply to you here, so I typed my response to your comment further down under your name, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I think 'A Heart Revealed' would be my favorite, but that could be just because I read it most recently! They of course are all great=)
ReplyDeletePatty
PATTY ... for some reason, the blog would not let me reply to you here, so I typed my response to your comment further down under your name, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
Haven't read any... so I hope I win. lol
ReplyDeleteOCHANYA!! For some reason, the blog would not let me reply to you here, so I typed my response to your comment further down under your name, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I have read A Hoipe Undaunted and it is awesome!!! I so want to read the whole series!
ReplyDeleteOh, MARGARET, I am soooooo glad you liked A Hope Undaunted -- it is my FAVE of all the books I've written. Is Luke McGee not to die for ??? Hubba, hubba!! :)
DeleteAnd, YES, I want you to read the whole series, too, girl, so here's to a win!!
Hugs,
Julie
I love Julie Lessman. I've been meaning to read more of her books.
ReplyDeleteGreat interview!
LOL, KENZIE ... you are SO adorable!!! Well, there's no time like the present, darlin', so let's get crackin', shall we?? GOOD LUCK because hopefully, a win will kick-start you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I have not had the opportunity to read any of her books before, but I'd like to.
ReplyDeleteOh, JEMIMAH ... NOT as much as I want you to, girl, so I'm saying one for a win for you RIGHT here, RIGHT now!! :)
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I have not read any O'connor books yet, but I would love to. julierupert@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteOh, JULIE, YES!!! I want you to as well because the O'Connors are a WONDERFUL Irish family, very close-knit, VERY passionate, both for God AND for romance!!
DeleteGOOD LUCK, sweetie!!
Hugs,
Julie
My favorite Julie Lessman book it the one that I have just read. They just keep getting better and better, and I am sooo excited that 3 of her books are coming out so soon!
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for having the giveaway!
kohlert@mail.gvsu.edu
TIFF ... you sweetheart, you!! Thank you SO much for your kind comment -- it blessed the socks off of me. :)
DeleteYes, I am definitely on a roll with THREE books out within six months time, which NEVER happens, so I hope you enjoy them.
I am REALLY excited about Love at Any Cost because it is a VERY fun series with GREAT heroes and lots of laughs. :)
Hugs,
Julie
I haven't read any of her books yet. :)
ReplyDeleteAh, KARA ... the key word being "yet." But ... I am hoping that you will mosey on over to my website "Excerpts" page and check out my favorite romantic AND spiritual scenes for each of my books so you can see my style and decide for yourself. I included the link up in my comment to Alison, who had the first comment of the day, so do check it out, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
Oh, my. They are all SO GOOD. In order to give an absolute favorite, I'd have to reread them all, in one day...and then it would still be pretty taxing to decide! I know I loved the first one, and I relate much more with that sister than the sneaky second daughter. I really love all the books, and I'm interested in this new San Francisco series! Keep 'em coming!
ReplyDeleteKANDRA, THANK YOU, darlin'!!! My fave is actually A Hope Undaunted because Luke McGee is tied with Mitch for my absolute FAVORITES of my heroes (A Passion Redeemed is my 2nd fave because of Mitch and Charity!!).
DeleteBut ... Jamie MacKenna, the hero in Love at Any Cost is NO SLOUCH, let me tell you and I think (or at least I hope!) you will love him and the heroine Cassie as much as I do!
Good luck, sweetie, and here's to a win!
Hugs,
Julie
I would like to win Julie's new book, a Lover Surrendered or any of the Daughters of Boston books. Such a great inspiring series!
ReplyDeleteHey, JUSTPEACHY36 -- THANK YOU!! I am SO glad my books have inspired you and I am hoping I can send the final O'Connor book, A Love Surrendered, to you as well, so GOOD LUCK!!
DeleteHUGS,
JULIE
I don't believe I've read any of Julie's books. I have been wanting to do so, though.
ReplyDeleteVERA ... well, girl, there's no time like the present, eh? I'm pulling for a win here so we can send a book your way!
DeleteTill then, you might check out my comment to Alison in the very first comment of the day above which includes the link for my "Excerpts" tab where I post my favorite romantic and spiritual scenes for each of my books, okay?
Hugs,
Julie
I own a copy of A Passion Most Pure (signed by Julie, eeek!!) that I was thrilled to win a couple of months ago. It is actually on my to-read list for September, and I am SO looking forward to it! I've been holding off almost just because when it's done, it's done, and I won't get to read it for the first time again, haha! That's silly, huh? I also have A Hope Undaunted on Kindle, but I'm big on reading things in order, so will be holding off until I read the others :)
ReplyDeleteThank you for the chance to win!
Beth
bharbin07[at]gmail[dot]com
BETH!!! Oh, I'm excited for you, girl, because when you crack the spine of A Passion Most Pure (American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year for 2009!!), you will meet the O'Connors for the very first time, and I hope it will be love at first read like it has been for thousands of my reader friends. And then, WOW, A Hope Undaunted is my FAVE of all the books I've written and was on Booklists' Top Ten Christian Fiction for 2010, so I'm glad you got it as well. I am SO proud of you for planning to read the books in order because this really is a series best read cronologically due to a number of BIG surprises, okay?
DeleteHappy reading, my friend, and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
Hugs,
Julie
I have not read any of Julie Lessman's books!! They all look absolutely wonderful and I do not mind which one I win!!
