This post comes with an apology to Joanna and my friends at Revell Books. Joanna completed her Reading Habits Q & A last year and I’ve only now discovered it, much to my embarassment.
But it means you still get the delight of learning what a talented author like Joanna enjoys reading, what her TBR stack looked like in the year that was 2020, and have the chance to get your hands on a copy of The Love Note.
Enjoy!
Joanna’s Reading Habits
When is your optimal time to read?
I love curling up on the couch to read when the house is quiet. I’ve dedicated Sunday afternoon, while my kids nap, to total pleasure reading. I sometimes sit in the midst of unfolded laundry and scattered toys, but those breaks are good for my soul.
Are you faithful to a genre, an author, or simply quality writing?
I love a great story! Keep me guessing and I’ll be back for more. Bring me truth in the midst of that story and I’ll be telling all my friends to read it too. I often gravitate toward stories with a mystery element and a historical setting, but some writers have that certain quality in their words and I can’t help but be drawn into the most unlikely of genres.
Which factors most influence your selection of a book?
Authors that have wowed me in the past—I trust them to do it again. I also get a sense of whether or not I’ll like a book by who is talking about it and what they say. I know a lot of book people, and I always listen!
Your fiction pet peeve?
Good stories coming to an end! I hate leaving a fictional world that has sucked me in. Beyond that, stories that aren’t realistic or believable are hard for me to read.
What book have you read this year that you could not put down, and why?
Jamie Jo Wright’s book, The Curse of Misty Wayfair was really good. What kept me reading was a few main characters who were so well drawn that I was drawn into their story. Also, I had questions. So many questions! I had to keep reading to figure out how everything connected.
How do you mark your spot – folded page corner, bookmark, dollar bill, whatever is at hand?
Usually a stray receipt or piece of paper, although I now have a pack of lovely bookmarks to use.
When reading, what makes or breaks a story for you?
If I feel something deeply, and if I’m kept guessing, that’s a book that lingers for a long time. I feel deeply when there are solid characters and when truth comes shining through.
Snack/drink of choice while reading?
I love snacking on dry cereal. Especially something that has cinnamon on it. Odd snack, but I love it!
What book cover has really caught your eye?
Everything by Sara Ella! Especially Unraveling. I could stare at that cover forever.
What book do you wish you had written? Why?
Daphne Du Maurier’s Rebecca. It had me completely enthralled, then totally shocked me. I’d say the same for Wilkie Collins’ Lady in White, too.
What are you reading now?
I’m reading an old Phyllis Whitney mystery called The Trembling Hills. I’ve loved every book this author has released! I’m about to start Rachel McDaniel’s second novel, and I can’t wait.
The Love Note
Focused on a career in medicine and not on romance, Willa Duvall is thrown slightly off course during the summer of 1865 when she discovers a never-opened love letter in a crack of her old writing desk. Compelled to find the passionate soul who penned it and the person who never received it, she takes a job as a nurse at the seaside estate of Crestwicke Manor.
Everyone at Crestwicke has feelings–mostly negative ones–about the man who wrote the letter, but he seems to have disappeared. With plenty of enticing clues but few answers, Willa’s search becomes even more complicated when she misplaces the letter and it passes from person to person in the house, each finding a thrilling or disheartening message in its words.
Laced with mysteries large and small, this romantic Victorian-era tale of love lost, love deferred, and love found is sure to delight.
What do you love most about this story, or the process of writing this story?
This story came about through a very terrible, very frustrating first draft. I had to drag the words out of thin air, and I really didn’t connect with it for a while. Then I sent it to a friend for feedback and spent some time in deep prayer and I realized through both avenues that I had been chasing down the wrong theme. It was like standing up on a chair to view a room entirely differently (which is often how I find misplaced things!) and suddenly the story took on a whole new shape. I broke free from what I was trying to do and let God do what he’d intended from the beginning. I ended up loving this story so much as it took me on many, many surprise turns, and the ending sunk deeply into my heart. I think it may be my favorite!
Share a little about one of your characters – what makes them unique?
Aunt Maisie is one of those people who take off in their own direction when you write them into a story. Her family calls her “Crazy Maisie” but really, she’s just delightfully eccentric for her era. She’s lived long enough to know too much, have too many wild plans, and to be undervalued by those around her. As her mind begins to slip just a little in her age, she starts collecting words and holding onto them for the time when she forgets them. She sees what’s going on in the house and silently influences it, even though most people in the family have written her off. I just can’t help loving this character!
Share a favourite line or paragraph from your book.
Make your heart a deep well of the Almighty by saturating yourself in his presence, and your words will come out drenched in him no matter what you say.
This advice comes from Aunt Maisie, and it continually convicts me as I write and as I live. It takes me back to my knees and keeps my heart focused.
Thank you SO much, Joanna. Sorry you had to wait so long for me to share this feature!
