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Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Interview with Jennette Green






Bio:

Writing has always been a passion of mine. I wrote my first story over thirty years ago. Since then, I’ve written numerous stories and have had several articles published. My first love, however, is writing romance novels. I've written seven. I'm blessed with a wonderful, supportive husband, and three terrific children who put up with my crazy writing hours. When I'm not writing, I love reading, photography, making videos, and creating and managing my websites.

Blurb:

Travel on a journey of romance into medieval Scotland...

Princess Elwytha wants revenge on the monster who murdered her brother. In a false exchange for peace, she offers herself in marriage to the enemy Prince. The plan? Kill the Prince’s battle-scarred Commander—the man who ended King Thor’s life with one filthy sword thrust through the back. To her horror, the Commander agrees to take Elwytha as his bride. Worse, the wedding date will be sooner than expected. Not all is lost, however. Now she has more opportunity to be alone with him--and exact justice.

But the deed is not so easy now. Fighting her innate sense of honor, she begins to see the ironclad integrity of the man behind the scars. And with this knowledge comes doubt. Did he slay her brother? What exactly is the new king's plan? Whom can she trust? Elwytha must decide well, for more than her life is at stake. Soon she must betray either allegiance to her kingdom--or the man who is quickly claiming her heart.

Book Excerpt:

“Give me your blades,” The Commander growled down at her.

Fear pounded in Elwytha's chest, and she licked her dry lips. “You found no blades when you pawed through my clothes. The maid found none on my person. Perhaps that is because I have none.”

“I don’t trust you.”

She smiled. As well you shouldn’t. However, she said, “How can we have a marriage with no trust?”

“Come with me.” He forced her toward the door. “You will not return to this room.”

“But my clothes!”

“You will have new clothes. Clothes with no holes for pockets. Clothes that provide no access to the blade at your thigh.”

“Nonsense.” Unthinking, she struggled and then, to her consternation, he picked her up and tossed her over his shoulder. She cried out in fear and horrified humiliation.

“Put me down!” She pounded on his broad back. “Put me down, you monstrous serf!” He strode, silent, through the halls. She squeezed her eyes shut, unwilling to see the others witnessing her humiliation. “Put me down. Put me down at once!” she gasped.

She bit her lip, trying to stop the weak tears of a woman, not a warrior. She sniffed and finally stopped struggling, and hung down his back. His belt about his jerkin was within reach. If only she could loose it, she could cinch it around his massive neck!

“Where are you taking me?” she demanded, voice muffled. Perhaps if she pretended submission he would return her to her feet. And if she found a dagger, she’d gladly plunge it through his heart.

“To my chambers.”

“Nay!” she gasped out, and struggled in earnest then. “I have decided you are unacceptable to me. You have none of the finer qualities I require in a husband!”

Here are links to Jennette's three websites:
www.jennettegreen.com
www.findagreatromance.blogspot.com
www.bestromancenovelstoday.com


Today I am interviewing fellow Wild Rose author and friend Jennette Green.

Welcome, Jennette, and thank you for agreeing to be interviewed. First I’d like to congratulate you on all your rave reviews for THE COMMANDER’S DESIRE. You chose medieval Scotland as the setting for this book. Is there a reason? Have you ever gone to Scotland? How did you find all your research for this intriguing novel?

Thank you, Sharon, for having me at your blog! I feel so honored to be here. To be honest, I chose Scotland for two reasons. I knew I wanted the book to take place in the early medieval ages, plus I wanted to set it in an area where there were actual kings reigning during that time period. The book takes place in Galwyddel (modern Galloway in southern Scotland). Although it was ruled by the giant power of Northumbria, to the east, a number of “petty” kings continued to rule their own lands in Galwyddel—however, they paid tribute to Northumbria. I wanted kings, princes and princesses to be a part of my story, because I hoped it would add a bit of a “fairy tale” feel to it. I wanted to weave that element into the nitty gritty fabric of wars, lies and intrigue that snarl through the book.

You mention in your bio that you have a strong passion for writing romance. Are you a hopeless romantic at heart? Let’s turn the tables. Women are often asked what the most romantic thing a man has ever done. What is the most romantic thing you have ever done for a man?

