Hello Friends! Amber Schamel here, and today I am honored to introduce Christian Historical author Kathleen L. Maher. Kathleen's novella Bachelor Buttons released May 1 as part of a Civil War sesquicentennial collection by Helping Hands Press. She won the 2012 ACFW Genesis contest, and finaled in several others since 2009. Represented by Terry Burns of Hartline Literary Agency, Kathleen blogs about New York State history. She and her husband live in a 100-yearold farmhouse in upstate NY with their three children, two Newfoundland dogs and a tuxedo cat.
Welcome, Kathleen, what made you decide to become a writer?
Great
question. Aside from writing being cheaper than therapy. . .I have
always loved books. Peter Rabbit was my first best friend, and from
childhood I would form tight bonds with my favorite characters. As I
grew into my teens, I decided to create my own characters through which
to explore historical settings vicariously. It's always awesome when the
characters take over and write their own story. :)
Where did the inspiration for your latest book come from?
Bachelor
Buttons is written about an important Civil War event that happened in
my home state of New York. I was invited to participate in a series of
novellas commemorating the 150th anniversary of the year 1863, so rather
than write about Gettysburg or the death of Stonewall Jackson at
Chancellorsville, I chose the Irish Draft Riots. I based the characters
on my Irish ancestors who lived in Manhattan at the time. I actually
used their unique courtship story in the romance thread.
Sharing
the message of redemption and hope is central to why I write. The Lord
has brought me through many storms in my life, and I take to heart the
mandate to show the way through for others. My characters are usually
confronted with a situation or challenge too big for them to handle
alone, and must find faith in the One who will see them through.
What are you working on next?
Well,
I don't want to reveal too much, but I am very excited about this next
project. I will say this: my son was diagnosed with Aspergers seven
years ago, and since then I have been on a journey of discovery how
fearfully and wonderfully God has made us all. It has made me want to
live in the skin of someone who is noble, honest, pure, intelligent, but
sometimes unable to communicate in non-verbal ways, which is half of
our typical language. The misunderstandings can be heartbreaking, but
the successes bring on celebrations of astronomical proportions!
Thanks so much for visiting with us today, Kathy!
Thank
you, Amber, for having me on your blog. What a pleasure to share with
your readers about the work and ministry God has laid on my heart.
Wishing you and yours every blessing.
About Bachelor Buttons
The daughter of immigrants who fled the Irish Potato Famine, Rose Meehan longs for a better life than the tenements of New York City. Courted by two men--a young doctor who represents material security, and a poor violin instructor who has captured her heart--she must choose between a life of advantage-grabbing or a life of faith. When Manhattan explodes in mob rule following Lincoln's unpopular draft, the heroic action of one suitor brings provision for those she loves, and reveals God's plan.
Bachelor Buttons is available from Helping Hands Press on Amazon, Kobo, and Barnes and Noble. The paperback edition was just released on Amazon!
About Bachelor Buttons
The daughter of immigrants who fled the Irish Potato Famine, Rose Meehan longs for a better life than the tenements of New York City. Courted by two men--a young doctor who represents material security, and a poor violin instructor who has captured her heart--she must choose between a life of advantage-grabbing or a life of faith. When Manhattan explodes in mob rule following Lincoln's unpopular draft, the heroic action of one suitor brings provision for those she loves, and reveals God's plan.
Bachelor Buttons is available from Helping Hands Press on Amazon, Kobo, and Barnes and Noble. The paperback edition was just released on Amazon!
What a nice interview, Amber. Thank you for introducing Kathleen. Bachelor Buttons sounds very interesting. I am anxious to know which suitor wins the heart of Rose. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteIt is a fun and delightful read, Melanie. I think you will enjoy it as much as I did. :) Kathleen is such a sweetheart. I've enjoyed getting to know her.
DeleteThis sounds like an intriguing book. Great interview.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this wonderful interview, Amber! Kathleen sounds delightful and I look forward to reading BACHELOR BUTTONS!
ReplyDeleteAmber, thank you so much for having me on your lovely blog.
ReplyDeleteMelanie, thank you for coming by! Send me your email and I will send you an ebook copy of the story in your choice of kindle or nook.
my email is kathleenleemaher AT gmail DOT com
Davalyn and Britney, thank you, sweet ladies! I am blessed that you came by.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Kathy