Behind the Story: Sam, Joe, and others

We're less than two weeks out from the release date for Faith & Hope. ​You've met the main characters, the sisters, in previous posts. Now, let's bring in a few more. After all, it would be pretty boring to only have two characters in a story, right?

SAM is Faith's husband. He works at a Christian academy in Austin, Texas and helps coach basketball. He also volunteers to help with youth group events. And he loves Faith like crazy--to the point of maybe being a bit overprotective at times.

JOE is probably one of my favorite characters in this book. He's a grown-up boy, one of Faith's best friends, and Hope's co-counselor at camp. He loves working with the first-grade boys. He's also an associate minister at church with a heart for missions. He goes out of his way to be a friend to all. He's the one I think of when I see the picture above. Notice there's no head? I couldn't find one that made me think exactly of him. If I were to cast a movie, maybe the same actor who played Jacob in the Twilight movies?

MARIA is Joe's mama. She, too, works at camp. She's a hugger, an adviser, and a fierce protector when it comes to those she loves. She still has a bit of a Mexican lilt to her speech from when she lived there as a little girl.

CASSIDY is Hope's roommate in Mississippi. She tells it like it is, but is also great to have around when you need someone to commiserate with. And she's always good to share a tub of ice cream.

MAYSIE is Faith's best friend. She's been a listener and prayer warrior for Faith through most of her infertility struggle, and is super excited to be able to plan a baby shower.

HANNAH, aka MOM, is Faith and Hope's mother. She wants the absolute best for her girls, although they don't always approve of her methods of getting there. They both love her, but they also know she's going to push for her way, no matter what.

Any of those characters sound like someone you could relate to or be friends with? I hope so! I can't wait to hear if you love Joe as much as I do, or if you have your own favorite. It won't be long now before you can join them on their journey!