Welcome! Welcome! The time has gone by pretty quickly and our Holiday Reading Challenge closes out with today’s book discussion of The Ideal Wife by Jacquelin Thomas. It is Book 15 from our list.
It is a pleasure to have Jacquie joining us today as she’s been a supporter of and favorite of RAWSISTAZ members for quite some time.
Feel free to jump right in and share your thoughts and/or questions on the book.
THE IDEAL WIFE by Jacquelin Thomas
Pocket, October 2009
288 Pages, Paperback, $14.00
ISBN-10: 1416599630
ISBN-13: 978-1416599630
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Marrying a handsome, wealthy lawyer and living in a Hollywood Hills mansion…it’s a dream come true for twenty-four-year-old Jana, from the moment Lawrence Collins swept her off her feet and into his luxurious world. True, she put her studies at a local Bible college on hold in order to wed after a six-month whirlwind romance. Beautiful and vivacious, with a stunning body, Jana knows men like Lawrence don’t come along every day, and she vows to be a perfect companion — the ideal wife — to this sexy, powerful man. But at what price?
From her wardrobe and hairstyle to her friends and her choice of church, Lawrence seems to want to change Jana into someone she’s not…and soon, the man Jana thought she knew will test her values and her faith with a shocking revelation that goes against everything she believes. How far will Jana be willing to go to keep the man she loves? With her “ideal” marriage falling apart, Jana — the real, modest, smart, and strong girl who knows what she stands for — must put her trust in God, and follow His guiding light out of the darkness of a broken relationship.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jacquelin Thomas is an award winning, best selling author with twenty-nine titles in print. Her books have garnered several awards, including two EMMA awards, the Romance In Color Reviewers Award, Readers Choice Award and the Atlanta Choice Award in the Religious & Spiritual category. Jacquelin was a 2005 honoree at the Houston Black Film Festival for the movie adaptation of her novel, Hidden Blessings. She was the first recipient to receive the Writers Achievement Award at the North Carolina Book Festival in Winston-Salem.
Although Jacquelin initially published in the romance genre, she decided to follow the call on her heart to write Christian fiction because she seeks to write books that will touch your heart and uplift your spirits with tales of characters who yearn to have an intimate relationship with God.
Visit her at www.jacquelinthomas.com or her young adult site at www.simplydivinebooks.com.
Hey hey hey everyone and welcome! I’m so glad you guys could join us today. Let’s jump right into things!
Jacquie, thanks for hanging out with us today. I’m finishing up the book now, but could definitely relate to the whole idea of trying to be what folks think the perfect should be. Please tell us a bit more about you and how you came to write THE IDEAL WIFE.
-Tee
Welcome Jacqueline,
I reviewed and enjoyed The Ideal Wife, my girlfriends and I, who get together for books and wine also read it in December and we had some vivid conversations about it. It was the perfect book for book discussion and the opionions really roared. Thanks for affording us a lot of conversation.
1. The story of Queen Vashti was Jana’s spirtual inspiration, but like many we respond to what we ‘want’ the story to say.
2. Justified is usually in the person’s own view but partners have to be sensitive to likes and desires of the other. Lawrence was not a sensitive man.
3. Lawrence was self-absorbed and used ‘the man is head of his castle’ to feed his desires. And yes it is a good idea to lay your desires on the table before jumping the broom, so to speak.
Welcome Jacquelin…thank you for joining us today!!
Morning to you and thanks!
Thanks so much for hosting this chat! I appreciate all you do. Well, it’s a beautiful morning in Raleigh, North Carolina and I’ve had my hot chocolate and bagel, so I’m ready to discuss.
Sounds yummy, Jacquie! To respond to any of the comments, just click REPLY under that person’s comment and it’ll keep everything a bit neater.
-Tee
LOL…I just had my hot chocolate too!!
Finally got a break, running to get mine now…LOL!!!
Hi, Jacquelin. Thanks so much for joining us on today. I’d like to extend you a very hearty welcome from a fellow Raleigh resident!!!
Hello Hope:
Thanks for the warm welcome!! Love Raleigh!!
Good morning and thanks for chatting with us today!!!!
Good Morning!
Discussion Questions:
1, In trying to reconcile her husband’s wants with her strong faith, Jana relates to the bibilical story of Queen Vashti. Why does the queen’s s tory strike a chord with Jana?
2. Do you think Jana’s reaction to Lawrence when he wants to watch the “blue” movie is justified? How would you react?
3. What do you think of Lawrence’s requests concerning their intimate life? Is there a way he could have broached the subject better and reached a compromise?
1, In trying to reconcile her husband’s wants with her strong faith, Jana relates to the bibilical story of Queen Vashti. Why does the queen’s story strike a chord with Jana?
Because she considers their stories to be the same. Lawrence wanted to show her beauty at all costs, eventhough Jana felt uncofortable with it.
2. Do you think Jana’s reaction to Lawrence when he wants to watch the “blue†movie is justified? How would you react?
For her yes, she was justified. Do you really want to know how I would have reacted?
3. What do you think of Lawrence’s requests concerning their intimate life? Is there a way he could have broached the subject better and reached a compromise?
Oh, yes. I think if Lawrence had of approached Jana and discussed with her what he wanted to do things would have been different. Instead he chose to demand things of her, which left her more unfortable.
But don’t you think Lawrence should have been upfront about his sexual preferences while they were dating? He kept telling her there was nothing wrong with swinging–however he kept it a secret–why?
He kept it a secret b/c he knew she more than likely wouldn’t agree with it b/c of her relationship with God and felt that he could change her.
Exactly! He probably figured there wouldn’t be a wedding. There were so many clues dropped though when around his friends though. I was surprised she didn’t get it sooner.
-Tee
Right…but you know how that it…when you’re in love…you see what you want to see.
