Interview with Jenelle Hovde & a Giveaway
I hope you enjoy this week’s interview with Regency Romance author, Jenelle Hovde. Jenelle is sharing about her new release, No Stone Unturned, and is giving away a paperback advanced reader copy, along with special character art prints. Be sure to comment below by July 15 to enter the giveaway! (US residents only)
Welcome to the Hope-filled fiction blog, Jenelle! Tell us a little about yourself and your family.
I’m a Canadian who grew up in Saskatchewan on a small farm. I’m currently married to a former marine. My husband now pastors a small church in Florida. We have three children (two teenagers and one middle schooler).
We already have lots in common! My husband also served in the military and became a pastor, and we have three kids. 🙂 Speaking of children, as a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I started illustrating and writing books as young as age seven. It’s such a joy to write and illustrate now later in life.
Very cool! Who was your favorite book character as a child and why?
I loved Anne of Green Gable’s resilience and love of life. Her imagination fired mine. Of course, she becomes an author later on in the series.
You mentioned writing at age seven, but when did you start pursuing a writing career?
When my husband and I moved close to the Yankton Sioux reservation to pastor at a church, I found myself longing to write to process the pain I witnessed. A few stories later, I signed with Tamela Hancock Murray. She is an amazing agent with the Steve Laube agency.
Tamela is a gem! What genre do you write and what inspired you to write that particular genre?
I started with historical fantasy, then moved to biblical historical fiction, World War II cozy mysteries, and now Regency romance. I love epic stories with plenty of romance, danger, and a strong faith message!
On the faith message note, how do you incorporate Christ and hope into your writing?
I gravitate to stories about imperfect Christians growing in their faith. They wrestle with doubt, grief, anxiety, but find their path in Christ.
Love it. What does a typical day in your writing life look like?
I get up at 5 in the morning and make coffee. I reread former scenes and tackle the next scene in the book. I save my evenings for art projects. I also homeschool my three kids.
Sounds like you stay super busy. Do you have any hobbies? Have you incorporated any of them into your books?
I illustrate full time for authors, sketching fantasy, historical, sci-fi, and suspense art. My Bridget Littleton loves to illustrate antiquities! The grumpy viscount next door stumbles across one of her sketches. Of him, no less!
So fun! Let’s talk more about your new release, No Stone Unturned. Is this story inspired by true events or personal history?
Yes, my novel is inspired by true events that happened in Regency England in a sleepy village named Bignor. A farmer, George Tupper, discovered a palace lying beneath his field. He opened one of the first Regency-era museums.
The more the antiquities experts uncovered, the more the mystery of who lived there deepened. It remains a museum today. I renamed the village as Bramnor for a bit of creativity leeway.
Fascinating! What is the premise of No Stone Unturned?
No Stone Unturned is a Regency romance that follows two fiercely determined people—Bridget Littleton, a passionate antiquarian, and Captain Rafe Hawthorn, a wounded soldier returning to restore his family’s legacy.
Their ambitions collide over a Roman mosaic discovered in a Sussex field—Bridget wants to excavate it, while Rafe needs to build a road through it to revitalize his estate.
What begins as an enemies-to-lovers clash soon reveals deeper stakes, as natural disaster and sabotage threaten the entire village. Together, they must decide whether to keep fighting for their separate dreams—or uncover a shared future neither of them expected.
I always enjoy a good enemies-to-lovers trope. What did God teach you through the writing of this story?
God used this story to remind me that restoration isn’t always about returning to what was, but about stepping faithfully into what could be. Both Bridget and Rafe are people who carry heavy expectations—Bridget longs to prove her worth, and Rafe carries guilt over his past failures.
I saw pieces of myself in both. Through their journey, God gently showed me that it’s okay to rebuild slowly, to trust even when the path forward looks uncertain. Sometimes the ground has to be broken—literally and spiritually—before something beautiful can grow.
What a beautiful lesson. What do you hope your readers take away from No Stone Unturned?
I hope readers walk away encouraged by the idea that healing, purpose, and love can grow in the most unexpected places. Bridget and Rafe each have valid dreams, but it’s only when they start listening—to each other, to God, and to the community around them—that their lives begin to change.
Whether you’re someone who feels overlooked like Bridget, or weighed down by your past like Rafe, I pray this story reminds you that your future is not defined by where you’ve been—but by the God who walks beside you now.
I couldn’t ask for a better takeaway than that! What is one of your favorite quotes from the book?
