Interview with author Jean Pike!!

Today we welcome author Jean Pike to The Diamond Mine to promote her new book, Super-Heroes!

Hi Jean!!

Tell us a little about your book, please.

Thank you for having me today, Nancy. I'd love to!

It all started with a prayer...

After a lifetime of of being controlled by her parents, and most recently by her ex-fiancée, Abby Callahan has had enough. She moves out of her parents' home and into a rented motel room a few towns away, where she takes night classes at the community college, finally free to pursue her dream of becoming a music therapist.

From now on, she will live her life her way, answering to no one except God. She is done letting her parents make her decisions. And she is done with men. Until she meets Rory St. George.

Growing up on the wrong side of town,  Rory has worked hard to claw his way out of poverty. He has a good job as assistant manager at the local feed store, a good church, and a few close friends. He thinks that's all a man can ask for in life. Until he meets Abby.

Their fragile relationship is tested from the start with missteps and misunderstandings, but their genuine attraction to each other and their faith in God hold them together. Until disaster strikes. Can their newfound love survive being tried by fire? And can the power of love turn ordinary people into superheroes? 

This sounds wonderful, Jean! How did you get your idea for this story?

Reading the daily news can be both depressing and uplifting. The ideas for many of my stories stem from things I've read about that have either filled me with wonder or filled me with sadness.

The world is full of stories of ordinary people performing superhero acts--- A volunteer firefighter who risks his life to rescue a family from a burning house. A man, fishing on the bank of a river, dives into deep waters to save a drowning child. Heroism is also found in a hundred small, everyday sacrifices made in the name of love.

A new romance can be so much fun!  Picnics and hikes and bouquets of flowers' just because! But when things get hard and life turns messy, few have what it takes to keep the flame burning. To stay in it for the long haul, even when it costs something precious. The truth is, one never knows if they have what it takes to be a superhero until they have no other choice.

Superheroes is a story about everyday heroes who love in the most extraordinary ways.

Wow! How could I not be interested in a story like that?

Do you have any underlying themes that you want your readers to come away with?

The underlying theme in Superheroes is that God is sovereign over His creation. God is still God, even in hard times. 

There is a verse in Job that I've always loved: But He knows the way that I take: when He hath tried me. I shall come forth as gold. (Job 23:10 KJV)

Bad things happen in life, but God can use them to refine our faith and make us more like Him. This story seeks to showcase His great love for us, and hopefully, point the way  to the greatest Superhero of all time, our Lord Jesus.

Well said, and I found your words very touching. I'm sure your story is, too.

I'm curious-- Do your characters ever surprise you?

Oh, all the time! I'll usually do a rough character sketch before I start any in-depth writing, a few sentences about who each of the characters are and what they want from life. Many times the characters turn out to be something quite different from what I first imagined. I like to think that's a combination of God's direction and my crazy, overactive imagination, lol.

In Superheroes, Olly was originally going to be Rory's youngest brother, heading down a wrong path that Rory would have to try and correct. But something as small as a typo changed my mind. Instead of writing the word coffee, I accidentally wrote coccee. Which is exactly how my special needs nephew, Michael, pronounces the word. I have always wanted to include a special needs character in one of my stories, but I struggled with how to do so with grace and dignity. As I started to look more closely at Olly's character, he and Michael began to merge together, and I knew the time had come to honor this lovely, complex young man. Hence my dedication: For Michael, a superhero indeed.

Tell us how you incorporated Olly with Michael.

First, as I said, Olly's character is based on my nephew. Michael is a young man with special needs who loves pink shirts, orange shirts and coloring books. It may not always seem as though he is paying attention, but he is! He notices the birds that come to his mother's feeders, and all the pretty colors of the flowers in their garden.

He notices who is in church each week, and who is not. On Sundays, after lunch, he makes a card for each person on the prayer list, using construction paper and pictures colored and cut from his coloring books. His favorites are the superheroes, whom he makes up his own names for, names that make sense to him.

Michael has a stubborn streak as wide as the Ohio river, but oh, he has a heart filled with love and compassion that often astounds me.  He uses what he's been given to lift others up. I gave those same traits to Olly. 

 

Michael sounds like quite a work of art, as well as being an artist himself.

Do you have a favorite character in any of your other books?

I enjoy creating all of my characters, but some stand out for me because their parts are just so much fun to write! But with all of the time and effort spent developing my main characters, it is often the secondary characters that seem to grab my readers' hearts. In The Little Things, it was a grumpy senior bulldog named Gus. In King of Hearts, it was forgetful, lovable Aunt Clara.  As the reviews for Superheroes began to come in, it was clear that in this story, it was Olly that readers loved the most.