That is so, true, Sharon. Love, or what we think is love, so often covers up so much and blinds us to the reality of the situation.
She was young and naive but she should have known something wasn’t right about them and the way he kept blowing stuff off. If my feelings as you wife aren’t as important to you as your friends then go be with them and let me do me. Her biggest problem to me was she felt she didn’t deserve to have someone like him in her life, that’s why she tried so hard to become his ideal.
Totally agree Tee.
Yes, he should have been upfront with her about swinging. He keep it a secret, in my opinion, because he know darn well that it is not right and his chances of finding a decent woman to go for it was slim.
Yes, he should have been upfront and honest with her in the first place. But he wasn’t because he was convinced that she would eventually accept his sexual preferences. What he didn’t count on was that she had a mind of her own and questioned his reasonings. Even if she did become comfortable with the toys and other things, I doubt she would have accepted or became comfortable with swinging.
He knew there was something wrong with it; that’s why he kept it a secret. He knew in his heart that she would not be down for that type of lifestyle. He should have been upfront with her before saying “I Do.” He was manipulative from the beginning because he took away her choice of saying, “No, I don’t want this type of life so I can’t marry you.”
Hi all,
I’m all late and stuff. Hi Jacquelin! Thanks for joining us today.
I agree. You should tell your sexual preferences up front. No chance for surprises. Everybody knows everything upfront.
Brenda
I don’t know many people that are up front about things they think might offend someone. Many men think that when they’ve got your feelings invested, they can come out of a bag with a whole host of “surprises” and women would be more inclined to “bend the rules” a bit more than they would when they hardly know you.
True DJ…and Lawrence really felt he had a chance with Jana going along with his lifestyle b/c one….he got her to marry him in 6 months after they started dating and 2…he got her to quit school before they even married
1, In trying to reconcile her husband’s wants with her strong faith, Jana relates to the bibilical story of Queen Vashti. Why does the queen’s s tory strike a chord with Jana? At first Jana thought Queen Vashti was being disrespectful and not bein submissive for not honoring the king’s wishes but then she realized that a woman doesn’t have to be submissive if she feels it goes against God.
2. Do you think Jana’s reaction to Lawrence when he wants to watch the “blue†movie is justified? How would you react? Yes I do because she wasn’t comfortable with it and didn’t believe init.
3. What do you think of Lawrence’s requests concerning their intimate life? Is there a way he could have broached the subject better and reached a compromise? He should have been upfront with it when they were talking about marriage and let her decide for herself if she wanted to marry him and be a part of his lifestyle.
1, In trying to reconcile her husband’s wants with her strong faith, Jana relates to the bibilical story of Queen Vashti. Why does the queen’s s tory strike a chord with Jana?
Because the King asked the Queen to do something that she was not comfortable with doing and it lead to her being dismissed.
2. Do you think Jana’s reaction to Lawrence when he wants to watch the “blue†movie is justified? How would you react?
I don’t think he approached the situation in a good manner for Jana. He should have talked to her about it before just springing the movie on like that. I would have politely turned off the movie, faced my husband and said lets talk and lets talk about everything NOW
3. What do you think of Lawrence’s requests concerning their intimate life? Is there a way he could have broached the subject better and reached a compromise?
Some of his requests were too extreme. I thinking talking to her more about the toys would have helped. There was not help for the “lifestyle” and I don’t blame her for not compromising on that.
I vaguely recall the story but didn’t pay it too much attention back then. I like the modern day version and hopefully this book will bring it to light to show women that being submissive to your husband does not mean he can disrespect you or that you should throw your own feelings to the side to please him.
Most of the women were ok. I didn’t have a stand out favorite.
Wana….I really didn’t have a favorite either.
I agree, Wana. If he loves you, he would care about your feelings. It’s easy to honor a husband that honors you first. The problem is, we don’t take enough time to make sure we choose mates that honor us. These issues should be discussed in couseling prior to marraige, and if they are lied about, they could be deal-breakers.
I totally agree! Not only do we not take time to really get to know our mates–we often don’t allow God to help us in that area. We often invite Him to the wedding but not into the marriage. However, if one is deliberate enough in their deceit–it can go unnoticed until much later, but the Bible does tell us that what’s done in darkness will always come to light.
Welcome ! I have to tell you I had some things on my mind as I read and just might share some of them..we’ll see how it goes. LOL
Discussion Questions:
1, In trying to reconcile her husband’s wants with her strong faith, Jana relates to the bibilical story of Queen Vashti. Why does the queen’s s tory strike a chord with Jana? She ties to do as he asked even when her llight bulb..so to speak..keep going off that what he wanted and her christian views were not melding.
2. Do you think Jana’s reaction to Lawrence when he wants to watch the “blue†movie is justified? How would you react? Umm I watch blue movies so Im not the one to ask this question of. BUT for HER I understood the reaction.
3. What do you think of Lawrence’s requests concerning their intimate life? Is there a way he could have broached the subject better and reached a compromise? No, the way she was, NO compromise..at all.
Good morning and Jacquelyn and thank you for joining us
Good Morning LaDena!
A few more questions as I have to step out for a bit, but I’ll be back this afternoon.
JACQUIE:
- Why did you decide to use the story of Queen Vashti from the Bible to model The Ideal Wife? What more can you tell us about her story?
- How did you come up with the characters and who was the most fun to write?
READERS:
- Had you heard of Queen Vashti prior to this book? If so, do you like the present-day modernization of the story?
- How did you feel about the women in the book? Was there a stand-out favorite? Why or why not? What about the not-so-favorite characters?
-Tee
READERS:
- Had you heard of Queen Vashti prior to this book? If so, do you like the present-day modernization of the story?
~I read the story of Queen Vashti before and I enjoyed the new take because it gives a new perspective to consider.
