Olivia Godfrey's Blog

Alas, we are here at the end of this event

This has been amazing, y’all! I appreciate every single one of you reading these posts so so much!!
Especially the members of Team Maple!

Hannah Katja Kellyn Sylvie Riley Rose

Kate and Rebekah are wonderful! Huge shout out to them for putting this together and making it so great! I’m so grateful to have been part of this!
Also don’t miss on their last posts the giveaway winners(congrats ladies!!!!) and an easy access list of most of the books mentioned over the week!

Here we go for some books that have stood out to me this year(so far -winks-)

The Mammoth Series – Brian McBride
This series is such a ride!!!
Adventure, dealing with a myriad of life battles, mystery, exaggeration of the reality of events (but just fits the Indiana Jones vibes perfectly and does make it more fun), found family, breaking free of stereotypes, facing pain and grief and revenge to decide what kind of person you want to be… this is what heroes and the epic tales told of them are made of!

It’s Always Sonny – Kate Watson
This series was so fun, it says you can read in any order but I didn’t hop around and I’m glad I didn’t, but this one stuck out to me the most!
A family reunion with competition and banter galore, honored matriarch, second-chance romance!
Super sweet and heartwarming themes! I really liked the ending of this one; things didn’t go in the direction both MC’s thought it would, and FMC’s relationship with her parents isn’t conveniently all fixed, but it just left my heart warmed!
Clean with kissing, panic attacks, dysfunctional relationships, mild peril during a blizzard with one tent scene dealing with hypothermia(cuddling with less layers on but all brief), mentions of family member infertility struggles.

Splintered Mind – W.R. Gingell
I was so so happy to find the author has been cranking out more books!!!!
What’s funny about this though is that unlike The City Behind series, this MC has zero concept of the para/abnormal and is in absolute denial it exists where Pet from TCB just kinda rolls with it. We definitely are just figuring stuff out as Viv does(she has no idea what’s going on and it’s kinda hilarious at points), and so this one especially, the bigger picture still isn’t there, but I loved the ride!
I do have one complaint: these books end at the weirdest spots, like they broke them up so they wouldn’t be huge but just chose random spots as the endings. The World Between was doing better but TCB does this too. Beware the cliffhangers is the bottom line hahahah
Contains creepy moments, complicated relationship with a hypochondriac parent, violence(implication of

My Lucky Charm – Courtney Walsh
A solid nod to the sports rom-com binge I went on, it was so hard to choose which one to feature, but I loved this so much!
The author writes such multi-faceted, relatable characters weaving in their mistakes and/or struggles as not things to “get over” but learning to handle it all with grace(towards others as well) and making them better people, better together! I also adore the holiday theme and can’t wait for the next one! Oh, and the deaf/ASL rep is so good!
CW = def secular, ogling, child out of wedlock, sweet kisses

& Ruins of Gorlan(Ranger’s Apprentice series) – John Flanagan
Okay, so when I first put this on my list, I apparently merged the prequel(TaG) and actual main series in my head and just began labeling it all Ranger’s Apprentice. Also, I haven’t finished the rest of the series yet but I’m working on it!!
I’m actually glad I read TaG first because I can see how the author has grown as a writer from when he wrote the main series to writing the sequel(usually I kinda hate that but since I’m late to the party it worked out for me, heh heh).
I love the Robin Hood-esque, found family/friendship dynamics, coming-of-age, story that this is! A series I will love for my kids to grow up on!!

I know it’s going to take the next week to really dig into the other posts, but this event is so worth it and I have no regrets over the amount I’m adding to my TBR list.
I’ve never really thought about it, but… it does look like I’m in for a long haul actually making a dent into that… but hey, I’m not complaining a bit! Let’s go!!

I hope y’all found some amazing reads this week that maybe will become some of your favorites too!

Fare thee well for now,With love, Olivia

This somehow became a seasonal post in my head, so here’s books I like to reread for spring, summer, fall, and winter(fall getting the extra one. Not because it’s fall now, this is fall themed, or my fave season or anything either hehehehe).

Winnie the Pooh – A.A. Milne
Spring – I love these books so much! It encompasses imagination and childhood. The writing style, though a bit rambly(it seems like I notice something new with each read), is so endearing. It makes me so happy to get to share these with my kids! But they are certainly also a comfort read for myself as well!

Jane of Lanternhill – L.M. Montgomery
Summer – Y’all this book does not get enough love. Anne is worth the hype in most cases, but this one to me is Lucy’s best work. The way Jane grows into herself is so satisfying! It really goes to show how kids can find joy and peace when purpose and belonging is established. The atmosphere of this book(once Jane’s on PEI) is everything I want to create for my own home! I love the author’s writing style so much, she adds such magic and makes me wish I lived in the book. Also, just the name Lanternhill le happy sigh
I drew this cover once, and gave it as a present to my aunt, I need a print for myself soon I think!

