A New Year is Dawning!

Welcome back readers! 

We are on the cusp of a new year and as usual, we have some goodbyes and some hellos to bid.

The Diamond Mine will say adieu to Gay N. Lewis/G.N. Lewis. We pray she continues to flourish as an author and hope readers will continue to support her as her time comes to an end on The Diamond Mine.

But we have a new member to welcome. I'm excited to share with you as I have met this author and even had lunch with her, and she is fantastic! Please welcome in Voni Harris! Check out her bio:

Voni Harris

With a law-enforcement instructor father and a newspaper editor mother, it’s no wonder Voni Harris grew up to write suspense novels. Voni writes from the home she shares with her legal-eagle husband on the beautiful and mysterious Alaskan island of Kodiak, where her creativity abounds. She belongs to American Christian Fiction Writers and has been published in two short-story collections: Heart-Stirring Stories of Romance, and Spiritual Citizens at http://drawneartochrist.com. 

Her debut book, Surge, released in November 2024 by Sunrise Publishing.

Check out Voni's book:

Welcome Voni, and what a gorgeous book! We're looking forward to reading your interviews in the the near future!

We here at The Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction pray that all of you enjoy a beautiful blessed new year growing closer to the Lord and working to spread His love!

Thank you for visiting our site and supporting us. Tell your friends, share our links, read the books, leave the reviews, bless one another, and spread God's love and kindness wherever you go!

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.

Author Megan Besing's New Book Lights Up the Shelves

 

(Photo by Matt C./unsplash.com)

All right, readers, you're firefighters! Pull on your gear, grab your helmet, (those things are heavy so pump some iron before you start!) and jump in the firetruck. We're about to find out more about the next fire and rescue book Rescued Heart by an author near and dear to my heart, Megan Besing. Sound the alarm and break open the garage door—don't forget Dally the Dalmatian—and let's get right into the hot spots of this new release!

PT: Let's jump right into the fire, Megan. Tell us how you got started as a suspense author.

MB: After I had two published historicals, I saw how Sunrise Publishing had a call out for an opportunity to potentially be mentored by a great suspense author, Lisa Phillips, and I thought I’d like to learn how to write suspense. So, I tried out and was chosen. I got to have a weekend retreat with Lisa and Susan May Warren where I learned lots and that lead to my next three suspense books through Sunrise Publishing.

PT: Everyone's dying to know, do you have a day job besides writing?

MB: I’ve spent the last two years teaching 7th and 8th grade at a small Christian school. Yes, all the subjects, including Latin the first year (which I did not know). My favorite subjects to teach are Bible and believe it or not, Math.

PT: So is there any genre you secretly want to write in?

MB: I have several YA/YA fantasy/ Dystopian stories on my old computer and in my head. I think being a current junior high teacher has me longing to see those stories in print. But I just want to find books for my students that I know they’ll love, and I don’t have to fear what’s inside of them. However, I don’t see that happening tomorrow at least. 😊

PT: Hobbies? Pets? Favorite vacations? Favorite foods while writing? Work with silence or music or other?

MB: Reading, that counts as a hobby, right? Pets, we have a dog and three cats, plus some chickens all of which live outside and actually enjoy there. Though my cat, Novella, is actually sleeping on my lap right now. We’ve gotten to travel a fair amount, and I love things about each trip, but my favorites are probably: Ireland, Hawaii, and Lake Superior. And yes, I love water it seems. My favorite foods while writing tend to be on the crunchy/salty end like Chex-Mix and Cheese-Its, but I also love chocolate. Usually, I work outside in my “writing room”. It’s really a little shed by our lake that gets really hot in the summer.  I tend to listen to creation, but if I’m inside where it’s loud, I’ll listen to instrumental music—like The Piano Guys.

PT: Did you ever have a book review that really inspired you?

MB: I try to read all my reviews. Generally, they are good, but occasionally I’ll get a review that beats me or my book up (or both) and for some reason those bad reviews seem to stick out in my brain more than the good ones. But I love reading a review where the reader “got” the story and when they mention the spiritual aspects of the book, I’m like: “Yes, this is why I do this.” It’s very encouraging.