“Does this mean we are no longer at war, Miss Littleton?” Rafe Hawthorn challenges Bridget Littleton. I adore a good enemies-to-lovers romance where previously held notions are challenged and the couple learn to respect and ultimately love each other.
Excellent! As we wrap up, tell us where readers can find you on social media.
I adore Instagram and post much of my book and art content on it. However, you’ll find me on most platforms.
Sounds good. Last question, what’s next from you?
Book two of the Bluestocking society with Tyndale. I have a young heiress hunting for her missing mother in India. Arranged marriages, reformed rakes, East India Company, astronomy, duels, and plenty of danger!
Thanks so much for sharing on the blog this week, Jenelle! It’s been a pleasure learning a little about you, your writing, and your books. May God continue to bless you as you write for Him!
Visit the #HopeFilledFiction blog and leave a comment on Jenelle Hovde’s interview by 6/15 for a chance to win a copy of No Stone Unturned. #RegencyRomance. #giveaway
TweetJoin the conversation. Are you a Regency Romance fan? Do you enjoy enemies-to-lovers stories? What aspects of Jenelle’s interview interest you most? Do you have any questions or comments for Jenelle?
Comment below by July 15 for a chance to win a paperback of Jenelle’s book, along with special character art prints. (US resident only)
No Stone Unturned by Jenelle Hovde
Click the book cover for the Amazon link
She wants to uncover the past. He wishes to build a future. In this Regency romance set in rolling hills of West Sussex, two opposing wills discover their fate may lie in the common ground.
Miss Bridget Littleton’s passion for history and antiquities defies most social conventions, even in her small village nestled in the beautiful English countryside. When a local farmer discovers an elaborate mosaic buried in his field, Bridget dreams of making a name and future for herself by excavating the Roman ruins. Unfortunately, her quest puts her at odds with the ambitious new lord who recently inherited the title and Hawthorn Abbey from his estranged uncle.
Recovering from wounds of both body and spirit, Captain Rafe Hawthorn is intent on restoring his long-neglected ancestral home. His plans to rebuild the abbey’s once thriving orchards require a road that will pass straight through Bridget’s potential trove of artifacts. He will not―cannot―fail again, even if he is moved by Bridget and her passion.
Yet this impasse might not be their greatest obstacle. A natural disaster and a series of suspicious accidents threaten both their plans, along with the livelihood of the nearby villagers dependent on their success. With their dreams in the balance, Bridget and Rafe must work together to fend off an unexpected enemy that may prove more dangerous than either could have imagined.
Jenelle Hovde is an illustrator, a pastor’s wife, and a homeschooling mother with eight novels in print. She adores faith-inspired stories and Regency romances that make readers swoon. As a transplant to Florida, Jenelle currently pens romantic tales while at the beach.
Connect with Jenelle: Website / Newsletter / Facebook / Instagram
Please share Jenelle’s interview on social media to help spread the word about her book!
If you missed Abbey Downey’s spotlight last week, FIND IT HERE.
Deena Adams
As a Jesus girl for more than thirty years, Deena Adams understands how important hope is to daily life, which fuels her passion to inspire others through hope-filled fiction based on true to life stories. She is a multi-award-winning author, an active ACFW member, and a six-year ACFW Virginia board member. Connect with Deena through her website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
50 Comments
Deena Adams
Congratulations to Stephanie, the winner of Jenelle’s giveaway! Please follow the instructions in your email to claim your prize. Thanks to all who read the interview and joined the conversation!
Stephanie
I learned a lot about Jenelle in this interview. Had no idea she was a Saskatchewan native. Looking forward to her Regency release.
Deena Adams
Thanks so much for reading Jenelle’s interview and commenting, Stephanie!
Jenelle Hovde
Hi Stephanie! Yes, I am originally from a little town called Indian Head, right off the Number One highway! My dad was a wheat farmer :). Thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you enjoy No Stone Unturned :).
Cherie J
I do enjoy Regency romance. I also enjoy enemies to lovers. I enjoyed the interview. I also live in Florida, in the NW part of it.
Deena Adams
I’m so glad you enjoyed Jenelle’s interview, Cherie! Thanks for reading and joining the conversation. 🙂
Jenelle Hovde
Hi Cherie!
It’s always so fun to meet another Floridian! I’m close the ocean, eastern side! Thrilled you enjoy enemies-to-lovers as well! Thanks so much for stopping by :).
Teresa Warner
Enjoyed the interview, sounds like a good read!
Deena Adams
Thanks for your comment, Teresa!
