This week on Jen’s Jewels, I’m delighted to welcome back bestselling author Jenny Hale to chat about her uplifting new release, OUT OF THE BLUE. Known for her heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters, Jenny once again delivers a moving tale that explores love, second chances, and the bonds that shape us. Set along the beautiful Gulf Coast and infused with the rhythm of Nashville’s music scene, this novel is the perfect springtime read to warm your heart and stir your soul.
Jennifer Vido: Welcome, Jenny! I’m so excited to chat with you about your latest novel. Let’s dive right in. What inspired the storyline for this heartfelt summer escape?
Jenny: I’ve been wanting to include a nod to Nashville’s music industry, since I live in Music City, and the idea for the hero came to me first.
Jen: The Gulf Coast setting is absolutely dreamy. What drew you to this particular location, and how did you bring it to life on the page?
Jenny: I actually vacation there! We go once a year, so I’m familiar with all the sights. It’s my favorite beach spot to visit.
Jen: Nora Jenkins is such a warm, relatable character. Is she inspired by anyone in your life? And what drew you to writing her story?
Jenny: I was a public-school teacher for 18 years, so I know Nora’s world well. No one in particular inspired her, but her career wasn’t a stretch for me!
Jen: Ivy Ryman is such a firecracker! What was it like to write from her perspective or develop her as a character?
Jenny: I loved writing Ivy. I really enjoyed writing a character that pushed the limits but was also lovable. I think there are so many kids like that—if we just took the time to hear them, we’d find out why they act the way they do.
Jen: Nora, Ivy, and Blaze each bring something unique and emotionally rich to the story. Of the three, which character was your favorite to write, and what made them stand out to you?
Jenny: Ivy was my favorite. Having been an educator, I saw so many kids like her. I often found that the kids that were known as the “troublemakers” were great for me, and I believe it was because I enjoyed getting to the root of their behavior. Most of the time, it’s not that hard to do, and the kids respect you for it.
Jen: This book beautifully blends romance, family drama, and healing. What was the most rewarding—and the most challenging—part of writing this story?
Jenny: The most challenging part for me was showing Blaze’s faults while still making him lovable. I had to do a little extra work on him.
Jen: Your readers love feel-good stories with lots of heart. What do you hope they take away from this book?
Jenny: I hope they look deeper at people and consider that we all have stories to tell.
Jen: I know your fans are already asking—what’s next for you? Can we expect another sun-soaked romance on the horizon?
Jenny: Oh gosh. I have another summer book out June 9th (a very exciting second edition), I have a fall novel coming out in August (this one was my favorite to write of all time), I just finished developmental edits on my Christmas 2025 novel, and I’m about 10,000 words in on next summer’s novel.
Jen: What’s currently on your TBR stack? Are there any upcoming releases you’re especially excited to dive into?
Jenny: I have a little bit of everything on my TBR. And then, without a doubt, when I get to wherever I’m vacationing (which is when I have the chance to read), I’ll buy something new! I always pack two books, buy about 3, and then only get one chapter read.
Jen: Thank you so much for stopping by, Jenny! Before we go, is there anything else you'd like to share with our readers?
Jenny: Keep an eye out for my next novel, June 9th! I enjoyed it, Jen! Thank you!
Jennifer Vido writes sweet romances set in the Lowcountry, earning acclaim as the award-winning author of the Gull Island series. Her debut novel, "Serendipity by the Sea," secured the prestigious Best First Book award from the New Jersey Romance Writers Golden Leaf Contest. In 2024, Vido's talent garnered further accolades, with Baltimore Magazine readers naming her Best Local Author in their annual Best of Baltimore poll, while the Baltimore Sun acknowledged her with an Honorable Mention in their Best of 2024 Author category. When not writing fiction, she interviews authors for her weekly Jen’s Jewels column, leads water exercise classes, and directs a legal nonprofit. Currently residing in Maryland, she and her husband are proud parents to two grown sons and a rescue dog named Fripp.
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