I was going through computer looking for something specific when I ran across this fourteen year old interview. Man, looking through old email and computer files is like treasure hunting in Grandpa’s attic. Never know what you’ll find.
Lost In Nashvegas — now Nashville Dreams— the first of the Nashville books released with no promotion, no fanfare and sold about as well as a wet sparkler on Fourth of July.
It was disappointing but looking back, I see the Lord’s hand in my journey and even today, the words below encouraged me.
Take a moment, scroll through old files, old emails, see what treasure you find.
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In The Library Reviews welcomes Rachel Hauck!
I love your writing style. It’s snappy, clever and makes your words leap with a lighthearted touch. Does writing come easily for you? You sure make it seem like fun.
RH: I love to write, but like most things fun and good in life, it’s work. Some days are easier than others, but other days I grit it out.
In Lost in NashVegas, you successfully captured a young woman’s desire for success while struggling against her fear. Have you ever experienced that agonizing fear of not fulfilling a goal?
RH: I’ve experienced fear and anxiety (though God’s love conquered those things) but I never submitted to fear like Robin – by the grace of God. However, I used past failures and disappointments to keep me motivated on hard writing days. Failure only wins if I quit.
The setting of the music industry was very well portrayed. How did you research this subject?
RH: My research was wide and varied. I read several books on the industry, interviewed songwriters and visited Nashville and places like the Bluebird Café.
Did you write the lyrics to the songs Robin sang in the novel? And if so, can readers someday expect to hear them?
RH: Yes, I wrote the lyrics and snippets of the song’s melody still live in my head. Wouldn’t it be fun to have her songs recorded? Maybe one day.
In the story, you briefly touched on the biblical principle of using your talents for the Lord. Was this segment of Scripture the inspiration for the novel?
RH: Actually, First John 4:18 was my primary inspiration: God’s love cast out all fear. I think in Robin’s case she had to face her fears before realizing she had a beautiful talent God wanted her to use.
When that last page is turned, what would you like readers to take away from this book?
RH: God is a God of love and dreams. So many people are afraid to dream for fear of disappointment. I encourage people to dream. It’s one of life’s true gifts.
What do you think Robin would say to your readers in closing?
RH: Kick fear in the rear! Get out there and go for it.
What’s next for your fans? Can you tell us what you’re working on now?
RH: Diva NashVegas (Nashville Sweetheart) is the second NashVegas book and releases in May 2007. It’s not Robin’s story, but readers will catch up with Robin as she meets the heroine in Diva, Aubrey James. I’m currently writing a new book set in the South Carolina lowcountry.
Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions and for writing such a terrific book!
RH: Joyce, thank you so much for talking with me. You’ve really encouraged me!
Joyce Handzo © In the Library Reviews 2006
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