• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • 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
    • If You Like…
    • Characters
    • Suggested Reading Order
    • Free Books
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Podcast
    • Advertising
    • Podcast Guest Information
    • Podcast Interview FAQ
  • Merch Shop
  • 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

Inspiration for Legacy of the Vines

by Chautona Havig · 21 Comments

Inspiration Legaccy of the Vines(note: links in this post may be affiliate links, and I may receive a commission at no cost to you)

When I was fifteen, we moved out to the middle of the Mojave desert (in Mojave, California, no less) and lived there in an eighteen foot travel trailer–no electricity or running water.  I was in high school.  In the eighties.  You can imagine my chagrin.  We had little to do out there but swelter in the heat, freeze in the cold, and try not to get blown away as the trailer rocked in the harsh desert winds.  But I could read.  My mother and I read hours every day–there was nothing else to do! Well, I hand sewed much of my clothing as well. And at that time, my Aunt Marilyn gave us hundreds of books. There were Harlequin Romances that did little to interest me (I read them–I think.  I know I didn’t like them) and Barbara Cartland Regency novels that were fascinating in their descriptions of the British aristocracy but with characters that I found insipid and annoying.  Then there were dozens of random books that seemed to have no rhyme or reason to them.  I remember Freckles by Gene Stratton-Porter being one of them. I really liked that book.  But one book both annoyed and stuck with me–The Legend of Susan Dane by Ruth Comfort Mitchell.  It hadn’t been that long since I’d had California State History in school–and loved it!

The story was beautiful–really it was.  But the main female character… wait.  Short aside.  As I was typing this up, my brain blipped and I couldn’t remember the name of the main character.  Of the book.  The Legend of Susan Dane.  Yeah.  Genius, I am. Anyway, back to the inspiration.  Yeah.  Oh, right.  The main character, Susan Dane, *snickers at self again* was an annoying character.  I mean, the back of the book synopsis says, “Incredibly beautiful and incredibly innocent, Susan Dane…”  Yeah.  That pretty much sums up her character.  We hear about her stunning beauty and absurd naivete so much that it made me want to write about a girl with smallpox scars–one who made everyone fall in love with her due to her witty comebacks and insights into human nature.  Pathetic, I know… but it’s true.  *note:  the cover of this book is a perfect illustration of one of my pet peeves–inaccurate book covers.  The girl in the story has such pale skin that the hero sees her and calls her nieve–snow.  Um, that picture is NOT of a woman with snow-like skin.  She looks like a Spanish señorita!  Waterfall learned of my obsessive cover issues during the publication process, but they were very gracious and worked with me to get the book cover both lovely AND historically accurate.

Add to that my father’s influence, and I had a story in the making.  See, my father is very old school.  He’s not politically correct–he’s not diverse or multicultural.  He is however, very black and white.  If he goes to Germany, China, or Mexico.  He expects to learn enough German, Chinese, and Spanish to be able to converse.  He does not expect them to learn his language.  Conversely, if those Germans, Chinese, and/or Mexicans arrive in the US, he expects them to learn English.  Easy as that.  He highly respects immigrants who come here and meld into our society.

And there was the inspiration.

As one of my kids went through California state history,  I couldn’t help but draw interesting parallels.  What if a Californio–an elderly man–refused to learn the language of the Americanos.  What if he said, as my father did, “If I go to your country, I will learn your language, but if you come to mine, you must speak mine”?

inspiration deepest roots legacy of the vinesCombining that era that I so loved from The Legend of Susan Dane with my father’s influence, I began writing the story of a young woman in the Napa valley region.  As I wrote, I imagined a series of ten books where each one focused on a decade of California history yet from the perspective of those living it at that time (no history lessons disguised as fiction, you know?).  I even had an ending I loved.  But there was a problem.  That ending wasn’t “happy.”  It was full of hope and promise, but it was also a little bittersweet.  And I am no Nicolas Sparks. I needed a different kind of inspiration.

And then it hit me.  Instead of intertwining the back story into the first novel (I called it Encantado until this year–now it is Crushed Dreams), I could write a prequel/sequel–a book that gave the “happy ending” I wanted while preserving the “right” ending for the series.  And at the same time, I could tell how the story began–how they came to Napa in the first place.  That book I called Casa de Sueños.  And that book is the one Waterfall Press chose to publish.

I always knew I’d have to change the title.  Most people won’t pick up a book with a foreign title.  But the titles I came up with were better as series titles–Legacy of the Vines, for instance.  The then acquiring editor at  Waterfall, Tammy Faxel, actually named this book.  She came up with Deepest Roots of the Heart, and though it took a while, the title is actually growing on me.  I could have kept trying to find something that I loved the moment I heard it, but I didn’t want to hold them up.  So I went with Tammy’s suggestion.  And now, I think I’m glad I did.  Thank you, Tammy!