Joanna Davidson Politano is the award-winning author of Lady Jayne Disappears, A Rumored Fortune, and Finding Lady Enderly. When she’s not homeschooling her small children, she spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets. She lives with her husband and their two children in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan and shares stories that move her at www.jdpstories.com.
Relz Reviewz Extras
All Things Politano @ Relz Reviewz
Visit Jo’s Website || Facebook || Goodreads
Buy from Amazon: The Love Note or Koorong
It was fun getting to know Joanna a bit more with your questions, Rel! And sometimes, we have to trust the timing.
I love hand-written notes, and keep well stocked on cards to mail out. Everyone loves mail…especially when it’s not bills. 🤪 Thanks for sharing the interview. Lady Joanna is one of my favorite authors. 🥰📚
Yes, I definitely still give and receive handwritten notes and letters. In fact. I have a collection of note cards and stationery that are much more pleasing to use than electronic communication.
Yes, I do give hand written notes, but rarely receive them.
I don’t do much no writing, only the occasional greeting card. My mom still sends us handwritten notes every once in a while, it’s always fun to receive them.
I would love my very own Aunt Maisie, lol!
I ocassionally do give and receive hand-written notes. I do love them, but sadly it seems like they are becoming a lost art. 🙁
Fun interview. I still enjoy giving cards and getting them. I don’t write letters as much as I used to.
I don’t write hand notes very often but will admit that I love receiving them.
BTW the link to bookbub on the rafflecopter giveaway is not working.
I still love to send notes especially in cards. Would love to read.
I love writing notes and I have a childhood friend who still writes me letters and she looks forward to mine as well.
I still write letters by hand,send cards also.
I do still give and receive hand written notes, cards and letters. I would hate to give them up. They often bring back special memories.
If your lips turn out to be dry from breathing through your mouth, coat them with Vaseline or Aquaphor.
I’d like to add that editors have a tendency to be highly skilled at realizing what “the usual thing” is.
Hi there, this weekend is nice designed for me, for the reason that this point in time i am reading
this great informative article here at my residence.
Hello to the fascinating universe of ‘SPADE
GAMING’, where enthusiasm connects with inventiveness in the most magnificent fashions.
‘SPADE GAMING’ positions itself as a top-tier supplier of engaging recreational escapades
that transport players into realms of limitless prospects.
Established with a concept to reinvent the field, ‘SPADE GAMING’ merges leading-edge technology with artistic narratives to deliver unrivaled recreation merit to multitudes of followers globally.
Uncovering A Intriguing Realm Of Contemporary Online Gaming Alternatives
Welcome to the captivating universe of virtual betting!
Now, multitudes of persons relish the simplicity of
approaching their preferred pastimes from the coziness
of their homes. The fame of onlinr casino destinations has soared in modern times.
When you’re interested in athletic wagering, whirling the wheels of online slots, or savoring classic gambling entertainments, the internet gives limitless choices for recreation and possible gains.
Discovering a dependable destination needs meticulous examination and thought.
This thorough handbook will aid you explore the exciting but at times
complicated environment of digital betting.
Examining A Vital Elements And Advantages Regarding Current Digital Betting Destinations
Present-day virtual gambling platforms deliver an impressive array of activities and
aspects that exceed the experience of traditional
physical venues.
Players can savor stunning graphics, absorbing
acoustic elements, and flawless performance across diverse apparatus.
The facility of accessing these platforms anytime and anywhere has revolutionized the gambling sector.
Additionally, online venues often offer substantial bonuses and fidelity programs that improve the total
benefit for participants. These perks can notably increase your
gaming time and boost your likelihood of winning.
Understanding The Astounding Assortment Concerning Activities Obtainable
Within Top-Rated Onlinr Casino Platforms
The significant merit of virtual gambling venues is the incredible
diversity of games attainable. Contrary to traditional locations, which are confined by space, online platforms can feature thousands of
distinct games.
Well-known categories encompass web-based slots, table pastimes, actual banker
options, and specialty diversions. Each kind delivers numerous
adaptations to suit diverse likes and ability degrees.
Online slots stay the most well-known preference among users, with thousands of games featuring multiple motifs, lines, and unique features.
From standard slot machines to complex animated slots with captivating
narratives, there’s an option for everyone.
Perfecting That Art Plus System Of Onlinr Sports Betting Which Ultimate Results
Game gambling has appeared as a exhilarating aspect of virtual gambling.
Contrary to entertainments of complete chance, athletic staking mixes randomness with knowledge and evaluation.
Triumphant sports punters create approaches based
on comprehensive research and knowledge of the matches they wager on. This involves assessing group results,
participant figures, harm information, and previous
matchups.
Multiple game gambling sites present supplementary features like streaming staking, cashout selections, and extensive statistics to help
wagerers produce educated decisions.
Unlocking A Mysteries Of Triumphant Gambling With Famous Online Slots Pastimes
Web-based slots remain to enthrall multitudes of users globally with their engaging
gameplay and possible for considerable gains.