- How did you feel about the women in the book? Was there a stand-out favorite? Why or why not? What about the not-so-favorite characters?
~I like Jana’s sister all though Jana and the best friend/partner’s wife (can’t remember her name) stood out to me. I didn’t like the 3rd woman in their crew who was trying to hit on Jana (can’t remember her name either)
That was Angie! I didn’t like her either. She was almost crude in her remarks and honestly, I didn’t like Lena too much either. All the “Lawrence would love this and that” had me suspect from the jump.
-Tee
- Had you heard of Queen Vashti prior to this book? If so, do you like the present-day modernization of the story? No I haven’t and I like the modern day version.
- How did you feel about the women in the book? Was there a stand-out favorite? Why or why not? What about the not-so-favorite characters? At first alhtough I knew Jana wanted to please her husband she was starting to get on my nerves because she was starting to lose herself in him. Angie….was just sickening….Lela wasn’t a strong person and needed to did down into herself to become strong.
Now see? I thought I was the only one, but Jana was working a nerve early on in the book for me. I couldn’t stand Poppy…ahahha…and I felt bad for Jana AND was glad when she stood up to hm, but she almost seemed a bit wishy-washy. She’d stand up for herself and then two minutes later she was cooing at him. Perhaps it’s just me, but if you tick me off, I’m not getting over it that easily, especially some of the stuff he said to her.
And another thing…well, nevermind.
-Tee
Come on with the nevermind……………..
Right, spill it….LOL!!!!
And another thing…come on finish it.
I forgot what I was gonna say, but…
A really big problem I had with Lawrence & Jena was the whole “spice things up speech”. I mean, seriously! Who gives this speech that early in the marriage? Don’t you need to spice up things years into it? That was a big ole clue to her right there that he wasn’t who he portrayed.
-Tee
I felt Jana’s situation was similar to what Queen Vashti experienced. Some theologians believe that the Queen’s act was one of disrespect–that she wasn’t submitting to her King. However, others believe that she was a queen of high moral character and she felt her beauty was only reserved for her King. It’s been said that he wanted her to appear before his men wearing only her crown–wanting to make a lewd display of her before his guests.
^5 to the Queen. I’m so sorry, but the whole “wanna show someone off” doesn’t work for me.
No need to apologize, if it doesn’t work for you it doesn’t work for you!
READERS:
- Had you heard of Queen Vashti prior to this book? If so, do you like the present-day modernization of the story?
If I did, I don’t remember. I did read it before I read the story and was quite intriqued.
- How did you feel about the women in the book? Was there a stand-out favorite? Why or why not? What about the not-so-favorite characters?
My favorite was Jana and Lela. Once both women realized their worth they were able to make changes that was best for them. My least favorite were Lawrence and Ron, I have so many reasons why we would be here all day.
ROFL…on what page did you want to kick someone in the neck? That’s all I wanna know…
But I agree. I could NOT have anyone around me like them, friends of my hubby or not.
-Tee
I enjoyed all of the characters–especially Graciela. Lawrence and his crew were probably the most annoying to write, but I had to keep them true to character.
I like Graciela too…she kept it real…LOL
Graciela was my favorite character. She was the realest of them all. Even when she was telling Jana to get with the program and do some “extra” things to please her husband.
That Angie worked my nerves. She was just nasty. Ron was a real pervert.
Angie was a pervert too!!!! When she spilled the beans that night, I just knew the light bulb was going to finally go off for Jana then. It still took sister girl, a moment though.
Graciela was a favorite for me.
I was soooo happy that Lela came out from among them!!!
Reposting to the right question
I vaguely recall the story but didn’t pay it too much attention back then. I like the modern day version and hopefully this book will bring it to light to show women that being submissive to your husband does not mean he can disrespect you or that you should throw your own feelings to the side to please him.
Most of the women were ok. I didn’t have a stand out favorite.
READERS:
- Had you heard of Queen Vashti prior to this book? If so, do you like the present-day modernization of the story?
Its been so long ago..but from what I remember this was an interesting take.
- How did you feel about the women in the book? Was there a stand-out favorite? Why or why not? What about the not-so-favorite characters?
I liked all the women..real characters..some I know..LOL
- Had you heard of Queen Vashti prior to this book? If so, do you like the present-day modernization of the story?
Yes. I have actually done a deep study of the women in the bible.
I really liked this adaption. It reminds me that although the stories in the Bible happened many years ago, that the same situations Queen Vashti, David, Job, etc went through, we’re still going through today. We have an advantage though because the blue-print on how to handle the situation is right there in between the pages of the Bible.
I love reading Jacqueline Thomas books because she brings the stories into modern times.
A loooooong time ago (smile) I used to teach Sunday School, and though I remember the story of Esther, I don’t remember Vashti in particular, but I like the modern day take on it.
I like strenghts to outweigh weaknesses in female characters, even when I’m highlighting the weakness, so I didn’t have a favorite. But I’d like to ask Jacquelin, being a strong woman, is it difficult for you to write a weak female character? I’ve done this, because these characters provide the needed conflict in many stories, but I’m just not a good enough writer at it yet.
READERS:
- Had you heard of Queen Vashti prior to this book? If so, do you like the present-day modernization of the story?
I don’t remember the story, although I remember her name.
- How did you feel about the women in the book? Was there a stand-out favorite? Why or why not? What about the not-so-favorite characters?
As others have said, I guess Graciella would have been a favorite. And once Jana got a backbone, I liked the person that she became and that she was able to help others who had experienced what she did with Lawrence.
Good morning Jacquelin and everyone else.
I have been waiting for this chat!
1, In trying to reconcile her husband’s wants with her strong faith, Jana relates to the bibilical story of Queen Vashti. Why does the queen’s s tory strike a chord with Jana?