 PT: If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

MB: My original dream destination was Ireland, and we actually visited there a few years ago. And yes, it’s beautiful and lovely. I think now I’d like to visit England and see the beautiful coastline. Drink some yummy tea. However, don’t tell my daughter, but we’d love to take her to Paris—her dream—for her senior trip. But… life doesn’t always allow our dreams. So only time will tell if that adventure will happen or not.

 PT: Tell us a quick synopsis of your new book, Rescued Heart.

 Actress Bianca “Bia” Pearl has finally landed the headlining role that could help leave her scandalous past behind—a role that may even earn back her parents’ respect. All she has to do is stick to the script, both on and off camera. Bianca is determined to prove to the press that she’s not who they say she is…an overrated gold digger

Firefighter and former foster child Eddie Rice has always drawn the short straw in life. Now, he’s determined to help kids in need have a better future than he did. And when Eddie is selected to represent the fire station at Last Chance County’s masquerade ball, he realizes it’s the perfect opportunity to secure the mayor’s signature on a grant for a much-needed rec center.

 But when a case of mistaken identity and a bribe lead to Eddie and Bia being trapped together in a fire, the pair must team up to escape—and protect their futures in the process.

 Rescued Heart is a heart-pounding romance that celebrates the power of second chances, the resilience of the human spirit, and the transformative power of love.

PT: Your new book, Rescued Heart is part of a series, correct? Tell us a little about the series and how many books are included.

MB: Rescued Heart is actually book seven in the Last Chance Fireand Rescue Series which is a branch from the original Last Chance County Series that Lisa Phillips wrote ten books in. Each book in the LCF&R series are all stand alones, where they follow a different firefighter either on Rescue Squad Five or Truck Fourteen. Or the fire chief like I got to write about in book two, Expired Hope. There will be one more book releasing in a few months to finish out the series the LCF&R series. It’s been so fun bringing the crew their own happily-ever-afters.

PT: I’ve just started reading the book. I can’t wait to see which direction Bianca will go next. Do you have a character in this, or other books, that is most like you?

MB: I usually don’t mirror a character after anyone specific. A character may get a few random traits or I might borrow from people I know. But if anything, sometimes I borrow favorite things—Like Bianca enjoys a certain kind of milkshakes, and the reason I chose that flavor is because my dad likes that kind, too. She’s also partial to flipflops and sweatpants, and I’m guilty of that as well.

 PT: What’s the Bible premise or verse that Rescued Heart centers around?

 MB: I chose Palms 139: 23-24 for Rescue Heart’s verse: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

It talks about our heart, and it touches on some trials the characters have to endure doing the story.

 PT: What Bible verse keeps you centered right now?

MB: My favorite verse has always been Proverbs 3:5-6. Trusting in the Lord covers most things we go through in life. But the verse I’d chosen for my classroom this past year was Proverbs 4:23 which says: Above all else, guard your heart; for everything you do flows from it.  I also need to pick a new verse to memorize for the month. It will probably be another verse in Proverbs because that’s the book I’m currently in. 

 PT: Drum roll for my favorite prompt. Name 5 things that have nothing to do with writing.

 MB: 1. A Vanilla Coke—because I’d like to drink one right about now. 

        2. Packing—we’re about to go camping. (Which is not what I consider a great vacation. Lol. But it is good family time.) 

        3. Orchids and tulips—because I think they’re my favorite flowers. Though, I do enjoy Gerber daisies too.  

        4./5. Bedtime I’m wondering how much farther is bedtime because I’m tired. And I’m thinking I might need another hummingbird feeder.

 PT: What’s next on your author chalkboard? Writing? Editing? Marketing? All three?

MB: It looks like I’m going to have another book release next spring. More details can be found in my newsletter and social media when everything because more official.

(Photo by Tak Kei Wong/unsplash.com)

PT: And the fire's out. Enter Megan's book giveaway by leaving your email address and a inspiring
comment, or use our contact form. Thanks for reading, and thanks to Megan for joining us today!

