Romantasy Author Paige Reed

 Hello, friends. I trust you all had a safe and happy holiday season. Are you ready to load up your TBRs for 2026? If so, be sure and visit us often to find new and new-to-you authors and stories.

And I can't think of a better person to be the first introduction of 2026 than Paige Reed. Paige and I have been critique partners for five years, and I have watched her stories transform from good to amazing. I've had a front-row seat to the hard work she's poured into the Guardians of Areli series. 

Here's a fun fact: When we first started critiquing and Paige told me her word count, my response was, "No publisher is going to buy that book." She listened and reworked her 3-book trilogy into two 3-book trilogies. In the course of these past years, she's made even more changes, and her stories are fuller, richer, and more immersive because of her desire to share the stories God wants her to share.

I am not normally a fantasy reader, but Paige's books have a familiar, historical tone that makes her world-building both new and comfortable. And y'all, this lady can write. You will be swept away with her beautiful writing and her captivating storytelling. But you don't have to take my word for it. Here's what one reviewer said about Reviving Embers (Paige's debut novel): 

Immersive, thought-provoking, passionate, and clever are only a few of the terms I could use to describe this novel. What a gem in the Christian fantasy realm. It definitely leaves you anticipating more.

Paige has generously offered to give one of our readers a signed paperback of Reviving Embers (her debut novel). Be sure to read to the end to find out how to enter the giveaway.

Let's welcome Paige to the diamond mine.

Meet Paige Reed

Paige loves life in all its messy reality. She believes in hope—not the sort spun by fairytales—but a hope fearless of the dark. Chocolate is her kindred spirit and together they write epic stories about fascinating people caught in incredible places and discovering an extraordinary God. Paige won the 2020 ACFW Genesis Award for speculative fiction and the 2021 ACFW Virginia Crown Contest Award.

Connect with Paige: Website | Newsletter | Amazon | Instagram | Facebook

Suzie: Welcome, Paige. I am delighted to introduce you to our readers, so let's get started.

Would you rather live without internet for a year or without air conditioning and heating for a year?

Paige: The internet—as long as I had a different way to research, market, and publish my books, lol. I’m one of those sorts who are on the internet because I have to be, not because I love it.

But heating? I live in the north country and that is a desperate need in my life :-)

Suzie: I couldn't bear the Tennessee summers without AC myself (but I do use the internet every day) 

Would you rather give up social media or eat the same dinner for the rest of your life?

Paige: For sure, social media! I’m a foodie, and foodies can’t handle “the same” anything too many times in a row.

Suzie: I agree with the social media (although I am okay with "the same" for a while). Tell us a little about you—family, hobbies, day job, or whatever you’d like to share that’s not in your bio.

Paige: I’m an avid gardener. At least, I avidly enjoy gardening. Unfortunately, flowers and herbs are the only things that have grown well—so I’ve never had enough surplus of produce to make canning worth it. My husband and I joke that if the economy goes belly up and had to live off my garden, we’d have one good day before starving to death ;-)

Suzie: I can't even keep flowers or herbs alive. 

What are three books on your current tbr?

Paige: The Huntress by Carrie Cotton … because it’s a bestseller in my genre.

Sense and Suitability by Pepper Basham … because I’m a die-hard classics fan. So much so, if you would have told me I would be an author one day, I would have assumed I’d write historical fiction. But alas, my characters insisted their story be told in a different time and place, so I became a fantasy writer instead. And I might just love it.

Cerulean Rose by Demi Griffin … because I love fairytale rewrites with spiritual layers.

Suzie: What does your writing space look like?

Paige: I write at a standing desk, located in our house’s loft, that overlooks a panorama of rolling hills, trees, and huge, expressive sky. The view makes my heart incredibly happy and helps my creative juices flow.

But the surface of my desk is a wee bit crowded right now. Between writing a series and needing to have access to all of its parts and pieces at a moment’s notice, trying to figure out this marketing thing, and a plethora of art supplies for drawing fantasy maps for said series, I’m thinking I need a piece of furniture to help me stay organized while being able to still find everything. A cute, white or distressed-white dresser with three drawers stacked on top of each other should do the trick. And I think the color would pair with the buttermilk yellow walls and European cottage vibe I have going on up there.

And did I mention it would be cute?

Suzie: That would be cute. Would you share with us a little about your road to publication?

Paige: I tried to go the traditional route.

I studied craft.

I joined crit groups.

I entered unpublished contests—even won the Genesis and Virginia Christian Writers Awards—hoping to earn the attention of a trad publisher and agent.

I even met with one of the top agents in the Christian publishing world.

However, I didn’t realize how the publishing industry worked. Didn’t know that if the Christian publishing houses hadn’t built a market for romantic fantasy, then they weren’t going to pick up my manuscript no matter how well written it was or how popular the genre was becoming.

Which meant that this technology-challenged and marketing-adverse individual—who gets a grand total of two or three likes on any social media post—had to learn how to publish and sell her own books.

Don’t get me going on the desperate, overwhelming search to find professional-grade editors and cover designer …

But the Lord is right here in all the unexpected, guiding my faltering, inadequate footsteps. I’m inching forward. In July of 2025 I published my first book—Reviving Embers, prequel to the Guardians of Areli series. Then released the second book in October of 2025. Annnnnd—I have two more scheduled to release in 2026.

Suzie: The publishing industry is rough, no matter which route you choose to go. What are some of your favorite things about writing romantacy?

Paige: Always, I love the romance. There is something so intrinsically beautiful about the strong and powerful gentling themselves to woo the heart and trust of the fairer sex. It reminds me of how

Christ set aside His resplendent glory—that would have frightened or overwhelmed us—and took on the form of a servant to win His bride. I also adore the process of the MMC and FMC

growing toward each other, discovering each other’s souls—especially the wounded places—and choosing to love sacrificially and unconditionally.

I also enjoy world building. My approach to fantasy is probably different than most. I love using a different time and place to interact with foundational, eternal truths that are alive and real in our world. It’s my desire to magnify, articulate, and remember again with my reader the spectacular realities that get lost in our harsh, broken, now and now.

