Wings Like a Dove is the recipient of the 2020 Oregon Christian Writers' Cascade Award for Published Historical Fiction!
What an honor and a blessing. I had no idea what at timely story this would be when I first plotted it out several years ago. But the Lord knew. It's a story for such a time as this, but fear not, it won't take you into heavy topics and leave you there. This award-winning story is also full of love, friendship, courage, and hope.
Find out what readers are saying about Wings Like a Dove at Goodreads or on Amazon.
“The romantic tension sizzles nearly from the beginning, and readers will often find themselves breathless from the sheer delight of it. The message of redemption is conveyed with such poignant elegance that it will linger long after turning the last page.”
-Carrie Townsend, RT Book Reviews, 5 Gold Stars, Top Pick"I had the pleasure of reading this book and it instantly went to the top of my all time favorites list. I won't share much about the plot as it's just way too fun to discover so I'll just say this - I started it at noon and finished it a bit after midnight and somewhere in between HAD to cook dinner and sort of have a life (which was really difficult!) so OH BOY...this book was so fantastic. Absolutely no surprise that it got 5 stars from RT book reviews. It's one that I read on eBook and plan on getting in paperback as well to have on my keeper shelf and to share with friends!"
-Joanne Bischof, Author
The Memoir of Johnny Devine is a dramatic story-within-a-story of a bad boy reformed and a good girl in need of reform. It’s a powerful tale of love, redemption, intrigue, and the miracle of deliberate grace.
The Wood's Edge is full of heart, passion, fresh faith, and fascinating history. I didn't realize when I finally reached for
this book on my list of must-reads that the sequel (A Flight of Arrows) was about to release.
Perfect timing, as the saga of Anna, William, Two Hawks, Lydia, Good Voice,
Major Aubrey and all the others continues to its conclusion. You can
definitely enjoy this story alone, but if you're at all impatient, you have
better have the second book on hand when you finish The Wood’s Edge.
The
first thing I noticed about this book (beside the fact that I was gripped HARD
from page one) was that I didn't "notice" the writing. And that's
good. I had read at least 60 pages before I realized that I hadn't stumbled
over writing issues or flaws, which can be a distraction. It's full of
delightful turns of phrase and evocative description. Reaching, meeting, or
living at the "edge" of things seems to be a motif in this story.
Lori Benton is not only a masterful storyteller, but a master word artist,
which makes for a thoroughly enjoyable and unforgettable read.
Yes, I just downloaded A Flight of Arrows, book 2 in the series, so you won't be seeing me for a while...
My “classic” romantic inspirational drama,
The Memoir of Johnny Devine, released
TODAY and I’m thrilled to report that the paperback version, which was
scheduled to release in a few weeks, is available now as well! This is
definitely a plus for those who love to give the inexpensive but lasting gift
of Story for Christmas.
The Story: A young WWII widow hired to write an exclusive
memoir lands on McCarthy’s hit list and must clear her name while trying not to
fall in love with the born-again, ex-Hollywood heartthrob whose scandalous past
keeps him too busy to notice her. Or does it?
SALE: To celebrate Johnny D's launch, Ashberry
Lane is offering my first two books ridiculously cheap! This week
only (Dec. 1-7), grab your e-copies of Like There's No Tomorrow and Like
a Love Song for only $0.99 each! Find these titles at
your favorite bookstore, but that price won't last long.
Book reviews are already coming in, and it's an indescribable honor to hear how the story is touching hearts. Reviewers
are using phrases like “romantic tension” "grace" and "redemption" about this story.
Here's just one of several great FIVE-Star reviews:
Get Ready to Curl Up
with Johnny's Memoirs
“I pretended to be somebody I wanted to be until finally I
became that person. Or he became me.”-Cary Grant
It's not easy being one of Hollywood's leading men. There's something about
the glare of the spotlight that makes people do things that they never thought
they would - take chances with their life and gamble recklessly with the lives
and emotions of others. All while flashing a white smile on the red carpet.
Johnny Devine had a meteoric rise to stardom, becoming known for two things;
his immeasurable charm, and the number of starlets he wooed. But soon his
acting skills weren't enough to cover the pain he felt and the alcohol forever
lingering on his breath. When Eliza Saunderson takes the job as Johnny's
biographer, she's determined to keep her distance. She doesn't want to add
falling in love with a womanizer who claims he's changed to her list of woes.
The Federal Agent accusing her of being a Russian Communist has given her
enough to worry about. But as she helps (John) tell his tale, she discovers grace,
redemption, and something even deeper.
Camille Eide hasn't simply written a story; she's masterfully unfurled a
glamorous world of Hollywood, intrigue, and love. As you follow the threads of
Johnny and Eliza's stories, you find yourself transported to another time and
another place. Reading Johnny's memoirs is like watching one of your favorite
black and white movies late at night, wrapped in a blanket and eating popcorn.
Comforting, familiar, and simply divine.
What a stunning review!
Find The Memoir of Johnny Devine at these booksellers:
Love can’t rewrite the pages of one’s past, but it can cover a multitude of sins—one page at a time.
The Memoir of Johnny Devine, a Novel, is coming out soon, and I am excited to be sharing this story. While it's a work of fiction, so much of the character's lives, their hopes, fears, hurts, needs, etc are borne of real life and real situations. In fact, nearly everyone who has edited or read the manuscript has declared that this story feels so real, they forget they are reading fiction.
And for that, I'm glad. There are messages of very real hope woven throughout the story.
