Today we are talking to Elizabeth Ford Sommer, author of “A Queen's Conscience Redeemed: Volume 2 (Redemption)”.
What inspired you to write "A Queen's Conscience Redeemed: Volume 2 (Redemption)"?
When my mother retired about 15 years ago, she tracked our ancestry on Ancestry.com. At the time, she was unsure if we were related to Isabella Taillefer. Ironically, after more research, she concluded that we are unrelated. In any case, I read up on Isabella and found her story extremely intriguing. She was villainized by the men of her time, yet no one had any concrete evidence against her. I felt that she was rather just severely misunderstood. I can relate to that at times in my life. She was a woman who dealt very well with her circumstances. She was so far ahead of her time that her contemporaries could not keep up philosophically and emotionally.
Then I started imagining what she may have been like, what she thought about current events, politics, etc. I read about her children, her second marriage, and her later years. She had consistent themes of sudden change, betrayal, and endings—not unlike modern women. Apparently, there is nothing new under the sun.
How does this second volume build on the story from the first book in the Redemption series?
Volume 1 builds the foundation for the series. Originally, I aimed for a trilogy, but there will be more than three volumes. Volume 2 delves deeper into mysticism. I mention real historical figures, like Leonardo Bonacci, a.k.a. Fibonacci. Volume 2 appeals to a broader audience by expanding discussions of the three major monotheistic religions, the pagan Druids, and metaphysical elements. I tie together the Oracles of Delphi, the Celtic Druids, and early Christianity. Each subject contributes to the plot in a harmonious symphony.
Can you share a bit about your main character's journey in this book?
What themes are you exploring in "A Queen's Conscience Redeemed," and why are they important to you?
Isabella’s journey is one of intellectual, spiritual, and emotional growth and development. She is mentored by a Hospitaller, a Benedictine monk, Queen Mother Eleanor, and a Muslim. She blends techniques from each discipline into her reign. She acknowledges the value of each discipline and assimilates them into a unified whole.
How do you approach the development of your characters, particularly your protagonist
My goal in each chapter is to expand or deepen the characters’ development. I’m a slow writer. I started writing in 2018, publishing the first volume in 2021 and the second volume in 2024. Part of my slow speed stems from my method of writing backward. For example, the first chapters I wrote in 2018 have not been published yet. As I describe scenes and characters, I envision sequences that should precede the final chapter. I apply the same technique to the protagonist. It’s as if the story reveals itself to me in reverse, and then I backtrack with supporting details.
What challenges did you face while writing this book, and how did you overcome them?
Having patience is my biggest challenge. Patience with myself, with the editing process, design work, etc. When my manuscript is finished, I can’t wait to launch it! The waiting is borderline painful. Lol.
Can you tell us about your writing process? Do you have any specific routines or practices that help you stay focused?
I write my best after a short meditation. As a Reiki master, I typically engage in a Reiki meditation focused on the story itself. I seek guidance in my research and my words, asking God to elevate my vibration so I can perceive all angles and truly write from an omnipresent perspective. As I heal aspects of my personal life, I find that the story flows more gracefully. As I heal, so do my words.
How do you balance historical accuracy with creative storytelling in your novels?
I conduct thorough research before writing any scene, particularly enjoying historical research. If uncertain about any details, I meditate on the missing pieces and explore any insights received during meditation to inform my writing process.
What do you hope readers will take away from "A Queen's Conscience Redeemed: Volume 2 (Redemption)"?
After reading my novel, I hope my readers can develop a greater appreciation for our imperfect world and understand that God always has a plan. This includes recognizing the significant, often overlooked contributions of women behind the scenes. Isabella was not perfect; she made mistakes and faced fear, dread, isolation, and conspiracy. Despite these challenges, she maintained her faith, supported by those who loved her and shared her cause, reminding her that God always has a plan.
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