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.

Romantic Suspense Author Rebecca Lake Shares About Baseball, Life, and Writing

 This week, I'm excited to introduce you to Rebecca Lake. Rebecca is a romantic suspense author who writes stories of courage grounded in hope.

About Rebecca

Rebecca grew up in the rural West, where gold rush towns, remote caves, and the rugged Idaho mountains stirred her imagination.

The stories remained unwritten until one day she decided she could no longer wait for tomorrow and began writing. Within a year, she penned Where Secrets Lie, His Last Text, and The Mistaken Witness.

Her clean novels provide unique twists, white-knuckle suspense, and sweet romance. The characters inspire with their courage, grounded in hope.

Connect with Rebecca: website | newsletter | Facebook  | Bookbub

Interview

Suzie: Welcome to the Diamond Mine, Rebecca. We’re thrilled to have you visit us this week. Let's start with something easy. What is your favorite spring-time beverage?

Rebecca: I enjoy an ice-cold Arnold Palmer (unsweetened tea and lemonade) or iced coffee.

Suzie: Ah, an Arnold Palmer in the summer is refreshing. Tell us a little about you—family, hobbies, day job, or whatever you’d like to share that’s not in your bio.

Rebecca: We’re avid baseball fans, and we’ve watched a lot of games, both on TV and in person. Pro, college, high school and youth baseball—we’ve watched it all. 

Suzie: I've never been able to get into baseball but have some good friends who love it. What are three books on your current tbr?

Rebecca: Doyle by Susan May Warren, Two Seconds Too Late by Dani Pettrey, and Out of Time by Irene Hannon

Suzie: Two of those are on my TBR as well! What does your writing space look like?

Rebecca: We converted a spare bedroom into a shared office. My window overlooks our hummingbird feeders, and when I need a break, I watch the horses in the field behind our house. 

Suzie: That sounds like an amazing view. Would you share with us a little about your road to publication?

Rebecca: My road has been shaped by authors who generously shared their expertise. I wouldn’t have made it without one incredibly kind mentor who patiently shared her vast knowledge. I hope to pay it forward someday.

Suzie: What drew you to the romantic suspense genre?

Rebecca: I’ve always loved mysteries and suspense. I initially planned to write sweet romances, but suspenseful elements kept creeping into my stories.

Suzie: Tell us more about your newest release, The Mistaken Witness.

Rebecca: Harper Ashford narrowly escapes death after getting forced off a treacherous Idaho mountain road. Ignoring his own rules, former Special Forces officer Alek Locke races to her rescue. She doesn’t trust him. He doesn’t want to get involved. Yet, unraveling the deadly conspiracy her father ignited demands they remain in the mountains, forge an uneasy alliance, and follow a trail of cryptic clues. The danger escalates beyond their wildest expectations, each discovery leading them deeper into peril. 

While writing The Mistaken Witness, one plot twist captivated me so much I spent hours researching the actual event.

Suzie: What are you currently working on?

Rebecca: Deception At Christmas. A Christmas novella, Where Secrets End, Book Three in the Deception In The Mountains series, and Disguised Deception, book one in the Garnet Falls series.

Suzie: Wow, it sounds like writing is keeping you plenty busy. How can we pray for you?

Rebecca: For wisdom.

Suzie: Thank you for spending some time with us today, Rebecca. We will be praying God gives you wisdom as you continue your writing journey.

The Mistaken Witness

A fatal crash. A father’s betrayal. A web of lies.

Budding journalist Harper Ashford isn’t stalking a big story when an SUV forces her off a treacherous Idaho mountain road—it’s stalking her. So, when a handsome former Special Forces officer “just happens” upon the remote scene, she’s not about to trust him.

Alek Locke has retreated to the mountains to regroup after a mission gone awry. Rescuing a beautiful stranger wasn't part of his recovery plan. But as threats escalate and shocking connections emerge, Harper's father's betrayal pulls Alek deeper into the conspiracy he might have been entangled in all along.

Cryptic clues soon have the reporter question her sources and the military man reevaluate his priorities. With the danger relentless, their enemies might not be who they seem. Will their fragile partnership keep them alive? Can Alek’s selfless vow to protect her pierce her guarded heart? And could Harper’s resilience teach him another kind of strength before it’s too late?