Want to know more about Megan Besing? Keep reading!

purchase links:

https://books2read.com/rescuedheart

 https://www.amazon.com/Rescued-Heart-Chance-County-Rescue-ebook/dp/B0DFY2YVCZ

 https://sunrisepublishing.com/books-last-chance-fire-and-rescue-rescued-heart/

 

bio:

Megan Besing is a PW's Bestselling Author. Winner of the Selah Award, a 2x finalist in the Carols, and a HOLT Medallion finalist, Megan lives in a pocket-size Indiana town, with her husband and their children, where she's always planning a road trip. Yet, her favorite place may just be on her front porch drinking tea. Connect with Megan at meganbesing.com.

 

Links:

 https://www.meganbesing.com/

https://www.instagram.com/meganbesing/

https://www.facebook.com/MeganBesingWriter

 https://www.bookbub.com/authors/megan-besing

https://www.amazon.com/stores/Megan-Besing/author/B073X2W8CV

Interview with author Heidi Glick!!

 

Today we welcome Heidi Glick to The Diamond Mine!! Her upcoming release is a romantic suspense from Scrivenings Press. Gazing into Darkness is Book 1 in the Queen City Heroes series. The release date is August 12, 2025. The book will be available on Amazon and free for Kindle Unlimited subscribers. 

Here's a taste of the book:  Instead of moving closer to his girlfriend, Chance McPherson gets dumped and relocated to Cincinnati—farther from his dreams and closer to his shameful past. Stacey Sanderson is excited to finally secure a role in law enforcement, like the rest of her family, especially as an EPA CID agent, where she can protect God’s creation.

On the job, Stacey’s perfectionism and faith rub Chance the wrong way, while his antics and wisecracks irritate Stacey. When federal employees who worked an old case with Stacey start dying, Chance becomes concerned, and not just because Stacey is his partner. Stacey senses a closeness between them but has vowed not to get involved with men in law enforcement and especially not someone who doesn’t share her faith.

The anniversary of the case is creeping closer. Time is running out. Can Chance and Stacey stop the person who is out to kill her before it’s too late?

Sounds really interesting, Heidi!! Now let's start the interview!

So, tell us a bit more about the series.

Gazing into Darkness is the first book in a three-book romantic suspense series, Queen City Heroes, set in Cincinnati, Ohio. While solving cases, federal agents Chance McPherson and Stacy Sanderson must also investigate their feelings for each other. In Book 1, Chance must overcome his anger toward God and his fear of working with a female agent, to protect his partner, Stacy, from a madman who wants revenge.

How did you get your idea for this story?

For several years, I worked for a government contractor onsite at the Cincinnati EPA. Later, I learned about EPA CID agents.I thought it'd be cool to write a story about them and the work they do.

Great idea! I'm glad you thought of it. So, what made you decide to be a writer?

When I  was thirteen, I was in a church Christmas drama. I wanted to play Mary, but I couldn't sing, which was required for the role. An adult suggested I write my own play. Growing up in Southern California, originally, I dreamed of writing Christian screenplays, but God had other plans.

Then, what was your first story?

My first story was Dog Tags, a romantic suspense from Pelican Book Group. In it, Marine Mark Graham determines to protect Beth Martindale, the woman he loves, at all costs, and yet his own secrets might turn her against him forever.

That sounds cool!

Do you write from an outline, or just from inspiration, or both?

Normally, I write from an outline. With my current work-in-progress, I have written toward what James Scott Bell refers to as signposts, but I haven't followed an outline as closely as I normally do.

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

Yes, I try to include themes of redemption, forgiveness, and trusting God.

Such important themes for every person to experience!

Do your characters share any traits with you or someone you know?

The heroine of the story and I both like to read books.

Do your characters ever surprise you?

Yes, with my current work in progress, I was surprised by twists along the way.

I love it when that happens!

Do you have a favorite character in your books?

The main characters in Gazing Into Darkness, Chance and Stacy, are my favorite characters.

So, what are you working on now?

Currently, I am working on a stand-alone romantic suspense, tentatively titled, Kalamity Cabin, set in the fictional town of Kalamity, Ohio.