Scorpio Races – Maggie Stiefvater
Fall – Mmm, the vibes of this book just makes my heart hum! Horse racing(although… a vicious version)? Contemporary folklore? Small town on an island? The MC’s stepping up when they could’ve given up? Gimme, gimme!
The author’s writing style is so unique, it leaves a little to imagination but it’s still all so vivid! I keep coming back to this book! It’s a perfect fall read!
Content warnings include mentions of blood, dying, sabotage, creepiness, and injuries. Brief implication of immorality and innuendo a couple times.

The Outsiders – S.E. Hinton
Fall – This book has so much heart in it!
I honestly have struggled trying to write out everything I want to say because it doesn’t seem like enough.
I think about this story quite a bit and keep coming back to it. It shows that from such young ages, there can be such a weight people carry we never even know about. It looks beyond stereotypes, breaking away from what people say you should be to what kind of person you want to/could be. That everyone holds potential, no matter where you live or how you grow up. The ending leaves me in a puddle every time!
CW = violence, small smattering of cussing, mentions of rough upbringing as well as cultural acceptance of drinking and smoking(all pointing toward a “it doesn’t have to be this way” light)

The Enchanted Sonata – Heather Dixon Wallwork
Winter – This book is such a unique twist of The Nutcracker and Pied Piper!! What’s funny is I didn’t even remember it’s a portal fantasy until I was typing this out(per mentioning several in this series of posts, then asking for more recs, and here I am mentioning another! Ha!).
The characters are amazing and the themes look at how our emotions can be a gift or a curse, looks aren’t everything, and music is a superpower. Oh, how I would love to visit the city, the confection shop, ahhhhhh! One of the best Christmas reads ever!
This is clean and sweet(maybe a kiss at the end?) but does have a mild creepy vibe at a couple points with the villain(also mentions of abusive childhood there), some violence, and kidnapping

What are some of your fave seasonal reads? I’d love any recs!

Don’t forget to take a peak at Team Maple posts!

Hannah Katja Kellyn Sylvie Riley Rose

And definitely head over to Kate and Rebekah‘s pages to check the other teams as well for even more!

Thanks for hanging out with me,With love, Olivia

This was such a fun theme!

It took me some time compared to the others to compile this list, but I love how it came together!

Dune – Frank Herbert
This book absolutely opened up sci-fi to me! I don’t know that I had been as interested in the genre before then. I heard some weird stuff about the rest of the series, but personally I didn’t feel the need to go further anyway.
The scientific elements, along with the worldbuilding, themes, and strong characters is so good! Also, one fascinating concept—riding sandworms!!!
There is a non-graphic proclivity that only adds to the evil of the antagonist though, as content warning(besides violence and some stuff the squeamish might not appreciate. But no where near what the movie portrayed, by the way!!!)

Shepherd of the Hills – Harold Bell Wright
I was so mad at myself for putting this off for so long once I finally read it! My grandma had recommended it and for some reason I thought it would be some sort of memoir or all hillbilly-ville, accents and behaviors alike(not that I have any prejudice, I basically grew up as one myself). This, however, was nothing like that! It definitely points to the Ozark Mountain culture, but it’s refreshing instead of some sort of caricature. I loved the pacing and dignity it gives to that lifestyle that I think is trying to be brought back! There’s a reason it’s so popular in Branson, MO!
I don’t remember any CW’s except a couple tense scenes, where the MC was afraid of violence, particularly to her person.

Rejoicing in Repetition – Mystie Winckler
Short and sweet, the message of the right heart for our home, what kind of atmosphere we create alongside a posture of grace towards ourselves, was something I really needed!
I tend towards fiction and have read very few books like this, but a friend had mentioned this and it was very timely during a period I was really struggling(and still do, but am thankful it’s gotten better)

The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Society – Mary Ann Shaffer
Okay, hear me out. This isn’t one I actually particularly recommend(although how gorgeous is this cover version!). But I couldn’t remember a different epistolary book I’ve read and I wanted to mention this particular genre/style because it is unique, even if it isn’t quite my preference.
This book definitely got me interested in the British Isles we don’t hear as much about, especially their role in the wars, and the story was quite memorable to me for it’s testimony to resilience, friendship, and holding onto the good through terrible times. It also made me appreciate how handwritten letters and diaries really can be so important to history!
CW being a smattering of language, cruel POW mentions, perilous times, and elusion to out-of-marital activity.

