Following God's Lead: A Conversation with Denise M. Colby

Denise M. Colby's path to becoming an author wasn't one she planned. From dancing down Main Street at Disneyland to building a career in marketing, each season prepared her for the moment God placed a story on her heart. Since then, she's been delighting readers with heartfelt historical fiction, memorable characters, and stories that unfold in unexpected ways.

In today's interview, Denise shares how a school field trip sparked her writing journey, why she's a proud discovery writer, the inspiration behind one of her readers' favorite characters, and how she balances a full-time career with writing books. She also gives us a glimpse of what's coming next—and how we can pray for her as she continues to follow God's leading.

As a special thank-you to readers, Denise is also giving away a digital copy of her debut novel to one lucky winner. Be sure to enter the giveaway after the interview!

Please join me in welcoming Denise Colby!

About Denise M. Colby

Denise M. Colby loves history and constantly finds herself contemplating how it was to live in the 1800’s.

She treasures the written word and the messages that can be conveyed when certain words are strung together. An avid journal writer, she usually can be found with a pen and notepad whenever she’s reading God’s word.

Born and raised in Northern California, Denise moved to Southern California for college and to dance in the parades at Disneyland (well, she might’ve picked the college so she could dance at Disneyland) and never left the area. She loves to read, watch movies with her family, sing 80’s and musical songs, tap dance, and spend date nights with her husband at ‘The Happiest Place on Earth’.

Denise is passionate about all types of stories—whether they are from songs, theatre, movies, or novels. Besides her novels, she has published two articles in compilation books and eleven magazine articles.

Every year Denise chooses a word to focus on. For 2026, her word is BALANCE. Releasing four books within a two-year period is definitely teaching her a lot about this word.

She shares her learnings about her focus word throughout the year, as well as behind the scenes tidbits from her writing. Sign up for her newsletter or you can follow Denise on her social media or her blogs.

Writing a book is definitely not as easy as it looks, but she wouldn’t change her journey. A member of multiple writing groups, she has made some amazing friends through the years. If you are interested in writing, send Denise a message and she would love to help direct you to a writing group where you can get plugged in.

Or you can check out her posts on the writers' blog, A Slice of Orange, as she shares her writing journey with other authors.

Follow Denise on social media: Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | X/Twitter

1.     Suzie: Welcome, Denise. We are thrilled you are joining us this week. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Denise: I grew taking dance class. Tap, jazz, ballet. All of it. I don’t think it ever leaves you. My favorite

has always been tap dance. I’ve taught private lessons in college and in recent years taught in my garage beginning tap. I even had a moms' class for a while and it was so fun. Sometimes I still pull out my shoes and dance. Besides tap, I was fortunate to be a choreographer for musical theater for seven years, teaching middle school students (including all three of my kids). Also, I grew up dreaming of wanting to dance at Disneyland, so I had moved to Southern California for college to do just that. Dancing down main street was my dream come true (which taught me a lot about going for your dreams). Plus, I met my husband there and stayed in the area. Now it’s our date night place.

 

Suzie: So much fun. I love that you reached for your dreams. What was the catalyst for your interest in writing?

Denise: I never planned on being an author, but after a school field trip to Sacramento with my oldest son, and visiting the one-room schoolhouse there, an idea for a story took root. It wasn’t until the same trip two years later with my second son that I attempted to actually write something. God put the desire on my heart, but it wasn’t anything I myself had thought of doing.

Suzie: God is pretty amazing the way he plants something in our hearts, isn't he? Do you have a day job? If so, how do you find time in your day to write?

Denise: During the day I work for a drainage company as a Sr. PIM Marketing Manager. I help organize and write the copy for our e-commerce pages that show up on Amazon, Lowe’s, Home Depot, and other companies. I get to work from home. So I start the day early with writing related tasks (and writing) and then pivot at my desk for work. When I’m on deadline I also write in the evening and weekends if needed. I’ve found writing sprints the best tool for me to write my books.

Suzie: Writing sprints are great motivators. Are you a night owl or morning person?

Denise: Can I be both? I wish my body agreed – lol.

Suzie: Do you reward yourself when a book is finished? If so, what is your favorite treat?

