11/17/2014

Get Lost With Julie Lessman!

WHO IS JULIE?






Julie Lessman, award-winning author of “The Daughters of Boston” and “Winds of Change” series, was named American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Debut Author of the Year and voted #1 Romance Author of the year in Family Fiction magazine’s 2012 and 2011 Readers Choice Awards. Julie has also garnered 17 RWA and other awards and made Booklist’s 2010 Top 10 Inspirational Fiction. Check out the video for her independently published book, A Light in the Window, which was an International Digital Awards winner, a 2013 Readers' Crown Award winner, and a 2013 Book Buyers Best Award winner.




THE BLURB
 From Ugly Duckling to Swimming with the Swans …
but is she over her head when it comes to love?

As a shy and pudgy child, Megan McClare has always been ridiculed by her classmates, but when she returns from her senior year in Paris, the wallflower has suddenly blossomed into a beauty. Hopeful of becoming a lawyer or doctor to help the disadvantaged women of the Barbary Coast, Megan accepts an internship at the District Attorney’s office only to discover she’ll be working with the boy who mocked her in school. She turns to her best friend Bram for support and advice, and Bram—fighting an unwelcome attraction to a friend he’s always perceived as a little sister—encourages Meg to forgive Devin and pursue a friendship. The friendship with Devin evolves into a serious romance, but when a sailboat accident tosses Bram and Meg into the seas of attraction, both her heart and her emotions capsize, threatening to change the course of love …

WHERE IS JULIE?
You can contact Julie (and read excerpts from her books) at www.julielessman.com, or through Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, or Pinterest, as well as sign up for her biannual newsletter. Be sure to check out Julie’s group blog, The Seekers, Writers Digest 2013 and 2014 “Best 101 Websites for Writers, and Julie’s own personal blog, Journal Jots, which was voted blog of the month in the Readers’ Choice poll of Book Fun Magazine. Finally, you can download a FREE eBOOK of Julie’s award-winning debut, A Passion Most Pure, at most online booksellers.
  

UP NEXT:

My next release is a Christmas novella called A Whisper of Hope, which is part of Christmas anthology called Hope for the Holidays Historical Collection, with stories of hope from award-winning authors (and fellow Seekerville blogger friends) Mary Connealy, Myra Johnson, and Ruth Logan Herne. There is also a Hope for the Holidays Contemporary Collection as well, featuring award-winning authors Audra Harders, Mary Connealy, Sandra Leesmith, Ruth Logan Herne, Tina Radcliffe, and Missy Tippens. Both collections are available in ebook only for $2.99 each.

Alexa: You’ve been called “The Kissing Queen” of Inspirational romance and have even written a writer’s handbook called Romance-ology 101: Writing Romantic Tension for the Inspirational and Sweet Markets. Can you explain your tagline, “Passion with a Purpose” to our readers?
 Julie: You bet! Those who have read my books know they are a tad more passionate than the majority of Inspirational romance, and I did that on purpose. You see, I’m the type of woman who loves a heated romance. You know—the heart-fluttering, pulse-pounding emotional tug-of-war between a man and a woman? It draws me, always has, from my early days when I first read Gone With the Wind at the age of twelve.

But for me and many women, heated romance is not enough. Without faith in the middle, it becomes more lust than love—heat that burns but doesn’t keep you warm for the long haul. I figure if I’m going to invest large chunks of time in reading books, I want more than the race of a pulse. I want to be encouraged, inspired, uplifted in addition to swooning over a heart-melting kiss. Kind of a double benefit, for instance, like organic health foods. Not only do organic foods satisfy one’s hunger, but they also nourish one’s health. So when I turn that last page?  I want to walk away with a WOW factor that goes well beyond a kiss, leaving a feel-good feeling for both body and soul.

Alexa: What’s the first book you remember reading?
Julie: Well, I don’t really remember the first book I ever read, but I DO remember the first one that impacted my life. From the moment Scarlett seared Rhett with a look on the winding staircase of Twelve Oaks, I was hooked, and my “romance-writing career” began! Gone With the Wind inspired me to begin my own novel at the age of 12, a 150-page, single-spaced manuscript that actually became the basis for my debut novel, A Passion Most Pure, some 40 years later.

In fact, I was so hooked on romance after reading GWTW, I actually dressed up as a nun in high school to see a free showing of GWTW for the local religious and clergy. One of my friends had a sister in the convent who loaned us novice habits and off we went! I sat there mesmerized, shoving free popcorn into my mouth as I watched the tug-o-war between Rhett and Scarlett. It was one of the most fun times of my teens … until we ran into the nuns from our high school. Whoops!

Alexa: What’s your favorite movie of all time?
Julie: Ha—big surprise! That would be Gone with the Wind, of course, followed closely by The Notebook, A Walk to Remember, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and My Fair Lady.

Alexa: What is something that not a lot of people know about you but you WISH more people COULD know?
Julie: Well, not only do few people know this about me, but most would not believe it either because in my books and online, I’m a bit of a clown with a CDQ (caffeinated drama queen) personality. But, yes, it’s true—I am a bona-fide hermit who seldom leaves my laptop/comfy chair to go out unless my husband drags me. I like to joke that I’m a recluse who has the misfortune of having an outgoing personality because I literally lose myself in my writing and my work, which my husband and daughter refer to as the “zombie zone.” If I had my way, I’d stay at home, grafted to the seat of my chair and write, write, write! Hate shopping of any kind, no longer do scads of lunches with friends like I used to, and NEVER talk on the phone if I can help it. So I guess I wish friends and reader friends understood this so they wouldn’t get their feelings hurt when they don’t hear from me because I reallllllly hate to hurt people’s feelings.

Alexa: What’s the best birthday (or any holiday) present you ever received?

Julie:  Without question, that would be the gift my artist husband gave me for Mother’s Day one year. He’d just built us a beautiful media room in our basement, a work of art really, because the man is incredibly creative and handy, and it had these multi-colored pillows on our leather sectional couch.  Would you believe he took a picture of one of those pillows and designed three different versions in the same colors, then superimposed them on canvas frames as a wall grouping? “It’s beautiful, babe,” I said, amazed once again at his mind-boggling creativity. “Look closer,” he said, and I squinted a bit, suddenly seeing our entire life before my eyes. Yes, you guessed it—this incredible man actually super-imposed pictures of each of us—me, my son, daughter, daughter-in-law and himself—over the multicolored canvases to create living artwork that captured US. WOW!! Let me tell you—I teared up on the spot and threw myself into his arms, giving him the biggest, most grateful kiss I could! What can I say—MasterCard has nothing on him—he’s “priceless.”

