Puzzles, Faith, and Suspense: An Interview with Gina Holder

 Welcome back to the diamond mine. I am so excited to introduce you to this week's guest. If you are a fan of escape rooms, games, puzzles, or an engaging romantic suspense, you are going to love Gina Holder. Keep reading to enter to win a copy of her May release.

About the Author

Gina Holder is an American indie author known for her Christian romantic suspense novels. She published her debut novel, Whither Shall I Go, in 2017, marking the beginning of her writing career. Her works often weave themes of faith, redemption, and forgiveness, aiming to inspire readers with uplifting messages rooted in Biblical principles.

Holder was raised in a family that fostered her love for books from a young age, which eventually led her to pursue a career in writing. She began writing short stories as a child and crafted her first novel by the age of twelve. Her dedication to her craft is evident as she continuously seeks to grow as an author, taking courses like the “Breaking into Print” program through the Long Ridge Writer’s Group.

Living in Wyoming with her husband and daughter, Holder balances her writing career with her roles as a stay-at-home mom and an active member of her church community. When she’s not writing, she enjoys activities like playing the piano, singing for worship services, cooking for her family, and indulging in Hallmark mysteries.

Holder’s novels, such as Forgiven Again, the second book in her “Shadows Over Whitman” series, reflect her passion for creating flawed characters who find redemption through faith. Her stories resonate with readers who appreciate suspenseful plots combined with Christian values. As an author, she is motivated by her desire to bring glory to God through her writing, often incorporating personal experiences and spiritual lessons into her work.

Holder is also an active member of the Christian readers and writers community and is involved in the writing community through her blog, where she shares insights, interviews, and book reviews​.

Connect with Gina: Website | Blog | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Amazon | BookBub | Goodreads

Suzie: Welcome, Gina. Thank you for taking some time to share with us this week during your release month. Let's jump right in. Tell us a little bit about yourself (something that’s not in your bio):

Gina: I have visited 47 states in America and 16 countries worldwide. The coolest thing I’ve done is gone snorkeling in the Red Sea in Egypt.

Suzie: That sounds amazing. What was the catalyst for your interest in writing? 

Gina: Anne of Green Gables. I was going to grow up to be just like her.

Suzie: Weren't we all? Who was your favorite character to create? 

Gina: Liam Shepherd in The Escape Game. He is so kind and so protective that he kind of just melts your heart whenever he’s on the page.

Suzie: I agree with that. I kind of fell in love with Liam myself. How did you come up with the names of your characters? 

Gina: They tell me. 😊

Suzie: Are you a plotter or a panster? I am a plotter-wanna-be. 

Gina: I wish I could plot out my stories, but it always seems that I end up writing “by the seat of my pants.”

Suzie: I can relate! I like that the term "pantser" is slowly morphing into "discovery writer." What are your three books on your current tbr? 

Gina: Claire Holloway is Winging It by Angela Ruth Strong, Sung in the Shadows by Crystal Caudill, and The Life She Forgot by Joanna Davidson Politano.

Suzie: Oh, you've got some good reads ahead of you. Are you part of a writing group? 

Gina: Yes, I am. Kingdom Creative Writers here in Casper, Wyoming. We meet monthly, take workshops together, and attend events together. It’s a wonderful, supportive group.

Suzie: I love that. Have a community of writers is one of the highlights of writing for me. Do you have a favorite author or book? 

Gina: I have a long list of favorite authors, and they have a special place on my bookshelf. The best books I’ve ever read, that stuck with me to this day, would be A Slender Thread by Tracie Peterson, A Rumored Fortune by Joanna Davidson Politano, and The Measure of a Heart by Janette Oke.

Suzie: All excellent books. What’s next for you as an author? 

Gina: I am currently writing book 3 in The Game Masters series, The Missing Piece, that will be released in May of 2027. Homicide Detective Freddie Hood and passionate activist Ginny Clarke track down the infamous serial killer, Cipher, in New Orleans, after he takes the life of her best friend.

Suzie: Oh, can't wait to read it. Before you go, how can we pray for you? 

Gina: Please pray that I can finish my next book on time and that God would give me direction for what’s next. I have a few ideas, but I want to make sure I align myself with His will for my writing journey.

Suzie: We will be praying. Thank you for sharing with us this week. We look forward to reading The Escape Game.

About the Book

Twenty years ago, the world’s leading enigmatologist disappeared, leaving behind a cipher no one could solve… not without his journal.

Puzzle shop owner Demi Kayne has spent twenty years hoping her father would return home. When she discovers his hidden journal, she finally uncovers the clue she’s been waiting for—but it leads somewhere far more dangerous than she imagined.

Liam Shepherd, a missionary and escape-room enthusiast, is searching for answers of his own. His sister has vanished without a trace, and the trail of clues leads him straight to Demi—and the secrets hidden in her father’s journal.