And I cherish the opportunity to organically weave in the truest and deepest delight of the human experience—that place where the finite crosses paths with the Infinite, or the sinner discovers the Savior, or the wounded meets the Restorer.

Suzie: Sounds like you are in the exact genre you are supposed to be in. Tell us more about your upcoming release.

Paige: Rending Hearts is the third installment in the Guardians of Areli series … and my favorite book yet.

And I’m not just saying that.

Middle books can be difficult to write—which is why a lot of fantasy writers go with the whole “one of the main characters is now possessed and their mind has been altered/hijacked,” as seen in the Hunger Games.

And there’s nothing wrong with writing or loving a story with that twist.

But between you and me, I don’t enjoy these deviations. When I go on a journey with a character, I want to discover who they are and watch them authentically grow and transform over the course of the story.

Yet going without a major setback along this order forces the plot and characters to carry the momentum. There is no “how will they get free?” taking up a lot of space and time.

And I’m thrilled to say this cast of characters nailed it all on their own. The book sort of wrote itself, and I can’t wait for my readers to get to experience the incredible lows and highs of this next installment in the battle for Areli.

Suzie: I'm looking forward to reading it. What are you currently working on?

Paige: The fourth and final book in the Guardians of Areli series—which brings my first epic romantic fantasy to completion. Three books' worth of threads and character development are coming to a climax, and it’s incredibly satisfying to build each scene. This final book is coming together better than my wildest

imaginations.

And … I’m also working on two companion novellas that cover the love stories of beloved secondary characters. I’m super excited about these stories because they will give us a glimpse behind the scenes and into both territories and struggles that I don’t have time to cover in the main series—but are super delightful and hopefully every bit as inspiring.

Suzie: It's bittersweet saying goodbye to a series. How can we pray for you?

Paige: Wow. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate this question.

Two things come to mind—

1. That each book will reach its full potential.

2. That I will find my readers. I’m still in the infant stages of building my author career and it’s a pretty big, overwhelming world out there. Sometimes, it feels like I’m launching my stories into a void. But the Lord had specific readers in mind when He led me to write these books, and I would love to find them :-)

Suzie: Thank you for spending some time with us, Paige. 

About Reviving Embers

He vowed to protect his people no matter the cost. But what if the cost is her?

Twelve years ago, the Shields of Power saved Paul Marshall's family from annihilation. Now a man, he’ll stop at nothing to earn a place among the elite council sworn to protect the Shields’ source of strength.

But no one with common blood has been appointed for centuries.

To rise, Paul must train with the nobility and secure influential connections in a world that doesn’t want him. His chances go from slim to impossible when he attracts formidable enemies—and the affections of a woman he can never have.

Verity Scillician, noble born and destined to marry the crown prince, struggles to accept the path laid out for her. Emptiness haunts her, forbidden pursuits call, and Paul tugs at every hungry place inside her. But breaking free from the expectations of her family and class could ruin her.

Subversive influences sweep Areli into a war of ideologies that threatens their past and future. As they fight to preserve their heritage, and the attraction between them deepens to love, Paul and Verity must decide if they will obey the ancient warning to stoke the fire within …

Even if the flame consumes their dreams.

Amazon | Goodreads

About Revealing Shadows

There is treachery without. And treachery within.

Prince Beniah receives this cryptic warning when a lethal storm drives him to take refuge in the Western Cliffs. Yet the tension between him and his father compels him to hide his investigation.

Evidence of conspiracy continues to stack. A divisive treaty. Scarred earth. The opening of Areli’s borders to their ancient enemy. A murder. As the threat to his kingdom escalates, Beniah faces chilling questions …
Who is the mastermind? And who is their ultimate target?

Anne has lived her life cloaked in obscurity and rejection. Hidden behind a hair scarf and tinted glasses, she serves the High King and Areli with quiet devotion. But disturbing revelations force her to choose between staying safe in the shadows or betraying her sect by reaching across the class chasm for help.

As the web of mystery tightens, Beniah’s and Anne’s paths—and loyalties—cross treasonous boundaries, making discovery even more dangerous. Yet when their enemies close in, no safe options remain.

Either they step into the light and risk revealing their deepest-held secrets …

Or they let the shadows swallow them whole.

Amazon | Goodreads

Giveaway

Would you like to read Reviving Embers? Paige is giving one of you a signed paperback (US addresses only). To enter, simply leave a comment and tell us which of the above tropes are you're most interested in reading about.

Giveaway ends at midnight CST on 1/14/26.

Interview with Nicole Patrice Thomas

I am so excited to share with you my interview with fellow independent author, Nicole Patrice Thomas! Nicole kindly took the time with me to answer some questions on her author journey. I feel incredibly fortunate to have Nicole as my first interview for The Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction!

Here is a little bit about Nicole in her own words:

The fastest way to see the world and experience adventures without limits is to open a book. Reading has always been my favorite thing to do, it is what I would rather be doing day and night. I am a CUNY graduate holding a BA degree in Advertising and Public Relations but my love has always been the literary world. 

 In 2019 I reached a point in my life where I felt stagnant, I needed direction and a fresh start. As a Christian I take my direction from my heavenly father, so when He woke me at 3am one January morning with the desperate voice of a woman as she ran for her life and the life of her unborn child repeating in my head, I wrote it down and kept writing. That is how the first book in my fantasy trilogy started. The trilogy was completed a year later as well as a children’s book, corresponding coloring book and a spanish translation.

I am a hospitality professional by trade and a poet at heart. My goal is to spread light and love to my readers, to give them characters they can relate to. Characters who find redemption and hope despite betrayals, that they will see themselves reflected in some aspect within the pages and know that regardless of how or where they start in life, the ending can always change.

Let's learn more about Nicole!

I am so happy to have the opportunity to interview you, Nicole! When did you first know you wanted to be an author?

Nicole: I really never planned to be an author. Writing had been a way for me to vent, a way to deal with big emotions as a teenager. I would write poems for family or church events, boyfriends (lol). As I grew older people started saying I should put all my poetry together. I would kind of say “uh huh ok,” smile, and walk away. It was not on my radar, but clearly it was on Gods!

