Picture an American storyteller who weaves faith, food, and family into heartwarming tales—meet Hillary Manton Lodge! A graduate of the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism, Lodge has carved a niche in inspirational fiction with her delightful 'Plain and Simple' and 'Two Blue Doors' series. Her novels, brimming with cozy charm and culinary flair, have won over readers and critics alike, earning accolades like the Carol Award finalist nod for her debut, 'Plain Jayne.' Ready to dive into her world of heartfelt stories?
With a knack for blending romance, mystery, and spiritual depth, Lodge’s work feels like a warm hug on a rainy Portland day. Her unique voice in contemporary Christian literature makes her a standout, inviting readers to savor both her stories and the recipes tucked within her pages.
The Making of Hillary Manton Lodge
Born with a storyteller’s heart, Hillary Manton Lodge grew up with a love for words and flavors. Her time at the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism sharpened her writing skills, but it was an internship at Northwest Palate Magazine that sparked her passion for cuisine—a theme that seasons her novels. Lodge’s early career blended journalism and storytelling, setting the stage for her leap into fiction. Inspired by her faith and her Portland, Oregon, roots, she began crafting tales that resonate with readers seeking hope and connection.
Her transition to authorship wasn’t just a career shift; it was a calling. Drawing from her love of foreign films, indie concerts, and kitchen experiments, Lodge infused her stories with authenticity and warmth, creating worlds where readers feel right at home.
Hillary Manton Lodge’s Unforgettable Stories
Lodge’s debut, 'Plain Jayne' (2010), kicked off her 'Plain and Simple' series with a fresh take on Amish fiction. The story follows Jayne Tate, a city reporter who finds unexpected community in Oregon’s Amish country. A Carol Award finalist, it blends humor, faith, and self-discovery. Its follow-up, 'Simply Sara' (2010), an ECPA bestseller, traces Sara Burkholder’s journey from Amish roots to the English world, tackling identity and romance with grace.
The 'Two Blue Doors' series, starting with 'A Table by the Window' (2014), shifts to a culinary landscape. Food writer Juliette D’Alisa navigates love, family secrets, and her French-Italian heritage in this INSPY Award-nominated novel. 'Reservations for Two' (2015) and 'Together at the Table' (2016) continue Juliette’s saga, weaving historical intrigue and delectable recipes. Lodge’s style—vivid, heartfelt, and sprinkled with culinary details—creates immersive stories that linger like a favorite meal.
Her sixth novel, 'Jane of Austin' (2017), reimagines Jane Austen’s 'Sense and Sensibility' with Southern charm and tea-infused romance. Lodge’s ability to balance faith-driven themes with relatable characters sets her apart, making her books both uplifting and universally appealing.
Why Hillary Manton Lodge Matters
Hillary Manton Lodge has left a quiet but profound mark on inspirational fiction. Her stories bridge cultural divides—Amish and English, faith and doubt, kitchen and heart—offering readers a space to reflect on their own journeys. Her focus on food as a connector, paired with her knack for crafting strong, relatable women, resonates deeply in a genre often dominated by predictable tropes. Fans praise her for making them laugh, cry, and crave her recipes, while her awards highlight her literary skill.
In a world craving connection, Lodge’s novels remind us that love, faith, and a good meal can heal and unite. Her work continues to inspire readers to embrace their stories with courage and grace.
- Key Works: 'Plain Jayne,' 'Simply Sara,' 'A Table by the Window,' 'Jane of Austin'
- Awards: Carol Award Finalist ('Plain Jayne'), INSPY Award Shortlist ('A Table by the Window')
- Hometown: Memphis, Tennessee (formerly Portland, Oregon)
Snag 'A Table by the Window' and dive into Hillary Manton Lodge’s delicious blend of faith, food, and fiction! Your heart—and your recipe book—will thank you.