Born of Persuasion (58 page)

Yet the story haunted me. Over the next decade, each time I sat down to write, no matter what I intended to put on paper, I always ended up sketching a quick vignette about that girl, or the estate, or about the other characters. In my late twenties, I realized if I was ever going to write anything else, I needed to get this story out of my system, so I began in earnest. This time, I incorporated God into the picture and began to see spiritual themes developing too. As I wrote, I shared my work with my sister-in-law and my best friend. They grew so interested that they encouraged me to get it published. Little did we know it would take still another decade to learn the craft, the industry, and the necessary marketing skills.

During these years, the story has gone through several transitions. At times, the faith element has been too strong, while
at other times it’s been buried except through symbolism. It’s always been Gothic. After many years of working on this story and these characters, I’m thrilled that this book is now finally in your hands.

Please feel free to contact me via my website,
www.jessicadotta.com
.

Blessings,

Jessica

Acknowledgments

I AM INCREDIBLY BLESSED by and grateful for the people who have poured their wisdom and time into this novel.

Kelli and Lynn—can you believe Julia’s story is now an actual book? How can I thank you enough for taking such interest in the growing story? Without your encouragement, I never would have undertaken the publishing journey.

My heartfelt thank-you to Kingdom Writers for setting up a forum where newbies can receive critique and feedback. I am especially thankful for those of you who followed an early version of this story and took the time to make me a better writer by providing feedback. A particular thank-you is owed to Jean Olsen. You were such an encouragement. A very special thanks to Janet Jones, Angela Joseph, Rich Maffeo, Chris Egbert, Brian Reaves, Sally Murtagh, Barbara, Darlene, and Andrea.

I am so grateful for my personal critique group, Penwrights. I couldn’t ask for a more dedicated and talented group of writers to work alongside. Yvonne, you are a brilliant writer and editor. I am so thrilled to have your books on my shelf. Reni, your enthusiasm for this series has helped me persevere more than you’ll ever know. Michelle, I hail thee as president and head of the Macy fan club. Lisa Ludwig, thank you for your awesome insights and wisdom. Mike Duran, thank you so much for
your encouragement and for rejoicing with me. Noel De Vries, I used to so look forward to your comments; they were so valuable. I can’t wait until one of your books is on my shelf. Terri Thompson and Eunice, thank you for your faithfulness. A special thanks also needs to go to Jamie Driggers, Cindy Sproles, Steve Wallace, Patty Kyrlach, Louise M. Gouge, Donna Gilbert, Kelly Klepfer, Heather Smith, and Felicia Mires.

To Ane Mulligan: I think I owe you a medal. You’ve read nearly every version of this story without fatigue, and you know as much about this story and its characters as I do. There aren’t words to express how much your friendship and support means to me.

To Gina Holmes, I couldn’t ask for a better coach or best friend. You never gave up on this story. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Chip MacGregor, you are one amazing agent! I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your time, thoughts, and willingness to take on this series.

A very special thanks to Karen Watson, Stephanie Broene, and Kathy Olson; Babette Rea and the publicity team. I can’t tell you how thrilled I am to be working with you!

I am so grateful for the amazing community here, too. To my brother, Joshua, your faith in me has always been an inspiration. To my sister, Joy, thank you for your feedback and willingness to chat when I need a break. To Anna and Howard Vosburgh, thank you for the endless cups of coffee and help with the edits. I would tell you how much I appreciate it, but that would be floccinaucinihilipilification—you already know. And to Star Marcrom, thank you so much for all those nights you volunteered to have my daughter over to play with yours, so I could meet deadlines. You rock!

Lastly, to my beautiful daughter: your amazing love and support is such a wonderful gift. I thank God every day for you.

Discussion Questions

1. Much of the story line depends on people thinking they know what is best for other people. For example, Henry and Elizabeth think it best to keep the news of Edward’s ordination from Julia, and Lord Pierson conceals his identity from her—both as her guardian and as her real father—until Macy forces his hand. In what ways have you seen people withhold information or make decisions for others? What are some of the reasons people do this? Do you find yourself doing it—or tempted to? Is it ever justified, and if so, when?
   
2. Edward struggles with competing values of spiritual integrity—being true to his faith and what he believes God requires of him—and seeking his own personal happiness. His challenge is further complicated by his sense of responsibility for Julia. Do you approve of the way Edward prioritizes his values in the book? Why or why not? What competing values do you face in your own life or relationships? When faced with grey areas or complex choices, how do you determine which value or guideline takes priority?
   
3. Julia’s circumstances make it difficult for her to attain what she considers happiness: independence, an appealing marriage, a comfortable income. Have you ever felt like you were dealt an unfair hand in life, or do you know someone who feels that way? How did you respond to the feeling, or what would you say to someone in that situation?
   
4. Do you agree with Julia that Edward’s joining the church is a personal betrayal of her and their relationship? How much consideration do life partners owe each other when making major decisions? Does that dynamic change when it comes to matters of faith? Give some examples and explain your thinking.
   
5. Discuss the relationship between Mr. Macy and Lady Foxmore. Are they more friends or enemies? What makes you think so? In what ways is their relationship based on their own self-interests? Do you have—or have you ever had—a relationship like this? What are the benefits? What are the drawbacks?
   
6. Much of the writing describing Lady Foxmore uses bird terminology. What symbolism do you think the author is hoping to convey?
   
7. What do you make of Mrs. Windham’s character? Ultimately, do you believe she has Julia’s best interests at heart? Why or why not?
   
8. Consider the different ways Lady Foxmore and Mrs. Windham view themselves. Lady Foxmore appears to be self-aware, while Mrs. Windham considers herself to be nobler than she actually is. To what degree do you struggle with self-awareness? Are you more likely to view yourself as better or worse than you actually are? How can we know when our self-image is distorted in either direction?
   
9. At one point, Mr. Greenham admits to murdering Julia’s mother. Yet Julia doesn’t seem to struggle with a lot of fear or anger toward him. Why is that? How should we treat people who are guilty of wrongdoing yet seem repentant? How has this played out in your life or the life of someone you know?
   
10. What is your final opinion of Mr. Macy? Do you share Edward’s conviction that he is an evil man, or is there still reasonable doubt? If we judge a tree by its fruit, how much circumstantial evidence do we need before discerning someone’s character?
    
11. Some elements of this story can be seen as an allegory of the Christian life. Which character, if any, reminds you of God the Father? Of Christ? Of Satan? Of fallen man? Do you enjoy reading stories that have an underlying message? Why or why not?
    
12. Does the ending of the story live up to your expectations? Why or why not? What do you think lies in store for Julia, Edward, and Mr. Macy?
    

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