Summer is here in Missouri and I am trying to get outside more, as hard as that is for someone whose day job and side job are both in front of a computer. But as Stephen King has said, “Books are a uniquely portable magic,” which means they can be enjoyed just as easily outside as well as in.
Unsettled Shores – One Month Later
One of my favorite parts of being an author is the opportunity to connect with other authors and readers and discuss great books. Since the launch of Unsettled Shores last month, I’ve had the privilege of participating in two live stream events with Instagrammer, @paper_trail_adventures, and with fellow historical fiction author, Tanya E. Williams. We talked about everything from inspiration for my books to my writing process to which character I liked the best (hint, he reminds many of Flynn Rider). If you missed them live, they can still be viewed here:
Alexis (@paper_trail_adventures) – June 8, 2021
Tanya E. Williams – May 21, 2021
And if you still need a copy of the book, here’s the link to purchase:
Purchase Unsettled Shores
Writing Updates
My 1850’s series, Larksong Legacy, has crossed the halfway point in the outlining phase. I plan to finish plotting the rest of the series by August, with drafting for Book 1 beginning in early September. Research also continues as well as searching for those perfect inspirational pictures from the time period. The photo below is located on the Columbia River, which separates Oregon from Washington State, close to where my characters settle at the end of Book 1.
My Favorite Read of 2021 So Far
Last month, I revealed the relaunch cover I designed for Jennifer Q. Hunt’s Some Through the Fire. I am so excited to announce this month that I’ve completed the relaunch design for her second book, Great Waters. I finished reading this book shortly before designing the cover and it is my favorite read of the year so far. Although it is Book #2, it can be read as a standalone.
Taking place during the last few years of the 1920’s and into the Great Depression, this is a beautiful novel of not only what it means to fall in love, but how to stay in love and stay faithful when the rose-colored glasses come off and everything crumbles beneath you. I loved the raw, rich, and real emotions that Jennifer Q. Hunt shows in every aspect of her characters from the young love of our leads, Russell and Katie, to the more seasoned (but no less complex) marriages of their siblings and friends. There are some tough topics discussed including spousal abuse, depression, and pregnancy loss that are all handled with a tender understanding and grace. There were certainly times that this book brought me to tears, but thankfully there were many more instances, including the ending, which made me smile. I recommend this to all readers, especially those who are married. Even if you do not like historical fiction, the themes of this novel are worth considering.
To celebrate the relaunch, I’m giving away one paperback copy of Great Waters to one random winner (U.S. only). Giveaway ends on July 16, 2021. Full rules are included in the link below.
ENTER THE GIVEAWAY HERE
Upcoming Events
To help celebrate the July 1 release of Jenny Knipfer’s new historical fiction novel, In a Grove of Maples, I am participating in a multi-author event in the Journeying with Jenny Facebook group. During the two-day event, over 35 giveaways will be offered from 13 different authors, including a chance to win an ebook copy of one of my four novels. You will need to join the group and comment on the post in order to be entered to win. Winners will be chosen July 3. Not affiliated or sponsored by Facebook.
The Book Shop
Need a copy of my books? All four can be read on their own or in order of publication. Click the covers below to purchase! Available online in ebook and paperback or by request from your favorite indie bookseller or local library. For book club appearances, contact me here.
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Kelsey Gietl 