Chosen of the Tapestry – Laura Cheever
This is fantasy, which if you haven’t noticed I definitely devour, but what makes this book something I don’t usually read(more out of lack, not choice) is it centers on parents of 4 kids being the protagonists. What?!! And the mom homeschools. And they travel together(I can’t remember the last time I read anything that portrayed traveling with littles so accurately and heartwarmingly before). And it talks about the struggles of both roles as husband and wife and the only way they can fulfil what is in store is together. All pointing to our Creator. Talk about relatable and a breath of fresh air!! The whole atmosphere of it is so whimsical, yet deals with real struggles! I loved everything about this book(and just look at that cover!!), I hope to help make sure it gets talked about more!
Mild peril is in a couple scenes and tough marital issues.

What’s a style or genre you don’t often read?

It’s so cool how each blogger has such a unique voice to their blogs and way of putting together their lists, I’ve so enjoyed finding new recs while fangirling over shared interests! Go check Team Maple out!

Hannah Katja Kellyn Sylvie Riley Rose

Kate and Rebekah are our lovely fearless leaders and I’m so glad they’ve organized this!

Don’t forget there will be two winners of the giveaway!
Later alligators,With love, Olivia

We’re Halfway through the week already!

I’ve been looking forward to this post!

Make sure to check Team Maple’s selections too,
Hannah Katja Kellyn Sylvie Riley Rose

Kate and Rebekah have been such great hostesses! I hope you’re enjoying this event and getting some good additions to your TBR lists!

Getting to the good stuff:

Let’s talk about books that realllyyyyyy need sequels! Like… yesterday!

Darkwood – M.E. Breen
I saw today’s theme and it was like I’ve been waiting for this exact moment to bring up this book!
I read this as an early teen so I don’t quite remember all the details anymore, but I was so sad that it seems as if it won’t be getting a sequel—there’s so much I needed to know!!
I loved the writing style, it’s alternate world/dystopian atmostphere with a hint of magical realism. There is a bit of a creepy vibe but to me that just makes it perfect for fall!

Lost in Averell – Tara Grayce
It’s true, I’ve heard tell a sequel is actually in order. And given that the author has been cranking out other awesome projects, it’s understandable that this got put on the back burner. But. I thoroughly enjoyed this mid-grade portal fantasy and need the next one as soon as she can get to it! Good conquering evil, unique creatures, taking responsibility for one’s actions, gravity defying mushroom bouncing, resilience? I will be on the lookout for the next one for sure!

Frederica – Georgette Heyer
Okay, no Austenians come after me… but lately I’ve been enjoying Heyer far more. I wish I’d found her sooner!
However, my biggest complaint with the author is that her books are too short and too few sequels for some of my favorite characters! Particularly for this book, Felix(Frederica’s younger brother) absolutely should’ve gotten his own book! Not to mention, Frederica and Averstoke being parents alongside her sibling’s being aunt and uncles would be such a romp!

The Blue Castle – L.M. Montgomery
I have to admit, this is the cover I wish I had and have determined I shall get! Anywho.
This author is yet another I collect, The Blue Castle sitting in the front seat beside the Anne series as my very first L.M.M books my mom started buying me. I wish there was a sequel so that we could come along on Valancy’s adventures, no doubt as she went abroad, and I’d have loved to see her as a mom too! Maybe I need to write some fan-fic (insert thinking face) But… it probably wouldn’t have done it justice, Lucy of course has such a distinct lovely way of writing!

100 Cupboards -N.D. Wilson
Another portal fantasy, and y’all, this series!!! I love his writing style so much! The coming-of-age, relatable characters, light defeating the darkness, and just the adventures themselves, besides the other-worldly concepts! I didn’t want it to end. And really, there’s so many possibilities for a sequel series practically begging to be written!

If anyone has any portal fantasy recs please drop a comment! I really need more in my life!

the giveaway ends at the end of the week so make sure to get your entries in!

Ta ta for now,

With love, Olivia

It’s only day two and I’m having so much fun!

There’s been so many good recs so far from the other bloggers and getting to hobnob is amazing!

Don’t miss Team Maple’s posts for sure,
Hannah Katja Kellyn Sylvie Riley Rose

But Kate and Rebekah also have the other teams listed and everyone is on a roll!

Now down to business!

Today I’m featuring Independently Published books I’ve enjoyed.
It’s so hard to narrow down to only five for some of these themes y’all! But here’s what I landed on

Of the Stars series – P.D. Atkerson
Testing is the first book but the whole series is so good I wanted to make mention of it as a whole. These mid-grade reads are so well-rounded both in characters and story-building.
Space cadets, betrayals, the value of friendship, courage, dealing with loss, sharing the Gospel, adventure, excellent fight scenes… it’s got all the good stuff!

The Hunter – Hannah E. Carey
If you like folktale, Celtic/Roman inspired immersive atmosphere with solid characters definitely check this out!
There is a smattering of mild content warnings, but of course that is up to reader discretion.