I can see why!

So, what are you working on now?

I was four chapters in to a new Redford's Crossing Romance when a coworker made a statement that brought all work on that story to a screeching halt. We were talking about relationships, and how, as a widow, she feels she is "done." 

And then she said, "But my mother thought she was done, too. She just sat in her porch rocker day after day, waiting to die. And then a man pulled in the driveway and asked if he could pick from her blackberry bushes. They've been together forty years."

Wait, what?

An opening sentence immediately popped into my mind: Norah Sutton was sitting in her porch rocker, waiting to die, when the red pickup truck pulled into the driveway...

And Blackberry Summer began to take shape. :)

Sometimes, that's all it takes for inspiration to hit: a typo, a passing comment, and the whole direction of your story  takes a different path.

Thank you so much for this interview, Jean. I have completely enjoyed hearing your answers.

And readers, here are some links for Jean, and her books:

https://www.amazon.com/Superheroes-M-Jean-Pike-ebook/dp/BOCYPSLQ5D/

https://pelicanbookgroup.com/ec/index.php?main page=product info&cPath=3746&products id=1711

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/superheroes-m-jean-pike/1147169381?ean=9781522305064

https://books.apple.com/us/book/superheroes/id6744548266

Jean's blog:

https:// jeanpike.wordpress.com/

Meet Debut Author Janell Goodrich York and Find Out About the Inspiration Behind The Day Sarah Ran AWay

 Today, I am thrilled to welcome debut author Janell Goodrich York to the mine. Janell's debut release last month, and I enjoyed traveling with Sarah and her new friends in this story. She is generously offering one of our blog readers a paperback copy of The Day Sarah Ran Away and some bookish swag (US addresses only). Keep reading to find out how to enter.

About Janell Goodrich York

Janell Goodrich York is a retired high school guidance counselor. She was born in Indiana, but raised in a small town in Southwest Missouri. Janell loves to travel, especially to beach destinations. She loves to hang out with her family and spoil her two dogs. Janell is a girl mom of three awesome adult daughters and Meme to five “perfect” grandkids. Janell lives in Missouri with her wonderful husband, Jim. Her first book, The Day Sarah Ran Away, was published by Scrivenings Press in August 2025.

Connect with Janell: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Suzie: Welcome, Janell. Thank you for taking time to visit the Diamond Mine this week and share a little about yourself and your book. To start off, can you tell us a little bit about yourself (something that’s not in your bio)?

Janell: My husband and I recently finished traveling to our 50th state. It was my goal to do something each state was known for––not just travel through. We’ve experienced some amazing and funny things accomplishing that goal. In May, we flew to our last state Hawaii.

I’ve been blessed with many female friendships. My three best friends and I have been together since the fifth grade. 

My husband and I celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary this year. He’s my rock and biggest fan. 

My favorite color is Red. I’m drawn to it like a bee to honey. My husband will ask, “Do you really like that blouse, that car, etc. or are you drawn to it because it’s red?

Suzie: I love that you and your husband visit local events together and you sell books while he sells fishing lures. 

Let's talk about your book. What was the inspiration behind your story?

Janell: I missed my kids, so I started journaling my feelings about being an empty nester. Then, I started reminiscing on the numerous past conversations I’d had as a high school counselor with the parents of senior students. I found most dads were excited to have their kids out of the house, but most moms were tearful thinking about their kids leaving home. I didn’t truly understand their sadness until it happened to me. It’s a different kind of grief––A letting go of something that has been a joy. As I wrote down my feelings––Sarah and her story began forming in my imagination. At first, the story was turning out like Tom Hanks with his soccer ball friend, Wilson, so I decided she needed interaction with other people. Now, there’s a host of loveable characters in her story. 

Suzie: I loved the characters in this story. They are funny, real, and memorable in the best kind of way. What was the catalyst for your interest in writing?

Janell: I began writing stories in the first grade. My teacher commented to my mom one day she enjoyed my stories and hoped I would continue to write as I got older. Her compliment encouraged my love of writing.  

Later, my middle and high school English courses were my favorite classes to attend. I always loved when we would have a creative writing project assigned. My junior year, my English teacher told me the school would be offering a year-long creative writing class, and I needed to sign up for it. I was thrilled! I still have the box of short stories and poems I wrote in that class. 

Suzie: I wish I still had some of the silly poems I wrote when I was younger.

Are you a night owl or morning person?

Janell: Neither, lol. It takes me awhile to wake up in the morning, and I’m ready for bed around 9 p.m. I’m most productive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Suzie: I'm the same way, but my most productive hours are in the afternoon. Back to your book, who was your favorite character to create? 