Denise: Yes - Ice Cream

Suzie: You can't go wrong with ice cream. Were there any surprises that came up as you wrote your story?

Denise: Always. I love how the story connects organically as I’m writing. Only God can do that. It’s a beautiful thing.

Suzie: It really is beautiful. Who was your favorite character to create? 

Denise: I love building all my characters and seeing them grow. But I think my favorite is Bert. He seems to be everyone’s favorite.

Suzie: Bert is a ton of fun. How did you come up with the names of your characters?

Denise: Some of the names are family names. I also do research online for the time period. I’ve even wandered around a cemetery taking notes (we were visiting family). I just shared in my newsletter how Bert’s name was chosen. I wanted a B name to honor my mom (Beverly), and I loved Bert in Mary Poppins.

Suzie: Those are great ways to determine character names. Are you a plotter or a panster?

Denise: I figure out my characters and some basic things overall, but I am definitely more a pantser.

Suzie: I am too. I really need to change that question to say "are you a plotter or a discovery writer." Are you part of a writing group?

Denise: Yes, I’m actually a part of several. They have all been amazing. I love the friendships and support I’ve built with all of them. I highly recommend joining them. The groups I’m a part of include:

Faith, Hope, Love Christian Writers – https://fhlchristianwriters.com

ACFW – https://acfw.com

Novel Academy – https://novel.academy

OCRW (Orange County Romance Writers) – https://ocrw.clubexpress.com 

Suzie: Wonderful groups, for sure. Do you have a favorite author or book?

Denise: Long before I wrote, I loved reading Deanne Gist, Mary Connealy, Jen Turano, Karen Witemeyer, Julie Klassen, and many more.

 

3.   Suzie: There are a couple of my favorites on your list. What’s next for you as an author?

Denise: I’m currently writing a Christmas novella, and hope to write the other two teachers’ stories in the Best-laid Plans Series

 

4.     Suzie: Wonderful. More books for readers. How can we pray for you? 

Denise: My word this year is Balance. Working full time, building an author career, taking care of my health, and being present for my family and friends are all things I’m trying to juggle.

Suzie: Thank you for spending some time with us this week, Denise. And congratulations on your new book.

About A Whole New Plan

Sometimes God’s best plan is the one we never expected.

California, 1870. Pastor William Baker has built his life on faith, routine, and safe choices—until Lydia Spencer walks in and turns everything upside down.

Independent, outspoken, and guarded, Lydia is unlike any woman he’s ever known. She has no interest in church… and no intention of revealing the truth she’s hiding.

Because Lydia isn’t just a schoolteacher.

She’s a Pinkerton detective, sent west to track a dangerous crime boss—and she’ll do whatever it takes to protect those she loves, even if it means keeping her distance from the one man who sees straight through her defenses.

But when unexplained thefts shake their quiet small-town rural community, and a desperate boy appears with ties to a deeper mystery, Will and Lydia are forced into an uneasy partnership.

As danger closes in, so do their hearts.

What begins as a reluctant alliance soon becomes a forced proximity neither of them expected—and neither can ignore.

Yet the very things that draw them together may be the ones that tear them apart.

Lydia’s life is built on secrets.

Will’s is built on truth.

And when her past catches up with her, they’ll have to decide what matters most—holding on to their own plans… or trusting the One who sees the bigger picture.

Because sometimes surrender is the only way to find the life you were meant to live.

Set against the backdrop of the American West, A Whole New Plan is a heartfelt story of faith, courage, and a strong woman learning to trust again—woven with threads of mystery and hope.>

If you enjoy western Christian romances with elements of intrigue and heart, you’ll love A Whole New Plan—perfect for fans of Misty M. Beller and Mary Connealy.

Goodreads | Amazon

Giveaway

Denise is generously giving away one digital copy of her debut novel (When Plans Go Awry) to a lucky reader!

To enter:

1. 1. Answer this question in the comments: What dream has God placed on your heart that you're trusting Him with?

• 2. Include a way for us to contact you if you're selected (email address or social media handle is fine).