It’s funny. At heart, I’m a hopeless romantic, but in “real” life I’ve come to realize no one can be that perfect person for someone else. This is because we’re all basically flawed human beings! However, we can try to grow and be the best person we can be, which will only improve the quality of our relationships. Now…what is the most romantic thing I’ve ever done for a man? Hmm. That is hard!!! I guess it would have to be when I got take-out from our favorite restaurant, then put the kids to bed so when my husband got home I had low lighting, candles on the table, and a scrumptious meal to eat! He really liked that. :)

I couldn’t help but be drawn to the name Thor. It stood out to me because I love anything pertaining to myths and legends. Thor is sometimes referred to as the god of thunder. Did this have any bearing on choosing Thor for the name of your king?

Yes. I wanted Elwytha’s favorite brother to have a powerful name, because it denoted what a strong man he was. He was her childhood hero, and she basically hero-worshiped him. The Commander has the same wonderful character qualities her brother had, plus still more.

I have always been drawn to swordsmanship and the hand/eye coordination it takes to be a master. A lot of writers take workshops designed to give hands-on experience with the weapons in their novels. Have you ever held or used a sword or taken martial arts classes? Would this be something you might like to try your hand at?

I have never held a sword, although I would love to! I’ve read that some swords were very heavy, especially the claymores. I learned those were about 5.5 pounds. Imagine wielding them for hours at a time!

You’ve led an interesting life. You grew up in Alaska. What can you tell us about growing up in a state where such raw beauty exists? Some of the things that come to mind when I think of Alaska are the frozen tundra, glaciers and wildlife? Are there a lot of moose and caribou? Bald headed eagles? Six months without a glimpse of the sun?

I grew up in a tiny town called North Pole, Alaska, and later, moved to Moose Creek. LOL Both are near Fairbanks. It was an experience, growing up in Alaska. We’d play outside at recess until it was -20º. It was COLD, but we bundled up to go out (it took about five minutes to get the parka, boots, etc. on and off), so it didn’t seem too bad. I still remember those bright blue skies and the sun glittering off the white snow. It was so bright, it hurt my eyes. Alaska is a wild, beautiful state. I have so many stories. We’d go to school in the dark, and it would get light during the middle of the day. The sun would start to go down when we’d go home in the afternoon. In the summertime, my parents could read the newspaper outside at midnight! One time, in Moose Creek, my mother had to shoo off a moose with a broom so my sister and I could get on the bus to go to school. My parents used to be teachers, so we spent most of our summers camping all over the state. It’s so beautiful. I’d like to go back someday—but in the summer!

Let’s talk a bit about your hobbies. You love to read and write, design websites and blogs and dabble in photography. Where do you find time to do all these things? With your creative nature, have you ever tried your hand at book trailers?

Where do I find the time? LOL I don’t have enough time to do everything I’d like to do. I want to make a trailer for my book, but haven’t had the time to do it! I’ve got three kids and a husband, and I’ve been a Bible study table leader for our women’s group at church for the last three years. Sometimes I feel very overwhelmed! But I’m glad to be able to write, because that is what I love to do best.

Speaking of book trailers, the latest rage, do you think they have any affect on sales of a book?

I’m sure trailers help book sales. I’ve posted fan videos on YouTube, and thousands of people have watched at them. I’ve noticed authors often get lots of views for their book trailers, too. If you can put together a selling presentation, it can only help book sales, in my opinion.

One final question. Where can readers get in touch with you and buy your book
The Commander’s Desire?

Print versions of my book can be found at Amazon, and Barnes and Noble online. It can also be ordered from “bricks and mortar” stores. Ebooks can be found at www.thewildrosepress.com. I’d love for readers to stop by my website, www.jennettegreen.com, or become friends with me on MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/Jennettegreen I always love to make new friends!

Thank you so much for having me here today, Sharon! I’ve enjoyed chatting with you, and thank you for the thought provoking questions! God bless, Jennette

Thank you for the great interview, Jennette.

34 comments:

Sharon Donovan said...

Good morning, Jennette. Welcome! Thank you for being my guest today. You do so much for us fellow roses, posting all those fabulous five star reviews on your blog, it's time for us to pay you tribute. Thank you, Jennette. You are simply the best!
Sharon

Margaret Tanner said...

Hi Jennette and Sharon.
Wonderful interview.
Jennette, heartfelt thanks for all your hard work in posting the five star reviews. A job well done.
All the very best
Margaret

Unknown said...

This sounds like a really good book! I have never read anything that has been set in Scotland and I have never read one where swords were involved. I will definitely put it on my TBR list! Great interview today!

Skhye said...

