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You can listen to Jane’s chat about her book Beneath the Bending Sky from when she was on the show in 2022 by following this link.
Jane Kirkpatrick, a New York Times and CBA best-selling author, graced the Historical Bookworm Show with her engaging presence. With over 40 successful books under her belt, including Beneath the Bending Skies and A Sweetness to the Soul, Jane captures the essence of historical fiction, earning prestigious awards such as the Western Heritage Center’s Wrangler Award and the Will Rogers Gold Medallion.
Exploring New Beginnings
Jane recently returned to the Pacific Northwest, settling into familiar surroundings with her husband Jerry, and their dog Rupert. Despite the challenges of being a caregiver and juggling multiple responsibilities, Jane finds solace in her nature walks and mindfulness exercises—practices that ground her amidst life’s complexities.
Roots and Influences
Jane’s career as a writer began during her 17-year tenure at the Warm Springs Indian Reservation in Oregon. Surrounded by the vibrant tapestry of Native American storytelling, she developed a sensitivity to cultural authenticity, an element she weaves into her narratives with respect and precision. Her work aims to foster understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity.
The Joy of Writing: Across the Crying Sands
The interview delved into Jane’s writing process and inspiration for her latest book, Across the Crying Sands. Inspired by the true tale of Mary Edwards Gretzky, the story follows a courageous woman’s journey as the first female mail carrier in rugged Oregon. Jane’s exploration of historical settings serves not just as background but as living, breathing elements that enrich the narrative.
A Testament to Friendship and Faith
A standout in Jane’s storytelling is her connection with readers, exemplified by Susie—a devoted reader who played a pivotal role in Jane’s discovery of Mary’s story. This narrative journey highlights the power of friendship and the serendipitous paths stories take to manifest in a writer’s imagination.
Beyond the Pages
The interview also highlights Jane’s exciting venture into screenwriting, adapting one of her beloved novels into a screenplay. With passion and dedication, Jane continually expands her storytelling capabilities, bringing historical tales to life in fresh, engaging mediums.
Engaging with Jane Kirkpatrick
For readers eager to learn more about Jane and her work, she offers a monthly newsletter, “Story Sparks,” which provides insights into her writing world and upcoming projects. Signing up not only gives readers a peek into her creative process but also enrolls them in a special giveaway in celebration of her new book’s release.
Join Us
Discover more about Jane Kirkpatrick’s literary journey on her blog and social media channels, where she regularly shares updates and reflections. As she writes, her stories remind us of the resilience and courage inherent in people’s lives—a timeless testament to the human spirit.
Connect with Jane on her website, through her newsletter, and on Facebook, Instagram, Goodreads, BookBub, and Amazon.
Bookworm Review
Enthralling and exquisitely crafted, “All My Secrets” by Lynn Austin is Christian Fiction at its finest.
In this rich historical novel, Austin blends the earthy flavor of family secrets long buried, strong notes of Biblical truth, the floral perfume of Gilded Age high society, and sweetens it all with tender themes of love and legacy.
While each member of the multigenerational cast were nuanced and endearing in their own way, the character of Junietta Stanhope was a stand out. Readers who are drawn to matriarchal figures, full of wit and wisdom, will treasure Mimi Juni in their hearts long after her poignant story’s been told.
If you love period dramas, brimming with piping hot tea, you’ll savor every sip of All My Secrets!
~ Angela Bell, author of A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure
THE AUTHOR
For many years, Lynn Austin nurtured a desire to write but frequent travels and the demands of her growing family postponed her career. When her husband’s work took Lynn to Bogota, Colombia, for two years, she used the B.A. she’d earned at Hope College and Southern Connecticut State University to work as a teacher. After returning to the U.S., the Austins moved to Anderson, Indiana, Thunder Bay, Ontario, and later to Winnipeg, Manitoba. It was during the long Canadian winters at home with her children that Lynn made progress on her dream to write, carving out a few hours of writing time each day while her children napped. Lynn credits her early experience of learning to write amid the chaos of family life for her ability to be a productive writer while making sure her family remains her top priority. Along with reading, two of Lynn’s lifelong passions are history and archaeology.
Read more about Lynn at her website. (https://lynnaustin.org/)