Merry Christmas from the Klassen family! Since it's my turn to blog today, I thought I would make a Christmas-related announcement. Several people who have read my latest book, The Bride of Ivy Green (Book Three in the Tales From Ivy Hill series) have already emailed to say they are sad to see the series end, or to ask if I would please write another Ivy Hill book. The good news is, my … [Read more...]

Recently, I celebrated the release of The Bride of Ivy Green, my 13th novel, and the conclusion of my first series. Here are a few highlights from the Book Release Party: Writing a series was a new challenge for me, and it's an accomplishment I feel good about. But I didn't do it alone. I enjoyed having the opportunity to publicly thank several people who helped me along the way, like my … [Read more...]

Guest Post by Brian Klassen (History & Genealogy Buff, and Julie's Husband) What more can be said about Thanksgiving? We all know that the holiday is about eating turkey, being thankful, and spending time with family and friends. We all know that Thanksgiving started with that plucky band of self-styled Pilgrims who got together with a group of Native Americans and gave thanks to God for … [Read more...]

I met Jane Austen this past weekend! Ok, not really, but I did meet actress Debra Ann Miller who brings to life the beloved novelist in a moving and humorous one-woman performance. I was especially impressed by her excellent script, which is drawn almost entirely from Jane's letters and novels. Ms. Miller has skillfully woven together Austen's own words into an entertaining and informative … [Read more...]

It's always a pleasure to attend a sister-writer's book launch and help her celebrate a new release. I recently joined other friends and readers at the launch of Michelle Griep's new Dickens-inspired Christmas novella, A Tale of Two Hearts. She looked gorgeous in her new gown, spencer, and bonnet! Michelle is quite talented. She writes vivid, quirky characters, heartwarming romance, and … [Read more...]