#Interview ~ Inspirational romance author Lucie Ulrich

Today, I'm pleased to introduce inspirational romance author, Lucie Ulrich, and chat with her a bit. First, check out the description of her book, Broken Vessels.

Emma Brody’s face was once worthy of the runway. But now it’s ravaged by scars—constant reminders of the life she once lived and the mistakes she once made. Emma has settled into the quiet life of a potter, hoping to mold a new life for herself. Yet she’s still fleeing from all that she lost.

The photograph in Luke Connor’s truck is growing wrinkled and faded. But the memories of his wife and sons are as vivid as ever, and so is the pain he felt after the accident that stole them away. After two years, he is still not fully healed; but with the help of his psychologists and a renewed faith in God, he’s making progress.

After a chance encounter reunites these childhood friends, they begin to move forward together. But in the face of guilt, bitterness, and tragic loss, is friendship alone enough to bring healing?

Buy it on Amazon

Thanks so much for being here, Lucie. We've read your book description, which sounds wonderful. Why don't you sum it up for us in one sentence?

Broken Vessels: a story of faith, family, and forgiveness.

State a random fact about yourself that would surprise your readers.

I hated reading when I was a kid, and didn’t really begin enjoying it until I was in my 30’s.

Probably not something a writer should admit to, but you asked.       

The important thing is you did find the love for reading, right? Okay, aside from writing, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I love to go on photo shoots with my husband. He’s amazing. I’m the point-and-shoot type. I don’t have his confidence or boldness, but I’m coming along. We also enjoy taking road trips (short or long). And of course, we bring the cameras along.

That's fun! I'm definitely not a photographer. So, when you write, do you use a laptop/desktop or write freehand?

The opening chapters of my first attempt at a novel were penned on a large yellow legal pad while I sat under a tree in Holland. I had accompanied my daughter on a dance ministry trip, and decided this was as good a time as any to see if I could come up with a story. For years after that, I went through many legal pads, writing freehand, then transcribing to the family desktop. These days I do everything from my laptop.

Who is your favorite character in your latest release?

Though I love all of the characters in this book (even judgmental, Louise), I’d have to say Mac McCoy is my favorite. He’s the only one who is truly grounded; the wise down-to-earth sage whose advice is sought throughout the story.

It's great when you love every character. I think that comes through to your readers too. Where do you get your inspiration?

All I have to do is open my eyes, and inspiration is staring me in the face. I like to write people stories. Yes, my genre is classified as romance, but I much prefer the family dynamic; taking the hurts and pains of everyday life and weaving the romance throughout.

So, real life stuff, which always makes for good stories. So, since we know you do like to read now...what book is currently on your nightstand?

This question makes me laugh. I have two Kindles sitting on my nightstand at the moment. Need I say more? I came late to the digital world, and download books all the time. I have a tendency to read more than one book at a time, anyway. I just finished Safe Harbor, and I’m currently reading several books by indie authors.

Sounds like you are making up for lost reading time! Do you prefer Twitter or Facebook?

Definitely Facebook (though I don’t have an author page at this time). I’m terrible at the whole twitter thing. I really need to improve in that area.

I can totally relate! What is your favorite vacation spot?

Tough question! My husband and I have traveled through 48 of the 50 states, as well as countries in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. It’s a beautiful world out there. But if I’m simply looking for a few days to wind down and do little else but read and enjoy the salt air, I’d have to say the tiny town of Cedar Key, Florida (population 702).

Sounds lovely! My type of place. Okay, what projects are you currently working on? Would you mind sharing them with us?

I always love talking about my projects. I recently finished a novel titled The Rose Ring. Like Broken Vessels, there is a strong family story woven throughout. It takes place in the small fictitious town of Elk Flats, Montana, and involves, a will that reads like a work of fiction, brothers who haven’t seen one another in fourteen years, and a girl in love with one of the brothers. This one contains loads of family secrets that are slowly revealed throughout the story.

I’m about halfway through another book I’m calling Gray’s Son. This book is different in that I’m telling it through a single point of view; something I’ve never attempted before. Time will tell what my critique partners think of my efforts.

Sounds like you are definitely a busy woman! Thanks so much for taking the time to visit with me today and giving us an opportunity to know you better. I wish you all the best with your continued projects, and I can't wait for Broken Vessels to make it to the top of my TBR pile!

About the author:

Lucie Ulrich hasn’t stopped writing since her first skit was performed on a church stage more than a dozen years ago. An avid reader, she enjoyed sharing her passion for writing and storytelling with her middle and high school drama students. Recently retired from teaching, Lucie looks forward to leisurely hours of writing and research. Born in Montreal, Canada, Lucie now lives in Florida with her husband, Rick and their Jack Russell Terrier, Gracie. She has two grown children.

Want to contact Lucie? You can find her here:

Website

Twitter

Goodreads

Looking to buy Broken Vessels?

Amazon

Vyrso

B&N

ibooks

Google

Thanks everyone for joining us today. I hope you all have a fabulous weekend and happy reading!!

~~ Chantel ~~