Share
Pin
Tweet
Email
Share
Pin
Tweet
Email

Related

Filed Under: Writing Tagged With: Deepest Roots of the Heart

Previous Post: « Book Trailer (Deepest Roots of the Heart)
Next Post: Historical Surprises: Deepest Roots of the Heart »

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Or, you can subscribe without commenting.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comments

  1. Alicia Grab says

    January 21, 2015 at 5:30 pm

    Shared on Google+ 🙂

    Reply
  2. Carolyn G. says

    January 21, 2015 at 3:23 pm

    shared via e-mail!

    Reply
  3. Tristan says

    January 21, 2015 at 1:14 pm

    I shared it on FB today along with the trailer and links to your other posts.

    Reply
  4. Paige Trueheart says

    January 21, 2015 at 5:38 am

    Emailed!! I would REALLY like to win this book! Thanks Miss Chautona!!

    Reply
  5. Carol Paine says

    January 21, 2015 at 2:54 am

    On facebook last night

    Reply
  6. Deborah G says

    January 20, 2015 at 7:04 pm

    Shared on Facebook!
    https://www.facebook.com/dfgreen1/posts/10203337637697150?pnref=story

    Reply
  7. bn100 says

    January 20, 2015 at 5:55 pm

    shared via email

    Reply
  8. Karen says

    January 20, 2015 at 5:39 pm

    I commented on Facebook.

    Reply
  9. Kristi says

    January 20, 2015 at 4:31 pm

    Shared and eager to read!

    Reply
  10. Brenda says

    January 20, 2015 at 3:33 pm

    I shared on Facebook!

    Reply
  11. Tanya says

    January 20, 2015 at 2:30 pm

    I pinned it. I ready to read this one!! Thanks

    Reply
  12. Hannah says

    January 20, 2015 at 2:10 pm

    I pinned it! Love histories and back stories ! Perfect.

    Reply
  13. Michele says

    January 20, 2015 at 1:58 pm

    Twitter!

    Reply
  14. Mary Burroughs says

    January 20, 2015 at 1:41 pm

    I shared on Pinterest. Here is a link to the pin:
    http://www.pinterest.com/pin/306526318363702694/

    Reply
  15. Jen Harris says

    January 20, 2015 at 1:19 pm

    Shared on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/Jenbh/posts/10153010165189687?pnref=story

    Reply
  16. Joanna says

    January 20, 2015 at 1:10 pm

    I shares on FB! Can’t wait to read this one! I’ve loved all your books!! 🙂

    Reply
  17. Sharon B says

    January 20, 2015 at 1:09 pm

    Pinned it!

    Reply
  18. April says

    January 20, 2015 at 1:02 pm

    I shared on Facebook. It wouldn’t let me tag you.

    Reply
  19. Jessica S says

    January 20, 2015 at 12:41 pm

    Shared it on FB! Can’t wait to read this one! I love how you share details about your books, writing process, and future writing plans. ????

    Reply
  20. Cathe Swanson says

    January 20, 2015 at 12:30 pm

    I tweeted the link! 😀

    Reply
  21. Susan says

    January 20, 2015 at 12:07 pm

    What a great back story. I love that reading is something that can be done just about anywhere by anyone. I shared on Facebook.

    Susan

    Reply

Primary Sidebar

The Because Fiction Podcast

The Because Fiction Podcast
The Because Fiction Podcast

Taking the pulse of Christian fiction

Episode 215: A Chat with Henry O. Arnold
byChautona Havig

I had a chat with actor and author Henry O. Arnold a while back, and boy did we have a lot of fun. His Song of Prophets and Kings series features the advent of Israel’s kings from Samuel’s birth through David hiding from Saul (so far) and onward. Listen in as we chat about his most recent release, The Singer of Israel.

 

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

What Made David Such a Man after God’s Heart?

I think this series will show us. I love that Henry O. Arnold started back at Samuel’s story to prepare us for the story of arguably the most influential king of Israel. Yes, Solomon was the wisest and richest, but David offered something that Solomon didn’t have. He was an average guy—a shepherd, no less—chosen by God to lead his country.

In a sense, it’s kind of the ancient Jewish version of a poor, everyday guy growing up to become President of the United States. If you know what I mean.

This five-book series is available as an eBook, in print, and as an audiobook, too! Henry read a snippet of it to us, and boy you get a feel for his love of Scripture and God’s people as he reads.

And if that wasn’t enough, he even gave us a hint of his upcoming Christian suspense/thriller “series. He says he has two books planned for sure, so… at least a duology, but maybe we can talk him into a trilogy at least? Get those odd numbers and everything?

The Singer of Israel by Henry O. Arnold

A singer’s voice inspires a troubled nation…A shepherd’s courage vanquishes a giant

The last official act of the prophet of Yahweh was to secretly anoint a replacement for the king of Israel who has been brought low by an unbalanced mind. The great prophet of Israel lives in fear of the wrath of the king. Then out of the hills of Bethlehem emerges the last-born son of a family of shepherds to become the unforeseen hero of Israel.

When David sings of the glory of Yahweh, this shepherd wins the hearts of the royal family and restores King Saul’s troubled mind. But when the singer/shepherd defeats the champion of the Philistines in single combat, David becomes forever known as “the giant slayer.” Saul quickly sees that David is now a threat to his kingdom and secretly plots to have him killed.