Janell: Delores - Sarah’s new best friend. I love her personality. She’s so fun, supportive, and encouraging. I think we all need a “hype girl” like Delores in our life.

Suzie: I agree. Are you a plotter or a panster?

Janell: I’m a panster. I write the beginning and the end first. I have some idea of how I want the middle of the story to go, but honestly, the characters dictate what comes next. I try to do an outline, but I’m terrible at sticking to it.

Suzie: It is the same for me with an outline! I feel like the newest term for a pantser is a good one. We are intuitive writers. What are your three books on your current tbr?

Janell: What Brings Us Joy by Teresa Wells, Birds Alive by Jen Dodrill, and My Friends by Fredrik Backman

Suzie: Those all sound like good reads. Do you have a favorite author or book?

Janell: Harper Lee, Richard Peck, and Fredrik Backman to name a few.  I love how they write about everyday people experiencing relatable, difficult situations with humor and empathy. I want to be that kind of writer. I hope my readers will be able to see themselves in one of my characters––to go away after reading my book with the feeling I’m not alone – someone gets me. 

Suzie: I think many readers will see themselves in Sarah. What’s next for you as an author?

Janell: I’m currently writing the second book in my Sister Pie Pact Series. It will focus on Sarah’s neighbor, Olivia. It will have the same host of characters with a few new ones added.

Suzie: I can't wait to read it. How can we pray for you?

Janell: I’ve never taken creative writing classes. I’m learning as I write. It’s a slow process for me, so I get a little anxious trying to meet deadlines. Pray for peace in my spirit and the right words to entertain as well as encourage my readers.

Suzie: We will pray for balance, peace, and inspirations as you write more books. It has been a pleasure spending some time with you. Thank you for sharing with us this week.

The Day Sarah Ran Away 

A heartfelt tale of discovery and resilience when plans fall apart.

Sarah Goodwin loved her life as a stay-at-home mom, pouring her heart into every moment with her only daughter, Emma. But now, Emma is off at college and rarely visits or answers her calls, leaving Sarah feeling adrift in a sea of routines—no more soccer games, fundraisers, dress shopping, or birthday parties. As each monotonous day blends into the next, Sarah longs for something more.

When Emma announces she’ll be home for the summer to plan her wedding, Sarah is thrilled at the thought of shared dreams, endless to-do lists, and the promise of reconnecting. But her perfect summer quickly unravels when unexpected events send her on a daring journey with new companions—an adventure filled with twists, revelations, and surprises she never saw coming.

As Sarah journeys west, questions loom. What will her husband do when he discovers she’s gone? Where will this journey lead her? And most importantly, what lies ahead for Sarah now?

Amazon | Goodreads

Giveaway

Janell is giving one of our readers (US addresses only) a print copy of The Day Sarah Ran Away. To enter, leave a comment and tell us about your favorite vacation. Be sure to let us know how to contact you if you win the giveaway. The winner will be randomly drawn on Thursday, 9/25/25.

Interview with Christy Award-Winning author Katie Powner

  Join me in welcoming Christy award-winning author, Katie Powner to the Diamond mine! Katie is an auto-buy author for me. If you haven’t had the chance to enjoy “The Sowing Season,” "Flicker of Light," "Where the Blue Sky Begins" or “The Wind Blows in Sleeping Grass” yet, definitely treat yourself. Katie's newest book, "When the Road Comes Around" just released and I can't wait to read it, and hear what she has to share about it. Without further ado, here’s Karin!

Katie Powner is a Christy Award-winning author who lives in Montana, where cows still outnumber people. She writes contemporary fiction about redemption, relationships, and finding the dirt road home. 

Welcome Katie! First let’s learn a little bit about you. Can you share a few things about yourself that have nothing to do with writing?

Wait, I thought everything had to do with writing?! Ha. Let’s see, I’m a mom to the third power: biological, adoptive, and foster. I collect red shoes, and I have ten chickens and a bunny. I also like to sing.

I love "mom to the third power!" I also am an adoptive mom and know what a special place my daughter's foster mom has in my heart.What drew you to write?

I don’t ever remember a time when I didn’t want to write. It always just made sense to me that I was a writer.

I would have to agree :) What’s your writing process? 

It certainly varies, but typically, I sit on an idea for at least a month. I poke it and prod it. I turn it upside down. Then I hand-write an outline to see if there’s really a full story there. If there is, then I type up a more detailed outline. At that point, it’s time to start drafting, which usually takes me about six months. Once I have a completed first draft, I send it to my early readers for feedback, incorporate their feedback, and revise. Once I have a completed second draft, I send it to my agent for feedback, incorporate her feedback, and revise. Hmm, maybe there’s a pattern here! Then, my agent and I decide what we want to do with the story.

