Author Interview with Kathleen Maher

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.

How does your faith and spirituality work in with your writing?

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!