I’m so excited to welcome Cara Putman as my guest today! I know Cara through American Christian Fiction Writers and am in awe of how she juggles life as a mother, attorney, writer, teacher, and volunteer. If you want to see the human definition of energy, all you have to do is meet Cara. She has a beautiful smile and a sweet mentoring heart.
Cara C. Putman lives in Indiana with her husband and four children. She’s an attorney, teacher at her church, and contract lecturer or adjunct faculty at a local community college and Big Ten University. She has loved reading and writing from a young age and now realizes it was all training for writing books. An honors graduate of the University of Nebraska and George Mason University School of Law, Cara loves bringing history and romance to life. You can learn more about Cara and her books on her website, Facebook, twitter, and pinterest.
In honor of Cara’s latest book being set in one of my favorite places on earth, Mackinac Island (pronounced “Mackinaw”, not “Mackinack”. :)), I decided to ask questions that relate to the island. Hopefully you’ll enjoy learning more about Cara while getting a sneak peek at the setting of her novel! Let’s get to it, shall we?
Opener Question: What seven words best describe you?
This is a tough question, Sarah! Caring, Friend, Passionate, Committed, Leader, Giver, Christ-Chaser.
Either/Or Questions:
1) Horse-drawn carriage or Tandem bike? [For those who have never visited Mackinac, the island doesn’t allow motorized vehicles.]
Tandem Bike. My family loves renting bikes and going around the island when we’re on Mackinac. While I think there’s something incredibly romantic about a carriage ride, as long as it’s the whole clan, we’ll keep biking.
2) Grand Hotel or Quaint cottage?
Quaint cottage. I’ve actually stayed in both on Mackinac Island. My first trip to Mackinac Island we stayed at the Grand Hotel because my husband had a conference there. It was an amazing experience, but with four kiddos traveling with us, the Grand’s rooms aren’t big enough. The last time we were there, we stayed at Haan’s 1830 Inn and had a wonderful time. The suite was spacious and the hospitality amazing. Hoping to stay there again this summer when we head back for a booksigning.
3) Maple pecan fudge or Turtle fudge?
I actually don’t care for fudge. Can you believe it? But if it were a sliver, I’d go for Turtle. Mackinac Island is covered with fudge shops, and I was the only one who didn’t care for the fudge. I even created a fudge shop for my book A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island, because fudge is such an integral part of the island.
4) Mackinac Island State Park or Fort Mackinac?
Mackinac Island State Park. I love walking the paths and exploring. The last time we were at the island, my family went to Fort Mackinac while I went to the police station to ask the police chief just how a murder would be handled. My kids were just glad I got to leave!
5) A round of golf or sail across the water?
Sail across the water. I’ve actually done neither, but sailing looks so peaceful!
6) Salt water taffy or Peanut brittle?
Peanut brittle. I don’t like the gooey feeling of taffy on my teeth. But the sweetness of peanut brittle with that hint of butter? Yum!
7) Sunrise or Sunset?
Sunset. I have a hard time getting up in time to see the sunrise, since my best working hours are often after dark. With the change to daylight savings, I did see a sunrise last week, but that will probably be it for awhile!
I love your answers, Cara! Daylight Savings does change the schedule around, doesn’t it? And I loved your comment about the police station. Oh the wacky things we writers do for the sake of our stories. It sounds like your family had a great time visiting the island! Your answers made me anxious to get back there someday soon, especially to the fudge shops. And since I’m not a big fudge fan like you, I’ll indulge in their hand-dipped ice cream. Yum!
Thanks for being my guest today, Cara! I can’t wait to dive into your book. (I just got my copy in the mail this weekend!) 🙂
A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island
When attorney Alanna Stone left Mackinac Island eleven years ago, she determined she’d never return. Now she’s back and in close proximity to Jonathan Covington, her first love. She vows to protect her privacy and her heart from the man who still makes her pulse race. But when her worst fears are realized and history repeats itself—landing her in the midst of a murder investigation—Jonathan may be her only hope. Will they be able to lay aside the past and let God heal their hearts, or will reconciliation come too late?
Blog Readers: Let’s Talk…Have you heard of or visited Mackinac Island? If you’ve visited, what are some of your favorite memories there? Or if you’re not familiar with it, what other seaside trips have you taken? Any sunrise watchers?
*flower photo by Twigy Posts
Mackinac is HIGH HIGH HIGH on the list of places I want to visit. As soon as I can scrape up the money, I’m going. I can’t wait. I have a whole list of things I want to try (funny how I didn’t think to add the police station to the list…) and now I want to go RIGHT NOW!!!
Oh Bekah, you would love it!!! And I can’t imagine why you wouldn’t put the police station on your must-see list. 😉 Although now that I think about it, I’m curious how they get around without the use of a car…
Bikes, Sarah. The officers ride around the island on bikes. It works 🙂
I would love to visit Mackinac Island. I did laugh to think of the reaction by the police when you asked how a murder would be handled. Knowing my luck they would think I was devising ways to get away with one.
Funny, Mary! I never thought about the police thinking that…yikes. 🙂
My kids did. They were surprised the chief didn’t keep me!
