Author Interview & Giveaway - Kim Vogel Sawyer - Part I

Not long ago, I discovered Kim Vogel Sawyer's historical novels. She takes on some unusual topics and timeframes. Without further delay, let's welcome our guest, Kim Vogel Sawyer to Christian Writer/Reader Connection.

1. Would you give us a thumbnail sketch of your writing journey? How long did it take to get "the call?"

Sometimes I hesitate to share my timeline because it can be discouraging to those who are trying to break into publishing. But the truth is I began writing seriously in 1981 and began submitting manuscripts in 1992. In 1995, I stopped submitting manuscripts because rejection was far too painful. In 2002, my dad insisted I try again, and I still refused, so he self-published one of my novels. Reader feedback gave me the courage to once again pursue traditional publication. In 2003, I signed with an agent, and in March of 2005, I signed my first contract; within the next six months I signed contracts for ten books between Bethany House and Barbour Publishing. So although the journey was long, when the door opened, God pretty much drop-kicked me into publishing.

2. I love it that you write about families, as well as the traditional romance. Your book, "Where Willows Grow," gave a realistic portrayal of the inner workings of a marriage. Where do you get inspiration for your novels?

I find inspiration everywhere--or maybe I should say, it finds me. *smile* Where Willows Grow sprang to life at a church bonfire, when I took a hayrack ride with several other members. The driver took us past an abandoned farmhouse. It was dusk, with lots of long shadows, and it seemed as though the characters stepped out of the shadows and into my imagination. By the end of the evening, Anna Mae had introduced herself and shared her deepest heartache: I love my husband, but he doesn't love my Lord.

As part of this interview, I'm giving away Kim's book, "Where Willows Grow." Below are the rules:

1. Comment on this post and leave your email address in the spam-busting format. No email address = No entry! If you comment on Part II of the interview next week, you'll get a second entry.

2. Mention you're a Follower or become a Follower and receive another entry.

3. Deadline: Saturday, July 10, 2010, at midnight. Winners will be notified via email and announced on the blog Sunday, July 11, 2010.

4. The drawing is void where prohibited. Only residents of the U.S. are eligible. Winners take total responsibility for their eligibility.

Disclaimer: No fees are required to enter this drawing. I purchased the book myself. Neither the author nor her publisher paid me anything to review this book.

Don't forget to stop by on Wednesday, July 7, 2010, for Part II of the interview.