~I think Jana is worried about being the perfect women and sees the story as a model of what happens when a woman steps outside of her husband’s wishes. Considering Jana’s upbringing and spirituality it is understandable that she would want to honor God in her wifely duties but she needed to dig deeper into the OT story.
2. Do you think Jana’s reaction to Lawrence when he wants to watch the “blue†movie is justified? How would you react?
~I think it was justified. He caught her off guard and she wasn’t prepared for it. I think I would have been upset too, especially if my husband knew I wasn’t comfortable and wanted to force it on me anyways.
3. What do you think of Lawrence’s requests concerning their intimate life? Is there a way he could have broached the subject better and reached a compromise?
~Lawrence should have communicated earlier on and given Jana a choice of whether she wanted to stay or not. I don’t Lawrence understands the idea of compromise or not being direct. He wants his way and if you don’t like it he’ll toss you aside.
For starters I need to update my bio–I have over thirty something books in print with 8 more coming out through 2012. I love what I do. The Ideal Wife was birthed out of reading about Queen Vashti in the book of Esther, and how she was dismissed as queen because she refused to show herself to the King’s men as he requested. Then after reading that, I heard Michael Baisden discussing the swinging lifestyle and a young woman called in to say that she and her pastor husband were swingers, and that it had made their marriage stronger. Needless to say it piqued my curiosity about wife swapping in a Christian marriage.
LOL, I thought so, but didn’t realize it until too late. Feel free to send it to me and I’ll update.
Okay…hold up!! A pastor and his wife were swingers??
-Tee
Yep, they’re out there and have a following to boot. A scary thought, isn’t it?
SMH. A pastor and wife swinging…swinging in a Christian marriage…the horror and downright twisting of the word.
Seee..thats why Im a HEATHEN..
Linda,
talk about keeping it real, you do, you do~
A pastor & wife swinging–now see that’s one preacher who couldn’t tell me anything. A preacher is human yes, however, they are supposed to be setting an example for the rest of us. I wonder what scripture he twisted around to justify his lustful nature.
I can’t even imagine coming out with that many stories and having such a reputation for outstanding work. You most certainly have to be passionate about it. Do you plan to make any changes in what/the way you write, or do you take an “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” approach to writing?
I don’t plan to change my style of writing, but I strive to get better and better with each book. When I’m not writing–I’m reading books on the craft of writing. I’m always in learning mode.
Jacquelin,
This will be a hard one with over 30 books but, which one was your favorite to write? Maybe you can narrow it down to your top 3.
My top three:
The Prodigal Husband
A Change Is Gonna Come
Jezebel
The Prodigal Husband and Jezebel are my favs also.
Mine, too!
Mine too Sharon. I think I liked Jezebel the best though.
Brenda
Jezebel is my favorite.
I LOVED Jezebel.
OMGoodness…remember the part when Lawrence and Jana went to Pastor Laney for marriage counseling and he said he was looking was going to do porno for Christians…now what do you think about that?
Pastor Laney was just plain sleazy to me.
Pastor Laney was~ I am not even sure how to describe him, I just cannot imagine him as someone’s spiritual counselor~
I think Pastor Laney was a creep that was trying to house the term “Pastor” to get him the sexual fantasies that he wanted. He was a sleaze ball!!!
Ditto, ditto! But, what scares me is there just might be pastors out there like that. Such a shame.
-Tee
Oh I believe there are!!!!!!!
Oh there are some out there like him to be sure…sad but oh so true~
angelia
A pastor was recently indicted because neighbors complained that what was supposed to be a church in their neighborhood was actually a sex club.
OMGoodness!!!!!!!!!!
SHUT UP!!!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::FAINTED:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::;
LOL
Stop the madness!!! People are getting too strong!!! A sex club church, what will they think of next? It’s ok to have sex with children? Lord, have the mercy!!!!
The times we live in have nothing on Sodom & Gamorrah! My question is this: Don’t they have any fear of God? Don’t they read their Bibles? As pastors–they should know what it says. Don’t they remember what happened in Noah’s day? In Abraham’s day? Anything? My pastor always says that the world has prostituted grace since Jesus died for our sins and we’re covered. In my opinion, they need to read the fine print.
Jacquelin, I think that’s it–people no longer fear God. America has been protected from many harms and dangers because even with its faults, our country as a whole put their trust in God but now–anything goes and God is not pleased.
::::blank stare:::
Unbelievable! The more I read of this discussion, I just wanna go pop some popcorn and enjoy the show because my mouth is hanging OPEN. I dunno what I’d do if I saw something like this.
Pastoring and Ministering are the most suspect occupations in history. At least when you go out on a job interview, you have to show credentials and evidence training. Many pastors/ministers do this, but there are some who are accepted as shephards simply based on their alleging that God told them to take the job. Instead of praying for guidance and confirmation, many congregations just accept the announcement that you were called.
OMGoodness…remember the part when Lawrence and Jana went to Pastor Laney for marriage counseling and he said he was looking was going to do porno for Christians…now what do you think about that?
I knew something was up with the Pastor when Ron asked why not take Jana to him for counseling. Now I’ve heard of some things, but christian porn. What would make the porn christian, they pray? I had the same response as Jana. The man was out there, and he has his followers believing the same thing.
What would make the porn christian, they pray? JAIME, you are a standup comedian, too funny~~
According to the swinger I interviewed–the couples would be married and they don’t say the bad words–thus Christian porn ….
I was just trying to figure out what makes a porn christian and that’s what I came up with…LOL!!! It must be they’re praying.
Now finding out that it’s because their married is what makes it christian, is mind blowing!
Crazy is what I thought when this guy explained it to me. He actually thinks that it will ease the guilt of christians who want to watch porn. He says it will free them ….