I write out a paper outline in the brainstorming phase too!! How do you come up with your story ideas?

Story ideas are all around you. In the people you meet, the newspaper you read, the conversations you overhear, the interesting places you visit. I view it less as “coming up” with an idea and more as narrowing down all the options to find the right idea for the moment.

I love it! I feel the same way. We all loved “The Sowing Season,” “Flicker of Light,” “Where the Blue Sky Begins” and “The Wind Blows in Sleeping Grass.”  Tell us about your new release. 

You’re so sweet, thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed my stories. My new release, When the Road Comes Around, is about a 24-year-old troublemaker named Tad who gets a job for the summer at Come Around Ranch in Montana. He’s determined to prove himself, but he can’t seem to catch a break. Meanwhile, the owners of the ranch, who have a differently-abled son named Sam, begin to wonder just how many chances they should give Tad. Especially when his presence at the ranch changes everything, including their relationship with Sam.

Ahhh!!! Can't wait to read it. (It's in my purse as we speak.) Are there certain themes explored in the story?

This story is all about grace. The grace we receive from God, the grace we extend to others, the grace we need to have extended to us.

Do you have any favorite characters in your books?

The animals are always my favorite characters! I love all my animal characters, but I might love Pearl the pig from The Wind Blows in Sleeping Grass a little bit extra.

Pearl is my absolute favorite, too! What are you working on now?

I’m currently trying to finish up a new small-town, contemporary story where the whole story takes place over one day. I’ve never done anything like this before, and it’s been much more challenging than I anticipated.

That does sound challenging! I can't wait to hear more about it once you're finished. When you’re not writing, what do you enjoy doing?

Reading, of course! Also, going for walks and bike rides and hikes. I also spend a lot of time at the school watching my children’s sporting events, which is always fun. I’ve logged thousands of miles on the bleachers!

Thanks for joining us, Katie!

Check out Katie's newest book, "When the Road Comes Around."

Only trouble can bring about the beauty of redemption and grace.

In the small town of Grady, Montana, twenty-four-year-old Tad Bungley has a reputation for trouble. When he lands a job at Come Around Ranch, however, his life seems to take a positive turn. As he develops a soft spot for Sam, the ranch owner's disabled son, and a special bond with TJ, a rescue horse with a poor reputation of his own, Tad becomes determined not to bungle it up this time.

Forty-eight-year-old Anita Wilson is too young to feel so old, but rheumatoid arthritis limits her ability to work on the guest ranch she owns with her husband. It was a risk to hire Tad for the summer, but Anita is convinced he just needs a bit of encouragement to find his footing. What she doesn't anticipate is that Tad's presence at the ranch will change everything, including her relationship with her son. And when Tad finds himself in more of a mess than ever, he and Anita must learn when to hold on, when to let go, and what grace really means.

Order Here: https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/618543

Want to Connect with Katie?

Website: www.katiepowner.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorkatiepowner

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorkatiepowner/

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/katie-powner

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20019296.Katie_Powner

Ruth Douthitt Charms with New Book Releases and an Amazing Talent

Stop all crafting, just for a moment or two, readers! I've got a live one for you. She not only writes books, holds down a job, runs marathons, teaches women's Bible Studies, and volunteers, but she's an artist too! So dunk those brushes, unplug that hot glue gun, and slam the lid down on all those unsorted beads so you can meet author and artist Ruth Douthitt!

PT: Welcome, Ruth! So glad to have your visiting the Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction. How did you start writing, and what genre do you write in?

RD: Hello! Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to meet your readers.  I started writing when I was in my 20s way back in 1989. I wrote poetry in high school, but no stories. I decided my first book would be a fantasy book for kids about a boy prince who enters the mysterious Dragon Forest to slay the dragon within just so he can prove that he is a prince. That book, The Dragon Forest, was published in 2011. Since then, I have written many more dragon books and released dragon coloring books, too. But I also write mysteries for kids, YA contemporary, and women’s contemporary fiction as well as suspense.

PT: Nice! I love dabbling in multiple genres. Is writing a full time job or do you do other jobs as well?

 RD: I wish I could write full time! But I work as a curriculum developer at a local university for now and do volunteer work, too. I write and teach women’s Bible studies. I also host a podcast called A Writer’s Day where I talk about the writing craft and interview best-selling authors. You can listen to A Writer’s Day on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen to podcasts.

PT: Let’s get a feel for the place you call home. Where do you hail from?

RD: Arizona is home but we also lived in North Carolina early in our marriage. I miss it and would love to retire there.

