• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • Bio
  • Bookshelf
    • Audio
    • Complete List of Chautona’s Books
    • The Rockland Chronicles
      • The Vintage Wren
      • The Aggie Series
      • The Hartfield Mysteries
      • Sight Unseen Series
        • Sight Unseen Series Archives
      • The Agency Files
      • Christmas Fiction
    • Legacy of the Vines
    • Meddlin’ Madeline
      • Madeline Blog Archive
    • Ballads from the Hearth
      • Ballads from the Hearth Blog Archive
    • Legends of the Vengeance
    • Journey of Dreams
    • Wynnewood
    • Webster’s Bakery
    • The Not-So-Fairy Tales
    • Heart of Warwickshire
  • Start HERE
    • Characters
    • Suggested Reading Order
    • Free Books
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Podcast
    • Advertising
    • Podcast Guest Information
    • Podcast Interview FAQ
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • Bonus
  • Speaking
  • New & Coming
Chautona Havig

Chautona Havig

Using story to connect YOU to the Master Storyteller

Why This Author’s Authentic Historical Fiction Is So Well Loved

by Chautona Havig · 2 Comments

Jane Kirkpatrick does it again with a beautiful story of music, justice, and the determination of one girl to preserve history and culture. via @chautonahavig

Beloved Christian historical fiction author, Jane Kirkpatrick, tells the stories of historical women we might otherwise never have known about. Instead of fiction set in historical times and including historical people we all know about, Jane writes about real people whose lives we know little of and fills in gaps history has lost.  It’s fiction, but it’s so much more.

jane kirkpatrick

Note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.

Why This Author’s Authentic Historical Fiction Is So Well-Loved

When author Jane Kirkpatrick decided to write biographies of women who inspired or intrigued her, she didn’t expect to discover so little information about the women. The first book she wanted to write was about a woman who shared quite a few similarities with her. Of course, they were separated by nearly a century. The problem was, most of what she found were only references to being the wife of someone else. That and an obituary. But further search and research finally produced enough information to create a spine for a story she’d have to fill in with how, as Betty Smith put it in A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, “It should have happened.”

With over thirty fiction and nonfiction works, Jane Kirkpatrick offers a look at the strong, resilient women of American history and explores their stories or the stories that might have been. Those rich nuggets of fact woven into the stories gives these novels an authenticity not always found in Christian historical fiction.  Perhaps that’s why I love her books so much.  Even when I don’t like how things happen, it’s because Jane Kirkpatrick didn’t get to orchestrate the whole story.

But we discussed more than just the stories she creates.

We also discussed the issue of who should tell a story. The accusation of cultural appropriation, or even simple “best choice” can leave an author wondering if a story is “theirs to tell.”  Jane and I also explored that idea and agreed that because one person tells a story, doesn’t mean someone else can’t. Better that someone who doesn’t “get” a culture tells the story than it be lost completely.  And how better for someone to learn to appreciate another culture or belief system than to research and write about it? Why not preserve that story to intrigue someone else in the future and see where that person’s research takes it?

Ultimately, Jane Kirkpatrick writes about real people, in real times, and explores the reality that was their lives through the lens of history… and with a fictional pen.  That perfect blending offers so much more than mere facts or imaginative fiction. It blends them both into a beautiful harmony of words, events, and stories.

When not writing or researching, books Jane loves to read include historical fiction by authors such as Susan Meissner and mysteries by authors such as Louise Penny, Alan Bradley (the one she couldn’t remember), and Donna Leone. I enjoyed discovering she reads one of my favorites–Jacqueline Windspear

The Healing of Natalie Curtis by Jane Kirkpatrick

Classically trained pianist and singer Natalie Curtis isolated herself for five years after a breakdown just before she was to debut with the New York Philharmonic. Guilt-ridden and songless, Natalie can’t seem to recapture the joy music once brought her. In 1902, her brother invites her to join him in the West to search for healing. What she finds are songs she’d never before encountered–the haunting melodies, rhythms, and stories of Native Americans.