That’s just justification to make it right in their book. Porn is porn no if, and’s or but’s about it.
Girl look…I knew something was wrong with Pator Laney when he made his first appearance in the book….he’s in his only little sleaze world…LOL
Ummm hmmm! And Poppy was just nodding his head in agreement. She should’ve run then.
porn and Christian don’t even go together!
This is actually something one of the men (in the swinging lifestyle) told me. BTW, he is a Sunday School teacher and one of the founders of the liberated christians organization. Christian porn ….. there are just no words. Also, there is really an online Christian sex toy shop. The gadgets are shaped like genitalia and they don’t use the bad words.
Sorry about that–I meant to say they are not shaped like genitalia.
~~mouth hanging wide open~~
I am really being educated here. However, after the way a minister approached me last week none of this should be a surprise. But hearing it, man it’s tooo much.
Brenda
OMG! What? Girl…I’m done!
I
CAN’T
HANDLE
THIS!!!
~the sheltered one
Tee you are too funny, there is a lot of Mess going on out there and folk are twisting the bible to make it look right~ we are living in TROUBLED, times and people are scared to call wrong, wrong~
Tee I’m not that shattered and I can’t handle this. But I must admit I was tempted to do a search on the Christian sex shop but just couldn’t bring myself to do it. It’s just not right.
Hush your mouth. I just never would have thunk it ::in my deceased granny’s voice::
People will add Christian/God to anything to try and make it right.
Pastor Laney made my skin crawl.
Here’ the question I want to ask-How did you feel about Lawrence drugging Jana both times? Do you think it factored in her miscarriage?
He was dead wrong and I couldn’t see Jana would even want to talk to him again after that….PERIOD!!!!!!!
He was wrong on some many levels for that and trust would have gone completely out the door. For some reason, I don’t think it factored into the miscarriage, can’t base that on anything just personal feelings. I also think (ok know) he would have been in the hospital for a couple of days after I found out but that’s just me.
Nope not, only you. I wanted to kick him in his neck and it would have been a hard kick, too!!!!
Forget about any kicking! He would’ve been sleeping in another room and locking the door; scared of what I was gonna do. Actually, I would’ve already been gone. Ahahha.
He was too strong for that!!!! Not only did he try it once, he tried it again so she would be iniated in to the lifestyle. How low can you get?
Not only was he wrong for that, I dont think she dealt with that strongly enough. In the divorce, that act was worth 5 MILLION alone.
Tell it Linda. I was like that’s all you’re gonna do…you out your mind. I wouldn’t been in the kitchen cooking. What you ask? Why a BIGGGG OLEEEEE POT of GRITS some to throw and some to eat. Sorry I can’t pass up a good bowl of grits
Regardless of that being her husband, I feel some legal charges should have been filed. Yes, I think it contributed to her losing the baby. Although that was tragic, it was a blessing in disguise. She no longer had to be tied to him.
I’m not normally a violent person, but somebody would’ve been in jail.
Me neither Tee but I would filed charges so quick, he wouldn’t have had time to regroup.
Can you say: DEAL-BREAKER! And yes, drugs might factor into the miscarraige.
The marriage would have been over for sure at that point. She had plenty of reason to end it before then, but that would have been the last straw for sure. I definitely think the drugs contributed to the miscarriage.
And Lawrence, well, let’s just say, he would have felt my wrath!
Do you think if Lawrence and Jana got back together, do you think he would have fully given up the lifestyle?
Nope, I think he would have eventually relapsed. Now if he wanted to give the lifestyle up for him and him only then I hope he would’ve been successful. I just don’t see it happening, though!
I agree, I think Lawrence would have relapsed. The lifestyle had too much of a hold on him
No, he wouldn’t have given it up because he was selfish. He losted love the before and the only thing he learned was to hide it from the next person he got with then try to pressure them into it.
No. Lawrence loved that lifestyle too much. He would have been good at first but unless he put his total focus on God and living a godly life, he would have resorted back to his old ways and that would have hurt Jana even more.
No, I think he would have relapsed…unless Jana became the freak he wanted her to be!
Hi Jacquelin!
I enjoyed reading the ideal wife.
But I must admit at times Jana worked my nerves. She was in theology school
before marrying Lawrence, so she knew God’s word for herself.
I’m all for making your spouse happy but when it goes against everything you
believe, uh uh. And God constantly convicted her in the spirit.
Yet she was always, But he loves me. He’s so good to me. Grrrr
I was very happy they didn’t get back together at the books end. That would have been just
too unbelievable to me. Lawrence had been involved in the life too many years to just ‘give it up’ so easily. Especially without true deliverance by God.
And that Pastor Laney…Lord have mercy!
I’m in total agreement with you! She worked my nerves as I was writing, but I had to keep her in character. When we have the desires of our heart–often we ignore the Holy Spirit even when it grieves. We don’t want to let go of what we feel God has blessed us with, so we rationalize, turn a blind eye to the situation. etc. Then when there is no escaping the truth–we wonder how God allowed us to get there.
That is so true! God knows I’ve done it too many times to remember.
“We don’t want to let go of what we feel God has blessed us with, so we rationalize, turn a blind eye to the situation. etc. ”
Jacquelin, you sure you didn’t have a peep into my life. Similar words were spoken by my pastor on Sunday.
Yep. We justify having what we want. But if you are deeply entrenched in the word, that conviction will beat your a$$, keeping you up at night. You can’t lie to yourself for long.
Tell it Janice!
Jacquelin –
What is your next project?
Also:
I have read many Christian fiction books and some of them were quite “preachy” and didn’t enjoy them….how do you keep from being “preachy” in your books?
You also write books for young adults. What was your inspiration behind that?
What age is your young adult books appropriate for? Youngest age.
