Jennifer Hudson Taylor's "Highland Sanctuary"

Title: Highland Sanctuay
Publisher: Abingdon Press is the publisher

Cover blurb: Caithness, Scotland (1477) Gavin MacKenzie is hired to restore the ancient Castle of Braigh. He discovers a hidden village of outcasts that have created their own private sanctuary from the world. Among them is Serena Boyd, a mysterious and comely lass who captures Gavin’s heart. The villagers have an intriguing secret, while Serena harbors a deadly past that could destroy her future. When a fierce enemy launches an attack against them, greed leads to bitter betrayal. As Gavin prepares a defense, the villagers unite in a bold act of faith, showing how God’s love is more powerful than any human force on earth.

1) How did this story come to you?
I've always loved historical romances set in Scotland. The highlands have always fascinated me and since so many of my ancestors were Scots-Irish, I wanted to write about that setting. When my daughter was born with a seizure disorder and we were surrounded by hospital staff, had access to medications, and support, I began to wonder what it would have been like for a family in 15th century Scotland.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I first pitched it to my editor at the ACFW Minneapolis Conference. I knew she was considering my debut novel at the time and wanted to tell her about the sequel. At that time she wasn’t interested, but after my debut novel came out, she asked if I had any other Scottish historicals. I pitched it again and the second time they made an offer on it. So a “no” isn’t always a permanent “no”.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1) I am a workaholic. I have a full-time job, then I come home and write til late at night.
2) I have become a coffee-holic in the last few years. My husband's family have always been huge coffee drinkers, I guess they finally got to me.
3) My dream is to go to Scotland. Although my books are set in Scotland, I've never been fortunate enough to actually go.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m working on a Quaker historical set in the heart of Piedmont North Carolina in 1858, called A Path of Promise.

5) Parting comments?
No matter what your dreams or goals in life are, never give up, persevere and continue to press through.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.jenniferhudsontaylor.com/
www.facebook.com/jenniferhudsontaylor
www.twitter.com/jt4novels