ReplyDeleteThanks, SHARON, but guess what? I actually DO mind which book you read first because this is definitely a family saga best read in order due to a number of HUGE surprises. SO ... if you win, I'll be sending you a signed copy of A Passion Most Pure, American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year for 2009, okay?
DeleteGOOD LUCK, girl!!
Hugs,
Julie
Oh, man I love the O'Connor books.... just love them and love Julie's writing. hard to say which is fav. I have the first five in the series need the last one. The Christmas one looks ever so good and OH, I just love the cover of Love at Any Cost.....Julie you are making me drool!!!!
ReplyDeleteABI!!! Sooooo good to see you here, darlin', and I am SO excited that YOU are excited about the upcoming books, my friend. I have to admit, Love at Any Cost is reallllly a lot of fun and talk about "drool," you are going to salivate over the hero, Jamie MacKenna -- SO cute!! A combination of Collin and Luke, and YOWZA, is he a heart-stopper!!
DeleteThanks, Abi, SO much for your support and your friendship!
Hugs,
Julie
I've read all of Julie's books so far, and she has quickly become one of my favorite Christian authors. I still go back to the first book (A Passion Most Pure) as one of the best--I guess you get sucked into the O'Connors' world quickly. I look forward to rereading all of them again...maybe next year, after I savor the new one in October!
ReplyDeleteJILLSP!!! Thank you SO much for your kind comment, my friend -- that blesses the socks off of me!!
DeleteAnd, yes, most of my reader friends tell me APMP is their fave because it introduced them to the O'Connors, that wonderfully passionate family to which everyone wants to belong, including me!! And I actually reread all my books in order right before the next one comes out to refresh me for the very next one, so you go, girl -- reread!! :)
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
I have read A Hope Undaunted! My library only has A Hope Undaunted and A Love Surrendered so I would love to win a book! Thank you! Lily
ReplyDeleteHey, LILY, did you know you can request all the other books from the library too? Give it a shot, but meanwhile, here's hoping for a win here as well, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I have not read any of these yet, but they look AMAZING. Can not wait to add them to my list :)
ReplyDeleteAMY, girl, we are just going to have to remedy that, eh? And I cannot wait for you to read them, either, so you go, girl!!
DeleteGOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
Julie, I thought for sure you'd be a jewelry girl! I told my husband when buying the engagement ring that I didn't want a diamond or anything raised because I would just poke my eye out, and since it would be the only jewelry I would force myself to wear it needed to be flush whatever it was. He got me this band with 7 little diamond chips in it and I was so happy. Of course, there were 5 of us girls in one of my college classes engaged over the summer, so we had to show off our rings. When the one engaged to a doctor whipped out a 2 carat yellow diamond mine looked like it came out of a cracker jacks box! But I was still happy. :)
ReplyDeleteMELISSA!!! Oh, honey, who knew we were SO much alike, eh??? I actually did tell my hubby that for our 35th next year, I'd like to have a band with small diamonds and the birthstones of my children, so we'll see. And you know what??? I'll bet I would have liked YOUR band better, girl, than that obnoxious 2-carat rock, seriously.
DeleteThanks for coming by, sweetie, and I won't see you at ACFW this year, but maybe next year in Indy, okay?
Hugs,
Julie
I have the first book in the O'Connor series on my Kindle, but have not read it yet. I would love to collect the whole series.
ReplyDeleteANDREA!!! You downloaded A Passion Most Pure when it was free about two years ago, right?? And you haven't read it yet??? Oh, honey, we need to get that rectified PRONTO!! I'll tell you what -- I'll make you a deal. You read APMP and if you like it (which I hope you will), I'm pretty sure you will want to read the next five pretty quickly and if you do and write VERY brief reviews for each of them on Amazon, then I will send you the Christmas prequel free, okay?
DeleteI encourage you to do what I told Alison to do in the very first comment -- check out my "Excerpts" tab on my website (link included in my comment to Alison) to read my favorite romantic and spiritual scenes for each of my books. Hopefully that will motivate you to crack the spine of APMP and get to know this VERY passionate family!!
Ironically, I offered a similar deal to another gal on another blog who hadn't read my books yet and she is now a DIEHARD "fan" of my books and one of my most devoted reader friends! Hope the same will happen to you. :)
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
Thanks for the invitation. I have never read one of her books but would love to read them. Great interview
ReplyDeleteLYNELLE, thank you SO much for your interest in my books and I would love for you to read them too, so GOOD LUCK, girl!!
DeleteAnd like I told most of the others on today's blog who have not read my books, please read an excerpt from my "Excerpts" page on my website -- I gave the link in my very first comment to Alison at the top of this blog where you can read both a romantic and spiritual scene from each of my books to see if you like my style, okay?
Hugs,
Julie
Hi Mrs. Lessman!
ReplyDeleteIt's hard for me to choose between A Passion Most Pure and A Heart Revealed!!
I love them all, and I'm so looking forward to your new ones coming out!!
Thanks for a chance to win! :)
HANNAH!!! Soooo good to see you here, my friend, and here's pulling for a win for you because I gotta a STRONG feeling you are going to LOVE A Love Surrendered!! :)
DeleteHugs,
Julie
Thanks for the chance to win!
ReplyDeleteMy pleasure, NATASHA, and here's to a win in the contest. Thanks for coming by!
DeleteHugs,
Julie
Hey, DEBBIE, THANK YOU for putting my books on your TBR list, but NOW the trick is to get one in your hands, right?