It's amazing when something isn't originally on our minds but God then presses it on our hearts! When you are putting your novels together, how do you overcome writer’s block? 

Nicole: I pray and wait, days or weeks. I found while writing my trilogy, when I tried to push ahead with the plot, I would get stuck. Or when I tried to add a plot that a reader had suggested, I would get stuck. I got into the habit of asking God what the characters were gonna get into next. When it flowed freely, I knew I was on the right path.

That's a good habit to get into. I embarrassingly will admit that though I ask God to guide me in my stories in general, I have not asked him to help me through a plot point. I'm curious to know if you read the genre you write? 

Nicole: Yes I do and much more. I love reading Christian Fiction, fantasy, historical fiction and recently crime thrillers. Reading is my favorite thing to do, always has been. It gives me a much needed escape from reality, and if written well, can even inspire and deepen your relationship with Christ.

Yes! I enjoy a lot of the same genres as you! If you had to do something differently as a child or teenager to become a better writer as an adult, what would you do?

Nicole: I would have pushed harder to take courses in college. I went with my parents' direction for what I should major in. Granted I should have focused on those classes too (lol) but writing has always been my passion. I should have found a way to do both.

It's a tricky balance, but now that you are a published author, what has been your favorite part of the independent publishing journey? 

Nicole: Finding my purpose and seeing God’s hand in it all. So much has happened that I never dreamed of. From classroom visits, to winning awards, to selling out at vendor events. It's been a humbling and exciting journey. I’m definitely looking forward to the future.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be a Christian Fiction writer?

Nicole: Be true to YOUR calling. If God has given you a story to write, write it the way HE tells you to. And even then, everyone won’t like or understand it. Develop a tough skin and rely on the fact that your Creator created you to create this work of art. Honor Him in it, give Him your best with it, and He will open the doors for you to succeed.

I think that is advice that all of us writing Christian Fiction needs to hear. Do you have a favorite Bible verse or life verse that inspires you?

Nicole: Romans 5:1-5, I have it in my IG bio and part of my email signature. ”We know suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character hope. And hope does not disappoint us.” I’ve dealt with some big challenges, suffered through things I never wanted to. I'm still going through a rough patch, but this reminds me that through the fire I am being refined and will be stronger, better and WHOLE when I come out of it. And then, I’ll write a book about it!

Thanks for sharing that with us Nicole. So what’s next for you? Any current or upcoming projects you’d like to tell us about?

Nicole: I have a finished Children’s devotional I hope to have illustrated in the near future. I also have a Woman's Fiction story I’ve been working on for a long time, hoping to finish that one day.

Amazing! I will link your website and amazon page to this post so that our audience can follow you and get updates on the upcoming projects. One last question I want to end all my interviews with. What do you hope Christian Readers take away from your books?

Nicole: My Trilogy is a coming of age story that deals with identity, purpose, courage, self doubt and fear. Every character has the chance to change the trajectory of their lives. Continue for self gain and power or turn to The One for redemption. Like each of my readers, they have a choice to continue living for themselves or find the light and follow Him. I want my readers to know that no matter how their story starts, they can change the ending with one decision. Whether that decision is for good or evil, well, that's up to them.

I want my children’s books to create a window for parents and educators to talk to the kids about how important it is to listen. So often, with the best of intentions, our kids go off to do something without understanding the consequences. The illustrations and simple language are the perfect opening for this conversation. Available in English and Spanish, there is also an activity book to reinforce the lesson in fun ways.

Thank you so much for joining me today, Nicole, and sharing about yourself and your stories!  

You can check out Nicole's Young Adult Christian Fantasy Trilogy and her Children's book on her amazon author page or on her website. 

Shawn Lamb Shares Her Novel, "The Great Battle"

Hello! Terry here. We are pleased this day to welcome Shawn Lamb, a Christian Fiction author who has much to share.

You have a rich background of animation and writing. How did you use these talents in your recent  'Allon' release?

Writing freelance scripts for children's television during the 1980s helped me grow as a writer in multiple ways. First, it gave me the opportunity to challenge my writing skills. The demand in Hollywood is for fast production. There is no such things as "writer's block" when hitting deadlines. If you missed a deadline or delayed in any way, doubtful you would get another assignment. Second, it taught me how to write for children. Prior to that, I was preparing historical fiction books for adults. There are really only slight differences, but enough to give understanding of how to captivate kids.  Third, it honed by voice and style by learning that I write "cinematically" - like watching a movie. Thus, I tell stories chronological and without plotting. It's all in my head, as often times I had to come up with ideas on the fly. All these things I learned writing scripts, made the transition to fiction very easy.

It takes so much time and energy to write a book. What can you share about the balance of being an author, a mom, wife, Christian writer, and so many other demands?

Honestly, I didn't land my first book contract until I was 50 years old. By then, our daughter was grown and out of college. (She's almost 31 years old ) However, Allon actually became a family endeavor when she was in high school. Yet, even with that blessing, the act of creativity needed to be harnessed so as not to interfere with family life. Scripture says, there is a time for everything. I always believed in God first, my husband, our daughter, and others, with my writing further down the list. Now, we are enjoying the fruit as a family.

We often use the term, ‘Christian’ fiction in many ways. You have found discipleship as a key for you. What can you share about discipleship that helps you every day or more?

For discipleship - or discipline - one needs to understanding their responsibility first God, and then in order of priorities after God. Paul talked about beating his body into submission, well creativity needs to be subjected to life's priorities rather than impulses. Just because I put on my "creative writing hat" doesn't mean all Biblical principles go out the window. Scripture doesn't differentiate between fiction (make-believe) and reality. I'm just as responsible for the words I write, as the words I speak. I don't compartmentalize my life. Scriptural principles rules everything.

So we have your new release. Please give us a fun ‘blurb’, as we reach for it. Where we can find your books, and where is your next book selling event?

"Fun blurb", lol. Well, here's a humorous exchange from "The Great Battle" between Kell, Captain of the immoral Guardians, and his aide, Avatar:

"Describe this beast you mentioned," said Kell.

