Author Molly Jebber | Between The Covers

This Weeks Featured Author – Molly Jebber

Article by: Angelina Assanti

This week on Between the Covers, we feature Ohio native, Molly Jebber. 

Molly has written eight books. They are Keepsake Pocket Quilt Series – Change of Heart, Grace’s Forgiveness, Two Suitors for Anna, Bakery Series – Liza’s Second Chance, Ellie’s Redemption, Hannah’s Courage (Releases Jan. 28, 2020), Amish Christmas Sleigh, and Amish Brides.

Molly’s lifelong dream of becoming a writer came to fruition, much to the surprise of some of her family members. 

“I never told my parents, brother or friends growing up that I wanted to write. It wasn’t until 2014 when I told my husband, Ed. And he was so supportive and encouraging. I love to write stories and interact with readers!”

Molly grew up in small-town America – which is no longer a small town. 

“I grew up in Springboro, Ohio. A small town that if you blinked you’d miss it. My brother, Mitch, and I had lots of friends our age in our neighborhood, and we loved growing up there. There was a Ben Franklin with jars of candy for sale. A hardware store with a café for burgers and fries. An ice cream shop. And we loved it! Now it’s grown by leaps and bounds.”

Molly shared an unexpected encounter with one of her readers. 

“I didn’t know if the Amish read my books. I have a kidnapping in one, and I bring trouble to my Amish characters’ lives. I was at a country club getting ready to speak for a group of 200 for Women’s Christian Connection and an Amish woman dressed in black with white apron came toward me clutching CHANGE OF HEART, which has a kidnapping in it and my main character, Becca, runs away from the Amish life. I was afraid she was there to express her dislike. I wasn’t sure what I was going to say! Then she hugged me and told me how much she loved it! She stayed for the luncheon and to hear me speak. She was kind and caring. I loved her!”

A supportive network is critical for writers. Molly told me about the people in her life.  

“My husband, Ed, never complains about my writing time, traveling to speak for Women’s Christian Connection or to talk about the Amish lifestyles and traditions, or when I offer classes on marketing, publishing, and agent or no agent. My daughter, Misty, encourages me too. My friends promote me on their social media sites, rejoice with me when my new books release, I’ve been invited to speak, or a big opportunity comes my way.”

Molly described some events that she recommends to other authors: 

“Romance Writers of America offers a wide variety of writing, marketing, publishing, and editing classes in beautiful areas. They offer agent face-to-face pitch sessions.

American Christian Fiction Writers is a friendly and well-organized conference offering many classes and introduces you to new friends and offers face-to-face pitch sessions.

Southwest Florida Romance Writers is an RWA Chapter Group which offers a conference and monthly meetings with great speakers.

Christian Author’s Network is a supportive and encouraging group that offers marketing advice with wonderful authors to connect with.

Keeping Up with the Amish is a wonderful group of readers who love to read Amish books. Their conferences are amazing.

The Seymour Agency Cruise – a great way to meet authors, agents, and classes offered on agencies, publishers, movie producers, marketing, agent pitch sessions offered, and fun in the sun!”

Molly shared her advice for aspiring authors. 

“Don’t give up! Keep learning and editing your book until it’s ready. Criticism in writing is your best friend.”

I asked Molly how she thought being an author had changed her and how it has changed her since her first book came out. 

“It’s introduced me to wonderful people. I love speaking and offering marketing, publishing, and more advice for authors. I’ve learned so much about writing, marketing, and Book to Screen (movie). I’ve made so many wonderful friends through writing.”

With her new book due out next month, I asked Molly what she had planned next. 

“I am contracted through 2023. I turned in Maryann’s Hope, No. 4 in the Bakery Series and I’m writing Magdelena’s Choice, No. 5 for the bakery series.”

Molly said she frequently monitors her social media and book retailers for readers’ comments. That is how she chooses to monitor how she is doing as an author. Sales figures are important but she wants to touch base with her readers to make sure they are happy too.