But their music is under attack. The US government’s Code of Offenses prohibits America’s indigenous people from singing, dancing, or speaking their own languages as the powers that be insist on assimilation. Natalie makes it her mission not only to document these songs before they disappear but to appeal to President Teddy Roosevelt himself, who is the only man with the power to repeal the unjust law. Will she succeed and step into a new song . . . and a new future?

Award-winning author Jane Kirkpatrick weaves yet another lyrical tale based on a true story that will keep readers captivated to the very end.

You can find out more about Jane and find links to her social media on her WEBSITE.

Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

  • Apple 
  • Castbox 
  • Google Play
  • Libsyn 
  • RSS
  • Spotify
  • Stitcher
  • Amazon
  • and more!
Share100
Pin
Tweet
Email
100Shares
Share
Pin
Tweet
Email
100Shares

Related

Filed Under: Because Fiction Podcast

Previous Post: « This Brilliant Author Made Me Love a Beloved Book Even More
Next Post: How Clearing out Junk Helped Me Find Treasure »

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You have to agree to the comment policy.

Or, you can subscribe without commenting.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You have to agree to the comment policy.

Comments

  1. Ava says

    November 7, 2021 at 7:26 pm

    I’ve only read a few of Jane Kirkpatrick’s books (since maybe 20 years ago), but I have enjoyed every one that I have read. She has a unique voice and style and perspective — kinda like you, actually!

    Reply
  2. Cindy Davis says

    November 6, 2021 at 8:38 am

    I have not read anything by her yet…so many good books…good authors…but someday! I do like the sound of how she writes her books, very interesting!

    Reply

Primary Sidebar

The Because Fiction Podcast

The Because Fiction Podcast
The Because Fiction Podcast

Taking the pulse of Christian fiction

Episode 162: A Chat with Author, Nancy Naigle
byChautona Havig

Hey, we’re back after a couple of weeks of vacation, and boy did I need it. And, have I got a fabulous interview for you. Nancy Naigle and I talked about her books, her most recent release, What Remains True as well as her Christmas books and the one I’m most anxious to read, The Shell Collector. Listen in and learn about what Nancy says about this bet she has going on in What Remains True. Great stuff!

Note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.

Need a Great Romantic Read to Wind Up Your Summer Reads?

As I said in the podcast, a while back, someone told me I’d LOVE The Shell Collector–one of those people who recommends books you HAVE to read if they say you do.  So I bought it and it’s been sitting on my shelf ever since. Well, now it’s on my GoodReads shelf, and I’m about to start it (and I optimistically thought I’d be done with it by the time this episode released. Oh, me of too much faith in myself and my time management!)

Author of over thirty books, not to mention a bestselling author who also has movies made of her novels (And The Shell Collector has been optioned! EEEP!), Nancy loves to write Christmas books and small-town stories. Seriously, as we talked, I felt like she was talking about me half the time. We’re so very alike in so many ways. It was fun.

Nancy also pointed out that her first books (if you go WAY back) are not Christian fiction and are a bit spicier than she prefers to write and definitely more than she writes today. So be warned there, but she did assure us that they are all closed-door books.

What Remains True by Nancy Naigle

One woman wants to win a bet. One man wants to become a rodeo champion. One little girl may give them both something even better—from USA Today bestselling author Nancy Naigle.

“A commitment-phobic rodeo star and a divorcée with secrets find love in this wholesome romance. . . . As uplifting as it is sweet.”—Publishers Weekly

Working at a little shop on Main Street in a small town is exactly the break that executive Merry Anna Foster needs following her divorce. She’s made a bet with her ex-husband that she can live on the amount of money she’s giving him in alimony. If she can do it, then Kevin will have to stop complaining and leave her alone. But after three months of this new life, will she even want to leave Antler Creek?