Giveaway Rules:

1. One winner will receive a digital copy of Denise's debut novel, When Plan Go Awry.

• The giveaway will remain open until at least five eligible entries have been received.
• Once five or more qualifying entries have been submitted, one winner will be selected at random and contacted using the information provided.
• 
  
• By entering, you agree that your comment may be publicly visible on this blog.

Good luck and thank you for visiting the diamond mine.

Interview and Giveaway with Kimberly Burkhardt!

Hi, guys! V. Joy Palmer here! Since we are all friends here, you guys can call me Joy. ;-) And one of my favorite things to do is talk with my friends at coffee shops, then head to the bookstores. Yes, plural. After all, books and yummy drinks are the perfect combination! So consider this our virtual coffee shop. I'll wait a second for you to get your warm drink and a fuzzy blanket before we chat with today's guest. <3

Today we are going to pry into the private life of CHAT with author Kimberly Burkhardt!

Kimberly Burkhardt writes Christian historical romances with a mix of faith, love, and adventure. She enjoys researching American history and draws inspiration from the people and places of the Old West. Kimberly makes her home in Nebraska with her family and can usually be found with a good book or a great cup of coffee in hand. When not writing, she loves spending time with her family, being outdoors, and visiting historical sites around the Midwest. 

Connect with Kimberly on her website, Goodreads, Bookbub, Instagram, and Facebook!

Interview ~

This may be the most important question I ask -- no pressure or anything, LOL! 

*drum roll*

What are you drinking in our virtual coffee house? Coffee? Tea? Hot chocolate? Something else altogether?

Coffee in the morning and tea at night.

Sounds perfect! If you could order anything in the world to eat (we can dream, can't we?), what would it be?

My mom’s pot roast, with mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans. It might not sound fancy but it has always been one of my favorite meals and I don’t get it very often since I don’t live close to my parents.

Classic and delicious! Where is your favorite place to write, and why is that your favorite place?

Outdoors. I have a glider swing in my backyard that I enjoy sitting on when the weather allows it. My view looks out to a small grove of pine trees. Beyond that, is a small farm. The animal sounds provide a nice ambiance and help spark my creativity when it comes to writing about the Old West.

That's so cool! Do you have an odd habit that is only explained by your bookish, writer tendencies? Safe space. ;-)

I am not aware of any odd habits but I’m sure my family would say otherwise. 

LOL! Those habits never feel odd to us, right? What inspired you to write The Carpenter's Schoolmarm?

I first began writing The Carpenter’s Schoolmarm in high school. At the time, I didn’t yet know where the story would lead—only that there were a few key moments I wanted to include. Like most new writers, I based my characters after people I knew at the time. But as the years went on and I kept revising, both the story and the characters grew right along with me. A lot of my inspiration came from reading Christian historical romances and watching old westerns. 

How fun! What led you to write in this genre?

I grew up watching Dr. Quinn, Bonanza, and Gunsmoke (thanks Mom and Dad) and I loved reading books by Lori Wick, Tracie Peterson, and Mary Connealy. Historical romance has been with me most of my life. It was only natural to want to write in this genre. Plus, I love learning about history in the 1800s.

We had similar childhoods! What message do you hope to convey to your readers?

The message I want to convey to readers with this story is that no matter how our lives are going or want to go, we must trust in God’s plan. I am still learning this lesion and reminding myself that even though I might not see what’s ahead, God has and I need to trust His guidance.

So, so true! Can you tell us a little about your next project(s)?

The second book in the Cooperton Brides series is with my editor and will be released March 2026. I am currently plotting the third book.

About The Blacksmith’s Songbird 

She longs for freedom. He offers hope.

Beneath the glow of the gaslight lamps and smoky haze of the Big Blue Saloon, nineteen-year-old, Laura Shining, feels like a songbird trapped in a cage. She longs for freedom, a life away from the leering eyes of the drunken cowhands and controlling saloon owners. As Laura dares to imagine a life beyond the saloon, a surprising source of strength arises from a group of faithful women in the town’s sewing circle. Through their wisdom and friendship, Laura begins to see her true worth.

Josiah Crawford took the job as blacksmith in Cooperton to help his family and to get away from the guilt of a friend’s death. He enjoys forging iron and is content spending his days shaping steel. It isn’t until a chance run-in with a spirited young singer that he begins to question his decision to stay a bachelor. A growing friendship blossoms, and Josiah soon feels himself wanting more than just a friendship.