Alexa: What would you say is your most interesting quirk?
Julie: Mmm … not sure how “interesting” this is, but I have a number of writing quirks such as MUST HAVE a cup of hazelnut decaf with Half ‘n Half, a box of Kleenex (for the soggy scenes I write), a mirror handy for those facial expressions I’m trying to capture on paper, and … ta-da! … lip gloss! That would definitely qualify as one of my quirks—lipstick and lip gloss. I bet I apply one or the other 20 times a day because I wear it everywhere, even to bed! :)

My biggest quirk, however, is I’m kind of freak about ambiance. I have to have candles lit when I watch TV or eat dinner or visit with friends, and the lighting has to be turned down real low, which drives my husband crazy because he likes to actually see his food!

Alexa: What will always make you smile, even on a bad day?
Julie: This sounds silly, I know, but my hubby has this adorable habit of fixing one of the ten different Keurig K-cup flavors we have in our Keurig carousel, and he’ll very carefully bring his cup to me to test taste, making me guess which flavor it is. He always has this sweet look on his face, like this is the most important thing for him at the moment, and I can’t help it—it always makes me smile. Not to mention crave a cup of coffee!
Alexa: How often to you get lost in a story?
Julie: Oh, goodness, every chance I get, to the tune of 6-8 books a month. I carry a book in my purse at ALL TIMES, plus keep one in the powder room during the day and then on my nightstand at night. I read in the car while my husband drives, after I’ve given him his token 20 minutes of conversation, of course! ;), in store checkout lines, at railroad crossings while I’m waiting for a train, in doctor’s offices, and even when my husband leaves the table for anything when we are dining out. I never miss an opportunity to read if I can help it, because for me, “getting lost in a story” is not only how I relax, it’s one of my favorite things to do!
Alexa: Finally, do you have a question you’d like to ask your fans?
Julie: If you are an inspy reader, how many kisses do you like to see in a book?

Folks, Julie will choose 1 commenter to receive a copy of one of her books. (US: either paper or ebook, international: ebook only) . Thanks for stopping by!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Note: Please leave an email address for notification. Offer void where prohibited. Prizes will be mailed to North America addresses only unless specifically mentioned in the post. Odds of winning vary due to the number of entrants. Winners of drawings are responsible for checking this site in a timely manner. If prizes are not claimed in a timely manner, the author may not have a prize available. Get Lost In A Story cannot be responsible for an author's failure to mail the listed prize. GLIAS does not automatically pass email addresses to guest authors unless the commenter publicly posts their email address.

146 comments:

  1. Depends. If the couple have been unable to admit their love, holding that kiss off until the very end can be very satisfying.

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    1. Hey, LYNNE, I suppose you're right, but as a CDQ (caffeinated drama queen who LOVES the kiss part of a novel), I'm more inclined toward kisses peppered all the way through like I did with A Passion Most Pure. The problem for me is that APMP was the ONLY book of mine that leant itself to multiple kisses throughout because Collin was a bad boy who just took. For most of my plots, I cannot justify multiple kisses, ESPECIALLY in my last two books AND my current work in progress, Isle of Hope. And as much as I love kisses, that's one thing I won't do -- force kisses to work in a plot that does not call for them.

      Thanks for coming by and GOOD LUCK in the contest! :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  2. Hi Julie!
    Love your books.
    As to your question about kisses in books, I don't like to see a lot of kissing in books. Maybe one or two special kisses.
    blessings, Tina

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    1. Hey, TINA, thank you SO much for reading my books!!

      And I think that's the general trend for the inspy market -- not an overabundance of kisses, which is what makes Inspy romance so very unique. That's why I wrote a writer's handbook on how to ramp up the romantic tension in sweet and inspy books because without a lot of kisses, it's not easy to do, at least for this "kissing queen"!!

      Ironically, most of my readers tell me that A Passion Most Pure is their favorite of all my books, and it has more kisses in it than ALL of my other books put together practically!! :)

      Thanks for coming by and here's to a win!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  3. Love to see one special kiss at the end! Love Julie's books!

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    1. WOW, ACROUCH ... I'm learning A LOT from this question because all of the comments so far are saying less kisses are preferred, yet they like my books, which generally have more kisses than the average book in the Inspy market. Mmmm ... very interesting! :)

      Appreciate you coming by to leave a comment and here's hoping I get to send you a signed book, girlfriend!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  4. Julie, I like to see lots of kisses. Kissing is a natural part of being a human. God gave us these feelings for a reason, but restraint is also necessary.
    eppersonmatrina(at)yahoo(dot)com

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    1. KATRINA!!! Finally ... a girl after my own heart!! Yes, I'm inclined to "lots of kisses" when I can fit it into the plot because the truth is, I fell in love with romance at the age of 12 after Gone With the Wind, so romantic passion is something I crave in my books. BUT ... it HAS to be intertwined with spiritual passion in order to win my heart, so my books are a bit of a catch 22 -- I don't really fit in the Inspy market because of the high level of romantic passion in my books, but I don't fit in the secular market either because of the level of spiritual passion. WHICH is why readers like you mean SO very much to me, my friend, so THANK YOU for your support!

      Appreciate you coming by and fingers crossed for a win!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  5. I love your novels, kisses or not! Great post

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    1. LOL, MARIANNE ... BLESS YOU, girlfriend!! You're my type of reader friend who can go either way -- lots of kisses or few!! Cannot express just HOW MUCH I appreciate you, my friend! Read on, you sweet thing!!

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  6. I so enjoy your books and I love a romantic kiss that seals the love! <3 lovely post :)

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    1. Thanks SO much, MS. KATHLEEN, not only for your sweet comment, but for reading my books in the first place! Here's hoping Randomizer pulls your name from the hat!

