Goodreads asked Sandy Brehl:

Where did you get the idea for your most recent book?

Sandy Brehl BJORN'S GIFT, book two in an eventual trilogy, was never intended. The idea for it came form readers of the original (stand-alone-intended) book, ODIN'S PROMISE. That book only encompassed the first of five years of German occupation of Norway, as told through the life of an eleven-turning-twelve year old girl, her dog, and her family.
After readers completed it they were convinced, then insistent, that a sequel was needed. They had become so invested in the characters and the little village in which they lived that they were certain there were more stories to tell.
After months of additional research, I wrote the draft of a sequel and realized quickly that the characters and the history needed the space of two more books to share those stories effectively.
In BJORN'S GIFT Mari's story continues from mid 1941 until the start of 1943, during which many things change, including Mari's perspective on her world.
I'm looking forward to seeing if readers feel as strongly about the characters after reading this title. Please let me know how you feel after reading!

flag