Interview with Jen Ludwig, Author of 'Embracing Advent: Rediscovering Christmas in the Chaos'

 Oct. 31, 2022

I was privileged to invite Author Jen Ludwig for an interview to discuss her latest book Embracing Advent, and the inspiration behind it. Enjoy!




What's your book about, and what inspired you to write it?

Embracing Advent is a devotional meant to help people slow down and reflect on God's gifts of hope, peace, joy, and love in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

I am a planner – so I love to prepare for Christmas. But, over the years, I found myself caught up in all of the "stuff" that we do to enjoy the holidays – parties, gift buying, and other traditions. While I still LOVE these things, I've found that the best way to soak in the season is to sit at Jesus' feet for a few minutes each day. I hope this book is a tool for other's to be able to do the same!

Who is your target audience, and why do you think this book will appeal to them?

While I hope that anyone would enjoy what Embracing Advent has to offer… My target audience is someone who is looking to spending 5–10 minutes each day reflecting on the Christmas season and preparing to celebrate… so that December 26 doesn't roll around and leave you saying, “What happened? Is Christmas over already?”

What message do you wish to pass across to your readers with this book?

God loves you and – more than wanting you to DO anything – He just wants to spend time with you, renew you, and grow you!

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?

The hardest thing about writing this book was finding the time to get it done!

As a writer, is there anything you've learned about yourself while writing this book?

LOL. I've learned that the principles I'm encouraging people to engage in… taking time to rest, wait, and pray… are ones that I, too, need to be reminded of!

For your own reading, do you prefer ebooks or traditional paper/hard back books, and why?  

I read my Bible – and often an accompanying book or devotional – every morning. These HAVE to be paper! There is just something about cuddling up in the same cozy chair with a cup of coffee with paper in my hands that feels very familiar and comfortable.

That said, I love to load up a Kindle when I travel!

What is your niche genre, and if you were to write in a different genre, what would it be?

My niche genre is definitely any and all things Christmas. I actually am also a songwriter, and more than half of what I have written are songs for the holidays.  

If I were to go beyond Christmas (which I am currently working on!), I would still stay in the Christian/spiritual/inspirational genre!

What books and authors have most influenced you?

Number one… The Bible.

In addition to that I love reading Beth Moore, N.T. Wright, Shauna Niequist (I just finished I Guess I Haven't Learned that Yet and LOVED it!), Nancy Guthrie (I really appreciate her devotions), and many others!

Do you have any more books in the works?

Not a full-length book… but I'm currently working on a short devotional.

Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

I sure do! Of course, I LOVE a good review. A friend and fellow author told me that a bad review just means your book is getting outside your circle (and, perhaps, echo chamber), which is a good thing!

Mention 3-5 fast (and/or fun) facts about you that you'd like to share

When I came to college in Southern California, I thought I would only be here for four years, then would return to Northern California. But here I am 32 years later…

I LOVE LOVE LOVE to travel and have lived abroad for several stints.
One of those stints was in South Africa, and I speak just a little bit of Zulu!

How can readers get in touch with or follow you (website, personal blog, social media handle, Goodreads)?

My website is www.jenludwig.com, and you can follow me during the holiday season at @embracingadvent on Instagram!




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Jen Ludwig is a Jesus-follower, worship leader, and songwriter. After attending Pepperdine University and finishing her graduate studies at UCLA, she settled in Southern California, where she currently resides with her husband and two teenagers. Follow Jen during the holiday season on Instagram at @embracingadvent.




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