PT: Best vacation?

RD: Rome!!! We visited in 2018, and I ran the Rome Marathon that spring. We toured the city, took trains to Naples, Florence, and the Vatican City. It was such a wonderful experience, I got a book series out of it: The Doors of Rome, The Windows of Venice, and The Streets of Florence, which releases this October. You can preorder it today on Amazon.

PT: Any hobbies?

RD: I am a professional artist, so I paint and draw all the time. I love to draw fantasy art and paint wildlife art. Right now, I am creating hand-painted bookmarks to sell at book festivals. So far, they are a big hit with customers! I also do commissioned pet portraits when I am not creating my dragon coloring books. I wish I had a pet dragon to paint! But so far, I only do commissioned dog and cat portraits. You can see my work on my website under the “artist” tab. I also love to run and hike the desert trails near our home and flower garden when it isn’t 1000 degrees outside. LOL.

PT: Give some favs: color, food, music, season, and best place to write.

RD: Hunter green is my favorite color. Because I am Mexican, I adore Mexican food but also Italian and Chinese food. I love classical music (Bach is my favorite) but also movie soundtracks ever since I saw Star Wars in 1977 as a kid. I love John Williams and Hans Zimmer soundtracks the most. We were honored to have seen John Williams conduct our local symphony and Steven Spielberg came on stage to discuss the importance of John’s music. It was AMAZING!!!

My favorite season is Fall. Although in the desert southwest, we don’t see the leaves change, I still love the transition from hot weather to cool weather. And the whisper of Christmas coming in the breeze…

PT: Tell about the series Desert Shadows Suspense and how it started.

RD: I used to work in Superior Court as a bailiff and sat in some terrible criminal court trials. But the way the detectives solved the crimes always intrigued me. This was way before forensic files and other true crime shows. As a result of loving stories and seeing all these court trials, I began brainstorming suspense stories way back in 1996-1997. But it wasn’t until 2022 that I seriously began writing them down. I know many readers of this genre want a small town setting, so I set my stories in a fictional desert town outside of Sedona, AZ. These stories are clean reunited-slow-burn romances that are full of suspense and intrigue. I write suspense because I enjoy reading suspense.

PT: Give a little peek into Fatal Standoff that released in June.

RD: Fatal Standoff is book 2 in the series and follows Emma and Liam on their next big investigation. In Fatal Chapters, Emma brings up her adoptive parents and how they were killed in a car accident. In Fatal Standoff, she receives mysterious text messages telling her that her parents were actually murdered. Emma decides to investigate the pharmaceutical company her mother worked for at the time of her death. When she uncovers dark secrets about the billion-dollar “Big Pharma” company, Emma realizes her life may be in danger. Meanwhile, Liam is in Arizona investigating a missing college student who is the granddaughter of a family friend. When a dead body is found in the desert, Liam experiences paralyzing flashbacks to when his little brother was kidnapped and later found dead near home. Can Liam overcome his trauma to solve the crime and help Emma?

PT: Does Fatal Standoff connect to Fatal Chapters or is it a stand alone?

RD: Yes, there is a connection. Readers should read book one first.

PT: Are you working on the next book in this series or something else?

RD: Yes, I am working on book three in the suspense series. Title and cover reveal are coming soon!

I just finished book 3 in my Love and Romance in Italy series titled The Streets of Florence. I can hardly wait for readers to read this story. It will take them to Florence, the Tuscan hillsides, a cooking class, and more. The three friends from the first two books reunite to heal from tragic loss, sip wine, and laugh again. When they encounter an American waitress with a broken heart, the three decide to be matchmakers for the girl. Adventure, friendship, and Italian food…what could be better than that? The Streets of Florence releases October 7th and is available for preorder on Amazon.

11. Tell 5 things about Ruth Douthitt that have nothing to do with writing.

•           I am an Arizona native who was literally born in the city. My parents didn’t make it to the hospital in time, so they pulled over and my dad delivered me in the car.

•           I saw Star Wars 26 times in the theater the summer it released in 1977.

•           I’ve traveled to Eastern Europe 2 times for short-term mission trips and toured Auschwitz in Poland because I love WWII history. That was a life-changing experience!

•           I have a master’s degree in Mental Health and Wellness because mental health is very important to me. I facilitate GriefShare sessions online and wanted to know more about grief and how it affects the body so I can help others cope. I learn so much from facilitating these grief sessions. It helps me cope with my own loss.

•           I have completed 7 full marathons, 24 half marathons, 4 ultra marathons, and two sprint triathlons all after age 40. I also completed the Dopey Challenge at Walt Disney World. It is aptly named because you have to be dopey to do that challenge! Four races in four days. But it was a blast to run through the park with all the Christmas decorations up. Magical!