Sometimes, it's difficult to hear stories of hope, because sometimes, we have to see what hopelessness looked like for the "hero" before we can truly understand and appreciate the hope they've found. In the case of Johnny Devine, not only it is painful to relive things he would much rather forget, he has to share certain things aloud with a woman of good, moral character, making the task even more uncomfortable.
Do you ever hear stories of lives transformed by God? Do you have difficulty hearing the pre-transformation details? When
might the sordid details of past mistakes be helpful to others, and when might they
best be kept private?
While you're thinking about that, let me just report that Romantic Times Book Reviews just published a review of The Memoir of Johnny Devine, and not only did the reviewer give a glowing account, she gave it a 4.5 GOLD star Top Pick rating! (5 stars are never given -- I think those are reserved for once-a-century phenomenons like To Kill A Mockingbird). I didn't realize until this review was published that Gold stars are rarely given. This is about the highest possible rating they give. I'm deeply honored, but even more, I'm excited because this might help put Johnny Devine on more "To Be Read" lists.
Is it on yours? (Go HERE to add it to your Goodreads list)
Also: be sure to PRE-ORDER (the eBook version) and save $1 but only for a limited time. Visit my Website for links.
One last thing: If you're in the Portland/Gresham/Sandy/Boring area, I'll be having a Book Signing and Open House on Dec 19. Copies of all my books will be available. Go here for details.
KUDOS to Nicole at Miller Media Solutions and Ashberry Lane Publishing for this stunning book cover for my upcoming novel! I think it is the perfect blend of of Hollywood glamour, nostalgic mood, intrigue, and romance, don't you?
The Memoir of Johnny Devine is a “classic” love story set
in 1953 at a time when post-war America seeks security in prosperity and conformity. Hollywood’s Golden Age is coming to an end, McCarthy's “Red Scare” reaches new heights
of paranoia, and unrest over civil rights continues to grow. It’s a story for those who enjoy a character-driven, inspirational drama, a strong but chaste
romance, and a touch of intrigue.
This novel was a blast to write and research. In fact, the idea for it came to me in a dream one night at a time when I was in the middle of writing another book. I was so moved by the dream that I set the other book aside and began plotting. Soon, Johnny "Devilishly" Devine was born. (He may possess a few attributes similar to Cary Grant, Clark Gable, and Gregory Peck. Their best ones, of course. :) )
Love can’t rewrite the pages of one’s past,
but it can cover a multitude of sins
---one page at a time.
Rumor had it that Johnny could seduce anything in a skirt quicker than he could hail a cab. But now, the notorious womanizer claims he's born again. Trouble is, everyone knows who he is and what he's done, and they'll never forget---the tabloids have made sure of that.
1953: Eliza Saunderson is a young war widow appalled by societal injustice and inequality. She also resents the notion that modern women are expected to look fashionable, keep house, and play bridge. What if a woman has other aspirations, other skills, other dreams? And then there was the expectation of marriage. Her's hadn't turned out to be the fairy tale her sister promised. Instead, marriage had taught her a painful lesson: Love wasn't worth the constant work of earning and fear of losing it. If what she had could be called love.
Desperation forces Eliza to take a job writing the memoir of the ex-Hollywood heartthrob, Johnny Devine. But to her surprise, she finds herself falling for the humble, grace-filled man John has become. Meanwhile, her passionate articles on racial injustice land her on McCarthy’s hit list and she must clear
her name while trying not to fall in love with a man whose scandalous past keeps him too busy to notice her.
...Or does it?
The Memoir of Johnny Devineis the dramatic story within a story of a bad boy reformed and
a good girl in need of reform. It’s a powerful tale of love, redemption, intrigue,
and the miracle of God’s deliberate grace.
Johnny releases in print and eBook in December, but the eBook isnow available for pre-orderat a Special Price of 3.99 ($1 off) thru release day.
“All of us have loved ones or friends who have hurts, habits, or hang ups they need help with.” ~Brian Bird
CAPTIVE (2015 Paramount Pictures) is the compelling true
story (in 2005) of a single mom taken hostage by a man on the run for murder,
and the events that turned a deadly situation into lives forever changed. Captive
stars Kate Mara (Fantastic Four), David Oyelowo (Selma, The Butler), and Michael
Kenneth Williams. Directed by Jerry Jameson, screenplay by Brian Bird. This film
releases September 18, 2015.
“CAPTIVE, based on a miraculous true story that drew the
attention of the entire nation, is a thrilling drama about the spiritual
collision of two broken lives. When Brian Nichols - on the run as the subject
of a city wide manhunt and desperate to make contact with his newborn son -
takes recovering meth addict Ashley Smith hostage in her own apartment, she
turns for guidance to Rick Warren’s best-selling inspirational book, The
Purpose Driven Life. While reading aloud, Ashley and her would-be killer each
face crossroads where despair and death intersect hope.” (from the official movie website)
Photo Credit: Copyright 2014 Paramount Pictures
The film's screenplay was written by producer/writer Brian
Bird, 30 year Hollywood film and TV veteran. Bird is co-founder and partner
with Michael Landon, Jr. of Believe Pictures, specializing in
life-and-faith-affirming films and television.
I became acquainted with Brian Bird through the television
series “When Calls The Heart” (Hallmark Channel), which he and Landon co-created
and produced. Fans numbering in the tens of thousands (and growing) appreciate the work that these
men are doing and the vision they have for bringing faith-affirming, family
values back to TV and film.
When I saw this trailer for Captive, I was both hooked and disappointed
that I’d have to wait until September 18 (!!!) to see the film. In the meantime, I
asked Brian if he would talk about this remarkable true story and share what he
hopes its telling will accomplish.