DeleteFor a little incentive, please check out my "Excerpts" tab of my website (I gave the link above in my comment to Alison, today's first commenter) where you can read my favorite romantic and spiritual scenes for each of my books, okay? Then if you buy the first one -- A Passion Most Pure, which, by the way, was American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009 AND is only $5.79 on Kindle right now -- and like it enough to continue on with the next five and write a brief review for each, I will send you the Christmas e-book free, okay?
I offered this same deal to a blogger and she went crazy over APMP and promptly tore through each of the other books and is NOW one of my most ardent supporters!! Hopefully the same will happen to you.
Either way, GOOD LUCK in the contest, girl!!
Hugs,
Julie
I haven't read any of her books yet but they are on my to be read list
ReplyDeletelikesmusic2@consolidated.net
I haven't read anything by yet, but have been wanting to lately. :)
ReplyDeleteAmada Chavez (pronounced: a.m.a.th.a)
amada_chavez[AT]yahoo[DOT]com
John 3:15-16 (Read it, Believe it, and Be Saved!!!)
Hey, AMADA ... VERY pretty name, my friend!! Thank you SO much for your interest in my books and here's to a win.
DeleteAnd as I have told everyone else who hasn't read my books yet, please check out my "Excerpts" tab of my website (I gave the link above in my comment to Alison, today's first commenter) where you can read my favorite romantic and spiritual scenes for each of my books, okay?
Then GOOD LUCK in the contest, girl!!
Hugs,
Julie
Thank you so much for everything Julie! I will definitely check out your excerpts!
DeleteGod be with you! :)
~Amada
Ahem... WHOA! Quite a party going on right now. Which is no surprise since Julie Lessman is visiting. I always smile when she does giveaways now because I'm so familiar with this sweet woman who's become more like a friend!
ReplyDeleteFavorite O'Connor book... Oh. my. gosh, well, I was thinking about it and I guess we could go with A Hope Undaunted?
Always good to see you, Jules.
Thank you to Melanie, also. :-)
Hugs!
PS: Girl we have SOO much in common! I'm also not a girlie-girlie either.
g.gclermont AT gmail DOT com
YAY, GANISE!!! We are truly two peas in a pod, my sweet friend, because AHU is my fave too!!
DeleteAnd it's ALWAYS good to see you too, girl -- makes my day every single time!!
You're not a "girlie-girl" either??? Goodness, we just HAVE to get together one of these days, sweetie, because we are WAY too much alike not to!!
Love you and appreciate your support AND precious friendship!!
Hugs,
Julie
I haven't read any but they all look good!
ReplyDeleteLOL, MICHELLE, thank you!! And trust me -- if you like LOTS of passion in your romance AND your faith in God -- then they ARE good!! ;)
DeleteGood luck in the contest!!
Hugs,
Julie
Ok. How to pick my favorite in a list so long and do fantastic! I love A Passion Most Pure, but I have a feeling that A Love Surrendered will be my favorite, because this was the brother I was waiting so long to see fall in love. I also can't wait for the new series.
ReplyDeleteI loved the interview by the way, it was really neat to learn some new stuff about my favorite author. It was also cool to learn about her family and her writing habits.
Oh, DANYELLE, then you are going to absolutely LOVE ALS for sure because Steven is to die for in this book and the final hold-out in giving his heart to God, but true to a Julie Lessman novel, YES, he finally does and the scene makes me cry EVERY SINGLE TIME!! I hope it does the same for you, my friend.
DeleteThanks SO much for your support and friendship, sweetie, and GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
I have not read any of her books,but sure would love to.They all look very interesting.
ReplyDeleteLOL, JACKIE ... "interesting"??? Oh, girl, you ain't seen NOTHING yet!! I am a certified CDQ (caffeinated drama queen), so I love lots of angst, drama and passion in my books, which has given me a reputation as being an author who takes you on an emotional roller-coaster, so "interesting" doesn't even BEGIN to cover it!! I hope you get to find out soon, so GOOD LUCK!!
DeleteHugs,
Julie
TTo be honest I have read any of her books but I am such an avid reader and would love to read all of her books, I just love reading anything and everything that will keep my attention.
ReplyDeleteMEDIAWORM ... do you mean you have NOT read any of my books, I suspect? You said you "have read" them, but I'm thinking you meant "have not," right? If so, we need to remedy that REAL QUICK, my friend, because I absolutely guarantee you that these books WILL keep your attention -- too much angst, drama and passion not to!! ;)
DeleteHere's to a win!
Hugs,
Julie
I WOULD LOVE TO WIN. ANGELA FROM KENTUCKY.
ReplyDeleteCHESNUTANGELA@YAHOO.COM
ANGELA FROM KENTUCKY!!! Oh, girl, trust me -- I would "love" for you to win, too, so you go, girl!!
DeleteAnd do me a favor, sweetie -- check out my "Excerpts" tab of my website (link given in my response comment to the very first commenter today above, Alison). There you can read my favorite romantic and spiritual scenes from each of my books to see if they grab you. If so, then we'll see what we can do about getting one in your hot, little hands soon, okay? If you don't win here -- I have a whole list of giveaways on my website calendar, so check it out too, if you will.