I love that title! 

Thanks for the interview, Heidi! I really enjoyed hearing about your books.

Now readers, here is a short bio of Heidi, plus her social and purchase links!

Heidi Glick has a B.A. in biology from Cedarville University, a Master of 

Technical Communication from Utah State University, and a passion for writing 

romantic suspense from a Christian worldview. Additionally, she is a member 

of American Christian Fiction Writers and Faith, Hope, and Love Christian 

Writers and has written two articles for Intercom. She has an eye for detail and 

includes law enforcement particulars in her stories, grounding the reader in 

scenes. She’s attended Writers’ Police Academy and the Hancock County 

(Ohio) Sheriff Citizen’s Academy to ensure accuracy of story details. Before 

becoming a romantic suspense writer, Heidi taught science to middle and high 

school students and edited science documents. Though she grew up in 

Southern California, Heidi now considers rural Northwest Ohio her home. When 

she is not busy discovering unique ways to wreak havoc upon the lives of her 

fictional characters, she spends quality time with her husband, two kids, and 

eight pets.

Readers can learn more about Heidi on her 

Website, https://authorheidiglick.com/

Social Media Links:

·       http://www.facebook.com/authorheidiglick

·       https://twitter.com/HeidiGlick1

·       https://sleuthsandsuspects.blogspot.com/

·       https://www.instagram.com/glick.heidi/

·       https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7035003.Heidi_Glick

·       https://www.pinterest.com/sheglick/

Meet Speculative Author Erin R. Howard

 

It is my pleasure to introduce you to one of my favorite people, Erin R. Howard! I met her in a writing group, and found out we had grown up about 10 miles from one another! 

As this post comes live, Erin and I are traveling to Hot Springs, Arkansas for ScrivCon 2024, a writing conference hosted by our publisher, Scrivenings Press LLC. I have a feeling there will be some fun going on during this trip!

A little bit about Erin:

Erin R. Howard is the award-winning fantasy author of Window of Time and the Managing Editor for Expanse Books, an imprint of Scrivenings Press. Her other titles include The Kalila Chronicles (YA urban fantasy) and The Gates of Deceit (dystopian) series.

When she’s not writing or editing, Erin loves playing video games with her husband, watching movies with her children, and fueling her many craft addictions. Erin has a Creative Writing degree and is a member of Realm Makers, RagTag Writers, and Once Upon a Page. She resides in Western Kentucky with her husband and three children.

Welcome, Erin! I'm so happy to have you on our blog today! Let's dive in ...

What inspired you to write, initially, and what encouraged you to continue?

 

I started writing in middle school, so the love of reading initially inspired me to write. I loved to get lost in story worlds and I wanted to be able to create my own. As I got older, that want turned more into a need. I had so many ideas, characters, and worlds that just needed to be let out. The stories just had to be told. Now, when readers message me or tell me that they couldn’t put my book down, or if there’s something that touched them as they were reading—that keeps me writing.

 

Do you look on writing as a “calling?” 

 

I definitely do. It is what I was always supposed to do, even though I pursued several different careers and majors. LOL! But I believe God gave me the talent and love for writing for a reason, specifically writing clean books. While I love Christian books and stories, I didn’t want to be put in a box. I want my faith to shine through, shed light in a dark world, and let readers know that there is hope. I want to reach readers who may not pick up a “Christian” book but will pick up a clean read, and then let God speak to their hearts.

 

I totally agree! When I write, I write about people like me, therefore being a Christian is just part of their lives without preaching!

 

If you were on a deserted island with a laptop and no wifi, what are two programs or apps you would have to have on your computer?

 

The Sims. I’ve played that game since the very first moment it came out. Also, Microsoft Word. I have to have a place to write!

Oh, my! My daughters loved The Sims! I remember once they couldn't get rid of the "nanny" and had to go to extreme measures to make her go away! LOL!! MS Word is a must for me, too! (and could I maybe sneak Canva in? ;)

Thanks, Erin! 