Some of my favorite memories include going to Mackinac Island on Halloween (when the last ferry boat of the season was running) and getting everything from the shops clearance priced. Another fun memory is going with my dad when he was doing a wedding on the island and then getting to be with him the rest of the day. We rode around the island on a tandem bike and just had a great day! I still miss living up there – that area has a very special place in my heart!
Debbie, I knew you’d have lots of fun memories to share. 🙂 I never knew about the last ferry being on Halloween…interesting! And I bet a wedding on the island would be gorgeous. You guys had such a neat place up there…I’ll never forget the view out the church windows…so pretty!
Debbie, I’m making a note about going up some year for Halloween. I love clearance!
My late husband and I went to Mackinac Island for our anniversary one year. We did not stay on the Island but took a boat across. We went too early as nothing was open for the season yet. We did enjoy walking around the Island. We were really tired when we finished. We walked for miles!! We did buy some of their delicious fudge! I would like to go back for a visit. This time in season!
I would love to win a copy of “A Wedding Transpires”. I can’t share this post on my FB because I gave FB up for Lent! I must say I haven’t really missed it. I have read so many books during this time. I needed to put a dent in my TBR pile!
Blessings!
Judy
judyjohn2004[at]yahoo[dot]com
Judy, Yes, I think a return trip is in order! If nothing else, you can stock up on some more fudge. 🙂
Great interview, Sarah! I’ve never visited Mackinac Island…maybe someday! I usually stay close to home–so I love Newport, RI and Block Island. Planning some time there with the kids this summer. 🙂
Thanks for the post!
That’s true, Heidi. You have beautiful scenery right in your backyard. I haven’t spent much time in New England…It’s on my list of places to visit. 🙂
Heidi, Making a note of those spots. They sounds great!
Hi Sarah & Cara –
Fun interview! I haven’t heard much about Mackinac Island. Your book sounds exciting. I’ve seen you around the web, but haven’t read any of your novels. I’ll have to remedy that situation. 🙂
Blessings,
Susan
susanjreinhardt AT gmail DOT com
Susan, Hopefully the giveaway will be your remedy. I’ve got you entered. 🙂
Been to Mackinac Island a few times. My favorite was spending a couple days on mainland and ferrying over to the island for part of our honeymoon! It was wet and chilly, but still fun. Touring the fort and the circle rock formation were two of my favorite sites (it was too chilly to bike ride that year in May). Our favorite thing to eat was a waffle sundae- two homemade waffles with ice cream in between topped with chocolate and whipped cream. We recreate it every year on our anniversary!
Jen, What a fun place to visit for your honeymoon! And that waffle sundae sounds to-die-for!
What a delightful anniversary tradition, Jen! Love it!
Ooo, never been there but it sounds awesome! I love Catalina Island, which is off the coast of California. It sounds similiar; they don’t allow very many motorized vehicles (well, they have a lot of golf carts, so I guess they don’t allow cars), and it’s just so quaint with such a fun personality. I love vacation spots like this. When is the best time to visit Mackinac?
Hi Lindsay! Looks like Jill Kemerer answered your question in the comments below. 🙂 I’ve usually visited the island mid-summer. Even then it can get a little chilly, but most of my visits have been beautiful weather.
we’ve visited in August and June. Not hot…but wonderful.
Fun interview, ladies! It’s nice to get to know Cara better. I’ve not read any of her books yet, and I need to. 🙂 Happy Birthday, Cara!
Thanks, Karen! Hopefully you get the chance to read one of Cara’s books soon. 🙂
A) Thank you for setting me straight on the proper pronunciation for Mackinac. 🙂 Ummm…you should hear how I used to pronounce Yosemite.
B) Awesome interview!! Fun to get to know Cara.
C) I’ve never visited Mackinac, but now I want to. My favorite seaside trip…Costa Del Sol in Spain. Ooh, or Brighton in England. One so sunny and turquoise, the other so gray and romantic. Pretty sure the travel bug is devouring me now…
D) Happy birthday, Cara!
LOL, Melissa, So glad I spared you from butchering the word Mackinac. 🙂
And wow, those European seasides sound amazing! I think you just passed the travel bug on to me.
Melissa, You’re giving me the travel bug. I’ve never been to either city you’ve mentioned but they sound wonderful!
Sarah, you have such wonderful interviews here!
My dad used to talk about Mackinac Island all the time (really not pronounced how it’s spelled).
I’ll take all the desserts mentioned above!
~ Wendy
Oohhh, Wendy, wouldn’t it be fun to take a dessert tour of Mackinac? Okay, totally dreaming now…
Fun interview and getting to know the island better!
Thanks, Gina! 🙂
Sarah, I loved your questions!!
Cara, I’m a native Michigander and have spent many, many vacations up at Mackinac. Just last year I chaperoned our 7th & 8th grader’s class trip there. We had a blast! Your book looks really good. My heart is a bit fluttery wanting to read it–I love the island THAT much! 🙂
For all who asked when the best time to visit the island–mid-June is when the weather starts being nice enough to really enjoy it. There’s a Lilac Festival in June too. July and August are both excellent times to head up. For anyone on a budget, you can get hotel rooms in Mackinaw City and take a ferry over to the island for the day. There are also campgrounds near Mackinaw City.