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  7. Julie! Loved the interview! Alexa, thank you for hosting Julie on your blog today. She's one of my VERY favorite authors and a sweet lady to boot. I love her books and ALWAYS look forward to the next one coming out. No need to enter me in the drawing. I'm just here to say 'hello' and to support my friend, Julie! :)

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    1. ANG!!! Thanks SOOO much for popping by, my sweet friend, and we both already know that YOU are one of my VERY favorite reader friends too!! You are ALWAYS such a blessing, girl, and I am so very grateful God has allowed our paths to cross!

      Hugs and more hugs,
      Julie

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  8. Hi Julie *waving hysterically!* I always love reading an interview with you!! Love the Keurig coffee story! I dislike coffee, but love getting the different flavors for my husband. Then I have to question him on everything about it. Why did he like it, why not, etc. Like whether he likes it or not would make me drink it *shakes head no* Love the wall art! As far as how many kisses in a book is "just the right amount" a good answer? I mean seriously you don't want too many because then it just becomes a sloppy mess, but you don't want too few because then you would wonder if the characters even liked each other. Anyway, as always it is fun to see you interviewed.

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    1. JULES!!! LOVE the comment: "I mean seriously you don't want too many because then it just becomes a sloppy mess, but you don't want too few because then you would wonder if the characters even liked each other."

      LOL ... "sloppy mess," eh? Yeah, I have read a few books like that in my lifetime ... ;) That is sooooo cute about you questioning hubby on the Keurig flavors!! You know, I've said it before, but I'll say it again -- it's downright freaky how similar we are at times. Only I THRIVE on drama and angst and YOU shake in your boots over it. ;)

      Thanks for coming by, my good friend -- always fun to see you too!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  9. Julie, I LOVE your books. Kissing is important in any romantic relationship, but I enjoy watching characters that have the urge to kiss but they restrain from doing that. Makes the tension better! Thank you!
    kbridgewater81@gmail.com

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    1. Hey, KELLY ... yeah, I will agree that building the tension through the urge to kiss is a good way to go, but as a former reader of secular romance (before God tapped me on the shoulder to write my own in the Inspy market), I'm used to WAY more kisses in a book, so I have a hard waiting for that first kiss. Sigh. I think I was stunted at the age of 12 after reading GWTW!! :)

      Hugs and thanks for coming by! GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  10. It has been so very long since I've done this that I feel like I've had to promise my first born to make a comment...lol! But Julie Lessman is well worth the effort. She was the very first author that I read in this genre...I am hooked!!! Thank you for your wonderful stories, Julie!

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    1. DOROTHY!!! WOW, my friend, you just brought tears to my eyes!! I am SO blessed that you took the time to come by and leave a comment AND that you even read my books in the first place. To know that I was the first author who hooked you on the Inspy genre is the icing on the cake, absolutely blessing the socks off of me, and I'm not even wearing any!! :)

      Thanks again, my sweet friend, and here's hoping I can send you a signed book!

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  11. Julie, you know I love your books! I didn't know until this interview just how alike we really are... recluse with an outgoing personality! I couldn't have said it better myself (which is why I'm not an author of amazing inspy romance!!)! I love the passion, love the kisses... and, I'd say kisses all the time, but the real passionate ones, maybe just four or five a book. lol! Thank you for the interview, the giveaway and the chance to win!
    Blessings!
    Kelly Y
    kelly *at* dkcountryarts *dot* com

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    1. LOL, KELLY ... YES, I do know you "love my books," so it doesn't surprise me IN THE LEAST that you and I are so much alike! In fact, reading your comment here gives me goose bumps because it's like we are twins separated at birth, give or take 40-50 years or so ... ;)

      Cannot tell you, my friend, just HOW MUCH your support means to me. YOU and women like you are one of the biggest reasons I continue to write, so THANK YOU for your incredible encouragement and support!

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  12. Well I visited this site only due to Julie and her post on facebook. :) I love Julie's books and I can't wait to read her latest book! I like for there to be several kisses, but I'm good with however the story goes and the author feels compelled to do. I enjoyed this interview. I also try to read everywhere, but now that I have 3 kids to tote around, its not much of an option any more. :)

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    1. oh yeah, email is
      biancarachele(at)gmail(dot)com

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    2. Hey, BIANCA, thank you SOOOO much for taking the time out of your busy day (with three kids, to boot!!) to come support me today -- you are a true blessing, my friend, and I sure hope I can send you a signed book, so here's to a win!!

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  13. JULIE!!! Hey girl! Great to learn even more about you! How adorable is that? Your hubby having you guess the flavor! I could just see him doing that. ;o) How many kisses? Oh my well I certainly want more than one. I like to see them kiss early on or in the middle and then have that memory and desire to do it again!

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    1. DEBBIE!!! I always smile when I see your name in the comments, my friend, so THANK YOU for coming by!!

      And, oooooooo, a kiss early on and then have the memory to haunt and provoke desire -- that sounds SO good!! You can tell you're a romance writer, girlfriend! :)

      Love you!!
      Julie

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  14. In my opinion there can NEVER be too many kisses in a book. That's what I LOVE about your books and the way you write kissing scenes. For one, you don't limit them to the lips only (i.e. cheeks, neck, throat, shoulders, etc.). Two, you let us in the participant's heads during the kiss. It makes me more invested in the characters since their thoughts and reactions reveal their true feelings. And three...you describe the kiss THOROUGHLY :-) In a lot of books, the author will just write 'they kissed' and that's it. As though it was nothing more than any other action (i.e. driving a car, leaving a building, etc.) Kissing creates a dramatic reaction and you do a fantastic job of letting your readers be part of the reaction. So I say, bring on the lipstick/lip gloss and pucker up buttercup!! The more kisses.....the merrier I am!

    amy.messer@ingramcontent.com

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    1. LOL, AMY ... I'm thinkin' we're two peas in a pod, darlin' (especially with your mention of lipstick/lip gloss!!) and you have NO IDEA how good that makes me feel. Sometimes I get feeling pretty lonely in the Inspy market where too many kisses can often be taboo.

      Thanks SO much for your support, Amy, and I sure hope I get to send you a signed book, my friend. :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  15. I love Julie Lessman's books! I also always have a book going and have read snippets of a book while waiting at traffic lights. When I was in college, I used to walk across Gordon College's campus while I was reading a book at the same time. I got quite good at it actually! Ha ha
    courtpitts@juno.com

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    1. LOL, COURT ... sounds like we have a lot in common, my friend, and may even be a little book obsessive, which is my cup of hazelnut coffee, trust me! ;) The only difference between us that I can see is that I have NEVER gotten good at reading a book while walking -- no coordination!! ;)

      Thanks for coming by and GOOD LUCK in the contest, sweetie.