CE: Brian, what first
drew you to this story?
BB: I’ve been a member of Saddleback Church for the last 20
years, so I was very familiar with Rick Warren’s book The Purpose Driven Life and I even had an opportunity with 20th
Century Fox to try to get some version of a movie made using the principals in Pastor
Rick’s book. But it was only after the Ashley Smith story happened that Rick
emailed me and suggested that we try to make Ashley’s story into a movie
instead of trying to cook something up that was purely fictional. He was
totally right. After that, it took about seven more years to finally get this
movie made, but God’s timing could not have been more perfect and I am so
grateful. I really believe this is a movie that could have a transformative
effect on the culture, and perhaps even save some lives.
CE: I appreciate that
the real, positive impact on lives, more than entertainment, fame, and fortune,
is at the heart of your work, your goal. One of the taglines from the film is
“When you have God, you have nothing to fear.” At what point in the creation process
did it become apparent that this was a key truth in this story?
BB: That principle could not be any more true, not only in
Ashley’s Smith story, but also in my own. When I started working on the
screenplay for “Captive” I was at a particularly vulnerable point in my life. I
was questioning my career, my future in the Hollywood industry, and my calling
as a writer. Rick Warren called me one day and challenged my doubts. He told me
that there is no such thing as being “uncalled.” There is no such thing as
“un-ringing” that bell. I guess you could say it was a bit of a “come to Jesus”
phone call, and a great encouragement to me to keep pushing forward. The fact
that we have nothing to fear when we’re walking with God is absolutely an
essential truth for all of us. And I am praying that “Captive” will help a lot
of people around the world conquer their fears.
CE: It’s a powerful
story, and yet, even though it’s based on true events, I believe a good storyteller
draws on some kind of personal, core connection to make any story—real or
fiction—come “alive” for others. Was there something in particular about the
story that resonated with you personally?
Photo Credit: Copyright 2014 Paramount Pictures
BB: You’re right, when we are telling or adapting true
stories into books or films, we are not making documentaries. We are making
entertainments. That means we can’t let the truth get in the way of good
storytelling. But in the case of the Ashley Smith and Brian Nichols story, I
did not have to fill in too many gaps. We just chose to be as authentic with
the story as possible. One of the big lessons in the true story, which became
magnified in our film, is that we all need second chances in life. We’re not
all murderers or meth addicts, but we have all made mistakes that we need to be
forgiven for, and for which a second chance in life means everything. Some of
the biggest sinners in history are recorded in the Bible. Moses was a murderer.
David was an adulterer and a murderer. Yet God remembers them as powerful
forces for good in the world. Imagine what the world would be like if there
were no second chances.
CE: We would have no
hope! I thank God every day for second chances. What were some of the
challenges involved in bringing Captive to the screen? What kept you going?
BB: “Captive” is a “widow’s mite” kind of film. When my
colleagues and I first embarked on putting this film together, we had very few
resources to work with. There was no big bank account full of investment money
to fund creation of the script or the plan for this film. We had to step out in
faith with a sense of destiny that we could make this plan come together. But I
think it’s more satisfying that way, because that’s what faith is always about.
Faith is about stepping into the darkness, not knowing what the future holds,
but doing it anyway. Our job is to be obedient. God does the amazing part. Just
like when the children of Israel were trying to cross the Jordan River into the
promised land. They had to wade out into the river at flood stage. The water
didn’t start receding until they were in the middle of the river. That’s the
way God works in our lives sometimes. We do obedience, and he does amazing.
CE: Amen! I found the
storytelling and the acting/writing quality in just the trailer alone to be very
impressive for a faith-based film. Do you anticipate a growing trend in high
quality, faith-affirming TV and film? What can viewers do to help grow this
trend?
BB: Any of us working in storytelling, whether it be writing
novels or making movies, should be absolutely committed to excellence in our
craft. We do the world, God, and ourselves no favors by playing small. When it
comes to our creativity, there should be no such thing as the “good enough
principle.” We were all made the image of the Author of the Universe. We all
have a tiny strand of that author’s DNA in us. That means that every aspect of
creativity that comes out of us should strive for excellence. Our goal should
be to become the Michelangelo of our own gifts and talents, not for our own
glory, but to point to the glory of the One who made us. That’s not to say we
will be perfect in our creative endeavors, but I believe it’s a sin not to
attempt to be the most excellent image-bearers we can be. I will let others
judge whether we accomplish that aspiration with “Captive,” but I sure pray
it’s so. And if they do see the film and believe it worthy of their
recommendation, I pray they will tell everybody and their brother about it very
quickly. The first week’s box office numbers are crucial to determining how
many people will be able to see this film (and Lord-willing, have their lives
changed). If people wait, thinking they will see it in weeks 2 or 3, there may
not be a week 2 or 3. But if week 1 is big, we may be around for weeks 7 and 8!
CE: Thank you for
making that clear. What do you hope viewers will gain from seeing this film?
BB: My hope and prayer for “Captive” is that millions of
people will be exposed to this important story of Second Chances. All of us
have loved ones or friends who have hurts, habits, or hang ups they need help
with. I would like nothing more then to see thousands of our loved ones get
into get into recovery or rehabilitation with ministries like Celebrate
Recovery, the Salvation Army, and Alcoholics Anonymous. It took a killer to
save Ashley Smith’s life because she was a meth addict who was on the brink of
losing everything in life, including her
life. The night Brian Nichols took her hostage a decade ago was the night she
got a clean and sober, and she has been clean and sober ever since. Imagine if
God was able to use this movie to do that same miracle in the lives of tens of thousands
of people. That would be the biggest and most important accomplishment of my
life.