My next book is a Kimani Romance titled Chocolate Goodies and will be in stores February 1st. It’s a continuation of the Ransom Family series from my romance days. However, please note that that there are no graphic sex scenes in the book. I happen to believe that romance and gratutious sex are to very different things. In March, my young adult novel, Split Ends will be in stores and I have readers as young as 8 years old reading the series. The characters are about 16 at this point, but no sexual activity and no profanity. Samson (a modern day adaptation of Samson & Delilah’s story) will be in stores in May, and it’s my Christian Fiction title.
WOW…I didn’t know you wrote romance novels…I’ll definitely have to check those out and I’ll definitely be on the look out for Samson and Delilah.
When I was writing romance I had a large group of teens reading them and doing book reports on the stories, then the same with my Christian Fiction, so I decided to write books that spoke to the issues teens are confronted with on a daily basis. They hear what the world has to say about sex, drugs, gang banging, etc on a daily basis–I wanted to also give them what the Word of God says.
I don’t like to be preached to–I want teaching, so this is what I strive to do in my writing. I tend to adapt stories from the Bible because it’s my hope that readers will be inspired to go back to the Word. Although the stories I write are adaptations, I work to keep them biblically sound, so that the message remains the same.
Woo hoo!
Don’t care about graphic sex scenes just want to read about the Ransoms again!
I have readers as young as 8 years old reading my teen novels.
Great!
I’am ordering the series for my 11 year old granddaughter.
Woo hoo! I ordered two a few months back, but didn’t realize the age range was so young.
Tee:
My young adult books are read by 8 year olds all the way to adults. I’m always tickled when my adult readers rave about the teen books.
I agree about the “preachy”..being a heathen..I dont need it or want it..LOL
LOL!!!
Jacquelin, welcome, welcome, welcome!!!! All I wanted to say when I first started reading this book was “run Jana run!” Talking about working the nerves. She knew what her values were and got too wishy-washy trying to keep a man that wasn’t for her in the first place. It made me wonder how much I would do to get/keep a man (if I weren’t married). There would have been no way I would have attended Pastor Laney’s church after the first time. He truly misrepresented the bible. This book allowed us to understand how having a good spriritual covering over our lives. The wrong preacher can cause problems for everyone
You’re right–that’s why it’s important for us to study the Bible for ourselves and ask God for His wisdom. If the person you’re allow to lead you spiritually is someone misguided like Pastor Laney or has a hidden agenda, then you end up like Lawrence.
Rosa, this was the exact thing I said! That would’ve been the ONLY time I attended. Without proper teaching, the Bible can be hard enough to understand. Why put myself in the midst of someone tweaking words for their own good?
-Tee
But if you aren’t studying the Word for yourself, then you won’t have any idea that the scriptures are being twisted.
And, if you’re only looking for someone to validate your own twisted views, then someone who “teaches” and interprets or shall I say rewrites the Word like Pastor Laney is perfect.
Jacquelin, Kimani is releasing a book by you next month (mine is already on the way) entitled Chocolate Goodies. is this a Ransom book? Praying it is!
I love and miss that family!
When you stopped the series I wrote you a LAE. LOL!
And you were so sweet and gracious to reply to me. You even went into detail of God’s new direction for you and your writing. Yep, you sure did!
So I’m hoping, praying it’s a Ransom book. : )
Oh, and I miss really the newsletter you use to send to your readers. It always had a ‘pearl’ to help me along the way.
Janice:
Thanks so much for your support! I miss the Ransoms too and so yes, Chocolate Goodies is a Ransom book and Second Chances ( Feb. 2011) is also a Ransom. I will also be introducing a new family in 2011: The Alexanders of Beverly Hills to Kimani Romance. I am also going to finish the series with A.C. and her sisters–lots of romance coming in the near future.
Hallelujah!!!!
I love your christian fiction but your romance books will always be my favorite. ; )
Thanks so much!!! I love romance, so it’s great to be back with the Ransoms and the Alexanders (they are a more sophisticated version of the Beverly Hillbillies. Rags to riches story).
Oh I can’t wait to meet the Alexanders of Beverly Hills.
We are currently redesigning the website and the newsletter will be back!
Pssst…y’all don’t have to repost the questions, just your answers.
LOL…I know Sis but my mind ain’t that long and that’s the only way I can remember the questions….LOL
Me too, otherwise I get confused…LOL!!!!
ROFL..trust me, I understand. I normally copy/paste it in, then I answer the question, then delete the original question. Just a tip.
Thanks for the tip Chica…I never thought of that…it would be easier!!!
Jacquelin -
How do you start your novels? Do you just sit and let the thoughts flow or do you outline?
Sharon:
I write from an outline–that’s actually the biggest challenge for me. I do a really thorough outline (50-100 pages) before I ever sit down to write the book. I have to really see and feel the story and when I do–I write from beginning to end.
The messages I received from reading The Ideal Wife is forgiveness and search the Word of God for onself. What message did you receive from reading the book?
The message I got is that there is only one God. You cannot worship your husband AND God…and he is a jealous God.
Discussion Questions:
1. Should Jana have accepted the house and million dollars Lawrence offered to her? Did you think there were strings attached?
2. How does Jana utilize her experiences to help others? How has what she been through changed her as a person?
The Message I received is to know your WORD. People will misquote the Bible for their own agenda and if you don’t know the WORD you will get caught up.
Being a good wife doesn’t mean compromising yourself. Once you lose yourself you’re lost forever.
Yes she should have accepted but although he knew that what he did to Jana caused he a lot of emotional strain, he still loved her and thought he was doing the right thing….but he still had a motive.
Jana utilizes her experiences by telling the women they don’t have to compromise their self-worth or beliefs for their husbands. Jana has changed by staying true to her beliefs and never compromise.