The Cupid Chronicles(Only Magic in the Building series) – Courtney Walsh
This is the second book in such an adorable, rom-com multi-author series with such good themes! I enjoyed them all, but this one stands out in my mind.
If you’ve never watched the ’90’s show Early Edition, you need to, because it has similar elements that brought it even more to life for me! Cupid Chronicles centers around looking for opportunities to help others, even if it may seem inconvenient at first, and bringing people together. All the while falling in love with the person they get to do so with (winks)

Dragon’s Reach – J.A. Andrews
I love everything about this book and this series, this author, her other series, her newsletter… Okay, now I’m sounding obsessive, sorry. But more seriously, this is what clean, epic fantasy should be all about! Doing what you know is right even if at first you had been wrong, the unique magic system, the fight scenes, and I wish I had a Pern in my life(pint-sized, sassy, seamstress bff’s for the win)!

The Reluctant Godfather – Allison Tebo
I used to be so much more picky about fairytale retellings but this book is actually one that brought me into this beautiful world of quality(unique) twists to familiar stories! This take on Cinderella had me laughing out loud while also reconsidering what I once thought of the tale and making it a favorite!

I hope you found something of interest to add to your TBR, here or visiting one of the other lady’s blogs

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway!

See you tomorrow,

With love, Olivia

I’m so excited!

This is my first time joining this event and I couldn’t be among better ladies!

With so many blogs to navigate we were put into teams to cheer for and highlight each other’s posts. Make sure to check out these blogs!
Go Team Maple!

Hannah at hereynolds.com Katja at littleblossomsforjesus.wordpress.com
Sylvie at sylvieohara106.wixsite.com/my-site- Kellyn at kellynrothauthor.com/blog
Riley at rileygwriterartist.wordpress.com Rose at rewriteswithafaeriepen.wordpress.com

Kate and Rebekah are our hostesses and will the list all of those participating so for even more fun head their way!
https://onceuponanordinary.wordpress.com/blog https://readanotherpage.com/blog

Before we get started, I have an exciting announcement: there’s not one, but two giveaways!

Enter here

Today’s theme is Books I’ve Recommended

Up first is Hondo – Louis L’Amour.
After my brother devoured a couple of these author’s books, I knew they must be good! I now collect them but Hondo continues to my favorite!
The MC is a bit of a reluctant hero, but when he comes upon a boy and his mother in the middle of nowhere, running low on food, and with a chance of trouble with Apache’s, he steps in.

The Meeting Place – Janette Oke and T. Davis Dunn
Friends, this book!!! My teen self had never cried so hard over fiction before. It is so rich with history and lovely characters bridging a divide, both language and prejudice. I learned so much from it—courage, friendship, and heartbreaking true events. Definitely make sure you’ve got tissues towards the end!

A Girl of the Limberlost – Gene Stratton-Porter
Such a good coming-of-age story! It has Beatrix Potter nature vibes that I am absolutely here for!
I love the people who saw the MC and did something about it. I appreciated that the relationships weren’t “everything is conveniently okay after so long strained” too. Just the name Limberlost also makes me happy.

Frog and Toad are Friends -Arnold Lobel
We listen to audiobooks during car rides quite a bit, most of which are kids’ books since my kiddos are still little. We keep coming back to the Frog & Toad books. Honestly, I think I love these as much if not more than they do!
Friendship, whimsy, child’s play yet still things adults should consider.

All Creatures Great & Small – James Herriot
Y’all this book had me laughing so hard my eyes squinched and stomach hurt! I remember watching the 1980’s version of the show with my dad and those are such good memories!
I love that there are little lessons and I still consider certain points. I think in general, the author incorporates that we do make a difference in what we dedicate ourselves to and everyday interactions with others.

I hope you enjoy this event as much as I am!
Definitely check in tomorrow for the next theme and don’t forget to head to the other lady’s blogs for even more!

Thank you for hanging out with me!

With love, Olivia

Kicking off trying to give this space more attention with a party!

September 22nd is J.R.R Tolkien’s characters Bilbo and Frodo Baggins birthday in his ever-popular novel The Hobbit and series The Lord of the Rings.
I’ve been wanting to join in festivities and this seemed as good an opportunity as ever!

We’re planning to have an afternoon tea, put on Hobbit-y music, and later watch The Fellowship of the Ring.

A favorite site of mine to visit for inspiration and other fun stuff is https://www.teawithtolkien.com/party

https://mondaymandala.com/lord-of-the-rings-coloring-pages/ has free Lord of the Rings coloring pages

https://thewanderingwriter6.wordpress.com/blog is also hosting an event you won’t want to miss(which will also feature my Hobbit-hole watercolor piece above and several other works)!