CE: Thank you, Brian, for giving us a glimpse into the story
behind the film, and for sharing your heart in bringing it to screen. I hope
everyone will:
1. GO see this film OPENING DAY
2. SHARE the word with others
3. PRAY for lives to be touched by God in a powerful way
Share on Twitter: MUST SEE: CAPTIVE the MOVIE 9.18.15 starring @KateMara
#DavidOyelowo @Captive #FollowYourPurpose CaptiveTheMovie.com (CLICK TO TWEET)
Bookstore Sighting!
Today, I saw my latest book in a "real" bookstore for the first time (yay!). How fun is that? What's even more fun is that it was rubbing shoulders with some of my wonderful author friends: Leslie Gould, Rebecca DeMarino, and several others with whom I've connected or met.
GLOWING Feedback! Like There's No Tomorrow(2014) and Like A Love Song (2015) have been extremely well received by readers. Reviews are trickling in and are all or nearly all 5 Stars. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, which is phenomenal and humbling!
Like There's No Tomorrow is a Finalist in OCW's Cascade Writing Contest (Published Contemporary). The winner will be announced on August 12. Like a Love Songreceived a Romantic Times 4-1/2 star (the most they give) "Top Pick" review.
One reviewer writes about Like a Love Song: "Very moving story
about love, forgiveness, regret, and redemption. The characters are engaging
and their situations compelling. From the first chapter I didn't want to put
this one down. It was impossible not to root for the characters, cheering with
them through their triumphs, mourning with them through their struggles. The
romance was nothing less than sheer delight! A wonderful sampling of chemistry
and passion, motivated by a growing and genuine love between Joe and Sue. The
moments they shared a kiss produced that welcome warm and gooey feeling
experienced in the best love stories. Yet
without doubt, THE best love story in this tale is the one happening between
the characters and God. The way Eide weaves a portrayal of the Lord's wooing of
Sue and her wounded heart is - as the title implies - like a beautiful love
song. Those who are Christian will be touched as they hear echoes of their own
love story in this tale. Those who don't know Christ may find in these
fictional events a stirring of their own heart by the truth that resonates so
clearly about God's love. This is the third
narrative I've read by Camille Eide (Savanna's Gift and Like There's No
Tomorrow being the other two). This is her best offering yet! If you haven't
read her work consider giving these stories a read. You won't be disappointed." ~M.L.
So readers are liking these stories! This is gratifying, especially when I've felt a distinct call from the Lord to write them.
But...
The problem, in spite of such glowing feedback, is that word of these stories is taking time to spread. My audience is small (and growing, but slowly). My brilliant publisherand I are newer kids to the block and are working hard to gain more visibility, but it's not easy. It takes time and teamwork.
I suspect it may actually take a village.
Would you like to be part of this village?
If you want to help me and my books to gain more visibility, you can like my Facebook Page, write a review on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, share a link to my website with friends, Facebook, Twitter, etc, share your copies of my books with family and friends (& ask them to post a review if they like it), or talk to your library or local bookstore about carrying the book. These are a few ways you can help get my books and my hard-working publisher on the map.
Lastly, The Latest Super Cool Scoop: My third book, The Memoir of Johnny Devine, a Novel,
(cover reveal coming soon!)
releases December 2015 from Ashberry Lane! I am especially excited about this "story-within-a-story" of a bad boy reformed and a good girl in need of reform. It’s a powerful tale of love, redemption, intrigue, and the miracle of deliberate grace.
Eliza, a WWII widow hired to write an exclusive memoir, lands on McCarthy’s hit list and must clear her name while trying not to fall in love with Johnny Devine, the born-again, ex-Hollywood heartthrob whose scandalous past keeps him too busy to notice her. Or does it?
The Memoir of Johnny Devine is a “classic” romance set in 1953 at a time when post-war America seeks
security in prosperity, Hollywood’s Golden Age is coming to an end, the “Red
Scare” reaches new heights of paranoia, and unrest over civil rights continues
to grow. It’s geared toward women (and men) who enjoy a character-driven,
inspirational drama, a strong but chaste love story, and a touch of intrigue.
Mark your calendar! Better yet... sign up for Ashberry Lane's Newsletter to keep up on my new releases and special pre-order price deals.
Like a Love Song, my second novel with Ashberry
Lane Publishing, releases today!
It's
a powerful love story about a
fiercely loyal woman, some cast-off kids, and finding the courage to believe in
a Love that never fails.
Like a Love Songwon the 2011 ACFW Genesis Award in Women's Fiction (as
My Father's House). It's now available online in
ebook and paperback.
For those who are local to the Portland, OR area, I'll be
hosting a Book
Signing eventon May 23 where copies will also be available.
About the Story:
Susan Quinn, a social worker turned
surrogate mom to foster teens, fights to save the group home she’s worked hard
to build. But now, she faces a dwindling staff, foreclosure, and old heartaches
that won't stay buried. Her only hope lies with the last person she’d ever turn
to—a brawny handyman with a guitar, a questionable past, and a God he keeps
calling Father.
“Eide writes great
dialogue that nicely paces the narrative ... bears watching as a storyteller.” —PUBLISHERS
WEEKLY
“Readers will genuinely love these characters and be
heartbroken at what they go through... this emotional book touches on very
tender subjects in a tactful, graceful way that allows readers to understand
what is happening without being overwhelmed by it... Eide is a phenomenal writer
who once again displays her wisdom in the way she tells the story.”