"Which one? There were three different creatures inside some kind of holding room. A fuzzy worm the size of a large mortal family cat sprayed me with disgusting, stinging, and smelly green goop," said Avatar.

"A gullet worm. The goop is for preparing its prey for eating."

"Wonderful! It thought I was dinner."

The back jacket summary for "The Great Battle."

The vast splendor of the Almighty's compound graced the Region of Sanctuary. With wisdom, compassion, and justice, Jor'el utilized his immortal Guardians as administrators of the kingdom.  For centuries, the mortals lived in peace and prosperity under divine guidance. They went about content with life - or so they thought.  Guardians interacted with mortals on a daily basis. They offered protection and order. They were content in their role - or so they thought. When one Guardian upsets the balance, the consequences are devastating. For the first time ever, Guardians will face each other in war! Can the kingdom survive a battle of immortals?

All my book are available online including Amazon, and from the Allon Books bookstore via the Allon Books website -  www.allonbooks.com . My next personal event will be May 3-4 in Oklahoma City at the Oklahoma Christian Home Educators Convention.

Thank you for your interview. Am very appreciative. Make sure to look up her books at_www.allonbooks.com and thanks for reading.

Shawn is giving away a free copy of The Great Battle! Leave your name and email below in the comments to be entered.

Diamond Mine followers, Julie B Cosgrove here as your host today. Please welcome Kenyon Henry. He writes Christian YA, but if you are like me, that means I want to read it as well!  The Chronicles of Stephen are fantasy, but Biblically based.  You'll see what he means...

Tell us, Kenyon, what spurred you to write The Chronicles of Stephen?

It began as a short story, out of curiosity more than anything else. I had wondered what it would be like to read a person’s mind. It went further than that, really. I was interested in what it might be like to truly understand a person, to see the deepest parts of someone and know things about that person that even he or she might not know. As ideas began pouring out, it wasn’t long before I began wondering, could I write this story as a novel?

I studied—reading books, blogs, talking with authors and editors, and joined a writers guild. When life put the book on hold, it was always in the back of my mind. Eventually, Book 1 was out and ideas for Book 2 were already on paper to continue Stephen’s story. Now, Book 2 has barely been out a month and Book 3 is nearly ready for the editor. 

Tell us briefly about each one, including the latest.

Stephen developed abilities at the age of eighteen in a way that frightened him and made him feel like a monster. In response, he decided to leave home to do good, hoping this would make him feel normal again. 

 Book 1, Choice of the Mighty, begin with Stephen returning home to Waltz, the man who raised him, after something tragic happens, causing him to realize he needs help. Waltz helps him to understand his abilities as Stephen learns there are others like him, all of whom are descended from King David’s mighty men. Among this community, there are two groups, both of whom want Stephen to join their side. He, however, doesn’t want to take part in their war. In the end, Stephen realizes that he must make a choice. Stephen learns that some choices are hard, as it isn’t so clear in the beginning which side is good and which is bad.

Book 2, Trials of the Mighty, continues Stephen’s journey as he learns about the choice he has made. Stephen trains and studies, so that he can better control his abilities and understand this new world he has been pulled into. Still, he soon learns that even when you make the right decision, bad things can still happen. He struggles with understanding this and tries to shoulder all the responsibility for it. As he continues to help his new friends, he eventually learns that bad things happening doesn’t negate all the good in life.

Book 3, Redemption of the Mighty, (which should be out by the end of the year) takes us to the final battle between these two groups. Stephen struggles with stepping out in faith. Although he knows he has been chosen, he still struggles with feeling worthy. Eventually, he accepts his place in the battle, and takes responsibility for himself, which allows him to become the person he was always intended to be.

How do you develop your characters? Do they stem from people you know? Is it because their personalities advance the plot, or are they all floating in your brain screaming to be released?

I’ve heard it said that you should never make and author mad, because he (or she) will write you into their story and kill you. It’s funny, but does show that authors can use people they know for influence to the story. For me, I’ve done a fair bit of this. I think, at least in some way, all my characters have a bit of me or someone I know in them. This helps to make the characters more real, even for me.

I think when I started the first book as a short story, there were a few core characters that needed to be there for the plot. After it began growing and adapting, the creative juices had been opened and characters began trickling out. Now, it seems I have a hard time stopping the  birth of new characters at times.

For me, the characters drive the story. I eventually found myself changing the scenes and outline as my characters developed. At times, I would start to write a scene I had outlined only to realize that a character had taken on a life of its own and didn’t fit the action in that scene. I had to make a choice—re-arch the character to fit the purpose, force it into the mold, rewrite the scene and outcome of it, or create a new character to achieve the purpose. The last two are the only options I consider. By that point, I usually love the character and have this whole backstory in my head that governs his or actions which keeps me from re-arching him or her. And, I hate it when a character acts out of character just because the author needs it to do so.

What do you want your readers to take away from reading these Chronicles?

One, life is filled with tough choices. Often, we want to avoid those choices and simply let someone else deal with it. We each need to understand that inaction in the face of wrong is still a decision to allow that wrong to continue. Scripture says that if we know to do good and don’t, that is still evil.

Two, just because we do good doesn’t mean bad things won’t happen in life. In fact, I’ve often found that bad things come of the heels of right actions. Evil tries to stifle good. But, we must persevere, keeping our eyes on the finish line and focus on things that are good.

People will try to keep you from being who God has created your to be. He has endowed us each with a royal heritage and gifts of love and compassion. He has called us to boldly step out in faith to be light and life to a dying world.

What is next in your writing career?

Obviously, book 3 is the focus right now. Since it’s now in the editing phase, I’ll start a new project. I have been asked to write a screenplay for book 1 for speculation purposes. This will be a new type of writing endeavor that I’m looking forward to. I’ve also started tinkering with a comic book based on one of the characters from the series. And, I’d like to do a few novellas on some additional characters from Chronicles of Stephen. Eventually, however, I’m hoping to work on some projects outside of this series, too!

Where can people find your books and learn more about you?