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  16. Love your books. I love kisses I don't think there can be to many kisses.!!! Loved the blog!
    Blessings
    Diana
    joeym11@frontier.com

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    1. DIANA, YES!!! I agree, but we are definitely in the minority in the Inspy market, I'm afraid, but that's okay, because the opportunity to write for God is SO good, it satisfies with few kisses or many. :)

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  17. LOVE all of Julie ' s books! Such an amazing lady with a gifted heart! Hugs!

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    1. ASH!!! Aw, thanks for taking time to come by, you sweet thing -- miss you!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  18. Needless to say I love reading your books. I guess I like to see the kisses held to somewhere near the end...I like for the give and take in the relationship to build up to the climax of the kiss. What does that say about me? Julie your writing style is great, I really enjoy reading your books. Thank you for keeping us so entertained.

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    1. SUSAN!!! Gosh, how fun to see you here today, my friend -- THANK YOU!! What does that say about you??? Simply that you have your finger on the pulse of the Inspy market, my friend, which is a VERY good thing in the biz you're in! ;)

      Hugs and more hugs,
      Julie

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  19. I think kisses sprinkled through out the book are fine. None right at the very beginning though. Let them warm up to each other first. Oh goodness I read in the car while my husband drives as well. I can multitask so when he is talking I can talk to him and read at the same time. I take books with me to appointments and have my book in the kitchen as I cook dinner so I can read as I stir and wait for dinner to cook.

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    1. LOL, DEANNE ... you've got me beat, girl, with the book in the kitchen, although I have read mine while waiting for coffee to brew or the microwave to run ... ;) I do remember one reader friend saying she burned the spaghetti sauce she was fixing for dinner because she forgot to stir while reading my book ... ;)

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  20. Thanks for hosting Julie on your blog! I love Julie and her books because I love a good romance, especially as the days turn colder. It's wonderful to snuggle in with a good book! danandlyndaedwards (at) msn (dot) com.

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    1. Hey, LYNDA, thanks for coming by AND for reading my books!!

      And, OH WOW, there is NOTHING like a cup of something hot while reading a romance when it's cold or rainy outside. And throw a remote-controlled gas fireplace in like I have?? EVEN BETTER!!

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  21. Kisses are nice of course but not the yardstick of a wonderful romance. I've read amazingly beautiful romances (historical because that's my fav genre) that had hardly any explicit physical intimacy but where the most profound & tender love stories that had me sobbing at the end (Carla Kelly is one of my favs)

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    1. Agreed, LINDA, "kisses are not yardstick of a wonderful romance." Especially in the Inspy market where there are so many touching stories with minimal romantic passion in them. In fact, in my opinion, it actually takes MORE talent to create a passionate romance without kisses than with.

      BUT for those of us readers who hail from the secular market (like me for many years) where romantic passion is explored in every possible way, going from lots of passion to way less and sometimes almost none is a little tough. Especially for a passionate gal like me whose romance-author aspirations were spoon-fed by Gone With the Wind at the age of 12. When I felt compelled to switch my reading from secular to Inspy way back when, I was a wee bit shocked to find very little romantic passion in the Inspy romance genre, which is why I decided to write my own for those women like me who like a toe-tingling romance novel with God in the middle. :)

      Thanks SO much for coming by AND for your comment -- appreciate both very much.

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  22. I like kisses to be special--maybe a surprise kiss on the forehead...& of course, one or two "just about to happen" & then interrupted kisses! Save the kisses for a special part of the book-almost at the end!

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    1. Hey, BARB D, your thoughts are right in line with the Inspy romance genre, so you should feel good about that, girl. And maybe I should consider switching to secular ... ;) (Just kidding).

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  23. Great interview! Thanks for hosting such a fine Christian writer.

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    1. BLESS YOU, MARY, for coming by to show your support -- you ROCK!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  24. Thank you for this delightful interview, Julie and Alexa!! Always love it when Julie "bares" her soul, LOL!!

    Such a sweet story about sampling your hubby's coffee and guessing the flavor, Julie - he's such a sweetheart and a "keeper" for sure, his artistic talent is amazing. I'm so glad you have the wonderful hubby that you do - as that relationship transfers to your writing, the romance/inspirational balance of your "Passion with a Purpose" in each of your books is what draws me to your books and makes you one of my very fave authors!! (Would love to be a "fly on the wall" watching you rehearse those facial expressions for your book scenes, LOL!!)

    I understand completely about the ambiance factor and have been known to leave people eating in the dark - myself, LOL. I envy your ability to read books in the check-out line, it's upsetting to me if I'm interrupted after such a short time reading. Re: number of kisses I like to see in a book, it depends on the story line and the author - as mentioned above, your books always have the perfect blend for me and satisfy my "romance fix" with some hot romance scenes and amazing kisses - without insulting my morality and integrity with lust!!

    As with you - I don't read for enjoyment only, I WANT to be inspired, encouraged and uplifted. Every one of your books has done that for me - as have you, personally!! Thank you - love you, love your books - Julie!!

    Shared post!!

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    1. Hey, BONNIE, yeah, I'm pretty lucky I can read a book in the car or anywhere because not everybody can. :)

      LOL ... didn't realize you were an ambiance queen, too, my friend, but I should have -- you have SUCH good taste and attention to detail!!

      Thanks for coming by, my sweet friend!

      Love you!
      Julie

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  25. I definitely like to see them spread throughout a story, and I especially love it when the characters try to fight their attraction for each other but they just can't. Collin and Faith in A Passion Most Pure come immediately to mind. Perfectly executed! One of my all-time favorites. Books that only include one brief, emotionless kiss at the end make me feel cheated, when I know there were so many other scenes where some pulse-raising moments could have been included, but were glossed over. I am left sitting there thinking, "That's it? Really?" I hate that! LOL
    maryandersen.author@gmail.com

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    1. LOL, MARY, you said: "Books that only include one brief, emotionless kiss at the end make me feel cheated, when I know there were so many other scenes where some pulse-raising moments could have been included, but were glossed over. I am left sitting there thinking, "That's it? Really?" I hate that! LOL"

      Oh, move over, sweetie -- I'm right there with you on that!! In fact, as much as I loved the most recent movie edition of Pride & Prejudice with Keira Knightly (and I did -- have watched it no less than 10 times), I realllllllly felt cheated with only a kiss at the end that is all of a half second long. Sigh.