—ROMANTIC TIMES 4½ star Top
Pick
This story is dear to my heart. Thank you for celebrating with me!
Carla Stewart is a masterful novelist with a smooth storyteller's voice whose work I have followed and loved since her first book hit the shelves. No, long before. Carla tells the story HEREof how she and I met beneath the shade of a giant California Redwood years ago and became writing partners and more.
The Heartmaker's Heart by Carla Stewart
The Story (1923, New York): For Nell Marchwold, bliss is seeing the transformation when
someone gets a glimpse in the mirror while wearing one of her creations and
feels beautiful. Nell has always strived to create hats that bring out a
woman’s best qualities. She knows she’s fortunate to have landed a job as an
apprentice designer at the prominent Oscar Fields Millinery in New York City. Yet
when Nell’s fresh designs begin to catch on, her boss holds her back from the
limelight, claiming the stutter she’s had since childhood reflects poorly on
her and his salon.
But it seems Nell’s gift won’t be hidden by Oscar’s efforts.
Soon an up-and-coming fashion designer is seeking her out as a partner of his
1922 collection. The publicity leads to an opportunity for Nell to make hats in
London for a royal wedding. There, she sees her childhood friend, Quentin, and
an unexpected spark kindles between them. But thanks to her success, Oscar is
determined to keep her. As her heart tugs in two directions, Nell must decide
what she is willing to sacrifice for her dream, and what her dream truly is.
==============================
Camille's Review:
The Hatmaker’s Heart sparkles with the dazzling sights and
scents of New York, the glittering nightlife, and the social and cultural
turmoil and excesses of the Roaring Twenties. It’s the story of a young woman
with a flair for designing beautiful hats and a desire to draw out her clients’
confidence while struggling to find her own.
Nell Marchwold is a gracious
young Englishwoman of faith and good character, with a keen milliner’s eye and
exquisite taste in fashion. Her heart burns with the dream of a career at a time
when women were not encouraged in business. She struggles to keep her dream
alive, in spite of repeated opposition, haunting memories, and a stammer that
marks her as an imbecile in the eyes of high society matrons—a stammer she must
learn to master if she is ever to make a name for herself.
But for
Nellie, it’s not about fame. She wants to be known for making plain women feel
beautiful and confident. She has a generous heart, one that quietly whispers to
her of her first love. As her accomplishments and confidence grow, an
opportunity arises for Nell to realize her dream. Success or failure hangs by a
silken thread, a test of her faith, strength, and honor. Will she have the
courage to face the test? Or will her new-found confidence retreat into the
shadows of her traumatic past?
Nell is quiet but has an inner strength
that captured my heart. You’ll root for her as she gathers the nerve to speak
her mind, but perhaps she will find it's her heart that needs to be
heard.
Carla Stewart tells a dazzling story full of vivid detail, and as
always, a fascinating reveal of times gone by. I am looking forward to her next
book in this series!
The Hatmaker's Heart is available at major online booksellers including Amazon.
=======================
The Author (from Carla): In a nutshell: I believe in Jesus, doing the right thing, the power of the written word, and a good cup of coffee. I’m a country girl living now in a mid-sized city with my engineering husband who just happens to be my best friend and biggest fan. We’re the parents of four grown sons who’ve married wonderful girls and given us seven amazing grandchildren. Being a Mimi is far more fun that I ever dreamed.
If you're crazy about “When Calls the Heart” (Hallmark Channel), then you are in for
a treat! We have an exclusive interview with the one of the show’s Executive Producers and Creators, Brian Bird, so read on!
If you have not
seen this captivating family drama/romance, allow me to introduce you to When Calls the Heart, a Hallmark Channel original series based on a book by Janette Oke and now in the
middle of its 12-week season. This show is brimming with talent including Lori
Loughlin, Erin Krakow, Daniel Lissing, and Chelah Horsdal in addition to a large stellar cast.
I’ve been calling it
“Love Comes Softly meets Little House.” Though I usually lean more toward Jane Austen than pioneer era romance, I gladly confess that I absolutely
adore this series. And I’m not alone. WCTH’s audience has grown quickly and continues to grow each week, and
for good reason. It is very well-written, well-cast, and well-acted. Each week,
WCTH delivers heart-tugging drama and a superbly developed, chaste love story without being
shallow or melodramatic. It's subtle yet powerful—the perfect blend. There is so much to love about this series! The best part: it’s an engaging drama
adults can thoroughly enjoy and feel good about watching with their kids. The worst part: waiting an entire week until Saturday. Oh, the
hours . . . And when it’s finally here, if only time would stop . . .
HallmarkChannel.com says:
Photo Credit: Copyright 2013 Crown Media United States, LLC
“When Calls the Heart
tells the captivating story of Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow), a young
teacher accustomed to her high society life, who receives her first classroom
assignment in Coal Valley, a small coalmining town where life is simple, but
often fraught with challenges. Lori Loughlin (Full House) plays Abigail
Stanton, a wife and mother whose husband, the foreman of the mine, along with a
dozen other miners, has just been killed in an explosion. The newly widowed
women find their faith is tested when they must go to work in the mines to keep
a roof over their heads. Elizabeth charms most everyone in Coal Valley, except
Constable Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing) who believes Thatcher’s wealthy father
has doomed the lawman’s career by insisting he be assigned in town to protect
the shipping magnate’s daughter. Living in a 19th century coal town, Elizabeth
will have to learn the ways of the frontier if she wishes to thrive in the
rural west on her own. The series is inspired by Janette Oke’s bestselling book
series about the Canadian West, and reunites Oke with Executive Producer and
Director, Michael Landon, Jr.”
