Monday, November 10, 2014

Interview with Regency Romance Author Donna Hatch


Author of Historical Romance and Fantasy, award-winning author Donna Hatch is a sought-after speaker and workshop presenter. Her passion for writing began at age 8 she wrote her first short story, and she wrote her first full-length novel during her sophomore year in high school, a fantasy which was later published. In between caring for six children, (7 counting her husband), her day job, her work as a freelance editor and copywriter, and her many volunteer positions, she still makes time to write. After all, writing IS an obsession.  All of her heroes are patterned after her husband of over 20 years, who continues to prove that there really is a happily ever after.

Welcome back to my blog, Donna. This Christmas story is all about the Gift of a Second Chance. Please tell us about your new book, A Christmas Reunion.

Heartbroken at the news that her betrothed has wed another woman, Emily is determined to pick up the pieces of her life and enjoy Christmas with her family. Newly returned from war, Bennett holds a secret and will do anything to ensure Emily, his only true love, never discovers it…even if it means losing her. Fate reunites the star-crossed lovers and reveals the truth that will either unite them or drive them apart forever.

Where did you get your inspiration for this story?

It came in the shower, of course, where most of my ideas decide to appear J  I was relaxed, my mind drifting, mulling over reasons why two people in love might have separated, and what might bring them back together. Then the idea of a Dear Jane letter came to me and the characters and plot formed around it. Originally, the title was The Letter but since my publisher already had a book by that title, we brainstormed and came up with Christmas Reunion, then added the subtitle, the Gift of a Second Chance.

That is a very interesting place to get your inspiration. Haha. What kind of research did you do for this book?

Really, the only thing I needed to research was dates and locations of battles during the Napoleonic War and if any convents would have been nearby—I needed to mention a hospital and a nun. Everything else I’d already learned in my last eight years of research.

You love to write regency romances. What intrigues you most about writing these stories?

I love many things about them but mostly it’s because of the men. In Regency England, duty and honor were everything. If a man said he’d do something, especially if he gave his word, he meant it, and others could count him to follow through, even if it came at a great personal cost.

Men in many historical eras were civilized and treated women with courtesy by standing up when a lady entered the room, doffed their hats, curtailed their language, offered an arm, bowed, and a hundred other little things I wish men still did today. But they were also very athletic; they hunted, raced, fenced, boxed, rode horses. They were manly. Strong. Noble. Resolute. Honorable. I love that about them! And that makes them perfect heroes for both historical fiction and historical romance novels.

That is a very good reason for writing your stories during that era. Where can my readers find you online?

Website is www.donnahatch.com 

Thank you, Donna, for a wonderful interview. I hope my readers will check out your book.

16 comments:

Laurean Brooks said...

I became acquainted (online) with Donna Hatch about 6 years ago. She nows how to weave a story and her ability to come up with gripping plots, amazes me.

I pray God's continued blessing on everything you write, girlfriend.

Shirley said...

I love stories set at Christmas and this regency sounds wonderful.
Thank you Donna and Linda for the interview and the giveaway.

Gayle said...

What a great interview! I've read some of Donna's other books and have added this one to my list. I love her reasons for what she loves at the Regency era! So true!

(Forgot my e-mail last time! bgh@byu.net)

Sonja said...

Thanks for introducing me to this new author, for me, anyways. I love Christmas stories and this one sounds like a winner!

Katherine said...

I love books by Donna Hatch! Great interview! Thanks for the chance to read this book!
Katsaddress@gmail.com

Tiffany said...

I have only read 1 book by Donna Hatch and I must say that I can't wait to read more. I absolutely LOVE Christmastime and stories centered around it. This book sounds awesome and I would love to read it. Thanks for the chance to win!
tiffany(dot)miller711(at)gmail.com

sweet historical author, Donna Hatch said...

Thank you so much for hosting me on your blog, Linda. And thanks so much to those who visited and left comments.

Happy reading!

Unknown said...

Lol I always get inspired in the shower too. xD this book sounds intriguing, I hope I win but good luck to everyone!

Unknown said...

Email: Josy15love@gmail.com

Sarah V said...

This story sounds amazing! What a lovely interview and thanks for the giveaway!

svandey24@aim.com

Cindy D said...

Strong, honorable and noble men make the perfect characters in a Christmas romance. I can't wait to read it.

Anonymous said...

This story sounds so intriguing. I'll have to check it out. I don't have an e-reader.

Donna Hatch, Regency author said...

Thanks to everyone for your kind comments. Giveaway ends tonight. Good luck to everyone!

Mindy Holt said...

I love Donna and her books. My all-time favorite is Queen in Exile.

holtmin at yahoo dot dom

Katie W said...

Haha, I was just talking to my kids about receiving inspiration and said some of my best ideas come to me while in the shower. It's great to know that's how some books are born, too! :)
Katie
lilacqueen75 (at) gmail (dot) com

Linda Weaver Clarke said...

Congratulations to Sarah V. I know you'll enjoy this wonderful Christmas story.