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  26. I like kisses! I want it to fit the story and not feel rushed. I enjoyed reading your interview.

    jandmterry@yahoo.com

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    1. Hey, MISSY TERRY, I'm with you, girlfriend -- I like kisses, too, and slow and easy is perfect. After all, one does not want to rush a good thing. :)

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  27. Hi Julie,

    I think that kiss that FINALLY comes when they've ALMOST kissed several times but been interrupted (I've been watching too many Hallmark movies) has the most meaning. And to be honest, I think holding hands for the first time can be almost as touching to the reader. How old-fashioned am I, anyway?
    But something like the very first time a guy puts his arm around your shoulder can be so powerful. Anyway, I'm looking forward to reading the anthology and more of your work--and I share them w/my 88 year-old mother-in-law, who passes a lot of time reading. I wonder how many authors consider marketing to the greatest generation gang that's still around!?

    Thanks, Gail

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    1. Hey, GAIL, believe it or not, my hubby and I are Hallmark movie freaks, so I know what you mean, although I do like a wee bit more going on than holding hands. ;) But it's true -- that first little spark of attraction, whether shown through holding a hand or a certain look -- can be VERY romantic.

      Thanks for sharing my books with your sweet MIL, my friend, and give her a hug a for me, okay?

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  28. With the exception of the new Christmas collection, I've every book Julie's written. I would love to know the ones I write are as well written, well received as Julie's. She's got characters who could be anyone we could have known in real-life back in the day. . .deeply conflicted, emotionally and spiritually growing through their situations/circumstances. . .and those sigh-worthy endings are amazing. THANK YOU FOR GOOD READING, JULIE! I look forward to the next one. . .ALWAYS!

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    1. JOY!!! Hey, girl, thanks for coming by and for your sweet comment!! Hope things are going well with you and hope you like Mitch and Charity's novella in Hope for the Holidays Historical Collection! :)

      Hugs and more hugs,
      Julie

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  29. I love your books, Julie! We have a lot in common, except I don't write! I am just a reading fanatic! Inspirational romance is my favorite because it gives readers a wonderful picture of how God intended love to be--pure & lasting. I enjoy kissing scenes (& you write them so very well), & they should appear in a book where it seems natural to do so. I've read some books where I thought a kiss should be, but the author held it for later. But it keeps me reading on!!

    I enjoyed reading this interview--love getting to know my favorite authors a little better.

    kcrhoades@roadrunner.com

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  30. Hi Julie, love all your books - I think you always have the right amount of kisses in them..heartfelt kisses are the best. =) truckredford(at)Gmail(Dot)com

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    1. Aw, thank you SO much, ELIZA for that vote of confidence on the kisses, and I totally agree -- heartfelt kisses are the best! :)

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  31. Welcome to GLIAS, Julie and look at all the wonderful books you've written. Congratulations.

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    1. Hey, VICKI ... it's a TOTAL pleasure to be here, and I can't thank you ladies enough for your incredible hospitality!

      GREAT BLOG, ladies, and I will be back!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  32. I love your books. About the kisses, I guess it depends on the couple. If they are in love and being pulled apart, those stolen moments make the book. If it is a falling in love, still a few sprinkled in :) I love those scenes so as many as fits and doesn't become 'trashy' (and your books always have the perfect amount). ashleywintters@gmail.com

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Thanks, ASH, for your sweet comment and for coming by today too -- MUCH appreciated!!

      Here's hoping it nets you a win, so GOOD LUCK!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  33. Welcome to GLIAS, Julie. Best of luck with your series !

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    1. Thanks, ANGI ... SO appreciate the incredible hospitality of the GLIAS ladies and the good wishes!!

      Hugs,
      julie

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  34. Great interview! I love learning new things about one of my favorite authors. And great question. I haven't thought too much about number of kisses. I'm usually analyzing characters or just enjoying the ride. But after thinking, I don't think I mind how many kisses there are as long as it seems natural and there is attraction or more importantly love. If they just kiss when they first meet, I don't find it easily relatable because I wouldn't kiss a man I just met. That being said I don't ever think I've thought, "oh they shouldn't be kissing," while reading your books, Julie. :)
    As for those who haven't read Julie's books, I would highly recommend any of her books. Her characters are fully developed and relatable. Her plotlines are engaging and addicting. And her romances are swoonworthy. I have always finished every one of her books with a smile on my face and a content sigh.
    And thanks for the giveaway opportunity, Julie!

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    1. Aw, MARISA, your sweet comment brought a HUGE smile to my face, girl, so THANK YOU!! I appreciate it AND you reading my books in the first place. Fingers crossed for a win, my friend!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  35. Julie I love your books! And regarding kissing in books; in Christian fiction I think a couple here and there are fine, as long as it is not the focus. I prefer one at a key moment and feel the romantic tension is more enjoyable the fewer there are. :) Jen Lunde - jenalunde at yahoo.com

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    1. Hey, JEN, thank you SO much for your sweet comment, and excellent point, my friend -- I agree kisses should not be the "focus" of a good love story or else it just comes off shallow.

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  36. What a fun and lovely interview!! I loved reading it! About your question, Julie, I always love it when there are sweet kisses in the books I read, but what matters is the author's talent at describing them. Sometimes one kiss depicted in a wonderful way makes the whole book worth reading! :)

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    1. Oh, MARIA, do you sound like my kind of reader friend or what??? "Describing kisses" happens to be my forte, so I hope you consider downloading FOR FREE my book, A Passion Most Pure, to see what I mean. And I totally agree with you -- "sometimes one kiss depicted in a wonderful way makes the whole book worth reading! "

      Here's the link to APMP, and if you read it and like it, let me know, okay? And if not? Uh ... well ... never mind ... ;)

      Here's the link and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

      A PASSION MOST PURE BY JULIE LESSMAN

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  37. Ahhhh! I can't wait to read Surprised by Love!! It sounds so good!

