Sarah Jennings
Inspirational YA Romantic Suspense
Paperback and ebook, 194 pages
November 2014Paperback and ebook, 194 pages
Among a lost line of beautiful, wise queens and a conquered country still clinging to medieval traditions in today's world, can Kellan be convinced that now is her time to act? Why should she? To the entire country, she doesn't even exist. Ever the reluctant leader, Kellan is pressured to use her incredible God-given abilities to bring back the glory of her homeland. To do so, she must fight her own will, overcome fears, and control her temper. It's a lot to ask of a girl hidden under a cloak her whole life.
Interview
What inspired you to write 'The Cloak'?
While I cannot point to just one thing, I am almost certain there was a song involved. Oftentimes, a song will trigger a storyline for me. Blank spots get filled in with my own interests as it progresses, and then it's almost impossible for me to alter it after that! The Cloak blends together some of my favorite things, like Ireland and Celtic music, with a strong, overcoming heroine who learns to trust God in everything.
What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why?
The most fulfilling part for me is when Kellan comes home for the last time. I feel good knowing she is finally going to have the happiness she deserves.
Is anything in your book based on real life experiences or purely all imagination?
I never expected anyone to ask me that, so I'm kind of surprised. To be perfectly honest, after the book was written and I started rereading it as a whole piece, I was a bit taken aback that I had written some of my own life experiences into the thing. Now, I'm not royalty or have super powers, but I have to admit that some of me is in the book.
Is there any particular author or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?
The Bible has always been my light to follow, but I do admit stepping off on rabbit trails occasionally. Thankfully, God always scoots me back onto the correct path. As far as other books, I can point to The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis as a wake up call when I was younger, all of The Hobbit series by J.R.R. Tolkien for making my imagination grow as I did, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen for making reading work and fun at the same time, and believe it or not, Louis L'Amour short westerns for teaching me that a good story doesn't have to be drawn out.
What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment?
The toughest criticism I've had has been against my beliefs. My main character in The Cloak, Kellan, is a Spirit-filled Christian, and while there is one scene in particular where that's obvious I was thrown off by the anger it ignited. It was kind of weird to be accused of saying something you didn't. But that's OK, because my best compliment was from someone who was actually encouraged by the book. As a side note, I've taken some heat for having my supposed name in the book. The thing is, it's not my real name, and I did it as a signal to readers that one day, I hope to throw it down just like my heroine does. But until then, I suppose the Book Name Police will continue to give me tickets for it!
What would YOU like your readers to know about this book or you in general?
It's. Not. My. Name. Ha! Seriously though, I wrote the book to be encouraging, especially for any teens or young adults who feel like they don't belong or doubt their relationship with God. There's so much God has available for us, if we are willing to wait and listen.
Review
The Cloak
by Sarah Jennings tells of a young princess who is faced with her rightful responsibility
after years of hiding. Is it wrong for Princess Kellan to want to be free of
her title and everything that goes with it? But would it be better for both her
and her kingdom if she took up her responsibility, even though there is a good
young king to rule in her place?
The Cloak was
a sweet, read with entertaining characters and a unique twist on the setting. I
enjoyed the happy story of growth and romance. The main characters faced
hardships and struggle, but eventually persevered through them.
Kellan is princess of a small European kingdom
that keeps to the technology and traditions of the Middle Ages while the rest of
the world moved on to the twenty-first century. It is entertaining to see how
she and the other characters interact with the outside world.
Kellan was a very fiery young woman. She has been
trained in many things to prepare her for the throne. Reading about her
decimating large knights in sword-fighting practice was humorous. Kellan was
trained to control her actions, but I was curious to see how far, considering her
fiery temper. It seems realistic that she can control herself well to a certain
extent.
At the beginning, the book seemed almost narrated,
instead of being told from the characters’ perspectives. It read like a fairytale
until a few chapters passed and the reader was able to understand the characters’
thoughts and emotions as though she was the character.
Overall, The
Cloak is a sweet clean romance with some interesting twists and good character
growth.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange
for an honest review.
Giveaway
$25 Amazon Gift Card - Open Internationally
Celtic Prize Pack: Paperback of The Cloak and Celtic Music CDs - US Only
2 Paperbacks of The Cloak - US Only
2 ebooks of The Cloak - Open Internationally
Ends March 22nd
Follow the Tour in March:
2nd: Launch
3rd: My Love for Reading Keeps Growing & I Am A Reader
4th: Mythical Books & Classy Cat Books
5th: Mary Terrani & My Life Loves and Passion
6th: Katie's Clean Book Collection & Zerina Blossom's Books
8th: Welcome to Book City & Christy's Cozy Corners
9th: Letters from Annie (Douglass) Lima & Once Upon a YA Book
10th: Mel's Shelves & Books and Ashes
11th: Addicted Readers & Paranormal Books
12th: Mommabears Book Blog & Pieces of Whimsey
13th: Fictionally
15th: Grand Finale
3rd: My Love for Reading Keeps Growing & I Am A Reader
4th: Mythical Books & Classy Cat Books
5th: Mary Terrani & My Life Loves and Passion
6th: Katie's Clean Book Collection & Zerina Blossom's Books
8th: Welcome to Book City & Christy's Cozy Corners
9th: Letters from Annie (Douglass) Lima & Once Upon a YA Book
10th: Mel's Shelves & Books and Ashes
11th: Addicted Readers & Paranormal Books
12th: Mommabears Book Blog & Pieces of Whimsey
13th: Fictionally
15th: Grand Finale
Thank you, Emily, for being a part of The Cloak book tour and for your very nice review. I appreciate it all greatly.
ReplyDeleteYou are very welcome! Thank you for the opportunity.
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