Their search brings them to the eerie Ives Mansion, where its brilliant and reclusive owner has designed a deadly challenge. Once inside, Demi and Liam realize they’re no longer guests.

They’re players.

Trapped inside a twisted real-life mystery game, they must solve a series of lethal riddles before time runs out. Each puzzle brings them closer to the truth about Demi’s missing father and Liam’s sister —but also deeper into a carefully crafted game where the stakes are far higher than they're ready to face.

With the clock ticking and lives hanging in the balance, Demi and Liam must confront their fears, their pasts, and the faith that may be their only hope of escape.

In this gripping Christian suspense novel, every clue matters—and every mistake could be fatal.

Can Demi and Liam solve the final puzzle before the game ends…or will the escape room become their tomb?

Perfect for fans of Lynette Eason, Dani Pettrey, and Irene Hannon who enjoy puzzle-driven Christian suspense filled with danger, secrets, and faith under fire.

Amazon | Goodreads

Giveaway

Gina has graciously offered to give one of our readers (US addresses only) a paperback copy of The Escape Game. Enter below.

Enter Here

Welcome JPC Allen, YA Mystery Author

JPC Allen started her writing career in second grade with an homage to Scooby Doo. She’s been tracking down mysteries ever since and written mystery short stories for Mt. Zion Ridge Press. Her Christmas mystery “A Rose from the Ashes” was a Selah-finalist at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference in 2020. Her first novel, a YA mystery, A Shadow on the Snow, released in 2021. Online, she offers tips and prompts to ignite the creative spark in every kind of writer . She also leads workshops for tweens, teens, and adults, encouraging them to discover the adventure of writing. Coming from a long line of Mountaineers, she is a life-long Buckeye. Follow her to the next mystery at Facebook, Instagram, Bookbub, Goodreads, and Amazon. You can sign up for my newsletter in the sidebar here.

JPC is giving away two signed hard copy books to one person: Christmas Fiction off the Beaten Path and A Shadow on the Snow. Leave a comment by September 22 to be entered in the drawing.

Let's start with a few quick favorites:

Drink? Irish or English Breakfast tea or chai.

Candy? Justin's dark chocolate peanut butter cups

Place to relax? Sitting on the bank of the river by my house

Season? It used to be fall, but my kids are so busy in the fall now, I'm not sure. I think it may be spring because that's when school let's out.

Can you tell us a bit more about you?

What genre do you enjoy reading most?

Mysteries. I've tried other genres, and mysteries are always my favorites. The sub-genre of mysteries I like best are fair-play mysteries, where the author lays out the clues for the reader, so she can try to solve the mystery along with the detective. Since I love to read those kinds of mysteries, those are the kind I write.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I wrote my very first story on the front and back of a sheet of notebook paper in second grade. It was a mystery based on Scooby Doo. I think I've always daydreamed about being a published writer, but I never wanted to make my living from it. As a kid, I wanted to be a doctor. In reality, I worked ten years as a children's librarian in public libraries before I stayed home to raise my kids.

Do you have any upcoming projects, releases, or sales?

I've just finished my second novel for the Rae Riley mystery series. The working titles is A Storm of Doubts. I'm usually terrible at titles, but I think this one sums up the story accurately. And it's catchy.

I'd like to hear more about A Shadow on the Snow

What's your latest novel you've written?

A Shadow on the Snow is my first novel, a YA mystery. It's a sequel to a short story I wrote, "A Rose from the Ashes" for the anthology Christmas fiction off the beaten path. I fell in love with the characters while writing "A Rose" and couldn't wait to put them in another story. That's why I wrote A Shadow on the Snow. Here's the blurb:

“Nineteen-year-old Rae Riley can barely believe her gamble paid off. After spending seven months investigating the identity of her father and whether he tried to murder her mother, Rae has been accepted by her dad, Sheriff Walter “Mal” Malinowski IV, and his immediate family with open hearts. And for the first time in her life, Rae is making friends, jamming with three cute cops who play outlaw country music.

But someone is leaving Rae threatening notes, reminding her of her late mother’s notorious past when Bella Rydell wrecked homes and lives during the few years she lived in rural Marlin County, Ohio. Fearing the threats will make Mal and his family reject her, Rae investigates the mystery on her own. But her amateur sleuthing may cost her the father she’s always wanted when the stalker changes targets and takes dead aim at Mal.”

Do you find yourself returning to a similar theme in your novels or do you have a new message with each release?

All my stories involving Rae Riley, except for a short story in which she has only a cameo appearance, deals with her journey to find and get to know her father. I think Rae's journey mimics how many people want a Heavenly Father but don't know how to find Him. And once they do find Him, they have struggles and victories as they get to know Him better.

When I began writing about Rae, that wasn't the theme I had in mind, but it has grown naturally out of the personalities of the characters and the plots that have come to me.

How do you select the names of your characters?