Jenelle Hovde
Hi Teresa,
So glad you enjoyed the interview! Deena asks the best questions! Thank you so much for stopping by :). Hope you enjoy No Stone Unturned.
Paula Shreckhise
I am a regency reader and like a bit of suspense with it. This sounds great. I love hearing about digging for antiquities. Enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes.
I was a Navy wife and my husband then went into the ministry. I also homeschooled our four kids back when the trend was just startiing in the 1980s. We are now retired. And I read and review books to promote Christian Fiction.
Deena Adams
Thanks for chiming in, Paula! Seems like there are a few of us who have husbands who went from the military into the ministry. 🙂 I love that you promote CF books and authors! I love doin that too.
Jenelle Hovde
Hi Paula,
That is amazing about your husband. We are so grateful for his service (both pastoring and military!). I’m thrilled to meet another regency reader :). Wow, on the homeschooling! It’s such hard work but such a joy. Thank you so much dropping by :).
Diana Hardt
I like regency romance and enemies to lovers stories. Thanks for an interesting post.
Deena Adams
You’re welcome, Diana! Thanks for engaging on the post!
Jenelle Hovde
Hi Diana,
It’s so fun to connect with other regency readers! Especially enemies-to-lovers variety! Thank you so much for dropping by :).
SARAH TAYLOR
I Love reading Regency romance and enemies to lovers Thank You so much for sharing this amazing post I Love that Jenelle loved Anne of Green Gables ! Jenelle’s book sounds amazing
Deena Adams
Thanks so much for reading Jenelle’s interview and sharing your thoughts, Sarah!
Jenelle
Hi Sarah,
I love meeting other women who adore Anne of Green Gables! I was so disspointed as a kid when I realized she was an imaginary character, LOL. I’m so glad Bridget’s adventure intriques you! I hope you enjoy her story. She’s also a sassy redhead! Thank you for stopping by.
Kelly V.
I do enjoy Regency Romance and enemies-to-lovers stories. I found it interesting that Jenelle’s husband pastors a small church in Florida (I attend a small church in Florida, but not the same one) and that her favorite book character as a child was Anne of Green Gables. I’m currently reading through the series with my 8-year-old daughter, and we’re loving it!
Deena Adams
It really is a small world, isnn’t it, Kelly?
Jenelle
Hi Kelly,
Another Floridian! How fun. Small churches will always have my heart. You really get to connect close to others. Yes, we have been at our church for the past four years. Amazing church! I’m thrilled you are reading Anne of Green Gables to your daughter. It’s still one of my favorite books. I’ve used it in homeschooling with my daughters. Still love it! Jane Eyre is another favorite of ours. Thrilled to hear you love regency and enemies-to-lovers trope! Thanks for stopping by :).
Paty Hinojosa
This giveaway is awesome! I’m a totally Regency Romance fan! And enemies-to-lovers stories is definitely one of my favorite tropes! About Jenelle’s interview, I loved many things: her love for Anne of Green Gables (my childhood favorite), the archaelogy elements in the book (I’m an architect who lived in Rome for some years), that she writes stories about imperfect Christians (more relatable) growing in their faith and how this book reminds you that your future is not defined by where you’ve been—but by the God who walks beside you now. This book sounds amazing, one of my favorite genres and with an Inspirational message that I’m sure will touch my heart. Question for Jenelle: who are some authors that you currently love to read or inspire you?
Deena Adams
Thanks so much for your thoughtful comments, Paty! I appreciate you reading Jenelle’s interview and joining the conversation.
Jenelle
Hi Paty, you sound like a wonderful kindred spirit, to quote Anne! Love this! Laura Frantz, Julie Klassen, Mimi Matthews, Tessa Afshar, Mesu Andrews, and Connilyn Cossette are my “must buy now” authors! I am reading Julie Klassen’s Seaside series right now. That is fantastic to hear you are an architect and lived in Rome. Oh my–how fun to chat with you about that :). Yes, my stories are softer and gentler, but absolutely with character growth in their faith. I’m thrilled you dropped by!
Elly
I AM a Regency romance fan and LOVE enemies to lovers tropes! This book has been on my radar ever since the cover reveal😍
Deena Adams
Sounds like the perfect book for you, Elly! Thanks for stopping by.
Jenelle
Hi Elly,
I’m so happy you like the cover! I squealed the first time I saw it! I love what Tyndale does for their art design. How fun that you enjoy regency and enemies-to-lovers. We all need a bit of sparking electricity! Hopy you enjoy Bridget and Rafe’s adventure. Thank you for stopping by!