When the saloon owner’s simmering jealousy turns violent, Laura must rely on courage, friendship, and the love of a man who has forged his way into her heart, to escape the saloon life.    

Will she be able to break free from her cage and finally sing the song that has been on her heart all along?  

Yay! Do you have a favorite Bible verse or story that inspires you on a soul level? 

At this time in my life, I have found John 16:33, to be a big part. I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

So good! What are you currently reading? Inquiring minds -- mine! -- want to know. ;-)

Right now, I am reading Pretending to Wed by Melissa Jagears.

Fun! Thanks for answering all of my prying questions, Kimberly!

Giveaway ~

Kimberly is generously giving away an eBook copy of The Carpenter's Schoolmarm!

The Carpenter’s Schoolmarm

She’s running from her future. He’s hiding from his past.

Forced into an arranged marriage by her father, Samantha Baxter flees from the clutches of her fiancé and finds sanctuary in the small town of Cooperton, Kansas, as the new schoolmarm. Although she attracts the attention of some of the single men in town, Samantha remains cautious, knowing any romantic relationship could put that man in danger of her fiancé and his fury if he ever tracks her down.  

Michael Brooks finally has enough money to purchase the land where he will build his future home. He can put his criminal past behind him and find peace in the solitary life of crafting furniture for the people of Cooperton. That is, until he meets the new schoolmarm. She stirs a dream inside him he didn’t know he wanted. A wife and family to call his own. 

Despite her efforts, Samantha finds herself drawn to Michael, unable to deny her growing love for the handsome carpenter. But when his past and her future collide, will the two be able to trust in each other and in God’s plan? Or will their secrets keep them apart?

Giveaway Rules, Info, and Such ~

The author is giving away an eBook copy of The Carpenter's Schoolmarm that will be distributed through BookFunnel to one US resident! 

This giveaway will close on 12/18/25 at 11:59 P.M. for all the night owls. 

A winner will be drawn within four days of close of giveaway. The winner must respond to our e-mails within one week of notification, or their prize will be forfeit. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

And may the odds be ever in your favor. ;-)

Enter Giveaway HERE!!!

See you next time, and God bless you guys!!!

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

V. Joy Palmer loves to write romantic and comedic stories that proclaim God’s deep love for us. She’s a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and an avid blogger. In her spare time, Joy loves to sing (especially Disney songs), drink large quantities of coffee, and create aesthetic content for Bookstagram. When Joy isn’t fighting with fictional people, she’s hanging out with her husband and their adorable daughters. Connect with Joy via www.vjoypalmer.com!

Connect with Joy on her website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Amazon Author Page!

Interview and Giveaway with author Penelope Marzec!!!

 

Today on The Diamond Mine we welcome author Penelope Marzec!!  She is offering a free copy of her book, Love's Gift, to the winner of the giveaway. To be entered to win, please leave a comment with your email after the interview!

Now, here we go with the interview!

Hi Penelope! Welcome to The Diamond Mine.

Can you tell us a little about your book?

Love’s Gift is set 1903. It is the story of Amaranth Beach, who is Chinese and burdened by her ethnicity due to the Chinese Exclusion Acts. Abandoned on a beach as a newborn and raised in an orphanage, she is a skilled secretary, but the threat of deportation looms constantly and all employers turn her away... until Mrs. Tildon of Sea Haven, New Jersey, hires her. 

Soon after Amaranth' s arrival, she discovers that the Tildon family secrets run deep— a reprobate father, a long-lost brother, an obnoxious maid who is never fired for her behavior, and William the son who worries too much about what people will think. 

When a series of alarming events occur, it' s up to Amaranth and William to unravel the secrets that threaten to destroy the Tildon family. 

Can Amaranth heal the family' s divisions with her faith? Or will a greater danger threaten them all?

Sounds like a wonderful read!!

How did you get your idea for this story?

 

The idea of the Chinese orphans came to me due to my husband’s fascination with trains. From him, I learned about the building of the Transcontinental Railroad. Chinese laborers were recruited to come to this country to help build the railroad. They were given lower wages than the whites plus their work in tunneling through the Sierra Nevada Mountains was the most dangerous. Yet, they were excluded from the famous photograph that marked the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in Utah, which was celebrated by the hammering of the Golden Spike. 