Selecting the right names for characters is very important to me. Since I was a kid, names have fascinated me. I own several books on names, including one about common surnames in the U.S.

When I had to create a name for my female teen detective, I wasn't sure what name to pick. I wanted something memorable but not weird. Alliterative names are memorable, like Clark Kent or Bruce Banner, so I came up with Rae Riley.

When I had to name her father, I liked the idea of the whole town calling him Mal as a nickname for for his last name, Malinowski. It would give the story the small-town feel I wanted.

But then I started asking questions. Why did this guy prefer his nickname? Well, he probably hated his first name. What kind of first name would a millennial guy hate? I picked Walter. But why would his parents name him Walter? They were nice people. I decided it had to be a family name. So Rae's father became Walter Reuel Malinowski IV. That set off more questions. Who was Walter III? Walter Jr.? From that name, I developed two more characters.

Just for fun:

If you could travel anywhere without worry about cost, where would you travel?

England or India. I've read so many mysteries set in England that I'd like to see the country. For some reason, I've always been fascinated by India.

Thanks so much for joining us on The Diamond Mine of Fiction. JPC is giving away two signed hard copy books to one person: Christmas Fiction off the Beaten Path and A Shadow on the Snow. Leave a comment by September 22 to be entered in the drawing.

Author Spotlight on Shirley Gould

Hello Diamond Miners! 

Janet Morris Grimes here. One thing I love to do at the Diamond Mine is introduce you to new authors. Today, I'd love for you to meet my friend Shirley Gould. Shirley is lovely in every way and her smile and attitude are contagious. I'm sure those traits come through with her novels as well. 

We caught up with Shirley on the release date of her second novel being released into the world. So of course, what better topic to discuss? 

 Escape from Timbuktu

I spewed a few questions her way, and can't wait for you to all get to know her better. 

Q: What were your writing and reading habits as a child and when did you first know you wanted to become a writer?

I quit Kindergarten on the first day! I told my parents I stayed there all day and didn’t learn a thing! She was teaching the alphabet…and I could already read books for beginning readers. Needless to say, they made me go back to school.

My love for being a wordsmith was greatly encouraged by my 12th grade English teacher. She pushed me to create prose on college level and spoke into my life. Her belief in my abilities has stayed with me.

In 2011, my husband got very ill. He had encephalitis of the brain. For eleven months I had to be quiet 24/7. Noises sent him into anxiety attacks, ambulance rides, and hospital stays. It was a treacherous time on our lives.

During this time a story kept playing in my mind like a movie. So, I began to write the story down, then the next one, then the next one. After the Lord healed my husband, he wanted to do something special for me as his faithful caregiver through our rough year. He sent me to my first writer’s conference…and the rest is history.

Q: As an adult, at what point did you realize you had actually become a writer?  

When I received my first novel in the mail, the moment I opened that first box of books, I felt like I was a writer. It wasn’t real to me until that moment.

Q: You’ve just released your second novel. Is it a sequel to your first?

My novel, Escape From Timbuktu, is the second novel in my African Skies Series. I love this story about... A double agent on assignment poses as an interpreter for a photojournalist seeking a story but terrorists have them running for their lives…entangling their hearts as they escape from Timbuktu. 

Q: Tell us about the series. 

The first novel is The Sahar of Zanzibar is an exciting read. In a scary case of mistaken identity, Olivia Stone is threatened by Aga Kahn, a powerful Indian ruler, because she could pass for the twin of the missionary’s deceased wife. Kahn calls her the Sahar of Zanzibar who has returned from the grave to torment him and demands that she leave the island or face his wrath. She’d come to exotic Zanzibar in search of adventure, but she experiences much more.

A handsome widower, Missionary Eli Deckland, steps between Olivia and the angry Indian, rescuing her. There an instant connection between Olivia and Eli that escalates when he comes to her rescue again and again. Amid several attempts on Olivia’s life, she’s kidnapped. Eli joins the police to find her before it’s too late.

As every moment passes, Olivia’s life is in more danger…Will she be saved in time? If she is rescued, would it work between her and Eli? With an ocean keeping them apart, will their feelings fade? The answer is in the African skies.

Q: Are your characters or stories based on real people? 

My husband and I served as missionaries in Africa for 14 years. Some of our experiences and people we met are in the stories. When I have book signings or speak for lady’s groups and churches, I share the real parts of these novels with my audience…adding to their reading experience.

Q: When you're not writing, what do you do for fun? 

When I’m not writing, I love to read, travel, and do oil paintings. My seven grandchildren keep this widow busy making memories.

Q: What is the most satisfying part of writing? 

To me the most satisfying part of writing is when I’ve brought my readers a glimpse of how the Lord works and orchestrates our lives. Encouraging people to make Jesus a catalyst of their existence makes it worth it all.

Q: Do you know how your stories will end when you start them? Or are you as surprised as your
readers?

