Caught Between Love and Duty
by Barbara Jean
Released: Nov 20, 2024
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Why this book and why now?
My inspiration for Caught Between Love and Duty came from a combination of sources close to my heart. A dear friend, who has been writing her own novels for years, encouraged me to embark on this journey. My beautiful wife, who inspires me every single day, provided endless support and motivation. And, of course, my magnificent horses, who play a special role in this story as the characters’ trusted mounts, brought their own unique magic to the pages.
What is a significant way your book has changed since either the first draft or the way you thought it would turn out when you first had the inspiration?
A significant way Caught Between Love and Duty has evolved since its first draft is in the level of detail and focus. As I worked through the story, I added far more depth and detail to certain scenes, enriching the world and characters beyond what I originally imagined. At the same time, I found myself deleting chapters that no longer served the story’s direction, streamlining the narrative to make it more cohesive. I also made a major change to the timeline, reworking events to flow more naturally and to enhance the pacing. These changes helped the story grow into something much stronger and more impactful than I initially envisioned.
Would you and your main character(s) get along?
I think Alex and I would get along really well! While Alex isn’t directly modeled after me, we share a lot of similarities in both appearance and personality, which makes it easy to relate to her. I imagine we’d have plenty to talk about and would enjoy spending time together—especially riding our horses. That shared love of the outdoors and connection with animals would definitely be a strong foundation for a friendship.
Do your character names have special significance or meaning?
Not really. I chose names that simply felt right for each character—names that resonated with their personalities and roles in the story. While there’s no deeper significance behind the human characters’ names, the horses are a different story. All the horses in the book are based on real horses from my farm, and their names and personalities are very much inspired by the incredible animals I get to work with every day. They add a personal and authentic touch to the story that’s really special to me.
What 3 things would your main character want with them if they got stranded away from civilization, and why?
If Alex and Sophia were stranded away from civilization, I think they’d be perfectly content with very little—as long as they had each other. Their deep bond would give them the strength to face any challenge together. That said, having their horses with them would definitely make things even better. Their shared love for their horses runs deep, and the animals would not only provide companionship but also be a source of comfort and practicality in their situation.
One of your main characters is planning a romantic night. Tell us about it.
Alex would plan a truly unforgettable evening for Sophia, one that combines their love of adventure, nature, and each other. On a clear, full moon night, she’d suggest a moonlit ride across the countryside, the silver light illuminating their path. They’d gallop through open fields, their laughter mingling with the rhythmic pounding of their horses’ hooves, until they reached a serene pond nestled in a quiet clearing.
There, Alex would propose they dismount and take a refreshing skinny dip in the cool water, the moonlight dancing on the surface as they share playful splashes and intimate moments. Afterward, they’d spread a blanket on the soft grass, drying off under the stars while holding each other close. The quiet breathing and gentle movements of their horses nearby would create a comforting soundtrack to their night.
As they lie beneath the vast night sky, Alex would talk softly about their hopes and dreams, making the moment as romantic as it is serene. It’s a night they’d both carry with them forever.
Publishing a book is a huge accomplishment and it’s time to party! Choose a celebratory beverage for one of your main characters to toast the release of your new book.
To celebrate the release of the book, Alex and Sophia would toast with a glass of vintage red wine. It’s the perfect choice for them—classic, refined, and a little bit nostalgic. They appreciates the depth and complexity of a good wine.
