Introducing Andrea Boeshaar - Author and Agent

I've known Andrea online as long as we both have been in American Christian Fiction writers, and getting to see her in person at the national conferences is such a pleasure. She a sweet, kind person with a lovely smile and big heart. It's with pleasure that I present her to you. Remember to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Always a Bridesmaid.

Andrea, tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I think there is a little bit of me in all my characters.

I know what you're talking about. How can we not write what we know, and who do we know best? What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I wrote a letter to Laura Bush – because I admire her very much. I think she’s an intelligent and dignified woman and a devoted wife and mother. She’s an incredible role model for American women. I also sent her my novel Broken Things – just for fun. Some of my family members chuckled. But then I received a handwritten letter back from Mrs. Bush in which she thanked me for sending my book and she mentions my two sons who serve in the military. It’s a real letter! I’ll always cherish it. (Guess it wasn’t so quirky after all!)

Sounds wonderful to me. When did you first discover that you were a writer?
I’ve loved to write ever since I was a little girl. Then in 1984 I began writing with the intent to be published. I wanted to be the next Danielle Steele. But God took hold of my heart (and my life) and changed my course in 1991 and I dedicated myself to write for His glory.

I'm glad He did. I love your books. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I enjoy Christian fiction, ranging from the more literary, like Jamie Langston Turner’s novels to category romance, such as Heartsong Presents and Love Inspired books. I also enjoy some of Joyce Meyers’ nonfiction. Also in my bookshelf are books by Bill O’Reilly and Sean Hannity. And then there are all my “how to” writing books!

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

I’m presently writing my 19th novel. I have a list of all my titles on my web site at: http://www.andreaboeshaar.com/

I know those who visit this blog will be glad to go there and check them out. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

It’s not easy!! But whenever things get tough, God draws me to His word. It’s there, in the Bible, where I’m reminded of His many promises and how God gives us that “peace that passes all understanding” when our world spins out of control.

So true. How do you choose your characters’ names?

Various ways. Sometimes I’ll hear the name and it plucks a chord in my creativity. Sometimes I go to my “Character-Naming Sourcebook” (WD Books) and search through the pages until I find one that suits my character.

I know what you mean about a name striking a chord. I have numerous sticky notes on the credenza above my computer with names on them. What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

My three sons. They are handsome, smart, responsible, capable Christian men. They all chose wives whom I adore. I now have three daughters too (and a 4 month old granddaughter). I guess my sons are more blessings (and gifts from God) than accomplishments. Nevertheless, I’m very proud of my family.

How blessed you are! I didn't get my boys until grandsons. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

I don’t know. God made me a human being and I have honestly never had the desire to be an animal.

What is your favorite food?

Cheetos (really bad for me, I know!!!!)

Thank you, Andrea. Readers, she mentioned sending Broken Things to Mrs. Bush. I highly recommend that you read that complete three-book series. They're wonderful.