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    1. Thanks, LAURIE, I can't wait for you to read it either!! ;)

      And if you like it and post a review, be sure to let me know because I will have a surprise for you. :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  38. Loved this interview Julie! I literally laughed out loud at your nun story! As for kisses, I guess it all depends on the book and the way it's written. If the couple is kissing in every scene that is just ridiculous and I think they have more impact if they are more sporadic. A kiss won't have the swoon factor if it's happening all the time!

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    1. ABS!!! Once again we are in solid agreement, my friend, which kind of makes me wish you lived close enough to have coffee so we could commiserate on/discuss all kinds of wonderful subjects since we think so much alike!!

      Thanks for coming by, my friend, and please know what a blessing you are to me!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  39. Kisses should occur naturally in the course of the story, but not too early in the book. Quantity varies according to the plot, but intensity and description should be greater near the end of the book. I too look forward to Surprised by Love -- it sounds awesome.
    kayewhitney@bellsouth.net

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    1. Hey, KAYE, thank you for your excellent opinion, my friend, and I hope you enjoy SBL if/when you read it. Who knows? Maybe you will win it here ... :)

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      JULIE

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  40. I love Julie's books....lots of kisses or less.....she is a great author! Can't wait to read her latest!!
    jacsmi75 at gmail dot com

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    1. Hey, JACKIE, you are about due, my friend, so here's to a win, you sweet thing!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  41. It all depends on the characters in the story. More or less depending on the character and their background.

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    1. Great answer, CHERYL, and I totally concur!!

      Here's hoping it nets you a win, so GOOD LUCK!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  42. First I have to say Julie is my all time favorite author! I just last week bought the
    Christmas series "Hope for the Holidays" so I could read Julie's continued story of my favorite fiction family of all time. I decided it really should be made into a tv series. I have all her books so I don't need to win the contest. I just wanted to encourage anyone who has not read any of her books to do so! Passion, interesting characters, strong story lines, passion, passion, and more passion but in good taste that is not R rated. In fact, it's all about love in the most intriguing way!

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    1. Okay, LINDA, where do I send the check?? Truly, my friend, I think your comment may just have alleviated a tension headache that was just starting to ache in my head, so THANK YOU!! You must made my day!! And I'm with you -- I would LOVE to see either the O'Connors or McClares in a series, but I'm not holding my breath because blue has never been my color. ;)

      Seriously, Linda, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your VERY kind and sweet comment. It definitely put a smile on my face BIG TIME!!

      I hope you like Hope for the Holidays and if you, let me know if you post a review so I can enter you in my contest, okay? I just finished Mary Connealy's novella in that same collection and loved it, so I hope you like them all too.

      Hugs and more hugs!
      Julie

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  43. Hi Julie,

    Nice post! I think you have just the right number of kisses in your books. I like the hubs sharing a sip of coffee for flavor testing. . CUTE! Have a great day. One of your Missouri fans!

    Mary

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    1. Aw, MARY, THANK YOU!! And my Missouri reader friends are especially "near" and dear to my heart, so BLESS YOU, you sweet thing and GOOD LUCK in the contest!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  44. I suppose that it depends on the characters themselves and the story development. As much as my Mom & I enjoy watching Hallmark movies, they are usually so predictable and end with everything working out with the last five minutes of the film. She has no problem watching them all of the time, but I have always had a flair for mystery & drama and enjoy being surprised. I love how your evocative stories flow with such emotional depth, heart-stirring romance, and enduring faith. I used to think that I preferred reading shorter books, but, I've found it's not so. I guess anything under 3-400 pages leaves me in shock because I wasn't ready for it to end yet. I too love My Fair Lady and shopping has just never been my thing. Mention of my name is synonymous with all things books & music and I carry them everywhere I go. Thank you so much for sharing with us, Julie!! ~ Juli emeraldelena@hotmail.com

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    1. JULIANNA!!! SO nice to see you here, girl, and I totally agree with you about those Hallmark films. Although my hubby and I watch them ALL the time (mostly because we know they're safe even if they're not always interesting), but we get SO frustrated with the plots. My husband always looks at me when a super predictable situation happens and says, "Gosh, I never saw THAT coming ..." We laugh a lot at the similar themes (workaholic boyfriends who don't really understand the heroine, widow/widowers with kids, the return home for Christmas and meeting a new love interest on the way home, etc.). Nine out of ten are pretty predictable, but there are those one or two gems that convince us to keep coming back because the truth is, panning gold is never easy ... :)

      Oh, YES, isn't My Fair Lady the BEST??? LOVE Henry Higgens and Colonel Pickering, and of course Audrey Hepburn just shines. ;)

      Thanks again for coming by, Julianna -- you are a blessing, my friend!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  45. It depends on the characters for me. But I don't like it to be overly mushy!

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    1. Hey, TONJA, I agree, especially about "mushy," which I interpret as predictable and always eliciting a bit of an eye roll because it's a little unbelievable, such as in the Hallmark movies I mentioned in the comment above.

      Thanks for coming by and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  46. I won't give up till I win your book!

    missionwife@hotmail.com

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    1. LOL, MEL ... good girl!! And GOOD LUCK!!

      HUGS,
      Julie

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  47. There's a time and a place where it's appropriate all else is overkill. Most insp authors know where those places are.

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    1. Yes, they do, GAIL, and that's one of the things I admire about Inspy fiction, although I truly appreciate those Inspy authors who are more generous with their romantic tension. :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  48. are you kidding? I love kissing scenes, better than sex scenes, more sexier. hope this one comes thru, or there will be several!!!!

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    1. LOL, VIRGINIA ... I'm with you, girlfriend!! For we Inspy types, there's more depth in romance than there is in sex. I guess we are more the "fade to black" type of readers like in the old Hollywood movies. Lots of depth of heart and soul that leads to the slow fade-to-black love scenes that elicit more sighs than moans.

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  49. Name is Jennifer Davis since I have to post anonymously. Email is moseylion@aol.com in case needed. I love love love Julie's books! I have everything she wrote but 3. They are on my wish list and will probably get them either from (hopefully) this contest or another I entered or around Christmas. Kissing scenes are ok in my book.

