The MacGregor Legacy series tells a
three-part story of one family as they arrive in the Carolinas from Scotland in
the early 1800s. Before they know it, the Revolutionary War has begun and then
the War of 1812. Award-winning author, Jennifer Hudson Taylor concludes her
series with
For Love or Liberty
(Abingdon Press) this November.
Your latest novel is about the War of
1812 and one woman’s journey to Ohio from the Carolina coast. The War of 1812
isn’t as popular among writers for movies and books. Why do you think this is?
And why did you feel this story was one worth telling?
I think the War of 1812 gets lost
between the Revolutionary War where our country gained our independence and the
Civil War, which literally tore our country apart. Since the War of 1812 wasn’t
as catastrophic in comparison and didn’t last as long, it fails to attract as
much attention. However, it was this very reason that I wanted to write about
it. People do not know as much about this war, and I thought it would be more
interesting to read about something different.
Most of the stories set in 1813 were
about English Regency, but so many other things were taking place all around
the world besides Jane Austen’s tiny corner–as much as I love Jane
Austen’s stories. Also, in researching my family history, I discovered that my
4th great-grandfather, Jesse Hudson signed up in the War of 1812.
What makes this book unique for readers?
There are a few chapters that cover the
real history of the battle that took place on Lake Erie. At the beginning of
the book, I’ve written a letter to readers letting them know how much of the
book was fiction and what parts of real life history I incorporated into the
story. In all of my stories, I do a lot of historical research and include real
history. For romance readers, there is also a romance, so don’t worry.
Can you tell us about your research
process?
I’m not sure that I have a process. I
find something that captures my interest and I dig up more info on it. I keep
digging and digging until I feel I have enough to move forward with the story.
Depending on the details, I may create a character sketch of all my fictional
characters and include real historical people as I find details on them. I pay
attention to clues and figure out the hints left behind regarding their
personalities and let my imagination fill in the gaps. Sometimes I create
a timeline of activities and events to help me stay focused as the story
unfolds.
This book is part of your MacGregor
Legacy series. How does this novel fit into the series? What are some
overarching themes in the series and what’s planned for the future?
For Love or Liberty is the third book in
The MacGregor Legacy series. The first book, For Love or Loyalty, follows the
MacGregor family from Scotland to the Carolinas. The second book, For Love or
Country, follows the second generation through the Revolutionary War as the
family fights for their independence from England. Faith, Freedom and sacrifice
are consistent themes in all three novels.
As for what the future holds, I am
taking a little break from writing and working on my digital marketing projects
through Upon
the Rock Publicist and www.digital-altitude.com.
I love to build responsive websites, create graphic design and motion graphics
projects as much as I enjoy writing stories. I will probably self-publish a few
novels in the future and expand into other genres. I have a new Regency series
that I have started writing and a contemporary thriller that I’m considering.