When I start writing I have a pretty good idea of how the story will end. I use the Novel Academy Story Equation method of writing that has me plotting and thinking through every part of the novel before I pen the first word.

Q: What do you wish you'd known - something that there was truly no way to have known - before you published. 

I wish I had known about the business/marketing side of writing before I was published. It is like having two full-time jobs to juggle all parts of the writing life.

Q: For you, what happens next?

The third and final novel in this series is written and has been sent in to the publisher to start the editing process. It is scheduled to release on March 4 th , 2024. The working title is…Sunset in Swaziland. I will also be releasing a Christmas novella next fall, entitled, The Kissing Ball. It is the Prequel of my next series, Paradise Inn Series, that takes my readers to Kenya, East Africa for more contemporary romantic suspense.

Stacy Simmons - Finishing her Story

Hello - I’m a new writer here on the Diamond Mine, and this is my first author interview. 

There have been many fabulous authors featured, and I wanted to continue that trend. New and seasoned authors, best-sellers, historical, contemporary, and every genre in between.

As writers of Christian fiction, we carefully craft the full journey of our beloved protagonists. We identify the end goal and what we hope to accomplish, fill in the back story, toss in layers of tension and recognize the power of the obstacles getting in the way. We depict a strong arc where God is always present even in times of turmoil and most of all, we ensure that nothing stands in the way of the happy endings we long to see. 

But in real life, our stories sometimes take a tragic turn and we’re caught completely off guard by the outcome. We no longer have control of our happy endings and are left to pick up the pieces to form a new story.

And that’s exactly where we’ll start today.

Please allow me to introduce you to my dear friend, Stacy Simmons. Stacy and I published our first novels within a few months of each other. We served on one another’s launch teams. We've learned the ropes together, even from a distance, since we first met at an American Christian Fiction Writer’s Conference in Nashville in 2016. Though I’ve only seen Stacy in person a handful of times, she was a constant source of encouragement to me and every other writer I know. 

Stacy was just getting started when we suddenly lost her last October. She had asked her writing friends to pray for an upcoming surgery, and was thrilled to let us know when she was headed home a couple days later. But soon, we were shocked to learn something had gone terribly wrong. We lost her. Suddenly. Tragically. Without warning.

As word spread across the writing community, we found comfort in online posts by Stacy’s husband, Michael. As he worked through his own grief, his words beautifully expressed the depth of his love for Stacy and gave an inside peek into their lives together. Somehow, it helped us feel closer to her as we gathered at his feet to hear more stories. It seemed as if Michael himself was quickly becoming a writer as well. 

Stacy’s writing career was just beginning to blossom, and we wondered what might happen to Book Two and Three of her inaugural Briar Creek series with Celebrate Lit. Book Two in the series, A Journey for Hope had been completed and it was already available for preorder on Amazon. 

So what could possibly happen next?

Enter two new unsuspecting heroes of this story. Michael Simmons and Beth Collins – Stacy’s husband and sister. As they both find themselves battling unexpected battles and obstacles of their own,  they’ve dedicated themselves to making sure Stacy’s stories live on. They’ve taken it upon themselves to learn the ins and outs of book launches, the review process, and press releases.

In the midst of their own polarizing grief, they have become the main characters in a saga they never saw coming.

And today, they let us in on their deep, personal, and vulnerable journey to healing and making sure they finish Stacy's story in a way that will make her proud.  

Me: I'm sure neither of you wanted to be in this position. When did you decide to redirect your grief to spearhead Stacy's book launch?  

Beth: Stacy was an amazing writer, but she was also a very dedicated marketer. Her novella, Christmas in the Cotswolds, was published on October 18th, the day before her surgery. I had flown to Dallas to be with her for the procedure and she asked me to help create and post graphics on social media to support the launch while she recovered. Stacy gave me her passwords and showed me how to post on each of her social media accounts. Before that day, I had never posted on social media! Because God always has a plan, I believe that Stacy gave me access to her accounts and showed me what to do so I could help promote A Journey for Hope on her behalf. 

Michael: At the time of Stacy’s passing I wasn’t sure where she was in the process of launching A Journey for Hope.  For me it was over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays I realized that we are behind and needed to get going, but wasn't sure where to start. Beth was awesome in researching what to do next.

Me: What have you learned about book launches since then?

Michael: Stacy was the Queen of book launches. She was often booked solid with writing, helping someone launch their book, taking care of the family, and working full time. She would tell me "I’m not doing any more book launches, I just don’t have the capacity to do anymore."  Later that week she would look at me and say “guess what, I’m on another launch team”. She couldn’t turn other writers down. I now have genuine respect for what goes into a successful launch.

