Friday, April 5, 2013

Just for the Summer BLOG TOUR - *Author Interview* with Jenna Rutland

Joining me on the blog today is Jenna Rutland, whose debut novel, Just for the Summer, was released this past month by Entangled Publishing's Bliss imprint.

Before we begin, let's get the lowdown on the book, shall we?

Just for the Summer
by Jenna Rutland
Publication Date: March 12th, 2013 by Bliss, an Entangled imprint
Genre: Adult Romance

Dani Sullivan has come to Lake Bliss to write her latest cookbook and take a breather. After the year she’s had, she deserves a summer retreat to reevaluate priorities and make peace with past decisions. But from the moment single dad and sheriff Matt Reagan shows up, she has a hard time convincing herself that a life away from Lake Bliss could beat the life she might have here.

Recently divorced Matt is ready for a new relationship, but he doesn’t want short-term—his son needs permanence, and so does Matt’s heart. Unfortunately, it’s the smart-mouthed and sinfully sexy Ms. Sullivan who catches his eye. But when Matt learns Dani’s secrets, will he still want her to stay? Or will her chance for love last just for the summer?


* * * * * * * * * * * * * 

Welcome to the blog, Jenna!

Before we begin, congratulations on your first published novel! I loved Just for the Summer and I felt that Bliss was the perfect home for it: so full of love and warmth. As my elementary school teacher used to say, it gave me the warm fuzzies.

Thanks so much for having me on your blog today, Christine. I appreciate your good wishes! You made me think about some of these answers—I really enjoyed them.


Can you describe a little bit about your journey towards publishing your first book? Have you been writing all your life or was there a sudden epiphany that you wanted to be an author?

I’d actually never thought about being a writer up until about 15 years ago. Always an avid romance reader, I assumed a writer needed to have a literature degree and live in New York City! After hearing about writers living in my area, I headed to the library to read some how-to books. I read every book and online article I could find. One of the recurrent suggestions was to read enough that you know what you wanted to write. I spent about a year reading tons of romance and finally narrowed it down to contemporary category romance. I then joined a local RWA chapter and began my writing journey.

I love that hearing stories where the passion for reading sparks the creativity needed to become a writer!

For those who haven’t had the opportunity to read Just for the Summer yet, can you give a description of the book in 20 words or less?

Emotional journey of a woman who comes to a small town for a quiet summer and ends up living her dream.


Did you use a lot of real life inspirations to write your plot and characters? I know your job as a medical transcriptionist must have helped to write Dani!

My job did help. Most everyone in my family is in the medical field, and some of my family members are diabetic. I also love to cook so I was happy to find a place for that in Just for the Summer.

I truly appreciated the details. They may seem small issues for other readers, but you really helped immerse me into the book.
Speaking of characters, I adore Sam. What 5 words would Sam use to describe Matt? And to describe Dani?

Sam would say that Matt is awesome, fun, smart, fair, and ticklish.
Sam would say that Dani is pretty, funny, sweet, girlish, and goofy.


Anything you can tell us about what you have in the works? I’m hoping to see more of Lake Bliss because it seems like Rachel and Jack have some interesting stories to tell. *nudge nudge*

Oh, they certainly do. I’m working on Jack’s story with Rachel’s to follow after that. While they each have a happily ever after in their future, they’ll have to go through some struggles to get there!

But of course! That's life, isn't it? =)

Finally, as we wrap up, I’d love to discover a little more about you! Hope you’re game for a quick fire round!

Something interesting about yourself that’s not common knowledge?

My mother taught me how to sew when I was in fifth grade and up until my mid-20s, I sewed all my own clothes. Suits, blouses, bathing suits, robes—you name it, I sewed it! I’d like to get back into it someday.


Favorite book growing up?

Honestly, anything I could get my hands on! I remember my mom driving me to the different libraries in town because I’d read darn near everything that one location had.


Last book you read and loved?

Totally loved fellow Entangled author, Karen Erickson’s, Game for Marriage. It was hot!! My TBR pile is enormous. I’m blessed to be in the company of so many talented Entangled authors that I can’t wait to read more of their books.


Celebrity crush?

I adore Ryan Gosling. Loved him in Crazy Stupid Love.

Hear, hear! Please allow me to break out my collection...

And lastly, if you were to name the recipe book based on your life, what would that title be?

“Sweet and Satisfying”


Perfect.
This has been so much fun! Thank you for taking the time to join me today, Jenna! I’m looking forward to reading more from you in the future!






About the Author: 

Jenna Rutland lives in a small Michigan community with her husband, son and senior cat. Her daughter and son-in-law have recently given Jenna the awesome title of grandmother!

While her days are spent working as a medical transcriptionist, her nights are filled writing contemporary romance--stories of love, laughter and happily ever after. Guess which occupation is more fun?

She is a member of RWA and is active in her local chapter. After several years on the MVRWA board, she now chairs the group's annual fall brainstorming weekend as well as acts as food coordinator for several other events.

Jenna takes pleasure in spending time with her family. She also enjoys reading, gardening and loves the challenge of a new recipe.

Where to purchase & learn more:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes | Books on Board | Goodreads


Intrigued yet? Will you be reading or have you already read Just for the Summer?

all the best, dear readers!


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