Yes, she should have accepted his offer. I know some will argue she shouldn’t have, that she she should’ve exposed him and the lifestyle, but what good would that have done? It would’ve caused her more heartache, so accepting the money was best for her. Yes, at first I thought there were strings attached with his offer, but at that point he was willing to do anything to get her back.
Jana uses her experience not only to help herself but others that face her struggle. It’s a little easier to identify with someone if they’ve had a similar walk to yours. With age and time brings wisdom, when she first married Lawrence yes she was naive and willing to do anyting to make her marriage work even if that meant being uncomforatable. After time she wised up a bit and was able to hold her old. We all didn’t come to this earth able to hold our own, it’s learned with time and guidance.
Yes, she should have accepted that and more. I thought there were going to be strings attached, but by the books end, there didn’t appear to be any.
2. How does Jana utilize her experiences to help others? How has what she been through changed her as a person?
She helped Ron’s wife to get out of the lifestyle….and she helped other women who were experiencing or had experienced similar relationships. I think the entire experience caused Jana to be a much stronger person. She could finally trust and rely upon herself and her beliefs rather than thinking she needed to rely on someone else.
I do not think Jana should have accepted the money or the house. To me it was like some hush hush money. Had it been me, I would have hired me an attorney and rode it all the way out. The law firm that Lawrence and Ron had would have surely heard from me, my attorney, and the media.
This book definitely made you want to break out the Bible. If you didn’t know the WORD you could see how confused one can get. Jana knew the WORD but she was so set on pleasing her husband. She found herself going against it.
Lawrence was a confused puppy. He was wrong for not being honest with his wife. He saw she was uncomfortable with things but still wanted her to participate. The drugging was the last for me. I wanted to smack him upside his head.
To me he crossed the line as a husband, just as I felt the King did in the Bible. What woman would want to parade herself nude in front of men she didn’t know? Unless that was her job (stripper)
Lawrence’s friend gave me the creeps.
I heard about the swinging lifestyle when I was in the Navy. It was big thing among the military couples. I’d never heard about it among Christians, but nothing surprises me these days.
Ms. Jacquie, thanks for writing this. It is a subject we needed to hear about.
Thanks so much for your support! I wrestled back and forth when the idea for this story ignited., but God just pressed on my heart to keep it biblically sound and it would stand against any criticism and that’s what I did. Swinging was only a small part of it–the main message was that you have to study the word for yourself and ask for discernment when picking a mate, even a pastor.
Okay…I’m butting in on this conversation since I’m just joining the chat. Sorry that I’m not going with the flow of the conversation.
First of all Jacquie, you know you had me turning the pages of The Ideal Wife and saying “What?”, “No she didn’t?!” “Jacquie really went there.” It was a good read. It’s funny that i ran across this chat because one of my girlfriends asked me about the book this morning! She’s going to get it today.
Also bought your teen series books for my nieces for Christmas…It’s a Curl Thing. That’s the name of the title, right? Now they’ve made me the purchaser of books for their little family book club!
And I can’t wait for Samson. And I’ll get Chocolate Goodies…I need to catch up on the Ransom series because I’ve never read those titles.
Whew..that’s it….now back to reading this stream of discussion!
Tia:
LOL!
The Ideal Wife was challenging for me in that I’m a very visual writer, so I see my stories unfold like movies. There were times when I went EEEWL ….
It is a story that had to be told, however. I enjoy writing the teen fiction and I’ve always enjoyed romance, but God had me depart from it for a season, in order to focus on my Christian Fiction. I must warn you–the other Ransom books were written B.C. (before my active relationship with Christ) so they are probably more steamy–however not what is considered graphic, but no profanity. I never wanted my parents to read them–LOL
What a great and lively conversation ladies!
I havent’ had the chance to read the Ideal Wife, but am a big supporter of Jacquelin and her books.
I’m so excited to hear the Ransom’s will be back. My favorite Ransom book would have to be Forver Always!
I’m looking forward to meeting the Alexanders.
Glad you’re back in Romance Jacquie!!!
Sean:
It’s great to be bqack and I’m very excited about the upcoming romance titles. I’m enjoying all of the books I write. Thanks to all of you who support me and my books. I’m forever grateful.
Forever Always is one of my favorites as well.
Jacquelin,
I am definitely one of your adult ravers, I love YA and yours are awesome~
angelia
Shelia,
that is just what I was thinking my Pastor talked about that last night at a meeting, he asked the Q if a Pastor can’t be trusted around women, how can you trust him to bring the right message~
Exactly!!!!!! I should be able to discuss my questions with my pastor without being concerned with how he’ll twist my words. And my pastor should be willing to discuss things with me. That’s what I love about my pastor, I’m blessed and proud that he’s my pastor.
Right on!!
Whew! I’m all caught up and I’ve almost picked my mouth up off the floor. Great, great discussion ladies! Isn’t cool when characters invoke all kinda emotions from you? Gotta love it!
Feel free to continue on, but I just wanted to send another thanks to everyone for participating. And, a special hug and thanks to the authors who have stopped by to join in. I love to see authors supporting each other, so thanks!
-Tee
I must say Ideal Wife is about to tie with Prodigal Husband as my favorite.
I enjoyed reading every page….I told my girlfriend reading a good book is sometimes like eating a good meal…..LOL Ideal Wife was a seafood platter…..LOL
It still amazes me how far a man will go if you let him.
The characters were very descriptive, storyline was unique…it was a page turner for me. Read it once so quickly…had to read again to make sure I didn’t miss anything..lol
I was saying AMEN every time Jana smacked Lawrence with the word of GOD. This book show-cased that GOD doesn’t give us a spirit of Fear. Jana feared no man. I’m glad Jana helped Lela because she had definitely lost her way. Lawrence and Ron were pimping their wives and their preacher was pimping them….it was just Nasty…
Jana’s friend and sister were there for her no matter what. I think every woman needs a best friend or sister to reel you in when they see you going over the edge.
