Catherine Richmond's "Spring for Susannah"

Title: Spring for Susannah
Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Cover blurb: Hundreds of miles from home, Susannah faces an uncertain future as a mail-order bride on the untamed Dakota prairie.

When her parents die suddenly, and no suitors call, Susannah resigns herself to the only option available: becoming a mail-order bride. Agreeing to marry her pastor's brother, Jesse, Susannah leaves the only home she's ever known for the untamed frontier of the Dakota Territory.

Her new husband is more loving and patient with her than she believes she deserves. Still, there is also a wildness to him that mirrors the wilderness surrounding them. And Susannah finds herself constantly on edge. But Jesse's confidence in her-and his faith in God's perfect plan-slowly begin to chip away at the wall she hides behind.

When she miscarries in the brutal Dakota winter, Susannah's fledgling faith in herself and in God begins to crumble. Still, Jesse's love is unwavering. Just when it seems like winter will never end, Susannah finally sees the first tentative evidence of spring. And with it, the realization that more than the landscape has changed.

She looks to the future with a renewed heart. Yet in her wildest dreams, she couldn't predict all that awaits her.

1) How did this story come to you?
Spring for Susannah was inspired by a song about a mail-order bride meeting her husband for the first time. Researching the history unrolled the story.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I first heard the song in July 1991. Through the years I researched, learned to write, and learned to deal with rejection letters. I entered a contest, hoping for feedback, and received a contract with Thomas Nelson - how amazing is that!

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I was on a rifle team in high school and college. I have a pilot's license. My writing is fueled by Ghiradelli chocolate chips - they come in huge bags from Sam's Club. No, I won't say how many it takes to write a novel!

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
My next book, Through Rushing Water, releases in July. When the mission board sends her to a poverty-stricken Indian agency, Sophia wonders if she can do anything about the tribe's enormous problems. Then she witnesses the most important events of the 19th century.

5) Parting comments?
I love hearing from readers!

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.catherinerichmond.com/, https://www.facebook.com/catherinerichmondfans, and Twitter @WriterCatherine.