Unfortunately, the Chinese became victims of racial prejudice and in 1882 the Chinese Exclusion Act banned Chinese laborers from entering the United States. The Chinese already in this country were not allowed to become citizens. In fact, Chinese people in this country needed to carry residency papers with them at all times. Otherwise, they could be sent to China.

Wow. I didn't know that.

So, what made you decide to be a writer?

I was nine years old when I decided I was going to write a book. I wrote it on yellow legal paper with green ink and I illustrated it, too. That ‘s when I found out I loved writing. 

What was your first story?

That first story was about a young girl who could fly. She wasn’t a super heroine, but it was definitely a paranormal. I realized it wasn’t good enough for publication, but I intended to write a book that would be published eventually. And I did. 

Sounds like you've always had a great imagination.

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

I always start with a very loose outline, which is subject to change as I write. I’m probably more of a pantser than plotter, but I do need a general idea of where I’m going with the story.

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

One of my favorite themes is injustice. That’s why I wanted to write about Amaranth in Love’s Gift. In Patriot’s Courage, I pointed out some of the injustice aimed at the Native Americans.

Yes, I remember that! Another great story of yours.

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

Most of my characters are usually composites. I will take a variety of traits from people I know and form a different person who fits what I need for my story. However, there are a few characters I based entirely on some truly wonderful people I have known. I will not reveal who they are though. 

Smart girl!! :)

Do your characters ever surprise you?

My characters do have minds of their own. So, sometimes they go off and do things their way, which is usually for the best. I don’t mind. 

Agreed!

Do you have a favorite character in your books?

I’ve written quite a few books at this point. The characters in those books are like children to me. I love them all—except for the villains, of course. 

What are you working on now?

At the moment, I’m revising an older book. The rights were returned to me by the publisher and I’d like to reissue it. But once that’s finished, I’d like to write another historical romance. I need to do more research first. I enjoy research. History is fun.

I agree completely. I love the research for a historical story.

Thanks so much for doing this interview! And now readers, here's a bit more about Penelope, along with her links. And remember to leave a comment to be entered for the giveaway!

  Penelope Marzec grew up along the shore of Raritan Bay in New Jersey. Now a retired teacher, she writes inspirational romances. Two of her inspirationals won the EPPIE award and one finaled in that contest. One paranormal, Irons In The Fire, was a nominee for Romantic Times Reviewers Choice award. Her historical, Patriot’s Courage, won 1^st Place in theCentral Region Oklahoma Writers, National Excellence in Story Telling for an Inspirational. She paints seascapes in oils when she isn’t writing. You can find her online at http://www.penelopemarzec.com, read her blog at http://penelopemarzec.blogspot.com, or become a fan at www.facebook.com/penelopemarzecbooks 

Purchase Links:

Find it at:
Amazon
Barnes&Noble
Kobo
Apple

Pelican: https://pelicanbookgroup.com/ec/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=37_73&products_id=1678

Penelope Marzec

www.penelopemarzec.com

www.facebook.com/penelopemarzecbooks

http://twitter.com/penelopemarzec

A Visit with Bestselling Author Laura Frantz

I am delighted to be a part of the Diamond Mine community, and for my debut post I’m so happy to bring a visit with my friend and best-selling, award-winning author, Laura Frantz!

 

Laura has been writing stories since age seven. She is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century and her novels often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Proud of her heritage, she is also a Daughter of the American Revolution. Though she will always consider Kentucky home, she and her husband live in Washington State.

Regina: Laura! Welcome, my Kentucky sister! I know our readers are looking forward to getting to know you better!

We both write for the Christian market. Do you look on writing as a “calling?”

Laura:  I definitely consider the gift of writing a calling. I knew from the age of 7 that writing held something for me that nothing else did. A sort of heavenly magic that transported me out of the ordinary while doing it. As I grew up I realized anyone given a gift needs to steward that gift well and wisely, always crediting the source. I’m really grateful to have the gift of words. It’s not something I can take any credit for except to say I’m willing to do the work (which is not really work since I love writing so much). Publishing is work, however😉

Regina: It is! You have such a calming presence, however, that you make it look deceptively easy! God has definitely given you a gift.