For those who have
not yet seen When Calls The Heart:
Coal Valley is a western town full of endearing folks bound
together by tragedy and facing challenges, joys, threats, loves, losses, and an
uncertain future. At the outset, the town is reeling from the loss of its men
in a coal mine explosion. The widows are doing their best to hold their families
together and summon the faith and courage they need for their children while
grieving their own losses. The women pool their resources to hire a schoolteacher.
Challenged by culture shock but eager to help, Miss Elizabeth Thatcher leaves a life of privilege in the city and
sets out for the rugged west. She may not be the most suited for pioneer life,
nor the most proficient in the kitchen, but she has a tenacious heart of gold and
loves to see children thrive and learn.
Constable Jack
Thornton, newly assigned to Coal Valley, is rattled by Elizabeth Thatcher’s
presence, especially after he realizes the lovely young heiress is the reason
he’s been assigned to this dead-end post. But as a Royal Canadian
Mountie, he will fulfill his duty to serve
and protect, and he takes his job seriously. Elizabeth continues to rattle Jack
in more ways than he would like to admit, while Elizabeth finds the Constable stubborn, over-protective, and irritatingly attractive. Working together in various situations,
they mix about as well as oil and water. Yet in spite of their differences, you can't miss the crackling chemistry between them.
Photo Credit: Copyright 2013 Crown Media United States, LLC
Meanwhile, the women of
Coal Valley continue to deal with one trial after another, like the arrival of
babies without a doctor or a midwife in town. Holding worship services in the
woods since the church burned down. Welcoming the new miners who have taken
their husbands’ jobs by joining them at a town dance. Mysteries, buried secrets,
arson, burglary. Confused children grieving for their fathers the only way they
know how. And yet, through faith in God, forgiveness, and courage, life goes on, especially
if Abigail Stanton has anything to
say about it. She is a strong, independent woman to whom everyone turns for
advice—Coal Valley’s gracious, steadfast voice of wisdom.
Photo Credit: Copyright 2013
Crown Media United States, LLC
As the story progresses, Jack accidentally insults Elizabeth
while trying to protect her from hurt and fumbles to apologize, revealing his deeper
feelings (the one scene in all of DVR history that ranks the highest number of
rewinds and replays. Just a guess.). Elizabeth also struggles with the
confusing direction her feelings have taken and is forced to decide what she
believes to be true about love, faith, and trust. Of course we know there is more in store for Jack, Elizabeth, and the others, but we fans are fully prepared to hang in there and see them through.
Photo Credit: Copyright 2013
Crown Media United States, LLC
We admit it---we are thoroughly hooked. There is so much to love about this series. Like a diamond peeking through the coal dust, it’s been an unexpected treasure, a beautiful example of the faith,
sacrifice, forgiveness, courage, wisdom, and grace we hope to see in ourselves and instill in our
children. The sad paradox is that this show would probably appeal most to people who don’t have cable in their home because of things we don't want our kids to see. I don’t blame you. If viewing the Hallmark Channel is not an option for you, there are other ways to see this series. I’ve included links below for catching up past episodes and also for downloading the entire series online. I am hoping Hallmark will offer the entire series on DVD soon. It’s already at the top of my Christmas list and is something I will enjoy giving away as gifts.
For those who have seen and love the series:
A special treat just for you! Executive Producer and Creator Brian Bird has agreed to an
interview about When Calls the Heart
and you’ll meet him in a moment. But first, I want to introduce Brian by saying
that it was his production journal entry for episode 6 that inspired me to blog
about the series:
"I do miss my family, but
I feel so blessed to be working on this show. And I can’t wait for the audience
to see it. I don’t believe there will be anything like ‘When Calls the Heart’
anywhere else on TV. Yes, this is a family show, but I think we are creating
something very radical. In between shots yesterday, I was asking one of our
crew if they could think of another show on TV right now a whole family could
watch together, and he just scratched his head. I couldn’t come up with an
example either. Think about that. There used to be a time when all the networks
had ‘family hour’ in prime time every night. Now it seems Hallmark Channel is
the only one brave enough to put a show on like this. I pray all the hard work,
ours and theirs, will be rewarded with a large audience. This is a real
opportunity for people across America to make a loud statement that they are
tired of all the vampires, zombies, meth dealers and dead bodies on TV. That
they are ready for themes like redemption, courage, sacrifice, forgiveness and
hope to rule the airwaves once again."
Well said! I think this sums up the reason people are falling in love
with “When Calls The Heart” by the wagonload and want to share it with others!
Photo Credit: Copyright 2013 Crown Media United States, LLC
And now . . . meet “When Calls the Heart” Producer and Creator Brian
Bird!
CE: Brian,
I’m going straight to the most pressing question since fans are fasting in
sackcloth and ashes until we know: Will there be a Season Two?
BB: We know just as much as the fans do about this decision. The truth
is it's up to the fans to make their voices heard with Hallmark and with
spreading the word with their own friends about this show. That's the way hits
are usually born anyway... word of mouth. There are a million choices about
what to watch and a lot of cultural noise out to try to break through. One of
the best ways to break through all the distractions is if our fans are very
noisy themselves about the show. We have made the best show we know how. Now
it's up to the culture and the network to decide if they want more.
CE: We'll make noise! Blitz our neighborhoods with Abigail's delicious scones! Whatever it takes! So are cast
and scripts for Season Two already in the works?