My books are available online at Amazon and Barnes & Noble in print. You can also get the ebooks from Kindle, Nook, iBooks, Kobo, and more. Most bookstores should also be able to order them in print. You can learn more be at www.kenyonthenry.com, or any of my social media, www.facebook.com/kenyonthenry, www.instagram.com/kenyon_t, and twitter @kenyonthenry.

Thank you, Kenyon, for letting me interview you today. I know a lot of our followers will want to check them out!

Journey into Christian Fantasy with Ralene Burke

Giveaway details below!!!

A haven for myths and legends . . .until evil discovers a way in.

With evil darkening the mountains to the north, the fairy queen, Fauna, must journey from the island realm of Bellanok to the modern world to find the man the Creator appointed to save their Kingdom. A man she had been dreaming of her whole life.

Brian is a down-on-his-luck pastor on the verge of giving up on God. He's tired and frustrated—a failure. No sooner does he make a decision that jeopardizes his career than an unusual blonde woman shows up and tries to convince him he is some kind of savior.

Fauna must open Brian's eyes to a different reality, and Brian needs to embrace the haven's secrets. If neither of them succeeds, Bellanok will succumb to evil and the world will lose all trace of innocence.

Talk about getting sucked into an alternate universe! Ralene Burke, author of the beautiful novel above, is here. She is such a busy lady, but I actually jetted into her world for a moment or two to talk about her new book. Float in closer on your lacy fairy wings so you don't miss a word!


PT:  Hi, Ralene! So glad you are here! I've let the Cheshire cat out of the bag about your genre, but give us a little more details about you!

RB:  Hey, y’all! I’m a fantasy author, social media maven, and freelance editor. On top of that, I homeschool our 3 kids! Yes, it’s a little bit busy around here. I’ve always been a storyteller—just ask

my mom. I’ve been writing since 2006, when I joined a critique group on Writing.com. As I dove into the writing world, I also joined ACFW and later got involved with Realm Makers.  The joy of helping other authors gave way to editing and social media, where I could help others SHINE Beyond!

PT: Whoa! I know a lot of authors that really want to shine! What brought you to this world of words and this unusual genre?

RB:Well, my first short story was published when I was in the 3^rd grade … Ha! No, really, it’s true. A short story about Martin Luther King, Jr. was published in a city-wide literary magazine. Although I kept writing, it wasn’t until I was in my 20s that a story idea grabbed hold and wouldn’t let go. This began my journey into the writing world. That story will never see the light of day again, but I’m so incredibly thankful for everything I learned from it! My first story was a contemporary YA, but my voice—and therefore my taste in genres—changed over the next 3 books. I went from YA to adult suspense to supernatural suspense and finally landed in fantasy land! I’m still planning to revamp the supernatural suspense to try and sell to a publisher one of these days …

PT: Interesting evolution of genres! So let's get into your typical day to day routine. Take us through.

RB:  Ha! One thing I’ve learned many times over is that there is no typical day around here. My Type-A brain wants to plan everything out, but the best laid plans …
Ideally, I get up early in the morning and write for a couple hours. Slowly I move over to social media stuff for myself and clients. Around 10 a.m., I put everything up and move out into the rest of the house with the kids, where we are doing anything and everything from homeschool to chores to playdates/appointments. The list never ends!
After dinner, though, it’s back to the office to edit for clients and work more on social media stuff until my brain falls apart. Ah, but it’s the life I love!

PT:  Classic fantasy movies always have iconic music. Does music play a part in your life or during your writing time?

RB:  In life, yes! I’m a huge fan of music … and I have pretty eclectic tastes. Although, my go-to is still Christian music. Whether I’m cleaning the house, driving in the car, or just hanging out, I have to have some tunes.
However—big however—I can’t have music on when I’m writing. Well, music with lyrics anyway. It’s too distracting. I’ve found in recent months, though, that I actually like instrumental music if it’s in tone with what I’m writing.

PT: Do, do, do do do DO do (Star Wars theme, in case that didn't translate :) ) Now my favorite! Name 5 things fast about Ralene Burke that have NOTHING to do with writing. (I'll continue to hum in the background.)

RB:
• I’m allergic to coffee.
• I only have one vocal cord that works.
• My favorite fandoms are Doctor Who and Lord of the Rings.
• My favorite color is purple!

• When I’m not busy, I love playing board games and cards.

PT:  Tell us what is next on your fantasy horizon!

RB:  I have a YA fantasy allegory coming out in September (hopefully) from Elk Lake Publishing Inc. Armor of Alehteia is based on the premise question, “What if the armor of God were real?” It follows the tale of an orphan-turned-priestess who has been challenged to retrieve the Armor of the Creator before an ancient evil destroys their world. 

PT: Bahahaaaa! The old ancient twist of Good vs. Evil! The readers can't wait! Thanks for stopping by Ralene!


 Now you know everything about Ralene Burke. (Well, almost.) But I bet you didn't know she is giving away—NOT A TYPO—yes, giving away one copy of her beauteous books for one of our humble readers. All you have to do is drop your email in the comments/and/or actually leave a comment and your email so we can get ahold of ya when ya win. If ya can't wait, you're ready to launch into an alternate reality before the drawing, you can find Ralene's book here:

Amazon link:  https://www.amazon.com/Bellanok-Reluctant-Savior-Ralene-Burke-ebook/dp/B01MG4OPEB

And you can find her most anywhere, especially here:  Facebook, Twitter, or at her website. 

RALENE BURKE BIO:

Whether she’s wielding a fantasy writer’s pen, a social media wand, or a freelance editor’s sword, Ralene Burke always has her head in some dreamer’s world. And her goal is to help everyone SHINE BEYOND! She has worked for a variety of groups, including Realm Makers, The Christian PEN, Kentucky Christian Writers Conference, and for several freelance clients. Her novel, Bellanok, is available on Amazon, and her next one from Elk Lake Publishing will be out September 2017!

When her head’s not in the publishing world, she is wife to a veteran and homeschooling mama to their three kids. Her Pinterest board would have you believe she is a master chef, excellent seamstress, and all around crafty diva. If she only had the time . . . 