Are you going to have a Hobbit day? Are there any other literary dates you commemorate? I’d love to know in the comments!

Fine print: artwork is my own and I was not obligated to mention the other sites.

Long time no update but I promise I didn’t truly drop off the face of the Earth!

I’m hoping to do better about posting now that I’m not stretched as thin after the whirlwind publishing this book was! A Noble Loyalty has been out in the world almost 3 months now, whoohoo!
If you’re subscribed to my newsletter, you were at least getting those updates, and I’m thankful for y’all sticking with me

Alrighty, let’s dig into this last segment of this blog tag!

How did writing this novel go all around?

I was actually pretty proud of(mostly) sticking to the perimeters I’d given myself for all the aspects! I had an outline and progress sheet I kept updated and it really helped(also because if I hadn’t there’s NO doubt I would’ve forgotten something important!)

Did it turn out as you expected or completely different? How do you feel about the outcome?

For the most part, I’d say it was better than I expected.
I do wish I had taken more time with certain aspects instead of panicking at the end but, in general, for getting my feet wet, I’m so so thankful for the whole experience!

For the story itself, there are angles I had to set aside that I knew weren’t going to work, which is always kinda bittersweet, but then there were others that sprung up that were exactly like light-bulb moments and that is absolutely so much fun!!

What aspect of the story did you love writing about the most? (Characters, plot, setting, prose, etc.)

Worldbuilding, then setting the characters in it, and how both bring the story to life in my mind and hopefully to readers as well!

What was your least favorite part?

Mmm, I suppose, as I said before, that there were some things needing cutting… I also did have a word count limit so that played a big factor in certain development. 

What do you feel needed the most work?

Mostly basic grammar I think, and there was some stuff that needed clarifying and thus rearranging. I had the best team of beta readers and editing that definitely made the story what it is!! I’m soooo thankful for their cheerleading and polishing!! 

 How do you feel about your characters now? Who’s your favorite? Least favorite? Anyone surprise you? Give us all the details!

I truly love all of them so much!! 

My favorites are Elias and Alba. Elias is a little tunnel visioned(I actually can’t think of very many men I know who aren’t ha), but he reminds me of my grandpa and dad in some ways: the love to learn, working hard, and striving for what is good/doing good for others. That strong sense of what’s true and right and he wants that for others too. 

Alba is a joy! She’s so sweet and nurturing! She’s stubborn and may tend to worry a little bit too much, but loves fiercely and brings people together. She is actually the MC of the original story. There were a couple reviews that said they wanted/had hoped for more of her and the other MC of the original, who would be Lee(Elias’s older brother), and I was like she really is so great isn’t she? -heart eyes-

My least favorite… 

I despise what the villain, Lord Durand, became… but I actually didn’t have much of a hard time writing him like I did my FMC, Bellinda “Bee”. At first I was writing with Elias’s pov much stronger in my head, relating to him more, and realized(especially since the cover showcases Bee) that I wasn’t giving her justice. I was afraid for a minute that she was coming across all wrong too, so that… was a struggle for a minute. So in that way, Bee was a bit of a surprise. How she ended up developing really made her shine though I think! 

Another surprise was Elias’s father. It’s always so interesting to me when children realize their parents aren’t perfect and they’re human too. There’s a moment when Elias faces that and I really thought it was important to show that you can still honor/respect loved ones even if you don’t agree or are upset with them, especially in that relationship dynamic. 

What’s your next plan of action with this novel?

Well. It’s been published a couple months now! Available on e-book, paperback, and special edition hardcover!! 

There’s certain things I’m thinking of going back over in a second edition(especially in the hardcover) but I do have other developments in mind with it as well(I’m not gonna give specifics just yet, just that it is underway ha)! 

If you could have your greatest dream realized for this novel, what would it be?

That it will be one a reader will see the title or cover and make them smile because it’s a comfort read, one that’s worth rereading, and that it’s a story that they enjoy but also makes them think. I have several of those kinds of books and if ANL makes someone as happy as those books do for me… I’d be so SO thrilled and honored. 

Share some of your favorite snippets!

These are all random… It’s honestly so hard to choose!!! But I feel like these do represent well enough for short pieces!

Bee’s pov

“Bee listened closely. The sound of the incoming rider’s pace didn’t seem hurried, but that didn’t necessarily mean much. Bee told herself they were only travelers, as Renora and herself were, and everything was fine, outside of the headache that had formed in short order. She forced herself to slow her breathing but clenched her jaw. 

She was not helpless. She was not weak. She was a lady.”

Alba’s pov

“Alba was startled when words seemed to burst from him.

“‘Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.’” 

“I… Pardon?” 

