Welcome to Jen’s Jewels, your go-to destination for uncovering the story behind remarkable literary gems. This week, I’m thrilled to shine a spotlight on Jamie Ogle, the gifted mind behind OF LOVE AND TREASON. Join us as Jamie unveils the inspiration that transformed Valentine’s Day from a puzzling celebration into a compelling narrative. Explore with us the extensive research that brought the enchanting backdrop of ancient Rome to life, and discover the delicate balance Jamie strikes between love, courage, and the early church’s indomitable spirit. Step into the heart of Jen’s Jewels where each author and their story is a precious gem waiting to be discovered.   Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to write a captivating story about the legend of St. Valentine? Jamie Ogle: I never really liked Valentine’s Day, and for so many years didn’t understand why we celebrated it. But I have always loved digging into the “why” behind things, and when I finally looked up the origins of the holiday, I was captivated by the story of forbidden marriages and a man who risked his life to marry couples in secret. I couldn’t help but start playing around with a story centering on one of the…

1–What is the title of your latest release? OF LOVE AND TREASON 2–What’s the “elevator pitch” for your new book? Rome, AD 270. When the Roman emperor bans marriage, Valentine continues marrying couples in secret. His defiance makes him a hero . . . and the most wanted man in the empire. Compelled by his faith, he believes he has nothing to lose, until a chance encounter with the daughter of a Roman jailor changes everything. 3–How did you decide where your book was going to take place? Of Love and Treason is a retelling of the legends of Saint Valentine, and since his story takes place in late-third-century Rome, it was an easy decision. 4–Would you hang out with your protagonist in real life? For sure. I have two main characters, Iris and Valentine, and they’re both witty and charming. 5—What are three words to describe your protagonists? Iris: creative, hopeful, determined. Valentine: compassionate, courageous, and late for everything. 6–What’s something you learned while writing this book? Since my female main character, Iris, is a baker, I learned a lot about Roman-style baking and baked goods. I tried a few recipes and learned that I am still bad at baking bread. 7–Do…

Welcome to Jen’s Jewels, your go-to destination for uncovering the story behind remarkable literary gems. This week, I’m thrilled to shine a spotlight on Jamie Ogle, the gifted mind behind OF LOVE AND TREASON. Join us as Jamie unveils the inspiration that transformed Valentine’s Day from a puzzling celebration into a compelling narrative. Explore with us the extensive research that brought the enchanting backdrop of ancient Rome to life, and discover the delicate balance Jamie strikes between love, courage, and the early church’s indomitable spirit. Step into the heart of Jen’s Jewels where each author and their story is a precious gem waiting to be discovered.   Jennifer Vido: What inspired you to write a captivating story about the legend of St. Valentine? Jamie Ogle: I never really liked Valentine’s Day, and for so many years didn’t understand why we celebrated it. But I have always loved digging into the “why” behind things, and when I finally looked up the origins of the holiday, I was captivated by the story of forbidden marriages and a man who risked his life to marry couples in secret. I couldn’t help but start playing around with a story centering on one of the…