Amazon | Goodreads

Jennifer Chastain Talks the Best of Both Worlds Writing Romantic Suspense

 Happy February, everyone. Are you doing something special to celebrate you this month? I sure hope so.

I am delighted to introduce you to my friend Jennifer Chastain today. Even though we both wrote for the same publisher, we didn't meet in person until the Faith, Hope, and Love Christian Writers Conference last September. 

Jennifer (L) and Suzie (R) at the FHL Writers 

Conference

Jennifer writes contemporary romance, and her newest book in her Targeted for Elimination series released yesterday (February 4, 2025).

A Little Bit About Jennifer Chastain

Jennifer Chastain is a member of ACFW, ACFW-NC, Blue Ridge Reader Connections, and My Book Therapy/Novel Academy. Several of her other stories were finalists in the Blue Ridge Mountains Foundations contest and she was a finalist in the Touched by Love contest, sponsored by the Faith, Hope, and Love Romance Writers. Her contemporary romance stories contain themes of redemption, grace, and forgiveness. Book 3 in her romantic suspense series, Targeted for Elimination: Lethal Connections, will be released in February 2025.

Connect with Jennifer: Website | Facebook | Instagram | X/Twitter

Suzie: Welcome to the Diamond Mine, Jennifer, and congratulations on your new release! I always like

to start with some easy warm up questions, so here we go... What is your favorite wintertime drink?

Jennifer: Sometimes I’ll have a warm apple cider or hot chocolate. I’m not a coffee drinker either so I usually have a big water bottle with me at all times.

Suzie: Oh, have you had the Caramel Apple Spice that Starbucks serves? It's like apple pie in a cup! I'm not a coffee drinker either, so the Caramel Apple Spice or Chai Tea are my go-to drinks (because I often seem to have Starbucks gift cards from people).

Moving on... What are three books on your tbr right now?

Jennifer: WitSec: Inside the Federal Witness Protection Program by Pete Early and Gerald Shur (for research)

Point of Impact by Lisa Phillips

Safe in His Arms by Melanie Snitker

Suzie: That first one sounds interesting (and I'm sure you'll get some great story ideas from it). Where is your favorite place to write? Why?

Jennifer: I like my office we set up - it’s quiet, and I can close the door. Also everything is set up for me as a dedicated writing space. 

  

Suzie: I long for the day when I can set up a dedicated office, complete with walls of bookshelves. I'm glad you've got a space where you can close the door. 

Who makes up your writing tribe? 

Jennifer: I met three fellow authors from My Book Therapy: Mandy Boerma, Sara Turnquist and Tammy Karasek

Suzie: I've known Sara for years. She lives near me, but we met for the first time at an ACFW conference in Dallas! I know the other two ladies by name only, but writing friends make some of the best friends, don't they?

What inspired you to write Lethal Connections?

Jennifer: Thats a very good question. To be honest, I needed another book to complete my then current contract. I had another book I wanted to write for the series, but I just couldn’t seem to figure out the plot or the characters at the time. My characters were not speaking to me! So I sat there in front of my computer and mulled it over and prayed. It was like someone whispered in my ear, “What about Travis? He has a story to tell.” Okay and as I dug into his character the story just flowed. It was as if this character raised his hand and said, “Me! Tell my story!” When I started writing, the story just started to flow. I love Kaitlyn and Travis and their journey to a happily ever after and pray my readers will be encouraged that no matter what happens to you, God is present.

Suzie: Don't you love it when God and your characters take over the story for you? 

What led you to write romantic suspense?

Jennifer: That’s the funny thing - I never intended to write romantic suspense. I firmly believed that I was supposed to write contemporary romance. But after I submitted the first book, Lethal Intentions, the acquisitions editor mentioned that romantic suspense was my genre and was a better fit for my writing style. So I said, okay, let’s do this. But you know what? I really like writing romantic suspense because I get the best of both writing worlds - the romance side combined with action, suspense, and/or adventure!

Jennifer's Targeted for Elimination full series

 

Suzie: It really is the best of both. I enjoy reading romantic suspense for sur.

What message do you hope to convey to your readers?

Jennifer: The main message I’d like to convey to my readers, is that God is the God of second, third, fourth, etc. chances. He will never leave you, all you have to do is call on Him. 

Suzie: Amen and amen! Can you tell us a little about your next project(s)?