PT: Whew! I don't know about you but I'm exhausted just thinking about all those marathons! You're one energetic lady. And all of us wish you the best in your many endeavors. Thanks for joining us, Ruth!

There's a free copy for someone out there of Ruth Douthitt's Book Fatal Standoff. Just leave a comment below with your email or enter by using our contact form. If you are dying to read her new book, it's on sale right now! Don't miss your chance, and thanks for joining us! Crafting may commence.

Four Mothers, One Father, Twelve Sons

                                                               Carlene Havel

Hi Everyone!

Gay N. Lewis here, and I am happy to introduce you to a fellow Texan, Carlen Havel. Carlene lives in San Antonio, and I’m in the Houston area. We’ve been friends for about fourteen years, but we’ve yet to meet face to face. We visit on the phone, email and social media. Carlene Havel writes Christian-themed romances and historical novels, often with co-author, Sharon Faucheux. Carlene has lived in Turkey, Republic of the Philippines, and numerous US states. Before becoming an author, she worked in human resources and software development.

As of this date, Carlene has eighteen active books. She and her mother, Billie Houston, co-authored four of them, and fellow author, Sharon Faucheux collaborated on five others. Carlene has been published by traditional publishers, and now she is self-published.

Let’s find out more from Carlene. Tell us how you organize your advertising. What sort of records do you keep?

Carlene: I’ve always been a fan of Microsoft Excel. My marketing workbook consists of several spreadsheets that track ad history for each book to include ad site, date, price, and the number of books sold through the campaign.  I also chart Kindle Unlimited expiration dates and miscellaneous data such as the number of pages in each book. It’s helpful to be able to see all of this information at once and to be able to sort by various factors. At the end of each month, I compile a spreadsheet containing stats for each book, number sold, pages read, amounts earned; expenditures during the month, such as advertising, copyright, isbn purchase, etc., and amounts paid to editors and a virtual assistant. These really come in handy when I do the taxes for my LLC.

Gay: You and Sharon Faucheux write together.  What happens if you disagree about a plot or a twist?

 

Carlene: Sharon and I have a very workable division of labor. I do most of the plotting, while Sharon specializes in historical research. That line gets blurry at times, but so far, we have been able to talk through any disagreement to find a solution we’re both happy with.

Gay: Both you and Sharon do a lot of research, do you both attend a lot of Bible studies?

Carlene: I love attending women’s Bible studies. I occasionally facilitate discussions, but I’m no teacher. Nor is Sharon. She’s more inclined to hole up with a stack of books and not be seen until she’s finished reading.

Gay: Have you ever tried cooking some of the dishes the people ate in the OT?

Carlene: I gave up cooking a few years ago, when my husband took over the kitchen. He does the meal planning, grocery shopping, and food preparation. My only job is cleaning up the kitchen. We eat a lot better than we ever did when I was the family chef!

Gay: Let’s talk about your book, Mother’s of a Nation. I love the title. How did you come up with it?

 

Carlene: I wish I could answer that question, but I don’t know how titles get into my mind any more than I understand where book concepts come from. Sometimes when I’m doing something unrelated to writing, an idea overtakes me. The shower is one of my favorite think tanks. It might be a title, a scene, or a line of dialogue I fall in love with. The idea just appears, and from it the rest of a book takes shape.

Gay: The story of Jacob’s wives in the Bible blows my mind. Which of the sisters did you feel the most sorry for?

Carlene: I felt some sadness for all four of the women who bore Jacob’s children. Their situation was difficult, made worse by each woman’s own human failings. We are so blessed to live in a time and place where we are valued for more than our ability to give birth.

Gay: Which sister did you like the most?

Carlene: I didn’t know this when I started writing the book, but Leah turned out to be my favorite character. She was so loyal and so dedicated to being a good mother. She never allowed Jacob’s favoritism to make her bitter. I admired how Leah soldiered on unselfishly, regardless of the circumstances.

 

Gay: Which maidservant did you like the most?

 

I felt sorry for Bilhah’s tragic life, but my heart is drawn to Zilpah. She was optimistic, kind, and always looked for the best in others.

Gay: In the book, all four women are related. Zilpah was Leah’s maidservant and Bilhah was Rachel’s maidservant. These servants were given to the ladies by their father. How did you determine all four women might have had the same father?

 

Carlene: There’s a whole body of Jewish lore, tradition, and history, known as rabbinical literature. The notion that Laban fathered the two maidservants came from those writings. We know from the Bible that a handmaiden could be the surrogate mother of children that would belong to her mistress, as Hagar was for Sarah. It may or may not be true that Bilhah and Zilpah were Rachel and Leah’s half-sisters, but it is possible. I thought the family tie added an interesting layer to the relationships among Jacob’s women. 