Beth: Because Stacy was so organized, she left behind files with lists of contacts and instructions for how to conduct a successful book launch. This material was incredibly helpful but I now know that the people helping -- the launch team -- are the most important part of the launch. If you build a great team, you'll have a great launch! Stacy was blessed to have a wonderful group of friends in the Christian fiction community, and their support made all the difference. We were ecstatic that Stacy's book reached number three on the Amazon bestseller list for new releases in Women's Christian Fiction, and we can't thank our launch team enough for their amazing assistance.

Me: Since Stacy wasn't one to brag about herself, what would you like people to know about her? 

Michael: Stacy was humble to a fault. She would be your biggest cheerleader and supporter. Every morning she would get up, grab her coffee and get on her phone and start reaching out to people via social media. She would use Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Text, and Email to connect with other writers offering encouragement and prayers for those who were going through tough times. The morning of her surgery she was checking in with a friend who was having medical issues. Stacy let them know she was praying for them.

Beth: After Stacy was called home, many people wrote touching tributes extolling her kindness, her encouraging nature, and her generous spirit. I would like people to know that Stacy was also very determined and strong. Beneath her gentle exterior, she was tough as nails! Stacy got her way, but she did it by listening to others and treating them kindly. People wanted to do things for Stacy because of who she was -- not because she pressured them. 

Stacy was persistent and never gave up on achieving her dream of becoming a published author. As she often noted, her first "book baby" was ugly, but she kept writing and rewriting it until she got it right. The day Stacy received her three-book contract was one of the happiest days of her life and we were so thrilled for her! We know that if she were still here with us, Stacy would be promoting and posting so we want to honor her memory by publicizing A Journey for Hope.

Me: Of all that's happened since then, what do you think would make her most proud? 

Michael: I never realized the impact that Stacy had on this large universe of writers. Since her passing so many have shared with me how she was such a shining light in their life and how she helped them through some dark days. I always knew she was one of the kindest people, I just didn’t know the breadth of reach she had.

Beth: As she looks down from Heaven, I know that Stacy is incredibly proud of her daughters' resilience. They lost their mother with virtually no warning -- an unspeakable tragedy -- and have adapted amazingly well, given the circumstances. Speaking on behalf of her entire family, we have been bolstered by the prayers of the many people who knew and loved Stacy. We cannot know why God called her home, but we do know that Stacy wants us to stay positive and live Christ-centered lives until that glorious day when we see her again in Heaven.

Me: What happens next, personally and with Stacy's writing? 

Beth: There is still more Briar Creek Love on the horizon. Stacy left behind a half-completed manuscript for the final book in her Briar Creek Love trilogy, A Season for Grace. As she lay on her deathbed, I promised Stacy two things. First, that I would be a substitute mother to her two daughters. And second, that I would finish writing her third book. Fortunately, she also left behind a detailed chapter outline so I know how she wanted the story to progress and end. The members of Stacy's critique group (who attended her Celebration of Life service and have been so supportive) have agreed to help me as I undertake the daunting task of completing my sister's final book. A Season for Grace is scheduled for publication in January 2024 so I will need all the help I can get! 

Michael: Personally, I along with our daughters, Jordan and Madison, are working on healing. Losing your best friend of 35 years is a shock to the system, so taking life one day at a time is what is happening now.

Me: How can we help her story to live on? 

Michael:  Enjoy reading the books.  It’s pretty simple.  Stacy dedicated her available time to writing and improving her skills as a writer. I know if she was here she would enjoy the response so far to the second book launch.

Beth: Stacy's story shows that it is never too late to follow your dreams. You can accomplish anything you want through prayer, hard work, and dedication. In addition to reading her books and letting others know about them, I know Stacy would want everyone to listen to Jesus' urgings and find their purpose and passion. After her first book, A Promise for Faith, was published, Stacy was asked what she hoped her readers would take away from the novel. She replied, "To keep on pursuing what they'd like to accomplish, through faith and tenacity." 

Even amidst the deepest grief, God continues to write the most meaningful and everlasting stories. Stacy would be blown away by the heartfelt comments people used to describe her. She'd be honored that readers appreciate her stories and are willing to spread the word. 

Most of all, she'd be amazed by the selfless love of her sister and husband. This has all the makings of a classic. A bittersweet triumph filled with sacrifice, second chances and overcoming one's grief to learn, grow and move forward when you feel as if half of you is missing. 

Personally, this is one story I will never forget. Raw and true, and still being written before our very eyes. 

May God continue to hold Stacy's family closer than ever. 

To purchase Stacy's books, please visit Amazon: 

Janet Morris Grimes may not have realized she was a writer at the time, but her earliest childhood memories were spent creating fairy-tale stories of the father she never knew. That desire to connect with the mysterious man in a treasured photograph gave her a deep love for the endless possibilities of a healing and everlasting story. 

A wife of one, mother of three, and Tootsie to four, Janet currently writes from her quiet two-acre corner of the world near Elizabethtown, KY. She has spent the last few years preparing to introduce her novels and children’s stories to the world. 

Stories that stretch your heartstrings. 