“From the Scripts. I watched everything happen. I sat there and watched. I was going to ride away. Then that verse—it’s been years since I’ve read or heard it, and I didn’t care to think about it—filled my mind… It took a repeat of that verse for me to act, but it struck me. I have known I wasn’t doing good for quite some time.” He stopped speaking almost as abruptly as he’d started.”

Elias’s pov

“Felina leaned over to pat his hand. “Well. You did do as I asked in bringing a diverting conversation. I must ask before you leave—you said you met her, I’m assuming very recently; she is in the city?” 

Elias nodded. He was glad she had gotten lost in relating (a different) story and not gone down this very vein of questioning earlier. “Yes, I aided and escorted her myself, actually.” 

“What! A dramatic tale. You deliberately did not lead with that, and yet you say you must go. For shame!” She gave a mock chastising scowl and 

Elias couldn’t help but grin. “But of course the anticipation of a story will keep you until next time.” 

“Hm. And when would that be, pray tell? Thine visits be few and far between, brother dear.” 

Elias squeezed her hand. “You are correct at that. Forgive me? I shall do better.” 

“See that you do!” Elias couldn’t help but grin as he moved to the door.”

Did you glean any new writing and/or life lessons from writing this novel?

I did have a different kind of discipline(maybe not the greatest because there was so much life stuff in between, and I certainly am not ever entering a juggling contest because I’m not very good at), I was proud of myself for dealing with all that I had on my plate(even if it meant only getting four hours of sleep at times). I also made myself just write instead of editing along the way, that was so hard!! But it did ensure that I met my schedule goals. 

I’m so so thankful for all the mentoring Abigail Harris and Madisyn Carlin gave to us authors in the series!! I learned so much from everyone really, and this whole journey has made a huge difference in my writing and all the aspects of being an indie author! 

It’s certainly paved the way to more endeavors and hopefully developing into a better seasoned writer(that made me laugh, I wonder what kind of seasoning I am in that case hehehe)!

I hope you enjoyed these behind-the-scenes of A Noble Loyalty, definitely check out my other Know the Novel posts for those previous questions!
And don’t miss Christine Smith and several lovely authors who have so many fun tidbits in their KtN posts here!

A Noble Loyalty is a non-magical, Christian fantasy, Wounded Lion retelling and #11 in the Cornerstone multi-author series! FIND OUT MORE

Thank you so much for joining me! With love, Olivia

Aaaaaaand I’m back with the next segment of this event, covering my wip A Noble Loyalty!

This month has flown by and the need to post this before December snuck up on me! I have had my nose buried in this book I suppose!

How’s the writing going overall?

I’m going over one of the final rounds of self editing after receiving it back from my editor. Which… that process has been much slower than I anticipated. I want it to be the best it can be but I also may be overthinking certain things too, eh heh heh…

What’s been the most fun aspect of writing this novel so far?

Oh man… there’s been several!! I love the world building and my characters so much!!! I love my beta readers, they’ve been the absolute best cheerleaders, like… seriously the BEST!! And it wouldn’t be what it is without them. Formatting details have been fun tooo! And of course the special edition features!! 

What do you think of your characters at this point? Who’s your favorite to write about?

Well, as I mentioned, I adore them(the mc’s I mean, my villain is quite… a stinker)! They’re so vivid in my mind, I feel like I don’t do them or the setting justice when writing it out a lot of the time haha 

Hmm. It’s funny because at first I really liked my MMC so much more but as I’ve really gotten into writing my FMC, I’m afraid she outshines him(“afraid” in that I hope my readers don’t think he’s bland…). It is a bit more about her arc in a lot of ways… but I really love my MMC so much, I loved how she throws him off from his pov when he’s usually so self-assured and that she doesn’t see him as awkward as he feels in certain moments.

Has your novel surprised you in any way?

Oh yes! I’m a plantser so while I may have certain scenes in mind, and/or point A to point B’s, getting there can meander in ways I had no idea they would! Honestly one of the most fun and frustrating parts of my writing hahaha Certain themes and friendships have cropped up that have really become foundational!

Have you come across any problem areas?

I… would say my biggest problem has been estimating my timeline. Or underestimating to be specific, ha! Certain aspects have taken so much longer than I anticipated… and that’s not all bad. But. Having an ever-nearing deadline and feeling behind isn’t great… 

What’s been your biggest victory with writing this novel at this point?

Completing the stages it has so far! And that I was able to purchase formatting software, which has been amazing! Probably in general though, is the learning process this has been! I’m so proud of and thankful for the Cornerstone authors!!

If you were transported into your novel and became any one of the characters, which one do you think you’d be? Would you take any different actions than they have?

