We're happy to have Mary Ellis with us today talking about her book, Never Far From Home. To learn more about Mary and her book, read on!
1) How did this story come to you?
Since I live in a rural area, I’ve been fascinated with farms for many years. Researching to write Never Far from Home was a real eye-opener for me. Agriculture, even Amish farming, is much more complex than most would assume. Since I have visited Amish families since childhood, I am enjoying writing stories set in the close-knit Christian community of Holmes County, Ohio. Getting to know sheep and horses up-close-and-personal has been a special treat.
1) How did this story come to you?
Since I live in a rural area, I’ve been fascinated with farms for many years. Researching to write Never Far from Home was a real eye-opener for me. Agriculture, even Amish farming, is much more complex than most would assume. Since I have visited Amish families since childhood, I am enjoying writing stories set in the close-knit Christian community of Holmes County, Ohio. Getting to know sheep and horses up-close-and-personal has been a special treat.
2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I spent about eight years writing in several different genres and sending to too many publishing houses to count. Then I tried submitting to agents instead. I found my wonderful agent this way, and she sold my two romantic suspense novels. When I decided to change from ABA to CBA, she found my current publishing house, which is a “perfect fit” for me.
I spent about eight years writing in several different genres and sending to too many publishing houses to count. Then I tried submitting to agents instead. I found my wonderful agent this way, and she sold my two romantic suspense novels. When I decided to change from ABA to CBA, she found my current publishing house, which is a “perfect fit” for me.
3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I used to teach middle school math and algebra, but not English, which might not surprise my editor. My favorite pastime is snorkeling, even though I’ve never lived close to a beach in my life. And I once volunteered at the Cleveland Zoo as a docent snake–handler. I used to wrap (well-fed) boa constrictors around my neck and shoulders during presentations to school groups.
4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m currently finishing the third in the Miller Family series, The Way to a Man’s Heart, which will be released in July. I’m also working on a Christmas novella to be released late next summer.
I used to teach middle school math and algebra, but not English, which might not surprise my editor. My favorite pastime is snorkeling, even though I’ve never lived close to a beach in my life. And I once volunteered at the Cleveland Zoo as a docent snake–handler. I used to wrap (well-fed) boa constrictors around my neck and shoulders during presentations to school groups.
4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m currently finishing the third in the Miller Family series, The Way to a Man’s Heart, which will be released in July. I’m also working on a Christmas novella to be released late next summer.
5) Parting comments?
If there are any discouraged writers who are reading this…don’t give up! Many times I was ready to throw in the towel, but now I’m so glad I didn’t. Have faith.
6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
Readers can find me at http://www.maryeellis.wordpress.com/. I love to hear from fans at maryeellis@yahoo.com.
I would love reading this book.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the fun interview...
Cindi
jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com
I LOVE any kind of Amish book. I would love to see it in real life.. Can't wait to read it
ReplyDeleteohboystrus1@hotmail.com
I enjoy reading Amish stories. Please enter me in the drawing.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Jo
ladijo40(at)aol(dot)com
This book is on my wishlist. I'd love to win a copy.
ReplyDeletepepsi324[at]yahoo[dot]com
I just became an email subscriber of your blog.
ReplyDeleteMary, I love books about the Amish and yours looks wonderful.
Please enter my name in your draw. Thanks.
wandanamgreb(at)gmail(dot)com
I am really enjoying Amish fiction.
ReplyDeletewsmarple/at/gmail/dot/com
Sounds like a great book.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the giveaway.
Trinity Rose
wandaelaine at gmail dot com
Looks like a marvellous book. My favorite genre is Amish fiction.It would be great to try a new author!!
ReplyDeletek_hanns@yahoo.com
Thank you for being kind enough to give away a book. I would love to win it.
ReplyDeleteKaye Whitney
kayewhitney@bellsouth.net
This is one of the many books I want to read. I would love to win a copy. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteLinda Ortiz
strgth4yu@hotmail.com
thanks to everyone who had such kind things to say about Amish fiction. I love writing these stories. I live a bit vicarioulsy through my characters' lives. Thanks, K. Dawn, for a chance to meet your lovely readers. Mary Ellis
ReplyDeleteI would love to win a copy of "Never Far from Home".
ReplyDeleteI loved your interview, but must admit that my fear of snakes had me shuddering at the thought of a boa being wrapped around your neck! I've only recently started reading Amish fiction and would love to give your book a chance!
ReplyDeleteBlessings to you and K. Dawn~
Beverly
bgrider2@cox.net
I appreciated this interview and would love to read Mary's book, as I really enjoy Amish fiction. Thank you for the chance to win a copy.
ReplyDeletecjarvis [at] bellsouth [dot] net
This sounds like a book that I would love! Please count me in. Thanks for the chance.
ReplyDeleteI'm an e-mail subscriber.
nancyecdavis AT bellsouth DOT net
I just wanted to clear up one tiny exaggeration...the boa constrictor was more around my shoulders than my neck. The professional zoo snake-handler explained they never take chances with their volunteers. So not to worry, Beverly. I have one question for you--where was that photo of your & your hubby(?) taken? Gorgeous, wherever it was! Mary Ellis
ReplyDeleteI would love to win this book.
ReplyDeletedancalert at aol dot com