The Wounded Trilogy...

Recently, I came across a very intriguing YA trilogy, and its equally intriguing author, Lynn Dove. I'm going to share a bit about the books, here, and then a brief interview with Lynn. And while I haven't had a chance to read these books, yet, I am very much looking forward to them. They are on my "to be read" shelf, and I will post reviews when I finish. 

But since summertime is book-reading time for so many (especially vacationers), I wanted to give a shout out for Lynn and her books, right now. Because young people have a very special place in my heart, and she has hit on some of the most timely and relevant issues they face, in a well-written, gripping story that I feel will appeal to young people and adults, alike. So, first, here's a bit about the books…

Shoot the Wounded 

First book in the Wounded Trilogy

Written for youth and young adults, addresses how lies and gossip destroy a person’s spirit. It speaks to the heart of relevant themes such as bullying, teen pregnancy and family violence all the while pointing the characters and ultimately the reader, to hope in Jesus Christ.

Heal the Wounded 

the much-anticipated sequel to Shoot the Wounded.

Delves deep into the real world of teenagers trying to live out their faith in the midst of upset and struggle. Will these youth find God’s healing and hope in the middle of hurt and heartache? Brilliantly written, poignantly told, readers will not be disappointed with the powerful message.

Love the Wounded

The dramatic conclusion to the Wounded Trilogy.

For readers who have come to know and love, Jake, Leigh, Mike, Tim and Dylan, their poignant story concludes with each character fighting to hold onto his faith while trying to answer the age-old question: "Why do bad things happen to good people?"

And now, let's hear from Lynn, herself…

Hi, Lynn… welcome to my book club, it's a real honor to have you here.

Thanks, Lilly, it's good to be here.

I was wondering if you could tell us a bit about the story behind  the Wounded Trilogy, and how it came to be written.

I've always loved writing, but my debut novel, Shoot the Wounded, actually started out as a short story. But a hundred pages later, I realized I couldn’t call it a “short story” any longer.  Then it sat for ten years taking up valuable computer memory space until one day as I was deleting files I came across the story again.  It was my husband who encouraged me to finish it. For the characters, I drew mostly  on my experience working with teenagers as a high school teacher, and as a youth leader. 

While my biggest fan is still my husband, Charles, I now have a hugely supportive family that has grown to include extended family and friends. I'm also deeply grateful for my church, that hosts my book launches, and prays for me on a regular basis. They realize that this is a ministry for me, and have bought my books and sent them all around the world!  I feel more than blessed to have such people in my life.

That sounds wonderful, and it certainly looks as if there has been a divine hand involved to have everything come together so beautifully for you. Now that the trilogy is complete, do you have any other books planned? And what have you learned along your writer's journey that has been most helpful to you?

I have a few projects I am working on. A devotional, some articles set to be published in compilation book works, and I am also working on an autobiographical account of my journey with breast cancer, called, “Life Lived.”  As for my writer's journey, I had no idea when I embarked on this writing adventure that there would be so much work involved in promoting myself and my work.  

It takes a lot of time, effort, and purposeful networking. But I have learned so much from those who have been in the industry a long time, and been blessed with incredible mentors along the way. I've learned the importance of building online relationships with other authors and industry professionals, and the value of reading and reviewing books that showcase new and “seasoned” authors, too.  

All of which seems to be working fantastic for you, Lynn, and I will look forward to seeing where you go from here. Meanwhile, many blessings on the Wounded Trilogy… I know I'm going to enjoy reading them, this summer, myself.

Thanks, Lilly.

My pleasure.