An unforgettable combination. 

For more information, visit her website at: Janet Morris Grimes

Welcome~ Author, Kathleen Friesen, to the Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction

I met Canadian author, Kathleen Friesen through the ACFW critique groups. She has written several novels and has a heart for women’s fiction.




Let’s get to know Kathleen with a few quick get to know you questions:

Which do you prefer—M&Ms or Skittles?

M&Ms, once in a while.

Are you a cat or Dog Person?

I like both but am allergic to cats. My sweet dog is Lacy, and we got her just after Christmas last year.

Do you have a favorite Song?

It’s hard to choose, but the first one that came to mind is Great is Thy Faithfulness.

Let's learn a bit more about Kathleen's writing and her process:

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I’ve always doodled little poems to express my feelings or investigate them, and my first published piece was a poem. Novels grabbed my “wants” when I took an online writing course that included starting a novel. The characters wouldn’t leave me alone, so I had to complete their story, which led to another, and another. And here we are!

Where do you like to write?

Usually, I’m sitting in our living room with my laptop, where I can see bits of our neighborhood.

What is your favorite childhood book?

I’ve always loved reading and read many, many books. I’d have to pick two: Little Women and Beautiful Joe.

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

That also depends of what’s happening in my life. I may write for several hours, or it may just be a few minutes.

Which is your favorite book you’ve written so far? Why?

They’re all my favorites! Melody’s Song is the story that began it all, so it holds a special place in my heart. Like grandchildren, the first one grabs your heart first, but you love them all.

If someone were reading your books for the first time, which book would you recommend they start with?

Either Melody’s Song or Hearts Unfolding, since they each begin a series. Melody’s Song is followed by Nila’s Hope and Redemption’s Whisper.

Do you have a new release you'd like to tell us about?

Hearts Unbroken, book 2 in the Rockwell Chronicles, is my new release, and it shares Logan Rockwell’s and Paige Donnelly’s story. Paige has had a crush on Logan for years, but a choice she made has destroyed her dreams of ever being worthy of love. Hearts Unbroken deals compassionately and honestly with the touchy subject of abortion and its aftermath.

Hearts Unbroken releases in e-book form July 1, 2022, and I hope to have the print version ready a month later. I’m also re-releasing the first book in the Rockwell Series, a second edition with a new cover. That’s supposed to happen this summer also. When they’re all ready to go, I plan to have a sale on both!

Here is a blurb for the book:

Hearts Unbroken:
To Logan Rockwell, Paige Donnelly is his younger sister’s flirty friend—nothing more—until he rescues her from a horrific accident and yearns to be more than her hero.

Paige’s crush on Logan and dreams of catching his attention began years ago. Although the crash brought them together, her dreams died with a choice she’d made and would always regret.

Can Paige find forgiveness for what she feels is an unforgivable wrong? Can Logan be her forever hero, or will his ambition destroy their chance at lasting love?

Hearts Unbroken embraces the aftermath of abortion in this story of faith, love, and abundant grace.

Purchase on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ulq2mq

Do you find yourself returning to a similar theme in your novels or do you have a new message with each release?

In each of my books, faith, forgiveness and hope are vital, and I love watching my characters grow to realize that God is waiting to heal their brokenness.

Is there a certain Bible passage or verse that goes along with the theme of your book?

2 Corinthians 7:10 talks about the difference between a godly grief that leads to repentance and salvation and the worldly grief that can lead to death – such a vital difference! Paige needed to learn this lesson.

Ephesians 1:7 goes with the theme, too: In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.

Did you enjoy creating one character more than another? If so, why?

Because Paige was a troubled character, I loved watching her grow, but I’d have to say I enjoyed Logan more. He appeared in Hearts Unfolding, and this story gave me the chance to get to know him better.

If you could be any of your characters, which one would it be? Why?

Tough question! I guess I’d love to be more like both Miss Glorie and Stacey Rockwell. Their wisdom and compassion inspire me.

What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

That depends on the topic. For the Rockwell series, because the family runs a concrete business, my research is asking my in-house expert, my husband, any question I may have about that subject.

Online research is a favorite source of information, and for previous books, I interviewed police officers, social workers, tree-planting crew bosses and others.

How do you select the names of your characters?

I look up baby names for the years they would have been born and try them out. Some I have changed mid-story, because the original names didn’t fit their emerging personalities.

Thank you, Kathleen, for joining us today!

I’m excited about your book and can tell readers I enjoyed Hearts Unbroken. I love how Paige and Logan’s story begins and ends. The way God’s love and forgiveness works through Paige and Logan’s life is beautiful. Kennedy’s little boy, Levi, is a favorite of mine, he’s a sweet boy with a caring heart. Kathleen has written a wonderful story of forgiveness and starting over as Paige walks the path of grief and redemption.

I’m giving away a $15 Amazon Gift Card. Make a comment by August 10, 2022 to be entered to win.