Here's the blurb for Window of Peace, book 4 of the Stained Glass Legacy series, of which I'm a part, too! Erin was a finalist in the Selah awards for this book, and it was such a great addition to the series!

A kingdom in the future, a girl from the past, and a stained-glass window that can’t be found.

Mia Miller just needed a moment to breathe and admire the stained-glass window in the chapel before she had to plaster on a fake smile for her only sister’s wedding reception. Her artist’s eye drew her to the window but something else entirely made her fall through it. Now she’s stuck in a strange land, a different time, mistaken for a princess, and the stained-glass window nowhere to be found.

With Rebels stealing his Kingdom’s low food supplies, Prince Liam Dunne agrees to an Engagement to secure better trading routes. When the princess arrives without a shred of luggage or her entourage but plenty of anxiety, his heart has a hard time staying out of it. Princess Amelia challenges what he believes in—in a world where faith is eradicated. But when the truth comes out about her true identity, will he have the courage to live up to his family’s legacy?

Here's how you can learn more about Erin and her books! Connect with her today!

https://www.facebook.com/E.R.H.Fiction

https://www.instagram.com/erinrhoward/

https://www.tiktok.com/@erinrhoward

www.erinrhoward.com

www.scrivenings.link/windowoftime

Interview with Jenna Van Mourik

I am thrilled that my last post of the year is featuring author Jenna Van Mourik! Jenna took the time to answer some of my questions and I am excited to introduce her to The Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction community. She also has a new release coming out next month that we can't wait to share with you!!

Here's a little bit about Jenna:

Jenna Van Mourik graduated magna cum laude from California Baptist University with a B.A. in English, and received a Certificate in Christian Apologetics from Biola University’s Talbot School of Theology. Her debut novel, Jerusalem’s Daughter, was published in 2021 and is the first book in the Generations of Faith series.​

When she’s not reading, writing, or sharing her favorite books on social media, she’s spending time with her husband, Brandon, and toy Australian shepherd, Piper. She strives to live every day according to God’s purpose with what she calls a “Now go!” mindset, in reference to her favorite passage of scripture, Exodus 4:11-12.​

Connect with her at www.authorjennavanmourik.com or on social media at @jennavanmourik.

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me Jenna! Can you tell us how you got started on the author journey? When did you know that you wanted to be an author?

Jenna: I was always a very creative child, so I would say it was never a question that I would do something creative later in life; the question was really, which creative avenue would I settle on? I was enrolled in college as a film major, but found my favorite parts of that program were actually the writing assignments and English classes. At a certain point in my college journey, I remember asking myself, “Wait a minute—why can’t I just write?” I changed my major, transferred colleges, and it ended up being the best decision I ever made.

You are clearly on the path you should be on! Why did you choose to write Christian Fiction?

Jenna: I grew up with a majority of my family members being involved in some sort of ministry. I had a lot of strong influences on my life who embodied a Colossians 3:15-17 way of living and demonstrated what it means to make Jesus the center of everything, whether that meant leading others in worship, pastoring churches, volunteering, or even pursuing mission work. I’m so grateful that they passed on their love of Jesus to me and when I got older and started figuring out what I wanted to do in my own life and career, it felt very natural to write Christian fiction. In many ways, it would be harder for me to write a book without faith elements in it.

Yes! When something is ingrained so deeply in you, it seeps into everything in your life. As you are getting ready to release the next book in the Generations of Faith series, Daughter of the Most High, can you share any highlights or key challenges you faced while writing and getting ready to publish this book?

Jenna: Every book is so different and comes with its own set of challenges. Writing my first book was just “for fun.” Writing my second book was overwhelming as I felt like I had to “prove myself” now that I had readers looking forward to the sequel. Writing the third book has felt like the end of a chapter in many ways. I didn’t feel like a debut or “newbie” author anymore, and the writing process felt a lot more free in that way. It was a lot like returning to my roots of writing for fun and just enjoying the craft of storytelling!

When you have readers looking forward to your stories, the imposter syndrome can definitely come out sometimes, but it's so rewarding to see how your stories can impact readers. How do you connect with your audience? What ways have you found are the most effective for reaching new readers with your stories?