Gay:  All four women called Jacob “husband.” Even though the handmaidens never married Jacob.  I can’t imagine sharing my husband with another woman. Do you think it was hard for these four women?  I can’t imagine giving my husband to another woman.

Carlene: I’m right there with you, Gay. I’m not willing to share my husband with another woman! Ancient traditions were vastly different from ours. Women were viewed more as possessions than as individual human beings, which is still prevalent in some places in our “moden” world. Jesus did a great deal to elevate the status of women.

Gay: Do you think Jacob would have ever said to the women, “This is enough. Don’t offer me anymore women.”

 

Carlene: It would have been his duty to give his wives the opportunity to bear children. It does appear he carried out his assignment with enthusiasm.

Gay: I’m sure he did! Do you think Jacob loved each of the four?

Carlene: Our concept of marriage is based on love. Theirs was based on family strength and honor. I believe the New Testament admonition for a man to love his wife the way Christ loves His church was a radical idea for that time.  In the context of that difference, I believe Jacob did love the four women who gave him children, for that reason if no other.

Gay: Not counting Joseph, which son was your favorite?

 

Carlene: I like Judah’s character. He seemed to me to be more compassionate than his brothers. All of the sons were imperfect, but Judah took responsibility for his sin instead of trying to shift blame onto Tamar.

 

Gay: Genesis records the death of Rachel and Leah, but it doesn’t mention the deaths other two women, but in your book, they all die. How did you come up with their final words? I also love that Zilpah, the surviving “wife” was accepted by the family as Jacob’s companion.

Carlene: The death of each woman felt like a natural way to close out her part of the narrative. As for final words, I tried to put myself in each character’s place, thinking what she would have wanted to say.

Thanks Carlene for visiting with us. This is a wonderful new take on an old story.

Carlene plans to give someone a $10 Amazon gift certificate, so

 please leave a comment! Names are drawn for the winner.

Carlene on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carlene.havel

Book: Mother's of a Nation

Carlene's email: CHAVEL@satx.rr.com

Meet Debut Author Erma M. Ullrey

Welcome back to the Diamond Mine. Today, I'm so excited to introduce you to a friend of mine whose debut novel came out last week. Her book was inspired by You've Got Mail. Keep reading to find out more about Journaled with Love.

About the author

Erma M. Ullrey is a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ and author. She worked in the medical field for over twenty-five years. After completing her B.S.H.S., she became a health educator and received international credentials as a childbirth educator and lactation consultant. She has served as a women’s Bible study leader and participates in local and online writers’ groups and book clubs.

In the past few years, Erma has won several writing awards. Her first published work was “A Snowflake's Adventure,” a children's picture book about God's love and exciting purpose for each child. Erma's latest publication is "Journaled with Love," a clean and wholesome light-hearted Rom-Com in the style of "You've Got Mail."

Enjoy Erma’s weekly Blog as well as her other writings at her website: https://www.MerryHeartInk.com. Look for the heading “Once Upon a Romance,” for interesting articles and interviews related to romance writing.

Connect with Erma: Once Upon a Romance Substack | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter/X

Suzie: Welcome to the Diamond Mine, Erma. I'm so excited to introduce you to our readers and share more about your debut. But first, let's learn a little more about you.

What is your favorite drink and/or snack when writing?

Erma: That depends on the weather and what I’m writing. If my characters drink coffee, that’s my drink of choice too. But when it’s hot, they can drink all the coffee they want – I’ll have raspberry lemonade with lots of ice, thank you! :)

Suzie: Oh, raspberry lemonade sounds refreshing (it's in the 90s and humid in North Carolina this week). What does your writing space look like? Erma: Oh dear! Once a week it’s just my keyboard and lots of craft books. The other six days, it’s an explosion of sticky notes, loose papers, pens and list pads, books, dictionaries, and a copy of what I’d written the day before. Suzie: I think that's a pretty normal picture of an author. What’s something readers might be surprised to learn about your writing process? Erma: I’m learning to write while on a walking pad (a small-scale treadmill). Because it’s a narrow piece of equipment, I’ve tripped but haven’t fallen off yet. I’m determined to master the process – no matter what! :) I love that it makes me hyper aware and slows me down so I can ponder every word even more than usual! Suzie: Slowing down is so good for us creatively (and in many other areas). Tell us a little about you—family, hobbies, day job, or whatever you’d like to share that’s not in your bio.

