Tonya Ashley became my friend several years ago when we both attended KenTen Writers' Retreat. Sadly, the retreat is no more, but Tonya and I have kept up with each other on Facebook. And last year, she became one of my authors I do content edits for. This newest book of hers, which is absolutely lovely, y'all, I got a sneak peek at long before I discovered I'd get to do the content edits. And she had me hooked back then. I think she'll do the same for you. Be sure to read all the way through as she tells you more.

​Discovering Unexpected Treasure While Balancing Fact and Fiction
The wind rolls in from the river, mussing my hair as I stand on the short dock at the Lee Creek Park boat launch. A tugboat pushes several barges slowly down the Arkansas River. Closing my eyes, I try to imagine a steamboat in place of the tugboat and green grass over the paved parking lot. The task is easier than erasing streetlights and motor vehicles from Main Street.
There’s something about historic Main Street towns that spark my imagination and Van Buren, Arkansas has long been one of my favorites. Its restored Victorian buildings, Old Frisco Depot, King Opera House, and trolley transport me back in time. The past and present are seamlessly woven together in Van Buren’s historical attractions, antique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and more. My favorite hangout, Chapters on Main, offers new and used books alongside deliciously creative espresso drinks. All this, along with the warmth and friendliness of its residents, make it so easy to fall in love with this delightful Main Street town.

I enjoy introducing new authors each and every month, but I'm very excited to share this one with you. I was blessed to be the content editor for her new book, and you're definitely going to want to check it out. In the meantime, settle in to learn a bit more about author Terri Wangard.

Congratulations on your new release. As the content editor, I have to say, I really enjoyed it. What encouraged you to set a WWII novel in Brazil?
I like the unusual. Many WWII books are set in Europe and involve the Gestapo and German cruelty. That was a big part of the war, but there’s so much more.
 
What makes you choose to write about historical times over other genres?
I enjoy history. I have a BA in history (and a Master of Library Science degree). My first book was inspired by letters written by distant relatives in the immediate post-WWII years. My grandparents sent them care packages in Germany. After that, I started a contemporary story, but an editor told me I’d probably need a series to be offered a contract. I had plenty of unused research, so I kept going.