Interview and Giveaway with Author Peggy Trotter

I'm excited to introduce you to one of Diamond Mine's authors, Peggy Trotter.

When Peggy Trotter’s not crafting or DIY-ing, she’s immersed in a story scene of some sort, always pushing toward that sigh-worthy, happily-ever-after ending. Two kids, two in-law kids, and four grandchildren are the delight her life, as well as her Batman of 37 years whose cape is much worn from rescuing his wife from one predicament or another.

 

On a dusty shelf lies a couple of writing honors like the prestigious ACFW Genesis Award, Novella category, even though she writes full-length historical and contemporary Ransomed-Ever-After Fiction. She strives to bring characters and storylines alive to reveal God’s guiding providence and unending love.

 

Always on a search to find one of her many pairs of glasses, Peggy’s a smoldering pot of determined discombobulation who, by the grace of God, occasionally pulls it together to appear in public as a normal, confident woman while privately craving a few hermit hours to woo the printed word.

A few fun facts about Peggy--

Given the choice of:

Coffee, tea, or water? Water

M&Ms or Skittles? M & M’s

Cat or Dog Person? Bothish~I have 5 cats but love my son’s Great Danes!

Favorite Song? Right now is Until Grace by Tauen Wells and Gary LeVox

Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter? SUMMER!!!

What genre do you enjoy reading?

Mostly I read Historical fiction. But, I have found I really enjoy biographies as well. So when I’ve had enough petticoats and wagon wheels, I peruse the biography section.

Which is your favorite book you’ve written so far? Why?

I have two. Year of Jubilee was super fun because it was the first one and that story had lived in my brain for at least a decade. But also The Lowborn Lady. The main character actually had its start in Year of Jubilee, so I waited several years to put her to page. I enjoyed giving Rhapsody pluck, boldness, and just a dash of arrogance. But mostly, I love redeeming her ugly character, watching her grow into this person who really saw and cared for people.

Tell us about your latest release:

The Lowborn Lady came out in December and it is the second book of the series Society of Outcasts. Rhapsody Hastings carries a deep set guilt about the death of her first husband. So when her carriage breaks down on a dark country road, and she’s caught in the arms of a ruffian, Cavanaugh Blackledge, she must wed him to still rumors and save her reputation. So, she accepts the arrangement as her own personal penance. Yet, her new husband’s unexpected mission wakens her dead heart despite the fact that a high society lady shouldn’t be involved with such…dangerous illegal conspiracies. 

Do you find yourself returning to a similar theme in your novels or do you have a new message with each release?

I like to redeem unredeemable characters. Personalities that are at the end of their rope, the bottom of the pit, at the point of no return, completely desperate. Because that is usually where God meets us, isn’t it? I love the quote from the Bible about the prodigal son when that proverbial light bulb explodes in his head. The KJV says, “When he came to himself…” Luke 15:17a. Isn’t that just the way it happens? We finally, after searching, trying, working, striving, realize that all our ambitions and effort are useless and futile without God.

Did you enjoy creating one character more than another? If so, why?

Rhapsody possessed some haughty, arrogant undertones at the beginning of the story and it was fun to create her personality. I found myself having to rewrite certain sections to give her more snootiness. But in reality, she’d had a very important epiphany, and it was a joy to transform her character to be more like Christ.

Just for fun--As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot? Why?

A horse, or rather a trotter, LOL. Mainly because I have always adored horses. My childhood and adolescence was spent reading books about horses, both fiction and nonfiction, and because thoroughbreds were my favorite, following the Triple Crown winners. I remember poring over a particular book that displayed the various breeds of horses in full color. That was a treasured book.

If you'd like to win a copy of The Lowborn Lady:

Say hello to Peggy in the comments, and we'll choose a winner.

Where to find Peggy:

 

peggytrotter.com

peggytrotter.blogspot.com

diamondsinfiction.blogspot.com

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Peggy_Trotter

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13778873.Peggy_Trotter

Amazon Author’s Profile Page: amazon.com/author/peggytrotter.com

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

Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/PeggyTrotterAuthor/

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/peggy-trotter-44a29b95/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13778873.Peggy_Trotter

BookBub:  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/peggy-trotter

MeWe:  mewe.com/i/peggytrotter

Parler:https://parler.com/profile/PeggyTrotterAuthor

Usa.life:https://usa.life/PeggyTrotterAuthor

Gab:https://gab.com/PeggyTrotterAuthor

 

Romantic Suspense Author Chloe S. Flanagan Shares Her Superpower Preference (with a Giveaway)

Welcome back to the Diamond Mine, friends. This week I'm pleased to introduce you to another wonderful author. Chloe S. Flanagan was kind enough to stop by an introduce herself and answer a few questions. Plus, be sure and stick around to the end because she's giving away an e-book of her latest release!

