Romance author Jan Drexler continues her Amish Country Brides series with The Amish Nanny’s Sweetheart (Love Inspired Historical). As nanny, Judith Lapp’s finally part of an Amish community. But the more time she spends with Guy Hoover, the more he sparks longings for a home and family of Judith’s own. In this interview, Jan talks to FamilyFiction about the inspiration for the novel, the research she did to get the details right, and the importance of home…
Jan, what inspired the story in The Amish Nanny’s Sweetheart?
This story was inspired by my grandfather’s story. When his mother died in childbirth when he was seven years old, his father placed the two boys and newborn daughter in an orphanage. While he signed the papers for the baby to be adopted, he never gave up his parental rights to my grandfather and his younger brother. The hero of my story is loosely based on my grandfather, both in name and personality.
What was your favorite part in writing this story?
Creating a happy ending for Judith and Guy, the heroine and hero in the story. They both grew up in terrible family situations, but with God’s help, were able to pave a new way for themselves.
What kind of research did you do to get the details right?
I have temporary custody of my grandfather’s diaries. For years, he kept a record of his daily life, and I’m privileged to be transcribing them for the rest of my family to read. He passed away before I was born, but through his diary entries, I’ve grown to know him.
The other research source I use often is my dad. My Love Inspired Amish stories are all set in the time and place where he grew up. So, if I have a question about anything having to do with life then, I only need to pick up the phone!
What do you hope readers come away with after reading The Amish Nanny’s Sweetheart?
The importance of home. All that my characters wanted was a home where they were accepted and loved, and that’s what we all want. I hope that my readers will not only see the blessing they have in their own home here on earth, no matter what form it takes, but also a glimpse of our future, perfect home in heaven.
What are the best things readers can do to support their favorite authors?
Tell your friends! If you have read and enjoyed a book, let others know. Giving a ranking or writing a review on a website like Goodreads or Amazon is valuable, but so is talking about your favorite books wherever you are.
And if you can’t find my books, or other favorite authors’ books in your library, ask the librarian to order them. All libraries are looking for suggestions!
Visit Jan Drexler’s author page here: https://www.familyfiction.com/authors/jan-drexler
The Amish Nanny’s Sweetheart
Amish Country Brides #2
Jan Drexler
Love Inspired Historical