    ReplyDelete
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    1. LOL, JENN ... I sure admire your tenacity, my sweet friend. You go, girl!! If anyone deserves to win, you sure are on the list, so fingers crossed ... :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  50. I like a minimum of three kisses in an inspirational romance. Thanks for sharing this wonderful interview!

    colorvibrant at gmail dot com

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    1. LOL, HEIDI ... I do believe you win the prize for the most specific answer today! ;) Only three, huh? Well, A Passion Most Pure sure fails that test, although my San Fran books fills the bill nicely. ;)

      Thanks for coming by, sweetie -- I always smile when I see your sweet face. :)

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  51. That was interesting to read :) Thanks for posting this giveaway.

    The kiss depends on the characters. Also, I don't like to see kissing in every scene in a book haha. I like to read some of the storyline with a few kisses along the way :)

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    1. I can't wait to read 'Surprised by Love'! :) I have been awaiting its release since 'Dare to Love Again' haha. My email is starlight059@gmail.com

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    2. I'm with you, STARLIGHT ... it's never good to have too much of a good thing, even kisses!!

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK in the contest!

      Julie

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  52. I've never really thought about it that much, except when the author seems to be adding kisses at awkward times. I like it to flow naturally, as it would in real life. If the couple is getting serious about each other, I think kisses come naturally. On the other hand, I am happy with only 2 or 3, if that's what the story calls for.
    may_dayzee (AT) yahoo (DOT) com

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    1. Hey, KAY ... well put, my friend! Kisses for kisses sake are never a good idea because the reader will feel it, I think. But build up to the kiss with LOTS of romantic tension?? Oh, yes!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  53. Lots of kisses! Love your books!

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    1. rrtroyer@gmail.com

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    2. LOL, RUBY, THANK YOU!!! So you like lots of kisses, eh? No wonder you like my books!! ;)

      Thanks for coming by and GOOD LUCK!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  54. Julie, your heart is as evident and great as your booklist! Such a fun interview! Re. kisses--I love those tentative kisses and "almost kisses"--where a character gets interrupted or their attention diverted--leading up to a really great kiss at the end once the relationship is sealed. Nobody writes those love scenes like you!

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    1. CATH!!!! Gosh, it's soooooo good to see you here, my friend -- how the heck are you?? You're about due for a Seekerville visit, aren't you? ;)

      Thanks SOOO much for taking the time to come by -- your visit reallllly makes me smile. :)

      Hugs!!
      Julie

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    2. I'm great--and a grandma!!! So much has changed in my home and writing life in the last couple of years. We're in VA now and loving the new direction God is taking us--even though we're not sure where it's going!!! I'd love to revisit Seekerville! Was just in Nashville for a wonderful writing retreat and am feeling totally uplifted and blessed--God is amazing, isn't He??? Take great care of yourself and blessings for this special time of Thanksgiving!!!

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  55. Oh I just LOVE you, Julie! I'm a huge fan of the classics and historical fiction; Jane Eyre, East of Eden, books by Jean Plaidy...I've never really been into romance literature but in your books you so cleverly combine romance with realistic historical situations. I usually think I know how it's going to end but there are so many unbelievably crazy (yet realistic) twists and turns that I never know how you're going to get to that conclusion. I can't put your books down! There's always something interesting or tense going on. I think 'A Light In the Window' tops my list of all-time favorite reads (yes, ahead of Jane Eyre).

    In terms of kissing I live vicariously through your characters...I've never been kissed. I like a moderate amount of kisses when there's tension and uncertainty in them. I like a lot of kisses (passionate and little pecks), and shows of affection in spades from couples who have a strong relationship with each other and God because it shows that true love, true passion can last if you put God in the centre.

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    1. HOLY COW, MEGS ... "ahead of Jane Eyre"???? WOW, I think you may have just topped my day, girlfriend, but then you do that a lot. :)

      I totally agree about more passionate kisses between married couples or those with a deep relationship between each other and God, so great points, my friend. :)

      I sooooo appreciate you taking the time to come by, Megs -- BLESS YOU!!!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  56. Loved this interview. Loved your new novel and all of your novels. Loved your newest novella and your other and am sure I'll love the one in the Spring! Just love Julie Lessman! Thanks for sharing your interview over here you sweet lady! I can't believe it may be almost two years before I get to see you again. Hugs!

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    1. Oh, CARRIE, have I told you recently just HOW MUCH I appreciate you, my friend??? The OWG week was AWESOME, and I just wish I could have camped out over there and responded to comments, but honestly, you people have SO many devoted followers that I would literally be there all day!! You are hands-down, my favorite group of blogger/reviewers in the world, and I'd be hard-pressed to find a more precious, kinder, more giving bunch of women on the planet. And now that Bonnie is joining your ranks, WOW!!! I may just have to ask if I can come aboard, too, with my favorite people EVER!!

      Hugs and more hugs and lots of love,
      Julie

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    2. We were glad to have you! Thanks so much for your kind words. I am very partial to the OwG Angel reviewers, too! And we were very happy to have you be our 2013 Angels' Heart Award recipient, Julie, so you have a place in our Hall of Fame! Hugs and more hugs and love back!

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  58. I didn't know A Walk to Remember was one of your favorite movies! It's mine as well.. Alongside Gone With the Wind ( of course) and Pride and Prejudice.

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    1. Oh, DANA, we're sooooo much alike, girlfriend!! Which is probably why you like my books (if you do). :) Yes, A Walk to Remember is certifiably my NO. 1 crying movie in the world. I literally just about sob the whole 2nd half of the movie, from the song she sings in the play till the end. Sigh. Old Nick sure hit it out of the park on that one! :)

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
      Julie

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  59. Julie, I really identify with the "hermit" answers you gave--LOL! I hate talking on the phone and would rather be on the couch with my laptop than anywhere else. Love YOUR books and would love to get a copy of Surprised by Love!

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    1. Hey, LAURIE ... you gotta love those hermits, eh? We're a special breed that are so comfortable with ourselves that we can grow roots in the chair. :)

      Would LOVE to send you a signed copy of SBL, so here's to a win, my friend!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  60. I am fairly new to reading Julie's books but I can tell you...I'm hooked! She is one of the few authors on my list that I do not even need to read the excerpt on the back of the book to know I want to read it. Her name on the front is enough to convince me. I am generally captured and captivated by her stories within the first few paragraphs. I love that she shows passion in her characters and love between them. She does with it with a skill that lets you truly feel that passion between the couple and yet doesn't take it to a point that it feels "wrong" (for lack of a better way to say it). And I like Julie for who she is, as a person, not just an author. While I have never had the pleasure of meeting her face to face I was blessed by her via email conversations. She replied to something I said to her about my own situation and gave me hope. The fact that she took her time to comfort someone she doesn't even know speaks volumes to me about the type of person she is. Thanks Julie.