About

Chloe S. Flanagan is an author, technical writer, blogger, and graduate of New York University. She enjoys exploring the Christian walk frankly and thoughtfully in her fiction and in her blog, The Candid Corinthian. When she's not writing, Chloe loves music, travel, reading books in all genres, and spending time with family.

Connect: Facebook | Twitter






SW: I always like to start with a few Would You Rather Questions so we can learn some interesting things about you. Are you ready?

Would you rather know the history of any object you touched or be able to talk to animals?

CF: First of all, thank you so much for inviting me to chat today!
To answer the question, I would rather know the history of an object I touched. I’m a context driven person, so knowing where and with whom an object has been would help me understand its function and potential.

SW: Would you rather be able to teleport anywhere or read minds?

CF: Teleport! I’m an okay driver, but I’m not overly fond of it…especially on interstates. If I could simply step on a platform and *poof* arrive where I needed to go, it would eliminate a lot of stress from my life. 

SW: Plus going anywhere in the world in the blink of an eye sure is tempting (much more tempting than hearing what someone else is thinking, in my opinion). Would you rather have all traffic lights you approach be green or never have to stand in line again?

CF I’d rather have all the traffic lights be green. I actually like standing in line because it gives me a chance to whip out my kindle application and read or my “notes” application so I can write. 

SW: Ok, that’s it for those questions. Let’s talk books!

In addition to writing (both in your day job as a technical writer and as a fiction author), you are an avid reader. Give us a couple of your favorite reads.

CF: Oh, that’s tough! I’m glad you said a couple, though, so I’m not committing myself to just one. My two favorite genres to read are Historical Fiction and Suspense. In Historical, two of my favorites are A Change of Fortune by Jen Turano and With Every Letter by Sarah Sundin. For Suspense, I love Crossed Off by CC Warrens and Miranda Warning by Heather Day Gilbert. (Okay, okay, that was four, but they were different genres!)

SW: Four is acceptable :). Writing is often a solitary journey. Where to you find motivation and support for your writing journey?

CF: I have been blessed to find community all around me. When I was just starting to play with the idea of writing my first novel, I received a ton of encouragement from a good work friend who is a general market indie author. I also joined my local branch of the American Christian Fiction Writer’s group and met some amazing authors there. Not only that, through social media and various online groups, I’ve “met” countless talented, supportive indie and Christian authors as well as bloggers. 




SW: I love my local ACFW group. It's such a blessing to know you have others to cheer you along in your writing journey, isn't it? Do you have a writing space you can give us a peek into?

CF: One of my favorite places to write is the public library because it’s quiet and inspiring to be surrounded by so many books. As an added bonus, one of my local library locations has a coffee shop. The picture shows where I took a “little” snack break after a writing sprint. 











SW: My library has some nice study rooms but no coffee shop. Plus it's never open when I'm ready to write. You write romantic suspense novels. Tell us something interesting you’ve learned while researching your books.

CF: Well, I hope I’m not getting too graphic here, but in my first book, a couple of characters get shot, but not killed. While researching gunshots wounds, I learned that there are really no “safe” gunshot wounds. Movies will often show someone being hit in the shoulder or arm and someone will say, “Oh, it’s only a flesh wound.” But in reality, factors like blood loss and risk of infection can make hits to even non-vital organs very serious indeed. Also, in real life, people rarely keep running around after being hit by a bullet like they do in the movies.

SW: Give us a brief overview of No Longer a Stranger.

CF: No Longer a Stranger centers on Marion Sloan, an uptight ex-cop, and EJ Handler, a lovable goofball and computer nerd. They cross paths when Marion is hired to find out who is sabotaging the company EJ works for. The unlikely alliance they form leads to old secrets, new dangers, and a surprising romance. 

SW: Oh, I like the twist with the female "tough-guy." Are you working on another book now? What stage are you in with that?

CF: I am in the drafting stage of a book that I will be contributing to The Potter’s House Books Series 2. It will be an inspirational fiction novel with a hint of romance.


Thank you so much for hanging out with us this week, Chloe. I'm looking forward to reading No Longer a Stranger soon.

More about the Book

EJ Handler is the perpetual class clown, but he’s also a loyal friend and dedicated worker at the tech company he helped found. Friendship and work are the only commitments he needs. Yet a dangerous scandal quickly upsets his laid back life and dredges up the old heartaches that made him fear responsibility in the first place. His only hope rests in his faith and the reluctant assistance of a mysterious female detective.

Sloan is a tough, unemployed cop with a penchant for taking on the cares of the world by herself, when an unexpected job offer gives her the opportunity to do what she loves. Little does she know that a simple job will bring the infuriating, but endearing EJ and a chance at the friendships she’s avoided for so long.

Purchase your copy here

Giveaway

Chloe S. Flanagan has graciously offered *one of our readers an ebook copy of No Longer a Stranger. To be entered to win, simply leave a comment and tell us where your favorite place to read is.