Now for some “favorites”:

What is your favorite Bible verse, and why? How about chapter?

Laura: When I was a child and my father had left our family and we were dealing with that loss, my mom and I memorized Psalm 139 and would say it together. I sign books with that Scripture reference today. Looking back, I see why she chose it. Such a comforting Psalm that covers our entire lives from the moment of conception – God never leaves us or fails!

Regina: So, so true—He is our firm foundation! That’s an incredible story, Laura. Thank you for sharing this.

On a lighter note, what is your favorite movie and why?

Laura: North and South, the BBC drama starring Richard Armitage. Such a moving, well-done production! He’s such a hero in that film.

Regina: I can’t believe I haven’t seen that one! (adding it to my list!)

Which do you prefer, salad or sandwich?

Laura: Salad with Green Goddess Dressing, every time! I have a great recipe for the dressing though I rarely make it so it’s a treat.

Regina: That sounds good – I’m a sandwich person, but I can get behind the idea of Green Goddess Dressing!

Switching gears, I have a few questions for Laura’s character from her new release, The Seamstress of Acadie!

What is one thing about you that makes you an interesting character?

Sylvie: I’m Sylvie Galant, a French-Acadien seamstress who has a secret fascination for a forbidden Army Ranger.

Regina: So nice to meet you, Miss Galant! An Army Ranger, you say?  Sounds intriguing! I’ve read a little about the gentleman in question …

If you were going to travel (I know it can be quite difficult in the year 1715!), what is your favorite vacation spot in the U.S.?

Sylvie: I do not care for the American colonies one whit. I am an enemy and outsider there, sadly.

Regina: Understandable. On a more personal note, what makes you giggle or laugh out loud?

Sylvie: My little sister, Marie-Madeleine. She is never serious and always acts as though she is in a stage play.

Regina: Little sisters are the best! Mine would be shy in front of others, but at home? Always entertaining!

What is your favorite? Pie or cake?

Sylvie: Gateau!

Regina: I’m fond of cake, myself!

Now, let’s dish some dirt … What would you like to tell us about your author?

Sylvie:  She is good at making things up but tells me this novel is the hardest she’s ever written, possibly because she almost failed college French! And she even had a French tutor!

Regina: Ah! How funny! I have two daughters, both of whom took French in college – they passed, but I’m not sure I would travel to France with them!

Thank you, Laura and Sylvie! I received my copy of The Seamstress of Acadie on the day it was released, and I will admit to having a hard time getting my work done, wondering what will happen next!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this, and will comment below! Thanks to the generosity of the Baker Book House and Revell publishing, one commenting reader will receive a print copy of The Seamstress of Acadie!

 

Until next time, enjoy a good book – or ten! 😊

 

Connect with Laura here:

www.laurafrantz.net

https://www.facebook.com/LauraFrantzAuthor/

https://www.instagram.com/laurafrantzauthor/

 

Purchase The Seamstress of Acadia at these fine booksellers:

https://www.amazon.com/Seamstress-Acadie-Historical-Romance-Beginnings/dp/0800740688/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

https://bakerbookhouse.com/products/542752

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-seamstress-of-acadie-laura-frantz/1143717380

 

Stepping Back in Time with Colleen Hall

 Welcome back to the Diamond Mine, friends and merry Christmas! This week, historical romance author Colleen Hall is stopping by for a visit.

About the Author

Colleen Hall wrote her first story in third grade and wrote as a hobby all during her growing-up years. She was born in New England but moved South to attend college. She married a Southerner and has lived half of her life in the South. This helped her to see both sides of the issues of the Civil War. In Her Traitor's Heart, she was able to combine her love of writing with her love of history. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, horseback riding, reading, and browsing antique stores. She lives in South Carolina with her husband and family, three horses, and two spoiled cats.

Connect with Colleen: Website | Instagram

Suzie: Welcome to the Diamond Mine, Colleen. We are delighted to have you with us this week. I always like to start with a couple book- and writer-themed would you rather questions.

