When I first learned that Lauren was writing a story set in Australia, I knew I was interested in reading it. And the more I learned about it, the more I felt that it would be something I’d want to share. And then I read the book.

The JOY Series follows three sisters on a quest to keep their parents’ legacy and dreams alive. Loaded with 19th century Australian adventure, it’s a series full of intrigue, adventure, and faith for ages 12 and up!

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I almost never read books set in Australia because I can’t find any. When I learned about this book, I was excited to read it. It did not disappoint. Filled with faith, some excitement, and wonderful characters, this story helped bring the earlier days of Australia to life. I really liked the setting with mentions of kangaroos and birds I’d never heard of. The use of Australian turns for things gave the story a unique and special feel. I really appreciate the way the author wove in the Christianity into the story. It was real and a part of who Jayne and her sisters were. My only complaint is that I want to read book 2 right now and it’s not written.

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Author Bio

Lauren Compton lives in Australia on a sheep farm—surrounded by mountains and plenty of Aussie wildlife! From a young age she has loved books and writing-related things (yep, that includes spending ages in the writing supplies department!). Now she has embarked on a mission to write books that both entertain AND encourage. Her desire is to weave stories that point readers to her Heavenly Father while at the same time being a whole lot of fun!

Interview with author Lauren Compton.

When you first started this book, were you already planning on making it a series?

Yes! I love book series, so I always intended on making Jayne’s Endeavour into a series. 😀 I love being able to keep reading about the same characters (only this time I get to keep writing about them!). The only question is how many books will be in the series! But I’m planning for at least three or maybe four. 😉

Oh, I can’t wait to keep reading about Jayne and her sisters. What do you think was the hardest part of writing this story? Writing a certain part? Editing? Formatting? Cover Design?

Wow! As I know you are very well aware, putting together a book from start to finish is quite the task!! It’s been a huge learning process—but one I’m so glad to have embarked on. 😀 I think writing the start was the hardest part for me. I guess I had a lot to learn about taking the thoughts in my head and turning them into words on a page so that readers could experience what I was feeling and seeing!

Sometimes starting is a daunting task. Do you have a possible date for the next book to be released?

Haha! I would like to say the start of 2021. But really, I don’t have a solid date of any kind yet. I’ve learnt a lot about navigating through the publishing world during the writing of book 1, so I think the process will be a lot more straight forward this time!

I can relate to just a hoped for date. 🙂 Hopefully your next book will be easier. Have you always enjoyed writing? Or is this book a new venture, so to speak?

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Does this sound like something you’d enjoy reading? Do you have any favorite stories set in Australia? What country would you like to see more books set in?