BB: We have plenty of good ideas in the story bank and are ready to
begin developing scripts. In season 1 our initial order was for 6 episodes, so
that's what we developed ahead of time. And then when we were shooting Episode
3, Hallmark let us know that they wanted the rest of the season's worth, so we
jumped into developing those scripts.
CE: If
there will be a Season Two, does this mean Season One will end on a
cliffhanger (NO!)?
BB: Of course we
will have a cliffhanger. In fact, a few of them. It wouldn't be a good season
finale without them, right?
CE: I was afraid of that! Do you
see love on the horizon for Abigail? She’s go giving and self-sacrificing,
we’d love to see her find love again.
BB: You're way
ahead of us, and it could begin by the end of the season... hint-hint, but
there's no spoilers we'll be giving long-term.
CE: If
this isn’t too lengthy to answer: How was Janette Oke’s book adapted into a
series of episodes, and how do the show’s creators decide what subplots to
add to the story in order to give each episode a “complete” feel within
the larger story?
BB: When Michael
and I started out with the first novel in Janette's series, we soon came to
realize that as wonderful as the story of Elizabeth Thatcher in Pine Springs
was, that world probably wouldn't sustain potentially 100 episodes of a TV
series. That's why we decided to add another town and another branch of the
family to the storytelling. And Janette Oke felt it was a brilliant way to
expand the creative palette. In this way, it became a multi-generational world
we could work with.
CE: What a blessing to have such mutual agreement on the collaborative process. How
much of a role has Janette Oke played in the production of WCTH?
BB: Janette has
been very involved with our creative process. She has read every script and
given us notes and ideas along the way. In fact, Janette loved the new world of
the series so much she decided to create a series of When Calls the
Heart-branded novels following Elizabeth and Mountie Jack in Coal Valley. The
first of those novels is now out and is called "Where Courage Calls." A
second one is in the works.
CE What an unexpected bonus! Where
does the writing team look for ideas?
BB: I have been a
writer-producer on half-a-dozen network TV series in my career, and the process
is always the same in the writers' room. We bring our own life experiences to
the table, along with true stories we find out of history (which is very
important to a period drama). For instance, in episode 7, we decided to do a
dyslexia story because one of our writers went through that experience with her
own son, and it seemed like a really fascinating idea to see how we could do
that story in a 1910 setting before there was much science about dyslexia.
CE: Do you
think WCTH brings glory to God? If so, how?
BB: When I was a
writer-producer Touched By An Angel for five seasons, we believed that
"water cooler" conversations were started all over America about the
some of the great lines the Angels spoke to their "assignments" in
the episodes. The angels would quote biblical themes with the people they were
helping such as the idea that God loves us and has plans for our welfare. I
think we have the opportunity to do something similar with When Calls the
Heart, but the goal is just to stir up cravings with the great virtues of
western civilization. The fact that some of those themes come from the bible
can't be disputed. For instance, in Episode 4, when Reverend Anderson tells Mr.
Gowen he's quitting the employ of the company, he says "Where God guides,
God provides." I believe those kinds of moments in the show create a stir
in viewers' hearts without being preachy, and I must have seen 15 Tweets where
people quoted that very line back at us. I think those kinds of moments are
faith-lifting. But it's also just good entertainment because its organic to the
characters and the world we have created.
CE: And it is very well done. The
romance between Elizabeth and Jack is also masterfully done. The timing in
which it develops (so far) has been superb. Any display of caring between them is subtle,
and yet clearly deepens with each episode, regardless of any conflict Jack
and Elizabeth may be engaged in (and there have been several). My question is this: How do you time or stretch out a developing
romance in a series like this so that it is unhurried and yet still satisfying
each week (or at least gives you enough to captivate and bring you back
for more)? Does someone on the writing staff have the task of drawing the romance
thread throughout the series, or do all the writers have equal share in creating
that part of the storyline?
BB: The chaste
romance of Janette Oke's books is one we are committed to, but to be honest,
it's the trickiest part of the story-telling. It's actually very challenging to
get right. So much of the human experience of courtship involves the thrill of
the chase, and we know for the viewers getting Jack and Elizabeth together is
becoming an obsession. However, we have to be careful because once that
happens, we also believe we let some steam out of the premise of the show
a.k.a. "The Moonlighting effect." We don't want it to go too fast,
because once they are together we know some in the audience will be deflated.
Suffice to say, we have a plan, but it will never be as fast as some want, and
it to keep it family and faith-friendly, it can't ever go too far until Jack
and Elizabeth one day exchange wedding rings. Tricky stuff given today's
cultural norms. Keeping track of it all and pacing it correctly has been a bit
of trial and error and I have some very reliable writers who have written lots
of romance-dramas helping me get it right.
CE: I know the challenge this can be in a novel, so I can't imagine how difficult it is to pull off for an entire series! This makes me appreciate Jack and Elizabeth's love story all the more. Fans love
the musical score. Has WCTH considered making it available for purchase/Rhapsody
download?
BB: Right now, the
score is not available for download, but the music for the episodes has been
created by two very talented composers, Emmy-Award-winning Lee Holdridge and
Gemini-award-winning John Sereda. We are discussing the possibility of a
soundtrack album for Season 1 if the show looks like it will continue.
CE: If
Hallmark is still undecided about ordering Season Two, what can fans do to
convince them we must, must, MUST have more WCTH?