Author Betty Thomason Owens Graces the Diamond Mine!

I'm so privileged this week to welcome in Betty Thomason Owens into the cool quietness of the Diamond Mine, whom I’ve been blessed to have actually met face to face, last year. And what a sweet, genteel soul she is! Her blogs leave you feeling as fresh as gentle rain on a summer Sunday. (https://bettythomasonowens.com/) 

But her name caught my eye again when I saw her on the list of finalists of the Grace Awards. If you have a snatch of spare time, you might want to check out all the awesome writers on this list https://graceawardsdotorg.wordpress.com/.

Special Alert:  Book Giveaway below!

PT: Greetings, Betty! It’s so glorious to have you with us on this fine Wednesday. Our readers would love to know a bit about your background and how you got started writing.

BTO:  I’ve always loved books, and I’ve always been a storyteller. Mom called my stories lies. Yes, I could weave a wild tale to illustrate my reasons for not cleaning my room, or finishing my science project. But the real calling came when I was in my thirties. I’d never really considered writing, but the desire to tell stories fluttered to life and wouldn’t let me go. I began to write and couldn’t seem to stop. The stories kept coming. I self-published the fantasy novels then signed with Write Integrity Press to publish a 1920s era story (that grew into a series). A short time later, Tracy Ruckman of Write Integrity Press also sent me a contract for Annabelle’s Ruth.

PT:  I see you are very diverse in your writing, doing both Christian Fantasy and Christian Historical. There’s so many authors now dabbling in more than one genre. But which is your favorite to write/read?

BTO:  I love to read historical novels. But when it comes to writing, fantasy is sheer pleasure! I write inspirational fantasy adventure. You don’t really need to do research, because it’s all made up. There’s something so freeing about that.

PT: LOL I never would've pegged you for a fantasy writer! It must be true that calm waters run deep. And it’s obvious you love it. Now, you are amongst the finalists in The Grace Awards, and like all writers, I know getting such recognition is hard won. Were you surprised at this distinction?

BTO:  This is a reader-nominated contest, so yes, I was pleasantly surprised.

PT: Wow, incredible! How special to be nominated by your readers! So tell us a little about this novel, Annabelle’s Ruth.

BTO:  I love the biblical story of Ruth. I’ve read it and studied it numerous times. One day an idea came to me. Surely what happened to Naomi is not unique. It could happen to anyone, at any point in history. What if I wrote a story like that and set it, say…in the 1950’s? Annabelle’s Ruth was born from that idea. Annabelle is the Naomi character. As the story opens, she and her family live in San Diego, California. They are quite content until a tragic accident takes the life of her husband and two sons. She’s forced to sell her home and all her possessions and decides to return to her family in west Tennessee. Her eldest daughter-in-law resolves to go with her.

Instead of wheat, the Ruth character in the book helps with the cotton harvest. The kinsman redeemer figure owns the fields she works in. This story is also loosely based on my mother’s early experiences. Using a familiar setting helped to make the story and the characters real to me.

PT: That sounds like a fabulous read. I love that you used a Bible story as a template. Tell us, Betty, what lasting impression do you want readers to take from your books?

BTO:  A running theme in most of my writing is one of forgiveness—a by-product of love—the perfect love that comes to us from our Heavenly Father. The Book of Ruth tells a story of loss and redemption, but also of restoration. When you believe, there’s always hope and a future.

PT: Now forgive me for throwing this in, but this is one of my favorites to include on my interviews. Tell me 5 things fast about you that have nothing to do with writing.

BTO: 

1.  I’m quiet.

2.  I have seven beautiful grandchildren.

3.  I love to watch the sunrise.

4.  Need coffee with that.

5.  I hate scary movies.

PT: Love it! So we’re all dying to know where you’re going from here Are you in the middle of writing/editing/publishing?

BTO:  I have another book coming out in the near future—Carlotta’s Legacy, Book 2 of the Legacy Series. I’m currently writing book two of the Kinsman Redeemer series, sequel to Annabelle’s Ruth. The working title is Sutter’s Landing. There will be one more book in the Legacy series, and one more in the Kinsman Redeemer series (after Sutter’s Landing). Then I hope to have time to write the third book in the Jael of Rogan series—the fantasy novels. Jael’s fans have waited a long time, and not very patiently, I might add. But that’s a good thing.

PT:  Absolutely the best problem a writer can have! Thanks, Betty for being on the Diamond Mine. You’re a joy to get to know. Thought I'd throw in Samson for a little fun. He's actually a character in Betty's books. Besides, who can resist an adorable Bluetick Coonhound, I ask you??? Warning: #cutenessalert!

If you want to know more about Betty Thomason Owens, and I would if I were you, check out her bio and links below. If you want to cut to the chase, click here to purchase Annabelle;s Ruth: http://amzn.com/B00ZJTFTXK

Betty has graciously decided to giveaway a copy of Amelia's Legacy (And it hasn't even hit the virtual shelves yet!!!)  Comment below and leave a email so we can contact you if you score! Boom-shakalaka!

Betty Thomason Owens writes romantic comedy, historical fiction, and fantasy-adventure. She has contributed hundreds of articles and interviews to various blogs around the Internet and is an active member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), where she leads a critique group. She’s a mentor, assisting other writers, and a co-founder of a blog dedicated to inspiring writers.

Her writing credits include Annabelle’s Ruth, Book 1, Kinsman Redeemer Series (2015), a 20’s era romance, Amelia's Legacy, Book 1, Legacy Series (2014), both through Write Integrity Press. Carlotta’s Legacy, Book 2 of the Legacy Series is due in the Spring of 2016. She writes contemporary stories as a co-author of A Dozen Apologies and its sequels, The Love Boat Bachelor and Unlikely Merger, (2015). She has two fantasy-adventure novels, The Lady of the Haven and A Gathering of Eagles, in a second edition published by Sign of the Whale Books^TM, an imprint of Olivia Kimbrell Press^TM.

Amazon Author Page

http://bettythomasonowens.com

https://twitter.com/batowens

https://facebook.com/betty.owens.author

https://pinterest.com/btowens

https://writingpromptsthoughtsideas.wordpress.com

Interview with debut author Danele Rotharmel!!

