Elaine Stock ~ Always with You

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Just as all good novels include a plot twist, the Author and Creator of our lives often writes in a twist that ultimately blesses us more than our original plan. Have you ever experienced such a “Divine Detour”?

I’ve read many author stories and have come to conclude that life is one big Divine Detour that we often don’t realize until in hindsight. Though I became more serious about writing (writing, studying how-to books, attending workshops and local RWA chapter meetings) a major potential community disaster (a proposed 100-year quarry only hundreds of feet from my doorstep) had me stepping into the never-dreamed position as VP of the community group that fought the project and the State of NY for ten years — and won! Then there were some troubling times that had me leaving co-working with my husband and venturing into the world of the “day job” where I still am. Yet, writing wouldn’t relinquish its grip on my heart. Though I’d never opt for these detours I will say that they’ve shaped me to become a stronger, more confident person, which I think are positive traits an author needs in the many ups and downs of a wannabe author.

Let’s talk about Always with You (Elk Lake Publishing, February 2016). Please tell us about it.

The simple premise is whether an innocent but naïve young woman and a man, who has been conditioned to hate, can love each other and accept God into their hearts.

Isabelle’s family has kept many secrets from her and Tyler has a big secret that he purposely keeps from her because he loves her so much that he’s afraid of losing her if she learned the truth. However, when all these secrets catch up with them, Isabelle faces two choices: to stay with Tyler and risk her unborn child’s life or to flee, which could cost her life.

What led you to write this particular story?

I have a funny and a too serious answer. First, as part of a writing workshop in Saratoga, NY (a horse racing Mecca), I was given a horse’s name and assigned to develop a story idea. Racehorses have long names! My horse was named Don’t-Tell-Isabelle, which became my story’s original title because so many people have kept family secrets from Isabelle. Throughout her childhood Isabelle had always heard her dad and grandmother whispering Don’t Tell Isabelle. A BTW: I don’t go to the track or gamble on horses!

Then, 9-11 happened. I felt compelled to write a story of how love and faith could conquer horror, and how we all need to love each other no matter our races or faiths.

Always With You was slowly written and re-written a few years after these two influences.

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A few fun questions…

When the words aren’t flowing—or when you want to celebrate if they are—what is your favorite comfort food and why?

Rather than reward myself with favorite foods (I’m not a snacker), I indulge in hot drinks to get myself to remain seated for a while. Otherwise, I’d jump up and do something else. So, it’s my allotted two cups of coffee in the morning and then decaffeinated tea or plain water afterwards. There’s something about a mug sitting beside me that’s like a watch gun trailed on me.

This website features musicians as well as writers. Do you have musical, as well as literary, talent?

I used to play the viola — I love classical music. Also love show tunes. At one time I took dance lessons. But a gal with limited time has to choose her loves so I’m sticking to writing without any regrets.

What Bible passage or story best describes your journey of faith?

Oh, so many! I relate the most to Joseph’s story because of how he overcame the stumbling blocks of his past, keeping his eye and heart on God, and moving forward.

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In the story that is your life, are you the strong, female lead; the girl next door; the mysterious woman behind dark glasses; the super heroine; or the little girl trying to walk in high heels?

For years I’ve read your blog, and for years I’ve dreamed of answering this question! I’m the mysterious woman behind dark glasses, for sure. I try to keep the various facets of my life separate (i.e. my writing life separate from the day job). And not to play up the pity-party violin, but I’ve had so much “stuff” happen in my past that I’ve learned the hard way that telling others about private things backfires. Yet, in becoming a published author and spreading myself all over social media in attempts to promote my book I’m also learning to slip off those dark glasses and show my true self. It’s scary, daring, and crazy fun.

I’m a dog lover. Please tell us about your pets, if any, or your favorite pet as a child.

Though I had a Shepherd-mix in my childhood days (named Pip — my husband also had a childhood dog by the same name!), my husband and I love being owned by cats. However, we had to say good-bye to the last of a trio a year ago. Wild Cat was a 19.5-year blessing for us. We’ve chosen what we hope will be a temporary time to be cat-less so we can catch up on much needed house work, like refinishing the floors this coming spring.

Thank you, Elaine! It’s great to have you as a guest at DivineDetour! You’ve been such a special supporter of this site.

And I thank you, Kathy, for your friendship and for championing Always With You. 

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For more information about Elaine, visit her website or follow her on Facebook, Twitter and/or Goodreads. Click here to read what I (and other others), have to say about Always with You.

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