David may be the champion of the people of Israel, but he must live under the constant threat of Saul’s wrath until he is finally forced to flee for his life.

The Singer of Israel is a tale of triumph and tribulation, deepest love, and burning rivalries; the new epoch is given a voice…and it is The Song of Prophets and Kings.

You can learn more about Henry on this 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!
Episode 215: A Chat with Henry O. Arnold
Episode 215: A Chat with Henry O. Arnold
March 24, 2023
Chautona Havig
Episode 214: A Chat about After the Shadows with Amanda Cabot
March 21, 2023
Chautona Havig
Episode 213: A Chat about Daughter of Eden with Jill Eileen Smith
March 17, 2023
Chautona Havig
Episode 212: A Chat about Code Name Edelweiss with Stephanie Landsem
February 28, 2023
Chautona Havig
Episode 211: A Chat with Lynn H. Blackburn about Under Fire
February 24, 2023
Chautona Havig
Episode 210: A Chat with Jennifer Deibel about The Maid of Ballymacool
February 21, 2023
Chautona Havig
Episode 209: A Chat with Tracie Peterson about Remember Me
February 17, 2023
Chautona Havig
Episode 208: A Chat with Author, Hallie Lee
February 14, 2023
Chautona Havig
Episode 207: A Chat with Daniella Rushton about Portal Fantasy
February 10, 2023
Chautona Havig
Episode 206: A Chat with Lisa Phillips about Her New Spin-off Series
February 7, 2023
Chautona Havig
Search Results placeholder

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

A Ransomed Grete

A Ransomed Grete
Buy This Book Online
Buy from Amazon Kindle
A Ransomed Grete
Buy now!

Twice Sold Tales

Twice Sold Tales
Buy This Book Online
Buy from Amazon
Buy from Amazon Kindle
Twice Sold Tales
Buy now!

Under the Hibiscus

Under the Hibiscus
Buy This Book Online
Buy from Amazon
Buy from Amazon Kindle
Under the Hibiscus
Buy now!

Upcoming Posts

Sorry - nothing planned yet!

Or just subscribe to the newsletter

Recent Blog Posts

  • Why I Can’t Wait to Read the Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing Series!
  • What Kinds of Lessons Can We Learn from the First People?
  • Why Would Anyone Send Beautiful, Thorny Roses with Strange Messages?

I buy my stickers here! (affiliate)

Custom Stickers, Die Cut Stickers, Bumper Stickers - Sticker Mule
Found this book at our local bookstore, Red Rock Found this book at our local bookstore,  Red Rock Books. It changed one direction of my next Bookstrings novel. I think we need more emphasis on picture books. So... this will sit around to inspire. 
#Bookstrings 
#bookishbooks
Reposted from @lornaroseboutique Annnnnnnd here th Reposted from @lornaroseboutique Annnnnnnd here they are!!! I’ve been anxiously waiting to see how they turn out, and they’re AMAZING!!! Gahh I love these post cards! 
If you love them too, you can check out the link in my bio!!

#digitalart #redbubbleartist #iloveart
When @kathleendenly offers to send an ARC, you squ When @kathleendenly offers to send an ARC, you squeal and accept before she changes her mind d. Eeep! I love her Chaparral Hearts series!
#AmReading 
#historicalromance 
#ChristFic
My first Goudge this month was a DNF. However, I My first Goudge this month was a DNF. However,  I found this while sorting my books in our home library and decided to read it now. Delightful. 
#yearofgoudge
#ChristianFantasy
Reposted from @susankbeattyauthor Take a trip to t Reposted from @susankbeattyauthor Take a trip to the Suamalie Islands where palm trees sway, the sand and sea pulse with life, and the people will steal your heart with Book 2 in the series, Wheelers Design.

Clay is messy and so is Sabrina’s life sometimes, but will God mold it into a work of art?
	
Wheelers Design releases March 28, but you can pre-order now: 

Pre-order the ebook copy now to get a special pre-order price of $2.99 https://buff.ly/3TPO7NT

Preorder the paperback copy to get 30% off plus free shipping. Just fill out the form https://buff.ly/40aLI2s 

#preorder #newrelease #cleanreads #contemporaryfiction
New ARCs arrived from @tyndalehouse over the past New ARCs arrived from @tyndalehouse over the past couple of weeks.  Looking forward to reading this one by Cindy Woodsmall.  Haven't read anything by her in years. 
#AmReading 
#christianfictionreaders 
#ChristFic 
#amishfiction
Reading right now. It's so good!!! Reposted from Reading right now.  It's so good!!!

Reposted from @lisaphillipsbks ⏰ If you haven’t read Cold Dead Night, you can enter to win it! Plus 45+ exciting Inspirational Mysteries & Thrillers from a great
collection of authors... AND a brand new eReader :D
--
Enter 👉 via link in bio.
When you’re done, comment to let me know you’ve entered!
  • Home
  • Bookshelf
  • New & Coming
  • Blog
  • News!
  • Disclosure & Policies
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2023 · Chautona Havig · All Rights Reserved · Coding by Gretchen Louise

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