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
I have read ALL of Julie Lessman's books and LOVE each and every page!! It's hard to pick a favorite, but A Passion Most Pure holds a very special place in my heart - it was thru divine intervention that my daughter bought this book (with a gift card) and we have been "hooked" on Julie's books ever since! since there are so many that haven't read any - please don't enter me in the contest - we HAVE to get these books to these women!! You will love them!!
ReplyDeleteso thankful that Julie uses her gifts and abilities to bless others.... you won't be the same after reading her books! it's not just another romance novel... it really does change your life and you want a deeper relationship with God (and your husband!) counting the days until the next book releases! Jo
JO!!!! Girl, soooooo great to see you here!! Thank you, thank you for taking the time to come by and comment -- you are a TRUE blessing in my life, my friend, and I thank God for you and your family in my life.
DeleteHugs and more hugs,
Julie
just today, I was struggling with loving my hubby like I should (no expectations!)... and guess what I thought? what would Faith do?... so I spent time praying for him and thinking of all the GOOD things about him! see.. your books do change lives!! Jo
DeleteAh, ELYSSA!!! Yes, girl, I remember you well, and I'm happy to see you here trying to complete the series!!
ReplyDeleteI'm VERY anxious to see what you think of my books, especially since your friend has been touting them to you, so do let me know, okay?
Here's to another win, my friend. :)
Hugs,
Julie
CAITLYN!!! Trust me, girl, I would LOVE for you to win, too, so here's hoping you pull out a win because I REALLLLY want to send a signed copy of A Passion Most Pure your way, okay?
ReplyDeleteFingers crossed ... :)
Hugs,
Julie
MEL, for some reason the "Reply" button beneath each comment is not working for me, so I will have to do a separate comment for each one.
ReplyDeletePATTY ... A Heart Revealed is my hubby's fave, too, so you go, girl!! I would be HONORED to send you a signed copy of A Love Surrendered if you win, so saying one for you RIGHT NOW!!
HUGS,
Julie
Sorry it wasn't working - sometimes reloading the page makes it work... :)
DeleteOCHANYA ... GOSH, girl, I hope you win too because I LOVE new readers!! Here's hoping you pull out a win. :)
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Julie
I have read all of Julie's books.....could not pick a fave 'cause loved all of them! Am so excited about the new ones coming out! Count me in the drawing, please!
ReplyDeleteTHANKS!!
Jackie S.
jackie.smith[at]dishmail[dot]net
JACKIE!!! YAY ... it wouldn't be the same without you here, my sweet friend, so THANK YOU for coming by.
DeleteHere's to a win!!
Hugs,
Julie
I've read all of Julie's books that have been released and have loved them all. I guess my favorite would have to be A Passion Most Pure since it started the whole saga, plus I really like Faith and Colin's story. I'm looking forward to the new books and will reluctantly say goodbye to the O'Connors. I'm sure the new series will be as captivating as their story.
ReplyDeletepmk56[at]sbcglobal[dot]net
Hey, PAM, SO good to see you here, too, my friend!! And if your favorite couple is Faith and Collin, then you are going to LOVE their substory in A Love Surrendered!!
DeleteAnd I think you may just like Love at Any Cost as well because like I told one commenter above, Jamie MacKenna is a cross between Collin and Luke McGee!! HUBBA, HUBBA!!
Here's to a win!!
Hugs,
Julie
Julie is one of my favorite authors!! I've loved all of her books, but I think my favorite was A Heart Revealed because I could connect with Emma so much. Thnaks for doing the giveaway!!
ReplyDeletemarissamehresman(at)aol(dot)com
Hey, MARISSA!!! Thanks for coming by, my friend, and if you relate to sweet Emma, than I love you all the more because she is one of the kindest, sweetest characters I have ever written who NEVER lost her temper. One of the few!! ;)
DeleteI wanted to give you a heads-up that the blog giveaways listed on my website calendar are ALL that I will be doing this year, so take advantage!! Because of very tight deadlines, I am cutting way back from my usual 30-35 interviews per book release to only ten.
So here's hoping one of them nets you a win!!
Hugs,
Julie
Oh My... would so love to add one of these books to my shelf. I especially would love to have the "A Light In The Window" for two reasons, I love Christmas stories and I love Amish books all together. Thanks for the chance.
ReplyDeleteREV. KIM, thank you SO much for your interest in my stories. I do think the best of my books for you would be A Light in the Window because this is a very sweet Christmas story that deeply reflects the true meaning of Christmas. But ... it is an e-book only, so regrettably, you wouldn't be able to add it to your "shelf," per se. :(
DeleteHowever, just so you know, the rest of my books are not "Amish" in any way and, in fact, could be considered the opposite of Amish, meaning they are very passionate, both romantically and spiritually. I encourage you to check out the "Excerpts" tab on my website to see what I mean, and you can find the link up above in my response comment to the very first comment from Alison. Please know, however, that my books PROMOTE God's precepts in an amoral society, which is something desperately needed today for young women who wouldn't pick up an Amish book on a dare.
Good luck!!
Hugs,
Julie
I had to chuckle when I saw I saw "Amish"... my mom was Amish! Julie's books are soooo much better than your typical Amish story! they are much more unpredictable! and encouraging! and life-changing! Jo
DeleteGreat interview. The books sound amazing!
ReplyDeleteThanks, DIANE!! If you check out the reviews on Amazon, you will see from the abundance of 5-star reviews that most of my readers agree with you, so I hope you will give my books a shot.
DeleteGOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
I have A Passion Most Pure ebook, but have not had a chance to read it yet. I would love to win A Passion Redeemed or Love At Any Cost(I love the cover photo on that one).