Understanding machine operations is crucial for maximizing
your satisfaction and feasible returns. Ideas like variation, return-to-player proportions, and paylines influence your activity and triumph chance.
Accumulating winnings represent another exciting facet of online slots.
These winnings increase with each bet settled across a network of machines, sometimes reaching life-changing sums of cash.
Picking The Optimal Wagering Platform For Aligns with The Individual Inclinations
Including Demands
Selecting the proper site for your web-based wagering expectations demands thorough thought of multiple aspects.
Primarily, verify the platform’s accreditation and jurisdictional standing.
Respected web-based gaming operators are certified by reputable
agencies and submit to rigorous guidelines of fair betting.
Besides, evaluate the range of entertainments, quality of programs providers,
attainable payment channels, player help standard, and incentive
schemes.
Reviewing user opinions and expert evaluations can give helpful information into the true dealings of various users.
Often Posed Inquiries Regarding Virtual Gaming Venues Including Strategies
Is Digital Wagering Lawful Throughout An individual’s Nation Plus Area?
Legitimacy changes substantially by location and domain. In advance of engaging in virtual betting, research
the precise rules controlling digital gaming in your place.
Invariably select platforms that are certified to operate in your
territory.
By what method Might A person Guarantee A Confidential
Particulars Stays Protected?
Respected sites utilize cutting-edge protection systems
like scrambling technology, protected deposit channels, and
stringent confidentiality procedures. Search for destinations with encryption certification and straightforward confidentiality procedures.
Which Are A Top Methods For Responsible Gaming?
Prudent gambling encompasses fixing inflexible boundaries,
monitoring your outlay, observing frequent breaks,
escaping chasing setbacks, and spotting symptoms of addictive conduct.
Employ prudent betting options provided by reputable venues.
Comprehensive Directions For Beginning One’s Experience Into Web-based
Wagering
Commencing your voyage in the domain of virtual gaming demands meticulous preparation and knowledge.
Adhere to these measures to confirm a secure and gratifying experience:
Explore the lawfulness of digital gaming in your area.
Establish a limit for your betting undertakings.
Evaluate different platforms based on status, game range, and promotions.
Establish an account with your selected platform.
Authenticate your particulars as needed by the site.
Deposit funds using your chosen deposit method.
Collect any new player rewards available to novice users.
Initiate with straightforward entertainments or gratis variations
to learn the directions.
Incrementally discover distinct entertainments as you
obtain certainty.
Consistently examine your gaming practices and change as essential.
Real Reviews From Pleased Far Eastern Customers That Adored Your Assistance
Subsequently are some opinions from our satisfied clients across the East:
“As a novice to virtual betting, I was originally alarmed. However, the accessible interface and beneficial client assistance produced my encounter delightful. I’ve earned various moments playing digital machines!” – Jun Watanabe, Japan
“I’ve tried numerous onlinr casino venues, but this one surpasses for its broad assortment of match betting selections. The actual wagering feature is remarkably impressive.” – Wei Chen, Singapore
“The promotions provided are genuinely useful, not just promotional tricks. I’ve managed to extend my betting session significantly thanks to their abundant initial bonus.” – Kim
Sang-jin, South Korea
Regarding This Organization Including Pledge For Superiority
Within Digital Gambling
Founded in 2010, our organization has evolved to transform into a premier source of
virtual gaming assistance internationally. Our mission is to present
an unmatched wagering journey uniting cutting-edge platforms with excellent customer service.
This personnel comprises of sector professionals with spans of collective expertise
in gambling procedures, software design, and client assistance.
We focus on protection, honesty, and prudent gaming methods in each aspect we
accomplish.
Authorized by numerous prestigious supervisory bodies, we comply
to the most stringent protocols of performance. Our commitment to quality has secured us many awards and the faith of
throngs of players across the globe.
Benefits And Shortcomings Regarding Selecting Web-based Wagering Over Conventional Methods
Grasping the pros and limitations of web-based wagering helps you
create an educated selection about your betting undertakings.
Benefits:
Simplicity – Play from anyplace at anytime
Bigger pastime selection than brick-and-mortar locations
Better promotions and fidelity schemes
Reduced starting gambles for frugal players
Thorough tracking of your wagering history
Entry to no-cost games selections to train
Improved security matched to brick-and-mortar facilities
Limitations:
Potential for isolation weighed to interactive experience of traditional casinos
More straightforward to waste account of duration and currency consumed
Delayed collection systems with some venues
Concerns about transparency and probability of
entertainments
Varying lawfulness matters depending on jurisdiction
Possibility of discovering fraudulent sites without adequate research
Finally, virtual betting delivers several advantages but necessitates sensible attitude
and meticulous site selection.
When you’re intrigued in onlinr casino entertainments, athletic wagering, or digital machines, creating the effort to
explore and opt for reputable venues will confirm a safer and more delightful encounter for
years to arrive.