The Old River Road blog tour—author interview and review

Hey guys! So, guess what amazing, wonderful book releases today??? Well, if you read the title you probably already know... The Old River Road by Ivy Rose! I was privileged to be a beta reader and I can't wait to get a paperback copy! And it releases today!! I'm sooo  excited for Ivy! ^_^

Meet Ivy Rose and her debut novel, The Old River Road. This book is the first in a series of a yet-to-be-determined number of books based on the lives of the author’s ancestors. Written in a style similar to that of Janette Oke and Laura Ingalls Wilder, this is a story you won’t want to miss!

1885

When seventeen-year-old Clara Boutwell married her dashing coworker, William McDonald, she was convinced her life was near perfect. The journey before them as newlyweds in the great city of Chicago was promising and exciting. But a frightening disease soon takes William in its grip, forcing them to the clean air of the western frontier in a desperate attempt to save his life. But pioneering doesn’t prove to be easy, with miles between neighbors instead of fences. On the eastern Washington prairies, the McDonalds face hardships and trials in a new world where everything is tested, from physical endurance to emotional strength—down to their relationship and faith in the Lord.

This novel tells the incredible true story of Clara and William, the great-great grandparents of the author, in a sweet narrative full of laughter, tears, and the struggles of an early pioneering family. Prepare yourself to share in their experience as you read this account of a pioneer family in Washington state, and see their lasting legacy that has endured into the fifth generation.

Available now in paperback and ebook on Amazon

Add on Goodreads

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~~My Review~~

 This is a sweet, lovely, simple story that takes place back in the 1800s. I was privileged to be a beta reader for this wonderful story, and I absolutely loved it!

The depth of the characters was amazing! I felt like I got to know each and every one personally. The fact that this was based on a true story made it all the more enchanting! These things really happened. These people lived. I loved that! Ivy has done a great job bringing their story to life. 

Also, I loved the faith that is woven throughout the book. It's never preachy, it's just such a part of their lives that it can't help but shine through. The characters aren't perfect, they go through struggles and hardships, but they rely on the Lord as their strength. 

And the romance is also so sweet! Since I had never read anything by the author before, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I shouldn't have worried! It was very God-honoring and just overall so sweet! ^_^ 

So yes, the whole book is just so beautiful! I'd recommend it to anyone and everyone who enjoys reading about the 1800s era. :) 

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~~Author interview~~

Which character did you most enjoy writing in TORR?

My favorite character would have to be Esther. She is kind of a mash-up of a good friend and one of my brothers. 

Where is your favorite place to write?

In my room, at my desk, with a big mug of coffee at my side. :)

Is there anyway being the oldest in your family has affected your writing?

* hides face * I tend to be more of a leader than a follower, hence, my characters can sometimes be overbearing/bossy/authoritative. I didn’t understand that when I started writing, and wondered why none of my characters got along. :) Now that I understand the problem a little better, I’ve been able to expound upon my own natural tendencies and allow my characters to be different than me. 

Has writing, in any way, strengthened your relationship with God?

More than anything, it’s taught me the power of prayer. I feel like I grew a lot spiritually over the course of this project.

Any writing tips you've learned along the way? :)

Writing is hard. It takes time. It can be frustrating. If you are truly passionate about writing, you will make time in your day for it and force yourself to do it. It’s not always easy, but well worth the effort. 

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~~About the Author~~

Ivy Rose is an 18 year old history lover and literary enthusiast. Aside from writing, she enjoys being outdoors, chocolate, travelling, reading, and ATVing (preferably if there is mud involved). She resides with her family of 9 on the banks of the Long Lake in eastern Washington.

You can connect with Ivy via her blog, Goodreads, and Pinterest.

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~~The Giveaway~~

The Old River Road Prize Pack


International Prize

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~Blog Tour Schedule~

Friday, July 8^th (release day!)

Emily  — Review, Spotlight

Jesseca Wheaton — Review, Interview

Saturday, July 9^th

Olivia K. Fisher  — Interview, Spotlight

Faith Blum  — Review, Interview, Spotlight

Hannah E.  — Review, Interview

Monday, July 11^th

Faith Potts  – Review

Rebecca Morgan  — Review, Interview

Tuesday, July 12^th

Abigayle Ellison  — Review, Spotlight

Kenzi Knapp  – Review, Interview

Hosanna Emily  — Review, Interview

Wednesday, July 13^th

Blessing Counter  — Interview

Victoria Minks  — Review, Spotlight

Thursday, July 14^th

Deborah C.  — Review, Spotlight

Anna S. Brie  — Review

Leona G. — Review, Interview

Friday, July 15^th

Hope Ann — Review, Interview

Amanda Tero — Review, Interview

Anika Joy – Review, Interview