Jenna: I’ve been doing #bookstagram since 2017. I started my account by posting book reviews and with absolutely no intention of ever self-publishing a book, let alone an ancient historical Christian fiction book. It was my favorite genre to read, but I never thought I could write it successfully. I was very scared to approach it, but when I did, I already had a built-in audience from my book reviewing days. I no longer review books as often, but I still use Instagram and YouTube to connect with readers. My husband and I will often film reels together where we dress up as my characters and re-enact scenes or lip-sync to audios inspired by my books. It’s become a really fun tradition for us, and while people always say that my husband is such a good sport, I have to give him credit and say he really does love doing it with me! I’m so thankful to have his support.

Since you read and write Christian Fiction, do you have a favorite Bible verse or life verse that inspires you?

Jenna: Always, always, always, my answer will be the account of Moses and the Burning Bush in the book of Exodus. Specifically in Exodus 4:11-12, which reads, “Then the LORD asked Moses, ‘Who makes a person’s mouth? Who decides whether people speak or do not speak, hear or do not hear, see or do not see? Is it not I, the LORD? Now go! I will be with you as you speak, and I will instruct you in what to say’” (NLT). I try to live everyday with a “Now go!” mindset, and just keep stepping into every new opportunity, knowing that the Lord will be with me. 

I love that Jenna! And I needed a reminder of that conversation between the Lord and Moses. So we both know writing can give you the munchies! Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink?

Jenna: BBQ potato chips and coffee, though typically not at the same time! 

I think not at the same time is smart! I really enjoy white cheddar cheetos and I also love tea, but having them together is a dangerous combination. So I know you have a new release coming out on November 12th! Can you tell us a little more about Daughter of the Most High and what inspired you to write this story?

Jenna: Daughter of the Most High is book three in my Generations of Faith series, and focuses on the character of Rut, who appeared in both previous novels. In DOTMH, Rut has become a skilled weaver who can craft extraordinary tapestries with her own hands, but struggles with control and trust in her personal life. I’ve been wanting to write Rut’s story since I first came up with her character. As someone who has struggled with grief and anxiety in the past, I was inspired to write this story to show that God truly can take any broken thread and turn it into His masterpiece.

Yes he can! What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a Christian Fiction writer?

Jenna: Now go! Whatever opportunities or gifts or talents God has given you, He has given them to you for a reason. Follow His lead and trust that He will be with you, leading you and guiding you at every step. Pray about everything, be faithful with what He gives you, and leave the outcome in His hands.

Amen. After your next release, do you have any upcoming projects you’d like to tell us about?

Jenna: Daughter of the Most High is the third book in my Generations of Faith series. The fourth book in this series is already written and currently being edited for release in 2025. Beyond that, I’m planning a spin-off series that will feature some of the same characters whose stories aren’t quite finished yet. In August I went on a “research road trip” to places like the Creation Museum, Ark Encounter, and Museum of the Bible, and I learned a lot about Paul’s letter-writing years, the Great Fire of Rome, and the Fall of Jerusalem. I’m excited to continue researching those events and incorporate them into my next series!

Jenna, thank you so much for joining us today! I always like to end my interviews with authors on one final question. What do you hope Christian Readers take away from your writing?

Jenna: Each book has its own special quote or theme that I associate it with. With Jerusalem’s Daughter, it was the idea that words have power, not just to hurt, but to build up, encourage, speak life, and share the Gospel. With Antioch’s Daughter, I wanted readers to walk away in awe of grace and our Redeemer who truly makes all things new. With Daughter of the Most High, I hope readers see from Rut and Hektor’s story that even in times of chaos or hardship or confusion, God truly can weave every broken, tangled thread of our lives together. We can rely on Him in any and every circumstance, and if we ever find ourselves straying from His path, we can always return to Him as a child returns to a loving father.

Thank you for taking the time to share with our Christian readers a little about you and your work, Jenna! Wishing you the BEST release for Daughter of The Most High!

You can learn more about Jenna and her upcoming new release on her website, youtube channel, instagram, or her amazon page!