Ooo… well. There’s probably a little bit of me in each of my MC’s actually… really thinking about it though, I’d probably most likely be Felina, my MMC’s sister.
She is actually much more extroverted and comfortable with public speaking than myself but still. 

Give us the first sentence or paragraph then 2 (or 3!) more favorite snippets!

Opening of Chapter One
“Angry flames lit the night sky as Alba Campos watched in horror as her family’s wool mill burned. The bucket of water she had hauled from the nearby well dropped from her grip, useless against the raging inferno. Chaos and smoke surrounded her—the bleating of sheep and other terrified livestock all amid her family’s shouting after the riders that had thrown torches and profanities before they disappeared into the darkness.”

Snippet One—my FMC Bee Durand
“Bee left her horse at the smithy’s stable so she could meander the market in what was sure to be tighter space. She unwrapped her shawl from where she had tucked it in her belt earlier and draped it around her shoulders as the wind picked up. 
It had been the perfect early fall morning–pleasant but with enough bite to tell you the colder weather was making itself known. Vendors called their wares as Bee slowly made her way, the breeze making hanging trinkets jingle together and fluttering scarves into a rainbow of color along the street. She was foolish to have skipped breakfast as the smell of candied castenya wafted in the air. If she wasn’t rationing what money she had, the treat would’ve been her first stop.”

Snippet Two—my MMC Elias Reyes
“Elias stood in the corridor, not wanting to join the banquet yet, or even at all. 
Family portraits lined the walls, and he stared at a likeness of his brother as he tugged at a collar that was much too tight and itched. Lee had loved dressing regally, dancing, schmoozing—everything these events entailed, but Elias would rather be anywhere else. Preferably with a book or pen in hand. 
He was to serve the public as a knight, yes, but that didn’t mean he enjoyed being in public like this. He was well aware of his and his brother’s differences, most of which having to do with wishing he was more like him. Adventurous, brave, confident, well-spoken… all of these seemed to always make up for his foolhardy stubbornness, carelessness for the things his parents upheld, and last but not least, disappearance…
Elias sighed as the first notes of the orchestra began to play. He tried to shift his thoughts. 
It was Felina’s birthday, she deserved a happy one without a scowling, obviously uncomfortable younger brother lurking about. She had been feeling so much better and, in hopes it lasted longer this time, their mother planned the party in record time. 
Elias slipped through the doorway to the banquet hall, seeing that his father and sister had opened the dancing, and grimaced knowing he was to escort their mother within just a few stanzas. He wove his way between guests toward her, at whose side he was supposed to have been at several minutes ago. Her posture shifted and she gave him the slightest look of relief and a hint of reproach, which he knew he deserved, before her usual soft smile graced her face once again. Coming along beside her, Elias offered his arm and walked her to the dance floor. 
They went through the first motions, and he had just finished a bit of footwork that would bring him from facing his mother to her side, when he stumbled—having glimpsing a face, those hazel eyes, that he least expected to see.” 

Share an interesting tidbit about the writing process so far! (For example: Have you made any hilarious typos? Derailed from your outline? Killed off a character? Changed projects entirely? Anything you want to share!)

There haven’t been hardly any such exciting moments like those examples actually… I mean there have been plot and theme changes but nothing so dramatic. I did add more interesting creatures/folklore than I had originally intended and those additions have made me so happy!

Take us on a tour of what a normal writing day for this novel looks like. Where do you write? What time of day? Alone or with others? Is a lot of coffee (or some other drink) consumed? Do you light candles? Play music? Get distracted by social media (*cough, cough*)? Tell all!

After lunch and while my kids have their own activities for a little bit and then after supper and family time in the evenings for an hour or so, I sit at our dining table with the beverage of the day(mostly coffee, but sometimes herbal tea) for the former and maybe some ice cream for the latter, and boot up my laptop. I don’t know about anyone else but I have sooooo many tabs open (I was very glad to learn that you can now organize and bunch tabs into groups!!).
Pandora is my favorite music streaming app so that’s one of the first things I bring up. I listen to a variety of music depending on what I’m doing. For writing I like soundtracks, How To Train Your Dragon and Sense & Sensibility, but AudioMachine and PianoGuys are awesome too! For editing I don’t make a point of lyriclessness so it could be country, pop… I’m really enjoying 90’s music right now.
I do get distracted by Pinterest and Canva and my writing groups quite a bit (hides face behind hands). I do very much enjoy the accountability and encouragement of writing with others but sometimes it can be distracting too so it just depends.
After bedtime routine, when my kids are asleep, is when I get the most done though! I’ve always been a night owl. I’m trying to do better about prioritizing sleep but… it is harder when I am more naturally inclined and enjoy staying up haha

This month has gone by far too quickly!!