ReplyDeletegodblessamerica.jan(at)gmail(dot)com
Hey, JAN -- LOVE your e-mail addy, girl!!! SO glad you have APMP because that is definitely the first book you need to read in this passionate family saga. But I have a feeling that once you are done with APMP, you will want to continue with APD because this series hooks you in deeper and deeper with every book. :)
DeleteGOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
Sorry to say, I haven't read any!! great interview!! books all look amazing!!
ReplyDeleteOh, goodness, DAWN ELIZABETH ... I'm "sorry" to hear that too, but hopefully we can remedy that soon enough with a win, eh?
DeleteGOOD LUCK, SWEETIE!!
Hugs,
Julie
I read lots of christian novels but have not ready any of yours but would love to win one to read it and then buy more if i can
ReplyDeletethanks
julie
wyeejulie@yahoo.com.au
Hey, JULIE, I would LOVE to have you give my novels a try, but I will warn you that they are not like a lot of other Christian novels. They are far more passionate, not only romantically, but spiritually as well, so you have LOTS of drama going on in a family that embrace God with all of their hearts.
DeleteHere's to a win!!
Hugs,
Julie
Unfortunately, I haven't read any yet [blushing] but I'm very interested!
ReplyDeleteHopefully, this will be a start :)
ALINE!!! No "blushing" necessary, my friend, because I have not been in the market all that long. My debut novel, A Passion Most Pure -- which won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009 -- only came out in 2008, but since then, I have seven more books for you to read, so I'm hoping we can get you started here with a win.
DeleteGOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
All of these books look and sound amazing! I haven't read any of Julie Lessman's books (despite the fact that I do occasionally read Christian books) but they do sound good. The covers are so beautiful especially the one for 'A Light in the Window'. Hopefully I shall find myself copies of her books and then begin to read them. :D
ReplyDeleteTAYLOR, the fact that you "occasionally" read Christian books leads me to believe that you mostly read secular and if so, that tells me it's because Christian romance is not "passionate" enough for you. If that's true, then that's EXACTLY why I began writing Christian romance because I could not find any Christian romance with the romantic passion I wanted along with the spiritual passion I wanted, so I started writing my own!!
DeleteDo me a favor, girl, and go to the "Excerpts" tab of my website at the link below and read samples of my favorite romantic AND spiritual scenes for each of my books, okay? Then beg, borrow or buy on sale A Passion Most Pure, the first book in this VERY passionate family saga. It won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year for 2009, and needs to be read first because this is really two series best read in order due to a number of HUGE surprises, okay? Here's the link -- check it out and hope to hear from you down the road.
JULIE'S EXCERPTS
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
My favorite is A Passion Most Pure, there is just something special about Collin. He's a sexy, redeemed bad boy! :) I enjoy any interviews with Julie and this one again showcased how sweet and real she is. Loved it!
ReplyDeleteworthy2bpraised at gmail dot com
Oh, MERRY, if Collin is your fave, then you are going to LOVE Love at Any Cost, book 1 in my new series because the hero Jamie MacKenna is a cross between Collin and Luke McGee, so you are going to LOVE him ... or at least I hope you will!!
DeleteThanks for your sweet comment and GOOD LUCK!!!
HUGS,
Julie
I would love to read A Light In The Window, because I really would like to know how Marcy and Patrick's story began.
ReplyDeleteHey, DEBORAH ... if you happened to read book 3 in The Daughters of Boston series, A Passion Denied, then you will have a clue as to how Marcy and Patrick's prequel begins (and ends) because it is the love triangle between Patrick's best friend, Sam O'Rourke and Marceline Murphy, the woman they both wanted. It's a beautiful Christmas love story that really depicts the true meaning of Christmas, both in the actual plot and in the actual love story as well. I hope you get a chance to read it. :)
DeleteGOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
Hi Julie my friend of Seekerville, nice to see ya here...always stop by if I see your name listed. I have not read all of your books but I read them when I can get them, thus said would like "Love at any Cost" would or should I be lucky enough with all the comments on here, to win. You are a classy lady in my book as in others I am sure.
ReplyDeletethanks for sharing, Paula O(kyflo130@yahoo.com)
WHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I loved a Passion Redeemed and A Hope Undaunted.
ReplyDeleteI think the reason I liked them so much is that the women are so spunky and the men are so manly!:)
I love Mitch and Cluny McGee. I need to read both of them again....
Love at any Cost looks and so AMAZING!!
I cant wait to read it!
WHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
Never try reading this...
ReplyDeleteWanna try it...
Love simple love story...
WHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
Haven't try reading this. Seems so interesting after the review...
ReplyDeleteHope I can win...
I think my fav is A Passion Most Pure. Faith's journey really touched me and, although I love all the family members, I think Faith remains my fav. :)
ReplyDeleteYvonne G.
yrgniew(at)yahoo(dot)com
WHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I have not read any! The books look great. Look forward to reading them! Have a blessed day!
ReplyDeleteWHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I'm going to have to join the ranks of those confessing to have never read one of Julie's books. But I've seen them all over the bloggosphere! Hopefully I'll spot one for free on amazon one of these days! (Sorry, I'm too cheap to buy a book usually.) Or maybe my home library has some on Overdrive. I should go look...
ReplyDeleteMy favorite cover though is A Passion Most Pure. The costumes on the Winds of Change series are quite neat too.
WHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I haven't yet read any of her books but I would like to
ReplyDeleteWHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
Hi Julie, I was invited by Melanie and so sorry to have missed things yesterday. I was late checking my emails. Your books' descriptions are very intriguing and I look forward to reading your works. Congratulations on a beautiful interview and much continued success to you. :)
ReplyDeleteWHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I haven't read any of her books yet, but I'd like to! (Beth Gal on Rafflecopter)
ReplyDeleteWHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
Hi Julie, FANTASTIC interview!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI would have to say my favorite would be A Passion Most Pure!! I LOVE Faith and Collin!! I think the really strong appeal is that he does change during the story through the help of the only girl who won't fall at his feet!! So many times the bad boys stay bad but I guess I've always liked those men who decide to mend their ways like Collin or Mr. Darcy(OK he wasn't BAD just on pride overload). Faith loves him but knows that there is more to romance then passion. That you have to put God first in your relationship!! Plus I totally can see how she fell in love with him after he rescued her from the nasty girl at school!! That is sooooooo ROMANTIC!! AAHHHH!! :)
But I also like A Heart Revealed!! Sean and Emma are such a BEAUTIFUL couple!! Their story is different from the others but they really learn about true love the hard way!! Also they start out as friends and care about each other deeply, putting the other's needs before their own.
Well only THREE MORE WEEKS BEFORE ALS COMES OUT!!!! Cannot wait!!! That would make the 2nd book I have since the first four I got at the library!! But I think my Mom bought a couple for Christmas!! ;)
Keep up the good work!!
Jacinta Rose Swindell
magenta321mysteryreaderATgmailDOTcom
WHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
i can say i have not read any of the book but if id do i will blog on it all over the net and my spto and yours the cover are great color and then the blurn
ReplyDeletewas great did you make cover or the trading card of the books is so can i get some for my collection
desi the blonde at msn dot com
WHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I haven't read any yet, but they all look good!
ReplyDeleteWHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I havent read this series yet but I plan to it sounds wonderful.Have a grerat day.
ReplyDeleteWHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
Oh my goodness, so much Julie Lessman in a six-month span?! This makes me SO excited! I've been putting off reading A Heart Revealed because once I read one of Julie's books, it's always torture to have to wait for more. I guess I won't have to put it off anymore. I'm especially looking forward to Marcie and Patrick's story! Cannot wait. :)
ReplyDeleteWHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I have read all of the series except for the latest one and my favorite one, if I can even choose a favored one is A Passion Most Pure. Why? Because it introduced me to the wonderful O'Conner family and the Passionate, keep me up all night writing of my now most favored author Julie Lessman!!!!
ReplyDeleteI am so excited about the new series set in San Francisco, as I was born there and lived there when I was a child.
To those who have not read this series WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR!!!!! Not only are there some great LOL moments, Julie creates some great hunky leading men!!!! Get them ASAP!!!!!
WHOOPS ... the "reply" button wouldn't work for me before, so I typed my response to your comment separately down below. Just look for the comment addressed to you, okay?
DeleteHugs,
Julie
I haven't read any yet, but they all look good!
ReplyDeletethx for the giveaway
-Lilian S
LILIAN! Oh, girl, we have to remedy that FAST!! But to make sure you even WANT to read my books, I highly encourage you to read an excerpt or two on the "Excerpts" page of my website. I list my favorite romantic scene AND spiritual scene for each of my books, so that will give you a good idea of my style. My favorite romantic scene is from A Hope Undaunted, so if you only have time for one, scroll down till you get to that one, okay? Here's the link:
DeleteJULIE'S EXCERPTS
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
Hey, PAULA, thank you SO much -- what a sweet thing to say! And, oh girl, you are going to really like Love at Any Cost (I hope!) as it is full of fun and sass and not as gut-wrenching as the O'Connor saga. Also shorter and less "passionate" and less complicated than my last two series, so in short -- more the market. We shall see ... :)
ReplyDeleteGOOD LUCK, my friend!
Hugs,
Julie
Oh, LEAH, you and I are twins separated by about forty years because Mitch and Luke are my ALL-TIME FAVORITES when it comes to the heroes I've written!!! I always love it when a reader friend agrees with me on this because it feels like SUCH a connection, you know???
ReplyDeleteBut you WILL like Jamie MacKenna, the hero in Love at Any Cost as well, I hope, because he is a cross between Collin and Luke. Now my hero in book 2??? Mitch Dennehy incarnate except this guy is an Italian police detective vs. a crotchety Irish editor ... :)
GOOD LUCK, darlin'!
Hugs,
Julie
MINE IS BLESSING ... if you like "simple" stories, your best bet with my books is the Christmas e-book, A Light in the Window: An Irish Christmas Love Story because I am NOT a "simple" author, per se, but this book is the sweetest and simplest of all my books. The next sweetest and simplest will be my new series beginning with book 1, Love at Any Cost, so GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Julie
YVONNE ... most of my reader friends tell me that because Faith has such a powerful spiritual effect on them, which blesses me to NO END because in reality, Faith is my spiritual side. The way she prays at the drop of a hat and the open, honest relationship she has with God is based on my own, so I KNOW it works in drawing one closer to God.
ReplyDeleteNow, Charity??? Definitely my more human side, which is why she needed redeeming so darn bad, you know???