Michelle Fink
I really enjoyed your interview. Thank you for pointing us to Him.
Deena Adams
Thanks for your comment, Michelle!
Traci Winget
Excellent interview in the book looks very interesting. I’m not a giant romance fan, but this seems like it would be enjoyable to read. Thank you!
Deena Adams
Thanks for reading Jenelle’s interview and leaving a comment, Traci! I appreciate you sharing your thoughts.
Jenelle
Hi Traci!
Thank you so much for stopping by! I love your honesty about genres :). My girls often prefer mystery to romance. I make sure to add lots of mystery and adventure for them! Hehe, I do have some swoony moments on the pages though. I love that you try new authors. I do the same, and always appreciate the fresh voices. Hope you enjoy Bridget’s adventure!
Jenelle
Hi Michelle,
Oh, that comment has my heart. He is so faithful and wonderful! Thank you for dropping by!
Perrianne Askew
I am definitely a Regency romance fan! Abigail Wilson is my favorite in that genre. I’m not a huge enemies to lovers fan but Tyndale e-mailed about the coming release and piqued my interest. Using a mysterious actual location to base her novel on gets bonus points. Has she plotted out her next two books that she spoke about?
Deena Adams
Thanks so much for your comment, Perrianne. I hope you’ll give Jenelle’s book a shot!
Danielle Hull
I have seen the book all.over bookstagram! I enjoy Regency and enemies-to-more is my favorite trope! I can’t wait to read this!
Deena Adams
I appreciate you taking the time to read Jenelle’s interview and comment, Danielle! I’m so glad you’re interested in Jenelle’s book. 🙂
Jenelle
Hi Danielle,
I love instagram! So glad you’ve seen No Stone Unturned :). And it is always fun to meet other regency enemies-to-more readers! Hope you enjoy Bridget’s adventure :).
Jenelle
Hi Perriane! Thank you so much for stopping by :). I love Abigail’s novels as well! I have book two for Tyndale (also regency) in the hands of my editor. I have book three plotted out! In the weeks to come, I’ll have fun news about title reveals and new projects. Thanks for asking! Hope you enjoy Bridget’s adventure :).
Roxanne C.
I became a Regency Romance fan after reading some Regency romances in the Love Inspired Historical line back in the day.
I always enjoy seeing how the characters go from enemies to lovers, especially the major turning point.
Deena Adams
Hi, Roxanne. Great writers sure know how to draw us into the story and take us on an enjoyable journey, don’t they? I haven’t read Jenelle’s work yet, but I have a feeling she’s one of those!
Jenelle
Hi Roxanne,
I started with LI too! So many fun regencies in that line :). I feel the same way about enemies-to-lovers! Hope you enjoy Bridget’s adventure :). Thanks so much for stopping by!
Crystal Stewart
I like some of the Regency Romances but like to read books at least once to see if I like book and author. I wanted to be a Nurse or Teacher when I was growing up neither panned out I ended up being very single and still looking and working in a department store then when they closed their doorss for good I became a caregiver for oth my parents
Deena Adams
Thanks for joining the conversation, Crystal! I think for most of us life doesn’t always go the way we planned or hoped, but we can find joy in the journey when we keep our focus on Jesus and lean in to the path He allows. I hope you’ll give Jenelle’s books a try and find that you love them!
Jenelle
Hi Crystal!
Thank you so much for stopping by! I am always amazed at how real life has far more twists and turns than a novel! It’s an adventure for sure. Bless you on being a caretaker. I did that for my mom. Praying God give you strength and grace for each day :).
Jenelle Hovde
Thank you so much for the lovely interview!
Deena Adams
It’s my pleasure to host you, Jenelle!
Lynn Moore
Deena….What a great exchange in this interview!
Jenelle….. From your interview with Deena… I loved your answer as to your writing style….
“I gravitate to stories about imperfect Christians growing in their faith.” And your answer as to what you wanted readers to take away from
No Stone Unturned”……..
“I pray this story reminds you that your future is not defined by where you’ve been—but by the God who walks beside you now.”
I so identify with being “imperfect” and was so encouraged with the reminder that “God defines our future as He walks beside us! Just these 2 tidbits alone makes me wanna read your lovely book!
Ladies…. thanks for sharing! 📚
Jenelle
Hi Lynn,
I’m so thrilled the interview resonated with you! I’m so grateful for His grace and mercy as well! God is amazing :). Thank you so much for stopping by! I hope you enjoy Bridget’s adventure!