I feel like I’ve saying things like that a lot lately… I don’t want it to blur all together but sometimes it’s like life is such a whirlwind. Especially since the holidays are starting.
Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because even the name is like an intentional thing. Giving thanks. And there is so much to be thankful for!
I appreciate you joining me in reading this post and I hope you had a blessed holiday! 

With love, Olivia

Behind the scenes — A Noble Loyalty

I’m so excited to be a part of Christine Smith’s Know The Novel! 

A Noble Loyalty is retelling of the fairytale A Wounded Lion, a medieval non-magical Christian fantasy, part of a multi author series. 
In my version, there isn’t technically a ruling family, but more of a business empire. So think medieval mobsters

What makes The Cornerstone Series unique is that the focus is on who would be considered side characters of the original story. 

January 7th is the release date and it’s hard to wrap my head around how quickly it is already approaching!

So, let’s dive in!

What first sparked the idea for this novel?

There was a list of possible fairytales to choose from and after going over several of them I kept coming back to this one! 

Share a blurb (or just an overall summary)!

I actually am very glad(not… relieved at all, ha!) to have finalized the blurb and you can find that here! 

The short version–

My lonely female main character asks no questions of her scheming father and does as he says, until she begins to pay closer attention.

My steadfast Knight male main character is trying to uphold justice and gain intelligence while crime escalates and a sickness spreads. 

They both want answers but only questions seem to be surfacing.

Where does the story take place? What are some of your favorite aspects of the setting?

A continent called Aurae Terra, in the country of Ventosis. 

Imagining this world was so much fun!

There are two suns and a central moon with six of its own little moons orbiting around it. As well as flora and fauna all its own.

The original story is set in Spain, and I did take inspiration from the landscape, architecture, folktales, and language.

It was amazing to research! But also a little intimidating, because there is such rich history and culture and… I’ve never been to Spain and am not fluent in Spanish–I can only hope it is read in the spirit it is intended!   

Tell us about your protagonist(s)

Bellinda “Bee” Durand is the daughter of who would be the “giant” in the original tale (hehe I did think it was punny that he be “a business giant” for my story) and is an extrovert, curious, stubborn, and gets excited easily even though her father has done his best to curb her general enthusiasm. She loves horses and dancing. She longs for real connections when most of her life she feels she can’t have them, or that if she tries they’re dead ends. She misses her mother, who passed away when Bee was twelve, and just wishes she had a true home again.

Elias Reyes is the younger son of the “king and queen” (their last name means king, royalty hehehe) who loves to learn, feeling part of something that makes a difference(his occupation encompasses both points and it suits him perfectly), and his family. He enjoys putting together the puzzle pieces of investigations but doesn’t like when there seems to be more puzzle than actual pieces. Oh, but don’t let me forget to mention how much he enjoys food! Breakfast is his favorite meal.

Who (or what) is the antagonist?

In some ways, Bee is to herself, but mainly it is her father.
In the beginning, they don’t know who is behind the crime that has reared its ugly head.

What excites you the most about this novella?

That’s such a hard question–I am in love with this story and world! And learning this whole process as an indie author. The Cornerstone Series ladies have been amazing to work alongside! 

Is this going to be a series? standalone? something else?

As mentioned, it’s part of a multi author series, yet also can be read as a standalone. 

I may or may not have ideas for a sequel… -sheepish grin- But I hate to give a definitive on that because it sounds like I’m making a promise… One I would love to keep! So I suppose we’ll see!

Are you plotting? Pantsing? Plansting?

I believe I am a planster? I typically have major events and end results in mind for stories, and sort of bullet points as I go along of for scenes, but filling everything in happens as I write.  

Name a few unique elements in this story.

Of so many amazing aspects of this story that I love, the Educacias is definitely in my top five!
It’s a school, place to receive civil and ministerial services, library, and home to an intelligent bear species called the Ursen. They are basically cuddly, sassy librarians.  

Share some fun “extras” of the story (a song or full playlist, some aesthetics, a collage, a Pinterest board, a map you’ve made, a special theme you’re going to incorporate, ANYTHING you want to share!).

You can find more aesthetics here. You’ll see much of the Spanish inspiration in landscape and architecture I kept in mind as I wrote!

Several of us in the series will have special edition hardbacks and it has been amazing to plan for! I finished the map recently, and though it will be in all formats, other illustrations are in the works that I want to share so badly! But, as most of them will be in exclusively in the SE, I’m bound to wait.
There will also be a bonus scene and short story. 

A song that recurred in my head as I wrote was Dare You to Move by Switchfoot.
Background vibe is Audiomachine tracks, specifically Convergence, but also this playlist .

Thank you so much for hanging out with me and any interest in A Noble Loyalty!

My Instagram has specific posts featuring my WIP, but I of course will continue updates here, so stay tuned!

With love, Olivia