GOOD LUCK in the contest, sweetie. :)
Hugs,
Julie
ANN MARIE!!! Oh, girl, we have to remedy that FAST!! But to make sure you even WANT to read my books, I highly encourage you to read an excerpt or two on the "Excerpts" page of my website. I list my favorite romantic scene AND spiritual scene for each of my books, so that will give you a good idea of my style. My favorite romantic scene is from A Hope Undaunted, so if you only have time for one, scroll down till you get to that one, okay? Here's the link:
ReplyDeleteJULIE'S EXCERPTS
Here's to a win, my friend!
Hugs,
Julie
JULIE'S EXCERPTS PAGE
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
RINA ... definitely ask the library to order A Passion Most Pure for you because that's the first one in this family saga, which is best read in order due to a number of BIG surprises. I will tell you one thing right now -- you will not read anything in the Christian romance market quite like it, I guarantee it. APMP was a free download two years ago, but hasn't been since, but the library usually will order a book for you if asked, so GO FOR IT, girl, and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Julie
INTENSIV5 ... interesting addy, girl!!
ReplyDeleteOkay, sweetie, I'll tell you what I've been telling all the many commenters who haven't read any of my books before. I highly encourage you to read an excerpt or two on the "Excerpts" page of my website. I list my favorite romantic scene AND spiritual scene for each of my books, so that will give you a good idea of my style. My favorite romantic scene is from A Hope Undaunted, so if you only have time for one, scroll down till you get to that one, okay? Here's the link:
JULIE'S EXCERPTS
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
PAMELAKNB ... any friend of Mel's is a friend of my, girl, so I'm grateful you had a chance to come by.
ReplyDeleteI've been telling everyone who's not read my work before to check out my Excerpts tab on my website for a sample of a romantic and spiritual scene for each of my books, so I suggest the same to you, okay? That way you can decide for yourself whether you'd like to read my books for sure rather than just taking Mel's or my word for it, okay?
Here's the link and GOOD LUCK!!
JULIE'S EXCERPTS
Hugs,
Julie
BETH ... boy, I would sure like you to read one as well, so here's to a win, my friend.
ReplyDeleteBut to give you an idea if you would like my books beyond the cover, I suggest checking out my Excerpts tab below for a sample of both a romantic scene and a spiritual scene from each of my books, okay?
Here's the link and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
JULIE'S EXCERPTS
Hugs,
Julie
JACINTA!!! LOL ... gotta love those bad boys who get redeemed for God, don't you??? And can you tell I love "bad boys"?? Most of my heroes are or have been in their past because frankly, nothing is more attractive to me than a bad boy gone good for the sake of love.
ReplyDeleteI am SO excited for you to read ALS, my friend, because so far the reviews have been reallllly good, and I can't wait to see what you think. If you like it, let me know, okay? And if not? Uh, well, never mind. :|
Here's to a win, sweetie!
Hugs,
Julie
DESITHEBLONDE ... LOL, girl, you sound like a passionate type of blogger who I would LOVE to have read (and spread the word) about my books, so here's hoping you win, my friend, okay?
ReplyDeleteI do have bookmarks for all of my books, but not trading cards. :)
And since you sound like a passionate gal (just like me!), I strongly suggest checking out my Excerpts tab below for a sample of both a romantic scene and a spiritual scene from each of my books, okay? I think it may just pump you all the more for "Passion with a Purpose" (my tagline)!!
Here's the link and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
JULIE'S EXCERPTS
Hugs,
Julie
TAMMY C.!!! Look good, yes, but you and both know you can't judge a book by its cover, so PLEASE CHECK OUT my Excerpts tab below for a sample of both a romantic scene and a spiritual scene from each of my books, okay? THEN ... you can judge for yourself whether they sound "good" too ... ;)
ReplyDeleteHere's the link and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
JULIE'S EXCERPTS
Hugs,
Julie
WANDA, I am SO thrilled that you plan to read my books, so if you do -- PLEASE begin with book 1 in the Daughters of Boston series, A Passion Most Pure as this is a series best read in order due to a number of HUGE surprises, okay? APMP won American Christian Fiction Writers Debut Book of the Year in 2009, so it's not a dog AND it has 141 5-star reviews on Amazon.
ReplyDeleteBut to give you an idea if you would like my books beyond the cover, I suggest checking out my Excerpts tab below for a sample of both a romantic scene and a spiritual scene from each of my books, okay?
Here's the link and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
JULIE'S EXCERPTS
Hugs,
Julie
SARA, YES!!! LOL ... now you can read three almost in a row, girl, so I hope you have fun!!
ReplyDeleteMarcy and Patrick's story is such a sweet and simple Christmas love story that truly espouses the deepest meaning of Christmas, so I hope it blesses you this season.
God bless and THANK YOU for your support and friendship!!
Hugs,
Julie
LOL, ANDI ... PREACH IT, GIRL!!! Gosh, sweetie, I thank God for the day that you and I crossed paths because you have been a TOTAL blessing in my life, Andi, make no mistake!!
ReplyDeleteI cannot WAIT to see what you think of ALS!!!
GOOD LUCK and THANK YOU for coming by, my friend.
Hugs,
Julie
Haven't read any yet, would love to read it.
