Interview with Christian Author Ann Miller

Ann Lee Miller earned a BA in creative writing from Ashland (OH) University and writes full-time in Phoenix, but left her heart in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where she grew up. She has four children in their twenties, two daughters-in-law, a grandson, and an almost-son-in-law in June. Over 70,000 copies of her debut novel, Kicking Eternity have been downloaded from Amazon. Her other titles are Avra’s God and The Art of My Life.

It’s always a pleasure to have you on my blog, Ann. You write Christian romances. This novel is perfect for this Easter season. It's about a couple who learns the importance of repentance and forgiveness. The idea behind this story is changing and becoming a better person. Please tell us about your new book.

Tattered Innocence is a tale of passions indulged, denied, and ultimately forgiven. On the verge of bagging the two things he wants most—a sailing charter business and marrying old money—Jake Murray’s fiancée/sole crew member dumps him. Salvation comes in the form of dyslexic, basketball toting Rachel Martin, the only one to apply for the first mate position he slapped on craigslist.

Rapid fire dialogue and romantic tension sail Jake’s biker-chick of a boat through hurricanes, real and figurative. A cast of wannabe sailors, Rachel’s ex, Jake’s ex, a baby—go along for the ride.

Tattered Innocence is for anyone who’s ever waken up sealed in a fifty-gallon drum of their guilt.

This subject is about repentance and beginning your life again. What are you specifically teaching the youth in this book?

The story's message is all about the journey to God's forgiveness. Premarital sex between people who love each other—unlike what movies depict—wreaks havoc and causes immense pain. No one would want to go through this kind of anguish. The light at the end of the tunnel is that God forgives and heals when we seek Him.

Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

The setting on a sailboat comes from part of my childhood when my family lived on a sailboat in Miami, Florida. My Catholic upbringing, not only pointed me toward Jesus when I went looking, but gave me a hearty grasp on the concept of guilt for this story. I think most, if not all, of us have done things we deeply regret. These mistakes cling to us with the tenacity of super-glue and produce life-long shame. I believe the only one able to cleanse us of the shame is Jesus.

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

There is something magical about the first time a person falls in love. As children and teens we dream of meeting that person we can bare our souls to, share sunsets and mountain tops with, hold in our arms. Once we meet him, nothing is ever the same again. I had a sad childhood, but my husband has loved me well for thirty-two years and made up for my rocky beginning. He is my happily ever after. Why would I not want to write about love?

Wow! You are so right. For those interested, you may check out Ann’s website at http://www.annleemiller.com. You may join her at Facebook as well at https://www.facebook.com/AnnLeeMillerAuthor