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    1. Okay, SPLASH, I'm sitting here tearing up like a baby because your comment was just SO touching to me. THANK YOU, not only for reading my books in the first place, but for the beautiful things you said about them. That is truly why I strive to do -- to show God's passion, both in the romance that HE created AND the romance that He has for each of us.

      And it blesses me BEYOND MEASURE that I was -- in some small way -- able to "comfort" you and give you hope, my friend. Because that's what the God of Hope does for each of us, so I am so humbled and happy to do the same for you.

      Hugs and more hugs!!
      Julie

      P.S. I probably told you this before, but I'll say it again -- LOVE your comment name!! :)

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  61. I like to see kisses in books. But how many depends on how soon the relationship develops.

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    1. I agree, SUSAN!! Thanks for coming by and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  62. Hey, KATE, thanks for your input, and I agree on the suspenseful buildup. :)

    And "tasteful" is a must, especially in Inspy romance. :)

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  63. For me the number of kisses I like to see depends on the relationship / relationships :)

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    1. Thanks, TAMMY, for your feedback, and I'm inclined to agree, which is how I write my books no matter HOW many kisses I want to put in. :)

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  64. I don't think a number can be assigned. I say as many kisses as necessary for the story. This will vary from book to book. I wish I could remember the title of the book (I can't) but I know I read one that was quite romantic but had very little kissing. I've read a lot of Julie's books and think she always gets it right!
    pmkellogg56[at]gmail[dot]com

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    1. Thanks, PAMMY -- appreciate your support. If the book was mine that you thought was romantic with very little kissing, that it was probably Dare to Love Again because there was almost NO kissing in that book, and to be honest, Surprised by Love has even less, so I'm anxious to see what you think.

      BLESS YOU for coming by, my friend, and here's to a win!!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  65. DeAnn deeatwork @hotmail.comNovember 17, 2014 at 9:44 PM

    Depending on who is kissing. Any of Julie's characters (who are married or in a relationship) can kiss all day long.

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    1. LOL, DE ANN, you are TOO cute, my friend!! THANK YOU for giving me carte blanche ... wish my editors would! ;)

      Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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  67. I loved this review and I love Julie's books. A Love Surrendered reduced me to tears at so many points and came to a wonderful conclusion! I especially enjoyed the repartee between Ali and Nick in Dare to Love Again.
    If you haven't picked up any of Julie's books, you just don't know what you're missing! My first book I read was A Passion Most Pure. I was so glad I had the next two books in this trilogy that introduced me to the wonderful O'Connor family. Then the next trilogy and the next! WOW! I read my eyeballs out there until I'm down to read the next book by Julie. Keep on writing Jules! Can't wait to sit down with my cocoa and get lost in another inspiring, uplifting, and romantic read! :)

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    1. DEB!!! Thanks SO much for your sweet comment, and for coming by!! And, oooo, hot chocolate with spray whipped cream and a book sounds reallllllly good to me right now, especially since it's 10 degrees outside right now ... :|

      Bless you, Deb, and GOOD LUCK!!

      Julie

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  69. AND THE WINNER IS ... MARY COLLINS!!

    Mary, if you will contact me through my website at http://www.julielessman.com/contact-julie/, I will be happy to send you your choice of a signed copy of any of my books.

    A heartfelt THANKS to each and every commenter AND to the great gals of the GLIAS blog, especially Miss Lexi!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  70. I like to see kisses throughout a book, as long as I feel they could really happen. I really sometimes have a hard time when the characters kiss and they don't know each other at all. To me, there has to be some sort of connection or it cheapens it.
    martha(at)lclink(dot)com

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    1. Hey, MARTHA ... thanks for coming by to add your two cents, girlfriend, which ALWAYS totals up to be WAY MORE than a mere two cents!! :)

      Your comment takes me back to A Passion Most Pure, where Collin forces a kiss on Faith in the park. I guess you could say the connection there was from their past and also a divine connection that would light the spark of a romance that would burn brightly throughout six books.

      Always good to see you, my friend!

      Hugs,
      Julie

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  72. I don't mind multiple kisses but I do appreciate it more towards the end once the couple realizes they're in love....I have read all of Julie's books and love that they are real, with relevant issues and fears despite the time era they are written in. I have shared this with multiple people in multiple places, her books are something I can share with my teenage daughter and we swoon together over the dreamy heroes..lol. Luke McGee is my absolute favorite hero of all time!! Super dreamy!! Ha ha. I once read somewhere that while writing Love At Any Cost, she imagined Jamie McKenna as the actor Matt Bomer. Seriously?! Ahhhh!!! That's exactly who I thought of while reading it, and it blew me away because Matt Bomer is my secret celebrity crush...too funny! I also have something to read with me wherever I go. however I read on my iPad, my phone...oh my goodness...all the time!

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    1. Hey, MARITZA, thank you SO much for your sweet comment, and YES, is Matt Bomer not PERFECT for Jamie??? I will admit to a tiny secret crush as well on that guy, although I don't watch the show. :)

      And, YES, YES, YES, Luke McGee is my VERY fave of all my heroes, with Mitch a VERY close second!! In fact, I plan to write a novella about Katie and Luke in the near future, and then, of course, my Christmas novella is about Mitch and Charity, so I'm definitely getting my reunions with my fictional family!! :)

      Hugs!!
      Julie

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  73. Wonderful interview, ladies! Thanks for the giveaway!

    writer_weaverATyahooDOTcom

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    1. Thanks, ANNA, I appreciate you coming by and am SO grateful for your support, my friend.

      Hugs!
      Julie

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  74. Oh, no. I can't believe I've let this go so long before entering this giveaway. Yes! I'm a Julie fan and I'd love to win one of her books. thanks for the lovely interview.

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    1. Oh, ABS, I am SO sorry, but the giveaway is over and the book already won, but THANK YOU for coming by anyway, and I still have a few giveaways going on, so check out my website calendar, okay?

      GOOD LUCK!!
      Julie

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