ReplyDeleteREVIEWING SHELF ... Oh, girl, we have to remedy that FAST!! But to make sure you even WANT to read my books, I highly encourage you to read an excerpt or two on the "Excerpts" page of my website. I list my favorite romantic scene AND spiritual scene for each of my books, so that will give you a good idea of my style. My favorite romantic scene is from A Hope Undaunted, so if you only have time for one, scroll down till you get to that one, okay? Here's the link:
DeleteJULIE'S EXCERPTS
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
I would like to thank you for a fantastic giveaway! (that seems very popular). I have not read any of your novels as yet hence i would love to have the oportunity. Thank you x
ReplyDeleteMISS. LUCINDA FOUNTAIN... what an unusual and fascinating addy!!
DeleteAnd, trust me -- I would LOVE for you to "have the opportunity" as well, my friend, so I highly encourage you to read an excerpt or two on the "Excerpts" page of my website to make sure that you like my style, which is A LOT more passionate than most Christian romance today. On my Excerpts link, I list my favorite romantic scene AND spiritual scene for each of my books, so that will give you a good idea. My favorite romantic scene is from A Hope Undaunted, so if you only have time for one, scroll down till you get to that one, okay? Here's the link:
JULIE'S EXCERPTS
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
^I have never read an O'Conner book but would love to do so. I love historical romances. I sadly never heard of Julie Lessman before. I will start looking for her books now. I would love to win and review one. Thank you for the review. It sounds like these books are my favorite type of books.
ReplyDeleteI have read all of Beverly Lewis's.
LAWONDER ... Oh, girl, that IS sad!!! And we need to remedy that as soon as possible!! However, if you are primarily an Amish fiction reader, I do want to warn you that my books are VERY passionate, both romantically and spiritually, so you may want to make sure you read an excerpt before you consider reading any further. I highly encourage you to do so on the "Excerpts" page of my website where I list my favorite romantic scene AND spiritual scene for each of my books. That will give you a good idea of my style, okay? My favorite romantic scene is from A Hope Undaunted, so if you only have time for one, scroll down till you get to that one, okay? Here's the link:
DeleteJULIE'S EXCERPTS
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
I have not read any.... YET...lol....
ReplyDeleteronnkelly3@aol.com
LOL, RONNKELLY3 ... I like that "yet"!!
DeleteSince you seem rather prone to try one of my books, I encourage you to check out the Excerpts tab of my website to give you an idea of my writing style, okay? I have listed my favorite romantic scene AND spiritual scene for each of my books on that link (given below), so I would love for you to read one or two. My favorite romantic scene is from A Hope Undaunted, so if you only have time for one, scroll down till you get to that one, okay? Here's the link:
JULIE'S EXCERPTS
GOOD LUCK!!
Hugs,
Julie
I've only read the first series, but my favorite is Faith's story. :) Can't beat Connor coming to love her and her loving him for forever.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the opportunity to win another of Julie's great books! {And the interview! The diamond thing made me smile.}
biblioprincess15 (at) yahoo (dot) com
Hey, RACHELLE!!! It's great to see you here, my friend, and I'm glad the diamond story made you smile. That makes one of you -- my hubby was NOT happy!! Never did find that diamond in our old house where I lost it. And then for my kid's birthdays I would always number their presents and hide them because they loved to try and find them the morning of their birthday. But there's still one present for my daughter that I forgot where I hid it (and this was when I was YOUNG!!), so I'm guessing the new owners of our old house found both the diamond and the adorable jewelry I bought for my 8-year-old daughter!!
DeleteThanks for coming by AND for reading my books -- SOOO appreciate it, girl!!
Hus,
Julie
Great Giveaway!!! I haven't read any of Julie's books yet, but all of them look Great! If I am the Winner I'll choose the first of hers. Thanks!!!
ReplyDeleteABIGAIL!!! Look great, yes, but you and both know you can't judge a book by its cover, so PLEASE CHECK OUT my Excerpts tab below for a sample of both a romantic scene and a spiritual scene from each of my books, okay? THEN ... you can judge for yourself whether they sound "great" too ... ;)
DeleteHere's the link and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
JULIE'S EXCERPTS
Hugs,
Julie
Julie -
ReplyDeleteI just wanted to say THANK YOU for taking the time to reply to these comments - I know your time is limited and I appreciate you taking the time to respond to the comments. :)
Hey, MEL, it is my absolute pleasure to interact with your readers!! As I have already told you, I've done hundreds of interviews and NEVER have I encountered this many readers who have not only never read any of my books, but many who have never even heard of me before. Talk about a JACKPOT!! ;)
DeleteThank you again for hosting me on your blog, girl -- it's one of the best I have seen. :)
Hugs,
Julie
XD What an amazing opportunity!!
ReplyDeleteMy favourite of the series is A Passion most Pure. It spoke to me on so many levels, both spiritually and helped me with reference to my personal life. Every time I pick up one of Julie's books, I have to say I am not dissapointed!
Hoping to read Emma's story soon:)
havent read any yet
ReplyDeleteOh I just LOVE these books. I've read the first two of the Daughter's of Boston series, and I've read Hope Undaunted( that was my first one that got me hooked).
ReplyDeleteI just LOVE the O'Conner family, It will be so sad when I finish that last book. But I am definitely looking forward to the next series. I love the passion these books have, all the characters seem so real(flaws and all).Great books! Great interview! =)
I haven't read any of them either, but they sound wonderful! Hope I win one!
ReplyDeleterrgreene62(at)gmail(dot)com
I haven't read any books by Julie Lessman yet, but after reading a few excerpts I really want to (starting w/ A Passion Most Pure)!!!
ReplyDelete~Camille M.