BB: The Hallmark
Channel is in business to put family programming on the the air, but it also
has to be able to make money doing it. It's a very simple equation: more
viewers mean better advertising rates; fewer viewers mean lower advertising
rates. And Hallmark is not in the business of losing money. We believe strongly
from the evidence we see on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and other social
media that the audience is loving the show. But people have a thousand channels
and 10,000 choices of programming available every day. It's very challenging to
break through all the noise and distraction of all those choices to get the
word out to our potential fans that this show is worthy of their time. Without
a giant (and expensive) marketing campaign, we are dependent on our loyal fans
to help us spread the word about the show. Hallmark also needs to hear loud and
clearly that they desperately want When Calls the Heart to continue. Even more
so, regardless of whether the show goes one season or 10, family programming in
America is nearing extinction. All the networks used to compete with each other
to program family shows every night. That is no longer the case. In fact, I
can't think of more than a few examples of family programming on all of
television. We are doing something revolutionary, radical. HBO has a branding:
"It's not TV, it's HBO." Well, while the rest of the networks are all
following HBO over the cliff into dark and depraved and cynical programming, we
are standing our ground with something very unique. It's not HBO, it's
Hallmark. And if this kind of programming becomes extinct altogether, we only
have ourselves to blame.
CE: It may be radical, but loyal (aka desperate) fans will do what it takes and believe it can and must be done! Do you
know if the series will be available on DVD, and if so, when? (And can I preorder it
by the pallet?)
BB: The series
will be released on a series of DVDs, the first one available in Christian
bookstores on February 25 and later in all the big-box stores, throughout North
America. Each DVD will contain 2 episodes and a series of extras. The first DVD
contains episode 1 and 2, along with bonus features of deleted scenes and a
very cool three-way conversation between Michael Landon, Janette Oke and me
about the series. If, Lord-willing, the show goes into multiple seasons, it
will probably be also released in full season collections.
CE: Brian,
what was your dream, your goal, your vision when you first decided to
create a series from the original novel? What is at the “heart” of When
Calls the Heart?
BB: It's Michael’s
and my hope that When Calls the Heart can be a show woven through-and-through
with the Great Virtues of Western Civilization. Themes such as integrity,
honesty, courage, forgiveness, redemption, sacrifice and the golden rule. At
the same time we don't want to hit people over the head with the Bible. We
believe mankind is wired for these kinds of stories and our feeling is that the
most effective way to do this show is to weave these themes into the tapestry
because that is the kind of town Coal Valley is. I was talking on the set with
one of our crew members about the great cultural loss of families spending time
together, eating meals together, even watching TVs together, and he asked me
about what families in Coal Valley might have meals together. My answer was
"all of them." Michael and I want for people to fall in love with the
old-fashioned values (and faith) of Coal Valley because it's exactly the kind
of medicine our culture needs right now. The great virtues are an endangered
species on TV right now. We want to be preservationists.
CE: Thank you for following this call and pressing on!! I
understand this series has been nearly eight years in the works, and much
of that time, you weren't even certain Hallmark would take it. What kept
you going, putting in time, effort, and planning without the certainty your
dream would become a reality?
BB: I probably
can't go into all the details about our journey on When Calls the Heart until
the series is finished, but trust me, there's a book I could write about the
experience that some might even view as a thriller. But suffice to say, this
project has been one of perseverance and an attitude of never-give-up,
never-say-die and failure is not an option. We are grateful to God and Hallmark
for the blessing of getting this show on the air.
And so are we! Brian, thank you so much for taking time to share your thoughts about this amazing series, and thank you for pursuing this dream. We wish you and Michael and the rest of your team incredible favor and God's finest blessings on this series and in all that the future holds for you!
Friends: Be sure to watch When Calls the Heart **LIVE** (which helps bring us a Season Two!!) on the Hallmark Channel, Saturdays at 9/8c. You can Tweet live with the cast while you watch using @LoriLoughlin @ErinKrakow @DLissing and #WhenCallstheHeart. And don't forget to SPREAD THE WORD!
Photo Credit: Copyright 2013 Crown Media United States, LLC
Production Blog: Directors
Michael Landon Jr. and Brian Bird share their personal journal entries during filming
that reveal the real “heart” behind When
Calls the Heart
RANDOM FACTS ABOUT ME: I've published five novels and 2 novellas (more about those on my website.) I've been writing all my life, but decided in 2007 to get serious about being published.
I love action movies and Jane Austen. (she’s dead, I know. I found that out when I tried to get her to endorse my novel)
They let me playBass guitar and sing in a worship band.
I can produce 4 dozen homemade cinnamon rolls in a flash for a crowd of drooling young adults. Or publishing house editors.
I used to have a Harley. Now we have seven grandkiddos. Decent trade, really.
I am a proud Grammy. Don't even think about taking candy from my babies.
I hate shopping (Yes, I'm aware that I'm a girl)
MY ROOTS: I've lived in Oregon all my life, spent time in Eugene (Go DUCKS!), Springfield, Reedsport, and Smith River. Which is not really a town, but a river, about 70 miles long, a tributary of the Umpqua River in southwest Oregon.
Although it's not a town, it is a community with a strong sense of pioneer history. It's cool to say you've lived there, especially if you lived there during the days when you had to take a boat to school. No joke! The old farmhouse my grandfather and my mother grew up in still stands, nestled into a narrow, pasture carpeted valley, complete with a swimmin' hole and its own 'crick'. It may turn up in one of my novels.
There's a rumor that my ancestors had a connection with the Mafia back in Sicily. I used to fantasize as a kid about a big black limo with tinted windows pulling up and whisking me away from school. Ahhh. So THAT'S why I'm having so much trouble conjugating my dangling participles now.
NOT RANDOM:I am challenged by the truth and amazed by the grace of God. And it's either in spite of or because of that grace that I hold a PhD in Learning Stuff the Hard Way.