Great interview. I still love that cover, Jennette! And can you imagine the lop-sided hero--one are overly muscular from wielding a claymore and the other not so much? They'd never let us put that in a historical! LOL

Skhye said...

That would be ONE ARM!!! LOL

Sharon Donovan said...

Hi Val, Margaret and Skhye. Thanks for dropping by. I'm sure Jennette will be along shortly to join in on the fun!
Sharon

P.L. Parker said...

Hi Jennette and Sharon: Great interview. North Pole, Alaska? OMG - makes me cold just to think about it.

Patsy
P.L. Parker

Donna B said...

What a great interview. I love hearing about other people who are involved in creative things along with their writing. At least I know I'm not alone juggling those creative juices.
I love the excerpt of your story. I must admit I'm not much of a fan of historicals, but I may pick this one up!

Emma Lai said...

Nice interviews Sharon and Jeanette! I've always wanted to go to Alaska...in the summer. Love the cover Jeanette and can't wait to find some time to settle in with my copy.

Marianne Evans said...

Great blog, ladies! Sharon, loved the questions, and Jennette, thanks for all you do to help your fellow authors!! You rock! :-) Best of mega-sales on The Commander's Desire!

Sharon Donovan said...

Hi Patsy, Donna and Emma. Thanks for stopping by. Yes, Jennette's led quite an interesting life, and the thought of those frigid North Pole temps make me wanna put on another pot of hot coffee!

Jennette Green said...

Hi everyone, and thank you for stopping by to read my interview! And thank you, Sharon, so much for writing it up and posting it. I can't thank you enough!!! :)

I apologize for getting here late, but I live on the west coast, and it's only 8:15 a.m. here, LOL! I'll post more comments in a minute...

Jennette Green said...

I feel so blessed that you have all taken the time to stop by and make comments!

Sharon, Margaret and Marianne, thank you for your encouraging words about my blog--I love to do it, and I really hope it is helping sales! More people seem to stop by all the time, which is great. And a lot of them come from the search engines, which is even better, because they've probably never heard of TWRP!

Lastnerve, Donna and Emma Lai, thank you for your kind words about my book and cover. I loved writing the book--be prepared, there is a lot of conflict--and never a dull moment, as one reader has said! LOL But I guess how could it be any other way when Elwytha was brought up to hate and distrust the enemy her entire life? She and the Commander have got some challenges to get through... :)

Sharon Donovan said...

Thanks for droppin in, Marianne! Now, let's give Jennette a chance to wake up and have some coffee! The sun is just rising on the West Coast, after all. We can't wait to hear more about The Commander's Desire!
Sharon

Jennette Green said...

Skhye, LOL! I had never thought about that before! But yes, wouldn't it be that way? Unless they practiced with both arms... I think that's something I'd like to research! :)

P.L., yes it was very cold in the winter! Like Emma Lai, I'd like to go back, but in the summer. A few times I remember it getting to -60 degrees in the winter, but that was rare, and luckily, there was never much wind. The most dangerous thing about winters, especially in and around Fairbanks, is the ice fog. It would be cold and icy, and we could barely see the bus coming down the road. Where I live now, they call school for fog, but they didn't then, unfortunately, which was very dangerous.

I'll be checking back throughout the day--thank you again for stopping by! If you have any questions, I'll be happy to answer them! :)

Ashley Ludwig said...

Another excellent interview, Sharon!

So good to meet you, Jenette - I love the excerpt for your story and the heart behind it. Beautiful writing style...

Huge fan of Scottish settings, here! I was instantly enthralled with both characters. What was your biggest challenge in making your historical piece so believable?

Thanks for sharing today!

~Ashley

Jennette Green said...

Thank you so much, Ashley! :)

What was the biggest challenge in making the story believable? That's a good question. I think it was immersing myself both in the characters and their conflict, as well as the history of that time. I like to put myself in my character's "shoes" and try to imagine what exactly they would be thinking, feeling and experiencing. Then I try to write it as clearly as I can. :) It's encouraging to know it's coming across to others like I imagined it! Thank you so much for your encouraging words!!! :)

Jennette Green said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Jennette Green said...

Here's an extra tidbit... I said in the interview I haven't had time to make a trailer, and that remains true!

However, I'm excited to share that Miranda (a fan who friended me on MySpace, and who has become a wonderful friend), along with her friend Clancy, have made a fan video for The Commander's Desire! I am completely amazed and humbled that they wanted to do such a thing! And the video they produced is awesome! (Miranda is a high school student in Australia, and I'm absolutely amazed at her artistic talent.)
Here's a link to their video:

http://au.video.yahoo.com/watch/4832480/12890721

I know it took them a long time for them to make it, and I'm very grateful. I'm sure she would appreciate any encouraging words, if you like it. :)

Kathleen said...

