Interview & Giveaway: Alicia Willis ~ Author of From the Dark to the Dawn: A Tale of Ancient Rome!

Welcome to Christian Bookshelf Reviews, Alicia!! Will you tell us a little about yourself? 
Hello! I am a Christian Historical-Fiction author. When not writing or doing endless historical research, I enjoy reading, playing volleyball, being a church pianist, and teaching music. One could say my life revolves around church, literature, and music!

What is your novel, From the Dark to the Dawn: A Tale of Ancient Rome, about? 
From the Dark to the Dawn is about a feisty Iceni captive who is sold as a slave to a young Roman patrician. Philip hates his life as a slave and especially hates his master, Marcus. It is not until Christianity enters the picture that Philip learns about the concept of forgiveness. But it is not easy to forgive someone as selfish and cruel as Marcus, especially in the midst of persecution. Nero is determined to crush Christianity - and so is Marcus. Is love enough to conquer hate? And will the light of the gospel ever surmount the darkness of Rome?


When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer? 
I don't know that I ever realized that I wanted to be one. I always knew that I was one! However, I first became serious about publishing my work at the age of fourteen.

What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk? 
I need my music and coffee in order to write!

Where do you like to write? 
I generally write in my bedroom, snuggled against my pillows and with my teacup schnauzer Licorice cuddled besides me.

What do you like to do when you're not writing? 
I enjoy card making, crocheting, volleyball, and basic photography. And, of course, I love being with my family, friends, and little doggie.

What is your favorite genre to read and why?
I love historical-fiction. I have a passion for fiction and nothing makes dates and facts come alive like an exciting story!

What is your least favorite genre to read?
Science fiction. Enough said. :)

Is there a place you'd like to visit, but haven’t yet? 
Only about a dozen! In particular, I would love to go to London, Paris, and Rome.

Do you have a favorite Bible verse? 
My life verse is Jude 1:22 - Of some have compassion, making a difference. I want to make a difference for my Lord, in whatever way He leads me.

Do you have a favorite song and/or movie? 
Goodness, asking about a favorite song is like choosing a favorite character! If I must choose, I would pick When Dreams Come True from the Joseph performance at Sight and Sound Theaters. My favorite movie is Amazing Grace about William Wilberforce and his heroic campaign to end slavery.

What is your favorite holiday? 
Thanksgiving! It is swiftly becoming an overlooked holiday in our culture, but the time of giving thanks will always be special to me.

What is your favorite season and why is it your fav?
Autumn is my favorite season. I love the cool weather, the beautiful leaves, the caramel mochiattos, sweaters and boots! Additionally, I am a fall baby. My birthday falls on Thanksgiving every couple of years.

Some this-or-that questions:

Snowstorms or Thunderstorms? Snowstorms
Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate. Are you kidding? :)
Tea or Coffee? Coffee
Call or Text? Call
Cats or Dogs? Dogs
Early-bird or Night-owl? Night-owl.
Introvert or Extrovert? Is it possible to be both?
Facebook or Twitter? Facebook
Mystery or Romance? Tough one. Probably romance.
Sneakers or Sandals? Sandals

Are you currently working on any new novels? If so, could you give us a hint? 
I don't mind giving a hint at all! My WIP is the third and final installment in The Comrades of Honor Series. I hope you are ready for the dashing knights, beautiful maidens, battles, squires, treachery, and intrigue Rising to the Challenge will offer!

Thank you so much for being here! Is there anything else you’d like to tell readers and where can we find you on the web?
Thank you for having me today! You can find me on Facebook, Goodreads, Google+, Pinterest, my personal blog, and my writing blog.

Enter for a chance to win an eBook copy of From the Dark to the Dawn: A Tale of Ancient Rome by Alicia A.Willis! Giveaway is open INT and ends 7/31.

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