Interview: Lisa Norato

Today I have the pleasure of welcoming Lisa Norato (Prize of My Heart) to visit with us! :D

Tell us a little about yourself:

I come from a close Italian family, enjoy good food, discovering delicious and healthy vegan recipes, and love to be entertained by tv and books. I’m a native New Englander and currently live in a historical village with homes and churches dating as far back as the eighteenth century. I write Christian seafaring romance of suspense and adventure set during the federal era and also have a day-job as a legal assistant specializing in corporate law.

What inspired you to start writing?

It wasn’t until I was “forced” to try my hand at creative writing while in college that I discovered the joy in it. Still, the concept of writing an entire novel seemed terrifying, and it wasn’t until years later that I felt a nudging from the Lord to give it a try. That was the beginning of Prize of My Heart, which has gone through years of evolving and rewrites to become the book it is today.

Well, I for one am glad you were "forced" to start writing and that you eventually embraced it! :D

What is your favorite book/author (and why)?

As a young adult and animal lover, two books became and have remained special favorites – My Friend Flicka by Mary O’Hara and One Hundred and One Dalmatians by Dodie Smith. Cruella de Vil is one of the greatest villains ever written. The entire concept and plot is incredibly creative; no wonder it’s a classic.  Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier is another favorite for its suspense, romance and spookiness.

How does your faith influence your writing?

I write characters from the point of view of a Christian struggling to hold fast to their faith in a world where life is full of ups and downs, trials and joys.  Early Americans came to this country seeking religious freedom; God was close to their hearts and a part of everyday life.

That's a very neat perspective, Lisa! Thank you for sharing.

Who was your favorite character to develop/write about in Prize of My Heart?

The hero, Captain Brogan Talvis, because he goes through the greatest journey of all the characters, emotionally and spiritually.  I also enjoyed the challenge of writing his journey on the seas as a captain taking command of a new ship.

He was probably my favorite!! I really enjoyed watching his character grow. And I LOVED all the parts on-board! You did a great job with researching- everything was vivid. :)

What is one of your favorite quotes from Prize of My Heart?

In the words of the heroine, Lorena Huntley: “ ‘Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord pondereth the hearts.’ No matter how hard we might try, sometimes the right path eludes us. But if our hearts are turned toward God, He will make that way clear.”

Wise words- and very true! :)

Tell us a little about your current writing project:

I have just released a second book set in Duxbury, Massachusetts, called The Promise Keeper. In it, danger reunites a sea captain’s daughter with her childhood protector—who is now a reclusive lighthouse keeper on an island across the bay. I’m currently working on a Christmas novella that takes place simultaneously with The Promise Keeper. It is about horsewoman Tuppence Hart, who must help her grandmother bake a fruitcake for the wedding of the man she secretly loves. Unfortunately, he regards her as no more than a dear friend.  I also have an idea for the story of shipwright Lud Webster, another character from The Promise Keeper, with a mystery and suspense story of his own. I am calling the book series Sea Heroes of Duxbury.

I am really looking forward to reading The Promise Keeper!! A Christmas novella sounds charming! :D I will definitely be keeping my eyes open for all your future releases. 

Are there any specific things/surroundings you like to have while writing?

I buy these little message cards at my local Christian book store and surround myself with them as I write—on my laptop, on my desk and pinup board. They quote scripture and say things like, “Whatever problem I am stuck in is not too big for you!” (God) and “Don’t worry about tomorrow…God is already there!” and “No one fails who does their best for God.”

I can totally relate to that- I LOVE quotes and sayings and having them all over the place! :)

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

The English countryside.

What is your favorite period drama?

Jane Eyre

Tea or coffee?

Coffee

Hehe- me too! ;) (I decided to use the ship latte even though it has the words over top- it just fit. haha.)

What is your favorite season?

Fall – I love the fall in New England!

And, lastly- what is something totally random that most people don't know about you?

In addition to romance and period dramas, I really enjoy horror in tv, film and books. I look for stories without the gore, but with lots of chills and suspense.

Ha! That's funny. I never would have guessed. ;)

Thank you so much for stopping by my blog, Lisa! It’s so nice to have you!

Thank you for having me, Alice! I’ve really enjoyed visiting with you on your delightful blog. Blessings!

I hope you all enjoyed as much as I did getting to visit with Lisa and get to know her some! Be sure to check out her lovely website, and- if you haven't already- make sure you read her books at the earliest opportunity- they're worth it! :D

Sincerely,