Would you rather write in a rooftop garden surrounded by city noises — or in a quiet studio with cows as your neighbors? 

Colleen: I would definitely prefer to write in a quiet studio with cows as my neighbors.

Suzie: A good place to write, for sure! Would you rather read a book with no page numbers or no chapter numbers? 

Colleen: Hmm. . . I think I’d rather read a book with no page numbers. I’d need chapter numbers to let me know where I am in the plot.

Suzie: Alright, that’s enough of those. Tell us a little about you—family, hobbies, day job, or whatever you’d like to share that’s not in your bio.

Colleen: Some things about me that’s not in my bio: I love chocolate; I’m a night owl; except for one cousin, I’m the shortest person on both sides of the family; I’m the oldest of three children; and yes, what people say about redheads is true—just ask me.

Suzie: What are three books on your current tbr?

Colleen: Three books on my TBR list are: Understanding Show, Don’t Tell—And Really Getting It by Janice Hardy, The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhor, and Sudden Sea, The Great Hurricane of 1938 by R. A. Scotti.

Suzie: All of those look fantastic. I am adding to my tbr now, too :)

What does your writing space look like? 

Colleen: My writing space is a nook at the back of the house in the master suite. When I first set it up—complete with a “new to me” antique writing desk. After all, if I’m writing historicals, then I need an antique writing desk that will help set the mood. 

Suzie: Yes, an antique writing desk is a must! Would you share with us a little about your road to publication? 

Colleen: I’ve been writing almost as long as I can remember. My mother told me I wrote my first story in third grade. All through junior high and high school, I wrote as a hobby. I had to take a break from writing when I went to college. After I graduated from college and married, I picked up my hobby again. I wrote when the children went down for their naps and whenever I could find time. As the kids grew older and family life became more complicated, I had to once again put my writing away. Years later I had surgery and was out of work for several weeks. While I was at home recuperating, I pulled out a manuscript I’d written when the children were young. I reworked it, googled “Christian publishers that take new writers,” and Anaiah Press came up. I submitted to Anaiah, and as the saying goes, “the rest is history.”

Suzie: I love that God kept that writing dream alive despite the stops and starts. 

What are some of your favorite things about writing historical stories? 

Colleen: I love history, so writing historical novels seemed a natural thing for me to do. I love putting my characters in some of my favorite by-gone eras and creating worlds and challenges within those time periods. I even enjoy doing the necessary research.

Suzie: Tell us more about your newest release. 

Colleen: Wild Heart is the fourth book in my Frontier Hearts Saga series and takes the Slash L Ranch family to the next generation. The Wild Wind brothers—they’re featured in books 4 and 5—leave the ranch to pursue their own destinies in uranium mining during the early 1900s.

Suzie: What are you currently working on? 

Colleen: I’m currently working on a new Civil War series called Confederate Brides. I’ve just completed the first novel, Beloved Enemy.

Suzie: Oo, that title is intriguing.

Before we go, tell us how we can pray for you. 

Colleen: Thank you. I’d appreciate prayers that I’d continue to get fresh ideas for stories, that I’d stay focused on the task the Lord has given me, and that I wouldn’t be discouraged.

Thank you for taking some time out during the busy holiday season to chat with us, Colleen. I've enjoyed getting to know you a little more.

Readers, let us know in the comments what you enjoy most about reading historical fiction.

About Wild Heart

What should a New York heiress do when her domineering father arranges a marriage for her with his banker business partner? In 1911, the heyday of the Robber Barons, women have little power over their destinies, but feisty Garnet Morrison is determined to chart her own course. In Cole Wild Wind, a uranium mine owner in Colorado who seeks to make her father an investor in his mine, Garnet sees freedom from the future her father plans for her.

What does a confirmed bachelor do when he meets the beautiful daughter of an Eastern financier? When Cole was looking for a businessman to invest in his uranium mine, he hadn’t expected to meet Garnet Morrison. Garnet was an Eastern socialite unsuited to life in a Rocky Mountain mining camp, but when her father brings Garnet with him on his business trip, Cole’s vision of his future changes. Forces beyond their control conspire to keep them apart. Can Cole and Garnet overcome the challenges that stand in their way of a life together?

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