LaShaunda saw swinging in the Navy and I saw it in the Army. My husband almost knocked this guy out…talking about swinging…he was about to swing out at him. I had neighbors doing it and thought it was okay….I said then, everyone is accountable for what they do and let it go.
This story touched on so many subjects…there’s a lesson in here for everyone.
This pastor is the kind that will make you know the word for yourself or you’ll be tapdancing in hell beside him.
I would’ve liked to have seen Lawrence’s pastor thrown out of the pulpit….maybe we’ll see that in the sequal????
I too loved the Ransom saga….would love to read more……
Keep writing Jacquelin and I’ll keep reading them….
Thanks, Kim
What was up with that gift that Ron gave Jana and Lawrence for a wedding present?
I was like what kind of male friend gives that type of gift. Once I read Lawrence’s response, I knew then something wasn’t right with him. I doubt most men would’ve laughed it off and furthermore expected his wife to use the gift. Yet, Lawrence did.
Jaime, I don’t think any man I have ever been with would have appreciated that gift.
I would have been pissed..that was not an appropriate gift
I had a big issue with this too. Now, if my girlfriend had bought something like this, that’s one thing, but for another man to do it? Simply inappropriate!!
Jacquelin
Do you have any questions for us?
Ladies, I would love to hear your responses to the following:
It’s obvious Jana loved her husband dearly and did not believe in divorce, which is why she struggled to make her marriage work. At what point do we come to a life-altering decision such as divorce? How do we handle it spiritually?
Do you believe Jana was a little uptight when it came to her sexuality?
Do you believe that Jana and Lela can build a close relationship after all that’s happened? Yes, Jana has forgiven Lela, but will she ever really trust her when it comes to men?
This is a tough one to answer since I’m not married. I would turn it over to God, for his guidance and help.
Yes, I think she was a little uptight but that is understandable. I think with time she would’ve became comfortable to spice up her sex life.
It’s obvious Jana loved her husband dearly and did not believe in divorce, which is why she struggled to make her marriage work. At what point do we come to a life-altering decision such as divorce? How do we handle it spiritually?
Do you believe that Jana and Lela can build a close relationship after all that’s happened? Yes, Jana has forgiven Lela, but will she ever really trust her when it comes to men?
I think it will take a lot of work, but yes I can see them being close friends. I also think Lela has to prove that she can be trusted, again.
See…I didn’t think she was uptight…because it wasn’t that she didn’t want to have sex…she didn’t believe in the acts that Lawrence wanted her to do.
I can see that also.
No I didn’t think Jana was uptight with her sexuality.
No, I don’t think she wuld trust Lela again…I know I wouldn’t.
Sigh! I just typed up my reply and of course Firefox had a hiccup or something…
To answer (again):
- I think each individual person must choose when enough is enough for them. Sometimes, folks just need to be aware of what the problem is and work on fixing it. Through prayer & counseling, some marriages can be saved, but there are some which were never really meant to be. Spiritually, you sit still, listen and pray.
- I don’t know if I’d say Jana was uptight about her sexuality, but perhaps she was just brought up a certain way. I don’t think she should’ve agreed to all Poppy had going on.
- As far as trusting Lela, I think for Jana it’s possible. Some people are at a different level and can get over and truly move past stuff like this. Total forgiveness. I’m sure it’s a great place to be at spiritually, but I doubt I would trust her…ever again.
-Tee
That’s what I’m saying…I have been in situations like that…I can forgive and move on…even remain a friend…but once the trust is gone with me…it stays gone
I’m that way to an extent. There have been situations where I had to forgive, but I never let them back into my inner circle because for me I knew I could never trust them again. However, if they proved to me that they could be trusted again, I may reconsider, not making any guaruntees though.
Something else that got on my nerves while reading was hearing Lawrence call Jana names. Jacquelin, was this difficult to write? Why or why not?
Others, how did you feel when he called her names?
It was as if he was using it as a way to break her down….he was a manipulator
You’re too kind Sharon…LOL!!!
Now that I know what you meant…you behave…LOL
It was hard to write, but true to his character. I never liked Lawrence from the moment I created him, so keeping my personal feelings out of it wasn’t easy and stretched me as a writer.
Well you did a great job b/c I would have been beating up my own character….LOL
Or kicking him in the neck several times. I honestly lost count how many times I wanted to kick that man in the neck and Ron was on the kick list too.
You silly:D
And I would have helped you!
Interesting. Would you say he was your most difficult character to bring to life?
I would say Ron and Angie were probably the most difficult. Lawrence was irritating but those two–there are no words. I don’t know people like them, so it was a challenge. I’ve met someone like Lawrence who is simply brainwashed. He found someone who validated his beliefs (Pastor Laney) and so if a pastor finds nothing wrong with what he’s doing …. it’sgot to be okay.
I can imagine, cause those two were unbelievable. Yes, Lawrence was defiinitely brainwashed.
Jacquelin,
Thank you for chatting and answering my questions. I wish you a good night for I’m finally able to head home from an exhausting workday. Take care until the next time!!!!
Have a wonderful evening! It’s been fun.
Tee and Everyone:
This has been wonderful! Thanks so much for your neverending support. I trully appreciate all of you. Have a wonderful and restful evening. It has been my honor to spend the day with you chatting back and forth.
Thank you for joining us!!
Jacquie, thanks so much! My apologies for the delay, but every time I try to come back to respond, something distracts me. LOL. But this was so much fun and I look forward to your next book. I’m so glad you were able to join us.
Thanks to everyone, especially my fabulous RAWSISTAZ who were holding it down.
-Tee