Now I want to drive up there… 🙂
Jill, Oh my goodness, look at you…the tour director for Mackinac…I love it! If I ever head up there, I’ll have to pick you up on the way. 🙂
Jill, we should talk! We’re headed up again at the end of July for a booksigning on the island and I can’t wait!
Never been there, but sounds wonderful! I am anxious to read Cara’s book ….love books about “islands”…..thanks for entering me.
jackie.smith[at]dishmail[dot]net
Jackie, Doesn’t her book sound great?! It’s sitting on my nightstand waiting to be started…I may just have to dive in tonight. 🙂
Fun meeting another Hoosier author, Cara! I love the 1980’s movie, Somewhere In Time, that takes place at the Grand Hotel. I’ve never been there, but Hubby and I plan to take a drive up there sometime in the near future – possibly late summer or early fall.
Oh Loree, You would love Mackinac, especially with how much you love the outdoors! And Fort Mackinac is a history-lover’s paradise.
Hi Sarah, I go to church with Cara, and she is so much more than she describes herself! This woman is amazing! We work together in the summer at Mega Sports Camp, the camp our church puts on during the summer ( yes, she does that too! ) and she inspires me the way she handles everything that’s put on her plate. I have traveled all over the U.S. and still haven’t made it to Mackinac Island, it is on my list of places to visit. I do know that when my husband and I get a chance to travel there, we will have the best person available to give us pointers!
Hi Donna! How fun to meet someone who has witnessed Cara’s energy firsthand. 🙂 And yes, I think you’ll get some great pointers for a trip to Mackinac whenever you make it there. 🙂
Donna! You are too sweet 🙂 And you and Randy will love Mackinac. It’s a long drive but so worth it!
This sounds like another great book, would love to visit this place too!!
If nothing else, Jenny, you can visit Mackinac through the pages of Cara’s book. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!
I have shared on twitter and facebook can you please enter me into the contest
Thank you, Sarah! I’ve got you entered. 🙂
Love to bike around the island. Only 8 miles if I remember correctly. I’d love to read a story set in one of my favorite places.
That eight miles is so peaceful!
i’ve never been to the island, but one of the most beautiful islands i’ve been to was Prince Edward Island. it was the time of year where we could eat at the restaurant located at one of the northern peaks, inaccessible at certain seasons. VERY cool.
Jeannie, That sounds awesome! I’ve always wanted to go to PEI…maybe someday. 🙂
PEI is on my hit list too. I love the Anne of Green Gable books, so would love to visit it her haunts. Someday!
Love reading Cara’s books and sharing them with my friends. I just heard from a reliable source (her mother) that the book is great!
Aunt Laurie, you know Mom’s right LOL. Thanks for stopping by!
Thanks for having Cara on today. Yes I’ve seen sunrises at the seashore. Nothing on this earth is as peaceful! Nobody in the pool, on the beach, swimming, or jogging. It’s the peace of God that you can fold around you.
Jo
johudd(at)bellsouth(dot)net
There is something amazing about sunrises. You’re right, Jo. It’s that peace. Awesome!
I’ve never been to the island, but after reading the book and then looking it up on the internet, I have to go there. The book is great. And Cara is just as delightful in person as she comes across in her answers.
Martha, you are so sweet. Thank you for your kind comments. Put a smile on my face this morning!
You’re welcome, Cara. I’m negotiating with dh now as to when we might be able to go up there. Seems like July or August when the temps here in Houston are in the 100’s would be a good time to go.
We’ll be there the last weekend in July this year for a booksigning. It would be wild if you came then!
LOVE Mackinac Island…and Cara and Sarah! When my husband and I visited Mackinac Island, the fall colors were stupendous. I can almost hear the clopping of the horses’ hooves as I write this. Great getaway. We stayed in a small inn that had an Indian princess buried under the kitchen. Not recently! My daughter and I joke about the “high pressure fudge salesman” we ran into in Door County, WI. We walked out with way more fudge in way more flavors than we wanted. A slice is nice. If homemade, a plate is great.
Which B&B was that, Cynthia? Maybe we should stay there this summer. The kids would get a kick out of the dead Indian princess!
I’ve never been to Mackinac Island but have always wanted to go. I look forward to reading Cara’s book and hope I’ll be doing so on the free book I’m about to win here!
We live in Northern Michigan so Mackinac Island is a favorite haunt of ours! Cloghaun is our favorite B&B. Both front rooms have 2nd story balconies and you can watch the Great Lakes freighters from there! We’ve never stayed in the Grand and probably won’t, Too fancy for farm folks like us. 🙂 We love walking the inner trails, finding out-of-the-way spots like Crack in the Earth. We also enjoy riding bikes and horses, or renting a buggy for a drive. All fun stuff! And the fudge. Oh… the fudge!
Happy Birthday Cara.
I have never heard of Mackinac Island (yes, I ignorantly pronounced it mac-i-nac, LOL), but it sounds like a lovely place to get away. And I LOVE fudge.
I’d love to be included in this book giveaway!
Nancee
[email protected]