Adam Locklear, bull rider and owner of the local feedstore, is having the best year of his rodeo career. He’s also a bit distracted by the pretty new neighbor living in his old bunkhouse. But Adam has no time for matters of the heart. He’s got his future all mapped out, and that future doesn’t involve a woman just yet. It doesn’t involve parenting a little girl either. However, Carly Fowler still suddenly leaves five-year-old Zan—the daughter Adam didn’t know he had—in his care.

Is it possible that the future holds a life even better than what Merry Anna and Adam had each dreamed of? One that includes both tenderness and even love—not just for each other but for Zan too?

You can learn more about Nancy’s books and movies on her WEBSITE.

Oh, and PSST… I’m loving the audiobook of this one!

Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

  • Apple 
  • Castbox 
  • Google Play
  • Libsyn 
  • RSS
  • Spotify
  • Stitcher
  • Amazon
  • and more!
Episode 162: A Chat with Author, Nancy Naigle
Episode 162: A Chat with Author, Nancy Naigle
August 9, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 161: A Chat with Christian Women's Fiction Robin W. Pearson
July 26, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 160: A Chat with Liz Johnson about The Last Way Home
July 22, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 159: A Chat with Biblical Fiction Author, Mesu Andrews
July 19, 2022
Chautona Havig
A Chat with Historical Christian Fiction Author, Stephanie Landsem
July 12, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 157: A Chat with Historical Christian Fiction Author, Lynn Austin
July 8, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 156: The Fragrance of Violets by Susan K. Beatty
July 5, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 155: Chatting with Heather Day Gilbert & Jen Cudmore
July 1, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 154: A Chat with Romantic Suspense Author, Sami A. Abrams
June 28, 2022
Chautona Havig
Episode 153: A Chat with Historical Author, Tracie Peterson
June 21, 2022
Chautona Havig
Search Results placeholder

Join a Reading Challenge

2022 Write Reading Challenge

Love Audio Books?

audio book ad

Check out the Sparrow Island novels. A tiny island with a lot of heart

independence islands series

Featured Books

Finding a Memory

Finding a Memory
Buy This Book Online
Purchase with Paypal
Buy from Amazon Kindle
Buy from Amazon
Finding a Memory
Buy now!

Penelope’s Pursuit

Penelope’s Pursuit
Buy This Book Online
Buy from Amazon Kindle
Buy from Amazon
Purchase with Paypal
Penelope’s Pursuit
Buy now!

The Last Gasp

The Last Gasp
Buy This Book Online
Purchase with Paypal
Buy from Audible.com
Buy from Amazon
Buy from Amazon Kindle
The Last Gasp
Buy now!

Upcoming Posts

Sorry - nothing planned yet!

Or just subscribe to the newsletter

Recent Blog Posts

  • Need a Great Romantic Read to Wind Up Your Summer Reads?
  • Take a Guess: Did We Skip Our Wedding to Avoid Complete Disaster?
  • What’s Better Than a Great Women’s Fiction Novel on a Summer’s Day?

I buy my stickers here! (affiliate)

Custom Stickers, Die Cut Stickers, Bumper Stickers - Sticker Mule

Footer

What Am I Working On?

Book, Chapter & Vows
Book, Chapter, & Vows
Phase:Week 3
100%
Get Book Updates

Featured

Finding a Memory

Finding a Memory
Buy This Book Online
Purchase with Paypal
Buy from Amazon Kindle
Buy from Amazon
Finding a Memory
Buy now!

Dial W for Wrangler

Dial W for Wrangler

Disclosure:

Disclosure: Links on this website may or may not be affiliate links and as such, I may receive compensation from the retailer indicated for linking to their product. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Note: I DO NOT link to products that I do not recommend.

