Welcome Charlotte. Tell us a little about yourself. Where and when are you from?
Well, to start, I was born and raised on a farm in Falmouth, Massachusetts. But I’m told my home has long since changed from my timeline in 1776. I believe it’s now a part of Portland, Maine if I’m correct.
How would you describe your family life?
My father is a surveyor in the colonies and owns a family farm where I grew up. Unfortunately, my mother died last year after the first year of the war. With two older siblings and two younger, I suppose I would be considered the middle child. However, I’m hardly the peacemaker of the family. In fact, I tend to bring on more conflict than any of my other siblings. Thankfully, I have an aunt who is not only a Godsend when it comes to taking care of my family and the challenges the war has brought on but has also served as an encouragement to me.
You’re from the colonies, but your story takes place in France. Am I missing something?
No, you’re correct. My older sister’s story takes place more in the colonies, but mine takes a different turn. I’ve been traveling with my sister, Abigail, where we ended up in Paris, France. The city was a stop on our way to London, but I’ve received urgent news from home that has detained me here until I can change things in hopes of bettering my family’s current dilemma.
How do you feel about those challenges you’re currently facing?
I’m not a woman who minds a good challenge or one to give in easily when the matter becomes difficult. Nevertheless, I know people are counting on me to be successful and that creates a lot pressure, especially when it’s not just my own life effected.
Is there anything or anyone you fear while you’re trying to accomplish your goals in Paris?
Yes, actually. Dying before really living my life.
Tell us something about Nicholas. How did you two meet?
You mean that captain of the Royal Navy under King George III? When I first met him, he was a lieutenant and fired cannons upon my town during the onset of the war last year in my sister’s story. Truly, the man is annoyingly upright in every way and follows orders to the exact degree. But since our first run-in, we’ve had plenty of opportunity together, some good, some not. And if you were worried on my part about my town’s destruction, don’t be. I’ve been able to get even in my own way.
Since we’re on the subject of Nicholas, what is your idea of a perfect date?
Let’s just say it occurs at the Seine River in Paris and you wouldn’t believe what happens even if I told you.
Thank you, Charlotte. Before we end our interview, I have one more question for you. If you had one last chance to say something to someone important, what would it be?
(swallow)
I’d tell my mother I miss her dearly and I’m so sorry for what I did.
About A Heart’s Charade
She’d left home to escape the war, only to find herself having to face her past again.
It’s 1776. There might be a war going on back home in the colonies, but Charlotte Thatcher is perfectly fine to stay out of it. While touring Paris, France her aunt sends news from home that leaves little choice but to seek out a French noble’s help or stand by while the war ruins her family. Driven by her aunt’s plea and a chance to fully appreciate Paris’ charm, she grabs at the opportunity. But will she be able to secure a partnership with the very man she has outrightly offended?
Captain Nicholas J. Edwards was born to serve the Royal Navy, at least that’s what his father would say. With a perfect reputation and expectations he’s always managed to live up to, Nicholas has been assigned a secret mission in Paris by the king of England. But when his mission in the French city turns out to be a failure, will there be more to his consequences than just his tarnished record? And what happens when the woman whose been a thorn in his side ends up becoming a rose?
About Jill Ann Mai
As an ongoing student of both literature and the Word of God, it is Jill’s privilege to write fiction set in the past, that she prays, points her readers to the hope found in Christ. Apart from writing, Jill spends most of her time with her amazing husband and two daughters who are full of life in Paducah, KY. She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and having a good conversation over an equally good cup of coffee. A Heart’s Charade is the second book she’s authored behind Love Beyond the Ashes.
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