Great interview and intriguing excerpt. Was fascinated by why you decided to set your story in Scotland.

Congratulations, Jennette

and thanks Sharon for a well-done interview

Jennette Green said...

Thank you so much, Kathleen! :)

Kathye Quick said...

Scottish historicals are so special. This one sounds wonderful.

Laurean Brooks said...

Wow, Jennette! Such spirited characters! Just the kind to keep you intrigued and guessing! Great excerpt.

I am currently in a chat at the Coffee Time Forum, but wanted to drop by and say hi to you and Sharon. Good luck with the terrific book.

Unknown said...

A wonderful interview,Sharon and Jennette. Thank you for sharing. Jennette is very generous with her promotion of five star reviews. I've been lucky enough to be on her site a few times. I used to live in Alaska as well...have been to North Pole and Fairbanks! Jennette is right...lovely to visit in the summer Remember the unofficial state bird? Summer, standing water, ponds? :-)

Bess McBride

Jennette Green said...

Thank you so much for stopping by, and for your kind and encouraging comments, Kathye, Laurean, and Bess! :)

And yes, Bess, I remember the lovely "state bird." LOL I hate those mosquitoes!!!!! Why were you in Alaska, and North Pole? I haven't been to North Pole in years, but I imagine it hasn't changed much. :)

Sharon Donovan said...

Hi Ashley, Kathleen, Kathye, Laurie and Bess. Thanks for stopping by today. Jennette has lots of interesting facts about her life to share. Maybe she ought to write a book? How about it?!!

Jennette Green said...

LOL, Sharon. But maybe a few facts from my life might find their way into future books...

Your memoirs sound like they will be very interesting! You have had to overcome so much--you are such an inspiration to me.

By the way, my husband and I love Pittsburgh. We lived in York and Erie for a while when he was a traveling Physical Therapist, and we just love Pennsylvania, period. We were in Pittsburgh one 4th of July, and saw the fireworks going off over the three rivers (we were up in the hills, looking down). It was a lot of fun.

Sharon Donovan said...

The 4th of July fireworks are a big deal on the river, Jennette. And we have a river fest in late summer. It's really cool to live in a city where three rivers meet at a point. Personally, I liked it better when the baseball stadium was called Three Rivers. Now it's PNC with a football field right next to it. If you ever come back to Pittsburgh, you must stop for a visit!

Jennette Green said...

That would be fun, Sharon! And I didn't realize they'd changed the name of the stadium--PNC doesn't have quite the ring, does it? They changed the name of a convention center here from "Centenial" to a blah bank name. Why do they do that??? Oh, well, I'm sure it's all about corporate financing, LOL.

Thank you so much for having me here today, Sharon! I'll stop by later, in case someone pops by with comments or questions. I hope you have a great evening!

Sharon Donovan said...

Thank you ladies for stopping by and leaving comments for Jennette. It was a lot of fun and I enjoyed it very much. A special thank you to Jennette for being such a delightful guest. I hope you come back again. Best of luck with The Commander's Desire. It is now officially on my TBR list! Oh, I agree about the stadiums. These new names are all about finances, so the corporate names now rule. Wasn't it mor fun when they were just plain old ball parks?

Hywela Lyn said...

Hi Sharon and Jeanette - what a fascinating interview - and I loved the excerpt, definitely my kind of book - I've yet to read it but it's there in my wish list|!

Sorry I'm coming in here late - but I only just found this interview. Jeanette, your blog is such a great writers resource, and it must be such a lot of work to put the five star reviews up, but I know all the authors appreciate it. I just played your video - isn't it great and what a lovely thing for your fans to do.

Thanks both of you for sharing this interview.

Sharon Donovan said...

Thanks for stopping in, Lyn. Yes we all appreciate Jennette's hard work and the lengths she goes to for us fellow roses. Here here, Jennette!
Sharon

Jennette Green said...

Thank you so much for your kind comments, Lyn, and for taking the time to stop by! I do love doing the five stars, and it's to the point now that posting them is a lot faster than it used to be--I've got a system! LOL

I've really enjoyed being at your blog, Sharon! Thank you so much for having me. I hope you have a wonderful weekend! :)

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