Exploring Themes of Redemption and Courage in the Face of Weakness with YA author Victoria Lynn

Episode Show Notes:

Introduction:

Welcome to Read Clean YA with CJ, the podcast that takes teens and young adults on a journey through captivating worlds and epic tales without objectionable content. In this episode, CJ Milacci, an award-winning young adult author, sits down for an engaging interview with fellow author Victoria Lynn. Victoria, known for her insatiable desire for truth and beauty, shares insights into her writing journey, her latest series, and the profound themes woven into her books.

Mini Cows and Fantasy Realms:

Before delving into the Chronicles of Elira, CJ and Victoria share a lighthearted moment discussing Victoria’s dream of owning a mini cow. This unique desire stems from her love of animals and the limitations of her two-acre plot. The conversation unfolds, revealing the charm and appeal of mini cows, setting the stage for a delightful exploration of Victoria’s fantasy realm in the Chronicles of Elira.

Chronicles of Elira – A Blend of Medieval History and Fantasy:

Victoria introduces her series, the Chronicles of Elira, as an alternative medieval history that caters to those who crave clean, magical-free stories. Influenced by her childhood fascination with tales like Robin Hood, Victoria sought to create a world that merges fantasy with historical flavors. The series kicks off with “Once I Knew,” following a farmer’s daughter facing moral dilemmas in a tyrannical government, setting the stage for a captivating narrative.

Themes and Characters:

CJ and Victoria dive into the themes of the series, exploring slow-burn romance, introspective elements, and a unique blend of fantasy and historical tones. Victoria shares the origin of the series, starting with a writing prompt that evolved into a story brewing for over 14 years.

The podcast conversation illuminates the multifaceted themes resonating in the Chronicles of Elira series, emphasizing the interplay between anxiety and faith, courage amid weakness, and the redemptive journey of characters wrestling with personal struggles.

The discussion deepens as they explore the character dynamics, highlighting the complexity of the protagonist’s moral struggles and introducing a side character, Keegan, as Victoria’s unexpected favorite.

The Unfolding of Themes:

Victoria unfolds the intriguing journey of discovering themes during the writing process, especially themes of anxiety, fear, and the courage to trust God in uncertain times. The series, having spent three years on hiatus, allowed Victoria to draw from personal experiences and societal shifts, making the characters’ struggles and triumphs more relatable. CJ and Victoria discuss the importance of trusting God, recognizing that He won’t waste anything, and taking courageous steps of faith, even when we feel weak.

Redemption and Courage:

The interview takes a poignant turn as Victoria shares the redemption arc woven into the narrative. One of the characters undergoes a profound transformation, navigating the process of returning to faith and witnessing the redemptive power of God. The conversation delves into the challenges and joys of writing characters facing internal and external conflicts, making the themes of redemption and courage resonate deeply with readers.

Author’s Writing Process:

As a hybrid of an outliner and discovery writer, Victoria discusses her writing process, emphasizing the role of prayer and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide her narrative. She reflects on the interconnectedness of themes, acknowledging that some revelations only surface during the revising phase, creating a richer and more meaningful story.

Victoria’s Message to Readers:

In a heartfelt message, Victoria expresses her desire for readers to find encouragement and renewed life in her books. Beyond the narrative, she hopes readers discover a fresh perspective on the world, themselves, and the divine. Ultimately, Victoria aims to convey the life-giving power of God’s presence and word, making Chronicles of Elira a journey of strength, redemption, and courage.

What Started Victoria Lynn on her writing journey?

Victoria’s passion for storytelling ignited at an early age, where her fascination with words and sentences began. She reminisces about her homeschooling days, sneaking moments to immerse herself in writing despite her mother’s attempt to redirect her towards math and science. She recalls her early writing endeavors on loose leaf paper, embodying her own “Joe March” moment from the classic “Little Women.”

The pivotal moment came at 13 or 14 when she attempted to write her first book, only to leave the last scene unwritten. Revisiting and completing this story in her current work marks a significant journey full circle. Her foray into indie publishing at 17 or 18 unveiled a world of possibilities, albeit with its challenges, where she learned through trial and error, ultimately publishing her first book.

Behind the Scenes: More about Victoria Lynn and Where to Connect with Her

Beyond writing, Victoria’s eclectic interests shine through. From designing high-end gowns and custom wedding dresses to managing Glory Writers, an expansive platform catering to Christian writers through education and community, her entrepreneurial spirit radiates. Surfing, hiking in mountains, and indulging in nature’s splendor add layers to her multifaceted life.

Victoria emphasizes the essence of making time rather than finding it, driven by a sense of divine guidance and intentionality. Her faith shapes her perspective, reassuring her that there’s ample time to fulfill her calling.

To connect with Victoria Lynn, readers can find her on Instagram (@VictoriaLynnAuthor) and her website/blog (victorialinblog.com), where her books are available for purchase, including signed copies.

This insightful discussion with Victoria Lynn encapsulates the journey of a passionate writer, entrepreneur, and adventurer, offering glimpses into her diverse endeavors and unwavering commitment to storytelling.

Wrapping things Up: from CJ

I hope you enjoyed the conversation with Victoria Lynn. Victoria and I met through a mutual friend, and it was wonderful to chat with her, get to know her, and hear her heart behind her stories.

Once I Knew is a captivating tale with depth and it’s a story that really dives deep into the thoughts and motivations of the characters. If you enjoy character-driven stories, with lots of world building and whimsical descriptions, I think you’ll enjoy this book. As Victoria mentioned in the interview, it’s a non-magical fantasy, and it definitely has a medieval feel to it.

Note for Sensitive Readers

There is some minor violence in the story, with characters in danger and some frightening encounters with dangerous soldiers, so if you’re sensitive to those things, it might be helpful to have a trusted friend or parent read the story first. Or read it out loud with you!

Don’t forget the giveaway!

Victoria has also graciously agreed to be part of our Epic Christmas giveaway, and she’s including a copy of Once I Knew. So be sure to head over to the giveaway page and enter for your chance to win this book along with all the other amazing goodies in the Christmas Giveaway.

Here’s the link: https://kingsumo.com/g/tdijpz/epic-christmas-goodies-giveaway

Coming Next Week

Next week I’ll be talking with young adult author Tim Shoemaker.

This interview was so much fun for me, in part because I’ve admired Tim and his teaching for many years. He was one of the first teachers I heard at my first ever writer’s conference, and things he taught on then have stayed with me for years. So be sure to tune in next week for our chat — I think you’ll have a great time listening in.

Finally I just want to say to my American listeners, Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you have a wonderful day enjoying a good meal and time with your family. And for those of you who might find the holidays extra difficult, I’m praying for you.

Thanks for listening, my friend!