Privacy & Cookies. This website uses cookies (not the delicious kinds that make life grand) to do stuff it needs to do. By staying on the site, you agree to this evil substitution of yummy cookies for internet calorie-free substitutes. For more info, click here and read the boring stuff. Cookie Policy
Reposted from @revolutionaryfaithseries Hello Read Reposted from @revolutionaryfaithseries Hello Readers!

Summer Book Lover's Day is August 9 and we are taking a whole week to celebrate!

 I want you to have a chance to win 40+ books or a $500 Amazon card to buy a ton of books yourself in Celebrate Lit's Summer Book Lovers Giveaway.

 Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/1f449/summer-book-lover-s-multi-author

 The event and giveaway is going on now through August 13.

#celebratelit #avidreadersofchristianfiction #multiauthorgiveaway
My Book Lover's Day read. I usually read 5 chapter My Book Lover's Day read. I usually read 5 chapters per day,  but I'm going to let myself enjoy 10 today.  And if it puts me close to the ND, maybe I'll go crazy and finish. I blame @lindsayharrelauthor 
#bookloversday 
#ChristFic 
#amreading 
#ReadYourBookshelfChallenge2022
When you take a picture of your dinner to torment When you take a picture of your dinner to torment your daughter. 
#ameating 
#lafiesta
Reposted from @danielleswritingspot The excitement Reposted from @danielleswritingspot The excitement surrounding As Silent as the Night continues to bless me. This incredible endorsement comes from Chautona Havig:⁠
⁠
“Enter 1930’s Chicago where Lucia needs to escape the clutches of a mafia thug and meet Gio, the man who will risk all to find her.⁠
⁠
Add to that heart-stopping moments of a different kind, and you’re left with a beautiful and heart-wrenching romance.”⁠
⁠
⁠
Only five weeks left to pre-order:⁠
https://daniellegrandinetti.com/as-silent-as-the-night/⁠
⁠
⁠📚
#endorsement #assilentasthenight #striketotheheartseries #amreading #christimasromance #sweetromance #romanticsuspense #historicalromance #cleanread #christianfiction⁠
@chautonahavig
Reposted from @lisaphillipsbks Win 40+ books or a Reposted from @lisaphillipsbks Win 40+ books or a $500 Amazon card to buy a ton of books yourself in Celebrate Lit's Summer Book Lovers Giveaway.

Click here to enter: https://promosimple.com/ps/1f449/summer-book-lover-s-multi-author

The event and giveaway is going on now through August 13.

#celebratelit #summerreads #christianromanticsuspense #christianfiction #sweetromance #sweetromancereads  #lisaphillipsbook
Mom got me a storm door for my birthday. It's goi Mom got me a storm door for my birthday.  It's going up today.  Eeep!!!
#TheShediffice
Reposted from @karitrumbo Repost from @maciestjame Reposted from @karitrumbo Repost from @maciestjames
•
It's a new month, which means there's a new Bingo card in the @sweetandswoonyromance promo? Just read eight books and comment on the below post to be eligible to win a $25 gift card. All eight books are FREE!!! Go check them out.

https://www.facebook.com/sweetandswoonyromance/posts/pfbid0uoZyfQCL5qzyMDsaJWnA8zLzfE8eJ2A8uEuLee6yqMmG1g48x1RZzUBEiBVU2yK3l

#newbooks #newbook #bookstagram #22Cowboys #22Cowboysfor1 #booklove #Christmasbooks #CowboyChristmas #CowboyforChristmas #ChristmasCollection #ChristmasCowboys #CowboyKisses #CowboyLove #ChristmasLoveStory #ChristmasRelease #Christmasromance #ChristmasWishes #ChristmasWishesCowboyKisses #holidayromance #MistletoeCowboy #MustLoveCowboys #Mustread #romancereader
  • Home
  • Bookshelf
  • New & Coming
  • Blog
  • News!
  • Disclosure & Policies
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2022 · Chautona Havig · All Rights Reserved · Coding by Gretchen Louise

Don't go before you grab your FREE short story collection!