To stop a cruel serial killer, she must travel twenty-four years into the past…

Gil Montgomery, a cadet in the Temporal Counseling Program, can’t wait to pass her field exam and become a professional time surfer. The TEMCO program targets death-row offenders for time-based counseling while they’re children.  For her exam, Gil will travel twenty-four years into the past to counsel ten-year-old Danny Winston before he murders his abusive babysitter, Rick Olsen.  Preventing the stabbing should stop the chain of events leading to Danny’s eventual execution. Gil’s assignment seems simple until her adviser, Dr. William Ableman, learns that Rick is a serial killer targeting Danny’s mother.  If Gil stays and protects the Winstons, she might not survive.  William wants the woman he loves to be pulled from the field, but if Gil fails to complete her assignment, it will unleash a Time Tsunami and destroy the timeline. As TEMCO undergoes an emergency lockdown, and Gil’s fellow cadets try to figure out what’s happening, Gil and William learn the importance of faith and the price of true love. Everyone’s fate is resting in Gil’s hands, but does she have the strength she needs to defeat a ruthless serial killer intent on annihilating everyone in his path.

Will she return from the deadly mission…

Time Tsunami is a fast-moving thriller with time travel twists that keep the reader guessing until the very last page. 

I bet I've got your attention now!! I'm so thrilled to welcome debut author Danele Rotharmel to The Diamond mine today! Time Tsunami is the first book in her series: The Time Counselor Chronicles. It promises to be quite an exciting series, and Time Tsunami becomes available on January 15th. You can pre-order it on Amazon! The link is at the end of the interview.

Let's all welcome Danele, and get right to the interview!

Hi Danele! It's great to have you here today. Tell us a little about the main people in your book.

I love to laugh, and I tried to cram as much laughter and fun into Time Tsunami as I could. Because of my quarantined isolation, my characters became my friends. They were literally my window to the outside world. I populated my book with people I’d like to be around—people who were goodhearted, not always perfect, and incredibly wacky.  Take Gil, for instance (her name is actually Gillyflower Meadowlark—but don’t call her that to her face!) Gil is kind, brave, and willing to put her life on the line to save the Winston family from a serial killer, but she sings off key, over indulges on cookies, can’t keep track of time, and has a really weird sense of humor—in other words, she’s human. I always enjoy books where the characters come alive, and that’s what I tried to do in Time Tsunami.

Sounds like you not only have a great plot, but intriguing characters as well. Quite a recipe! So, how much of yourself do you put into your characters?

When I create them, I put some of my personal strengths and weaknesses into each of my characters, but they grow from there. I love getting to know my characters—they’re constantly surprising me.

It can be a real roller-coaster ride, spending time with our created characters! What do you like best about the main people in your book?

I love their courage. When I was writing Time Tsunami, I was battling my own form of a serial killer. Multiple chemical sensitivity is a hideous condition from which many people never recover—some of them die from cancer. During quarantine, part of me wanted to give up and stop fighting, but instead, I fought tooth-and-nail to recover. I put that fighting spirit into Gil. She wasn’t going to back away from her fight any more than I was backing away from mine.

Good for you! I'm so glad you never gave up! And that you turned your challenges into a riveting story.

I'm curious. Do you find it easier to write heroes or villains?

I really enjoyed creating my heroes, but I also loved creating my villain. Rick was so incredibly creepy. When I was writing his scenes, I’d find myself cowering lower and lower in my chair. He was so nasty! He gave me the shivers. One of the best compliments I’ve received about Time Tsunami came from my sister-in-law. After she read one of Rick’s particularly creepy scenes, she looked at me and said, “Do you know what, Danele? You’re really twisted.” I got a kick out of that! It made me feel as if I’d brought Rick to life in a realistic way.

I love the visual of you sinking into your chair as you wrote your villain! I'm sure your readers will appreciate your ability to creep them out!!  :) 

When did you decide to write a novel, and what got you started on the writing path?

When I was five, I decided I wanted to be an author, but when I became ill that dream seemed to die. I was suffering from partial amnesia, and I lost my ability to think creatively. For years, I couldn’t write at all. It was like having a horrible case of writer’s block multiplied by a million. My health continued to decline, and eventually, I ended up quarantined in my home. This quarantine lasted for seven years. Although I had given up my dreams of writing a book, around my second year of quarantine my brain seemed to “unlock.” As my memories came back, I realized I was dreaming in color again and seeing shapes in the clouds drifting past my window. Suddenly, I knew that I could write! Energized, I began spending anywhere from 8-18 hours a day at my computer creating Time Tsunami. When I finished, I wrote the next five novels in The Time Counselor Chronicles. I used my novels as a way to distract myself from physical pain and from the loneliness of quarantine. Going through my illness was very difficult, and my novels were vehicles to explore my questions about God. In a very real way, my novels catalog my journey back to faith.

I can see that your personal struggles have had quite an influence on your writing. How do you get your unique story ideas?

Time Tsunami started out as a short story for a college creative writing class. I was a cadet teacher at the time, and I desperately wanted to make a difference in my students’ lives. I began daydreaming about having the ability to warn students against specific pitfalls they’d encounter in the future. Eventually, those musings expressed themselves in a creative-writing assignment. After my professor read my story, he told me I had a “sellable” idea. I toyed with the idea of turning Time Tsunami into a book, but I thought I was too busy. After college, life became even busier—and later, I became ill. My writing dreams lay dormant until that special day when I saw pictures in the clouds. Deciding to try my hand at writing again, I rummaged through an old box of my stories. Buried beneath a stack of papers, I found Time Tsunami. When I read it, I knew it had promise, so I began crafting it into a novel. When I finished, I couldn’t bear to abandon the characters I’d come to love, so I wrote the sequel, “Time Trap.” The rest of the books in The Time Counselor Chronicles flowed organically from there.

That's so cool! Do you work from an outline, or create as you go?