Erma: I love my family and am so grateful for my husband, four children, five g’kids, our dog Tucker, and four granddogs. Writing was my first love, but my parents said, ‘you can’t earn a living at that.’ In seventh grade science, I learned about cells and was hooked. After working in the medical field for 35 years, I’m finally back to my first love!

Suzie: It's never too late to do what you love. What are three books on your current tbr?

Erma:

The Paris Housekeeper by Renee Ryan

The Christmas Inn by Pamela Kelley The Italian Holiday by Nicole Sharp Suzie: Those look like some great reads. What drew you to writing romance?

Erma: Romance wasn’t on my radar, suspense was. Then, a few years ago, I had a conversation with Lenora Worth. I’ve been writing romance ever since. :) Suzie: Oh to be a fly on the wall for that conversation. Which comes first for you: the characters or the premise?

Erma: It depends. When I’m in between stories, sometimes the characters start telling me their ideas. Other times, a premise lights up like a movie in my mind. From that point on, I let the characters dictate the plot. Suzie: Would you share with us a little about your road to publication?

Erma: Oh, my. This is going to get bumpy! I’ve won 14 writing contests and always wanted to be traditionally published. After prayerfully considering my options, I chose to sign with a small traditional publisher. The date for publication didn’t work out, so I’m going to self-publish that book - Sadie’s Gift: The Christmas Cabin, a Women’s Contemporary Romance - in November 2025. In the meantime, I’m self-publishing Journaled with Love, the first in the “With Love” series on July 16, 2025. I’ve always been a do-it-yourselfer. However, there is no shortage of things to do regarding self-publishing and promoting/marketing. I find myself praying more than ever before, asking the Lord to calm my fears and anxieties. I am more grateful than ever for encouraging, supportive family and friends. :) Suzie: Sometimes those detours lead to unexpected and memorable places. Tell us more about your debut release.

Erma: Journaled With Love is a clean, 62K-word, enemies-to-lovers Rom-Com (think You’ve Got Mail).

I had so much fun writing this book. The characters had a lot to say, and the tension between them, along with their humor, kept my fingers on the keyboard.

Macie Grammerly’s mother demands she come home and work for the family business or forfeit further financial support. Macie loathes her job but not nearly as much as her overachiever boss. Focused on his career, Ryan Tiggs plans to climb to the top of a family-owned business. Then everything changes when he finds a journal left on the bus. Though he’s attracted to his coworker, the journal author’s raw honesty speaks to his soul, and he’s desperate to meet her. When the truth is revealed, will Macie and Ryan fight for the love they never saw coming or walk away from the one person who has always been there for them? Suzie: What message or feeling do you hope readers walk away with after reading your book?

Erma: All things are possible. God has a way of working everything out for our good and His glory. We sometimes pray for Him to change our situation or circumstance. In reality, He’s using that circumstance or situation to change us! We just need to trust Him – even when we don’t see or understand what He’s doing. :) Suzie: Amen and amen! What are you currently working on?

Erma: I’m working on the next book in the With Love series, Recipes with Love (to be published February 5, 2026, Lord willing). I’ve got another romcom, Lifted, that I find myself distracted by. The characters are hysterical, and they draw me into their New York setting in a hot minute. Suzie: Sounds like you've got a lot on your plate. How can we pray for you?

Erma: Pray that the work I do glorifies the Lord and blesses each reader. Every word that I perseverate over has no worth if not a one shines with Jesus’ love. Thank you for your prayers!

Suzie: Absolutely. All authors need prayer and encouragement. Thank you again for taking time to share with us today. And congratulations on your debut!

About the Book

Lost words, found love - a misplaced journal may spark a happily-ever-after in this You’ve Got Mail-style Rom-Com

Macie Grammerly’s mother delivers an ultimatum—come home and work for the family business or forfeit further financial support. Booted from her privileged jet-set life, Macie leaves sun-soaked Hawaii for Idaho. On her unglamorous bus ride to and from work, she pours her heart into her journal, writing about her dreams and the love she longs for.

Focused on his career, Ryan Tiggs’s five-year plan includes climbing to the top of a family-owned business. Then he can buy a car and move out of the garage apartment at his sister’s home. When he’s assigned the boss’s spoiled daughter as his intern, and they’re tasked with saving the floundering company, Ryan wonders if his days are numbered.

Everything changes when he finds a journal left on the bus. The anonymous writer’s vulnerability captivates him and sparks a secret email exchange that soon feels more real than anything else in his life.

As Macie and Ryan continue to work together, an undeniable attraction grows. Yet things are complicated by their individual online correspondence. When the truth is revealed, will they fight for the love they never saw coming or walk away from the one person who has always been there for them?

Goodreads | Amazon