I work from a loose outline, but I love it when my characters change things up. For instance, in my original draft, Rick was Danny’s father and Sue didn’t exist. But when I transformed my short story into a novel, Sue suddenly appeared on the scene. Another surprise was my character Zara. Originally, she was a shy southern belle, but as the story progressed, she slowly transformed into a spunky lady with a Jamaican accent. Another big surprise was chapter forty-seven. I didn’t know what was going to happen when I sent Sam to the barn. I was sitting on the edge of my seat the whole time I was writing. I suppose I enjoy “creating as I go” because writing my books has been a distraction from pain. Writing a book is even more entertaining than reading one—especially if you love your characters.

Absolutely right! What’s your favorite part about writing?

I love getting caught up in the story. When I’m on a roll, I forget about everything—even eating and sleeping. The hours slip by without me realizing it. It’s like dreaming on paper.

You've expressed it so well-that unique experience of losing yourself in the writing process. It's a world all its own.

What message would you like your readers to take away from this story?

Underneath all the wrappings and ribbon, my book is an allegory about Christ and the cross. In my book, Danny is headed for death-row execution, but Gil steps in and helps him change his future. Love surrounded the cross, and love surrounded Gil’s decisions too. God’s love and faithfulness—that’s what I’d like my readers to take away from Time Tsunami.  

A beautiful message, Danele.

So, tell us. What are you working on now?

Prism Book Group has given me a contract for Time Trap, the second book in The Time Counselor Chronicles, and currently, I’m preparing the third book in the series, Time Search, for consideration by my editor. The fourth, fifth, and sixth books in the series are also written—they just need a little tweak here-and-there. After I finish polishing them, I plan on writing the seventh and eighth books in the series. I enjoy editing, but I’m looking forward to the creative rush of writing again.

Thank you so much for having me on your blog today! I really enjoyed talking with you and your readers! 

And I so enjoyed interviewing you! Thanks Danele!!

Here's a short excerpt from Time Tsunami:

As a blue glow filled the room, Gil looked through the time portal at William and Director Matthews. Her heart missed a beat. She didn’t know what was going on, but judging by the men’s tense expressions, it wasn’t good.

       “Hi, guys, what’s up?” she asked in a deliberately casual tone.

       “We’re thinking of pulling you from the field,” William replied.

       “What?”

       “Rick’s more dangerous than we thought.”

       “I don’t care if he’s Jack the Ripper,” she said flatly. “I’m staying.”

       Director Matthews picked up a handful of printouts. “He isn’t Jack the Ripper, but he might as well be. I’ve found evidence that he’s killed at least ten women.”

       “I don’t care.”

       “You’re facing a serial killer,” William said. “You must realize the seriousness of the situation.”

       “I do realize it. You don’t. Today’s Danny’s D-day. If I abandon him, he’s gonna die on death row. I love that kid, and I’m not about to let his life be destroyed. Where’s Dr. Nelson? She’d agree with me.”

       “She said it was our decision,” the director replied.

       “It’s my decision too, and I’m not about to abandon—”          

       “It’s not abandonment,” William interrupted. “GAP’s only predicting a fifty percent chance that it’ll make a difference to Danny’s future if you stay. Regardless of your hard work, Daniel Winston may be destined for death row. We’re not risking your life over a hopeless—”

       “There’s no way you’re getting me out of here! If there’s a fifty percent chance that Danny can be saved, I’m taking that fifty percent chance. It’s my life I’m risking. Not yours.”

       William ran a hand over his face. “We’re all risking a lot.”

       “I don’t care. I’m not—”

       “Enough of this!” William said harshly. “Let the director speak. When he finishes, we’ll discuss things.”

       “Here it is, Gil,” the director said. “Bald facts. Fact number one: Rick’s a serial killer. He strangles women with a red cord and hangs their bodies to mimic suicide. He does his murderous work so well, that unless a coroner’s an expert, the homicide is missed. At this time, it’s impossible to know how many murders Rick’s committed.

       “Fact two: Rick’s meticulous and methodical—that means he’s dangerous. He’s undoubtedly been planning to kill Sue for weeks. He’ll already have things set in motion.

       “Fact three: GAP’s predicting a 98.8 percent chance that if you stay, you will be hurt. Since Danny has only a fifty percent chance of escaping death row, you’ll be risking your life on a gamble.”

       Gil sat quietly for a few moments. “I’ve heard what you’ve said and understood it. Will you respect my decision?”

       “Yes,” William replied. “It’s your decision to make.”

       “Then my answer’s the same as it was from the beginning. I’m staying. Now, give me all the information you can about what I’m facing, and please do it fast. I don’t have much time, and I need all the help I can get.”

Can't wait to read it!! And now, here's a short bio about the very interesting Danele Rotharmel!

Danele Rotharmel grew up with a love of the literary word, and by age five, she knew she wanted to be a writer. However, her life took an unexpected turn when a mysterious illness brought her close to death. Eventually, she learned that a low-level carbon monoxide leak from a faulty furnace in her home was slowly poisoning her. This poisoning triggered severe Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and partial amnesia.

       During this time, the hardest thing she faced was a crisis of faith. She had to quit her job and stop going to church. She couldn’t write, couldn’t drive, and could barely remember who she was. To say she was upset with the Lord was an understatement. She began reexamining her faith in light of her illness, and eventually, she came to the firm conclusion that God is real, God is good, God is interested and involved, and God is trustworthy regardless of tragedy.

       When her illness became even more severe, she was put into quarantine and could only talk to friends and extended family through the glass of a window. This quarantine lasted for seven years. During this time, she wrote the first six books in The Time Counselor Chronicles.

       Danele currently lives in Colorado where she continues to write. Although her journey back to health was long and difficult, it provided her with the opportunity to grow closer to God and to write her books. For that, she is forever thankful.

       

You can learn more about Danele here: 

Link to her Blog: https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/

Link to her Blog’s welcome page: https://dragonflydanele.wordpress.com/welcome/

Link to Time Tsunami’s Amazon pre-order page:  http://www.amazon.com/Time-Tsunami-Danele-J-Rotharmel-ebook/dp/B019JBEI1C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1450887882&sr=8-1&keywords=time+tsunami