Jennifer: I have two projects that I’m working on right now. Both are romantic suspense. The first 

one is a new romantic suspense series for Sunrise Publishing. It’s super secret but all the stories are fantastic! We’ve brainstormed some story elements and that’s about all I can share at this point! I know, it’s vague, but Sunrise still hasn’t announced the series yet, and they’ve asked us to wait to announce the series until they give us the green light. All the stories are going to be high octane romantic suspense.

The second project I’m working on is another romantic suspense novel. I pitched my story idea to the acquisitions editor from Bethany House while attending the Faith, Hope, and Love Conference in Phoenix, AZ this past September. She was very interested and asked for my first three chapters and a book proposal. 

I have other ideas, but those are on the back burner right now. I have a few other stories “marinating” in the back of my head that take place in my fictional town of Providence, NC. I’d like to develop those, when I have the time.

Suzie: Congratulations on the interest from Bethany House. Those kind of conversations are always encouraging, aren't they? And I will have to keep my eyes out for more regarding the Sunrise Publishing series. 

 

I always like to end with the question: How can we pray for you?

Jennifer: I’m recovering for eye surgery, so if you can pray for complete healing for that. For my new release, that the launch will go well, and we’d be able to reach new readers who need to hear Travis’s story of redemption.

Suzie: I am praying for recovery and healing for your eye and blessings with your new book and launch and for the new stories to flow.

Thank you so much for spending some time with us this week.

About Lethal Connections

Being a Marine prepared him to fight, but not for his heart.

Travis Beckett has perfected the surfer guy persona with a devil-may-care attitude. He lives simply, but he longs for more. Forced into the Witness Protection program five years ago, he had no choice but to walk away from the only woman he’s ever loved, and he was positive he’d never see her again—but then she shows up in Hawaii, and now, they’re both in danger.

Five years is a long time to mourn for a man who left her at the altar.

When Kaitlyn Daniels flies to Hawaii to attend a medical convention, she expects a relaxing week spent furthering her career. Instead, she escapes a fire at the hotel, gets shot at, and discovers her supposed-deceased fiancé is alive and living in Hawaii. Together, they barely escape all the danger, and she’s more than ready to go home.

Trouble comes knocking on her front door.

As a new Christian, Kaitlyn’s faith is tested to its limits when the trouble from Hawaii follows her home to Providence, NC—so does Travis. Now, a more sinister danger lurks behind every shadow, and if she and Travis can’t work together to find out who is behind the violent attacks, and why, they can both say goodbye to their second chance.

Goodreads | Amazon 

Interview with Catherine Brusk

I am thrilled to introduce The Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction community to fellow independent author Catherine Brusk! Catherine sat down with me and took the time to answer some of my questions on her author journey. I am excited to share with you my interview with Catherine. 

Here is a little bit about Catherine:

Catherine is a writer of realistic, gritty Christian fiction/romance. You can find her "Finding Faith" series and "A DGI Romance" Collection available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited. Catherine has a bachelor's degree in Communications with an emphasis on film. She loves everything that includes a story and thinks humor and dessert are some of God's best blessings in life.

Let's learn more about Catherine!

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to interview you Catherine! When did you first know you wanted to be an author? 

Catherine: That’s a hard question for me. Writing stories began for me in junior high as a source of entertainment. It changed in high school to writing in a journal to record goals, dreams, and prayers. Then I hit an incredibly painful part of my life during college. I can remember going to write in my journal what had happened and thinking, “I don’t want to remember this.” I put my pen down and I didn’t pick it up again for years. When I finally did, my writing had become a combined mess of entertainment, pain, questions, and, ultimately … hope. It wasn’t until a close friend read my work that even the thought of publishing entered my mind. So really, it was God speaking through her that finally pulled me into that thought process, and by then I was working on the third book in my first series. It’s been a journey of ups and downs and crazy spiral circles ever since! 

It's crazy how God can use our painful circumstances to lead us to his purpose. Is there anything you wish you did when you were younger to become a better writer as an adult? 

Catherine: To be flat out honest, I wish I had taken some graphic design classes in college. Marketing as an indie author is no joke! 

I feel this DEEPLY. I always say we have to be our own enterprise as indie authors ...meaning we own and lead EVERY DEPARTMENT. It can be exhausting! Is there any writing advice you've been given that stuck with you?

Catherine: Here’s the thing about writing advice: just because it works for some people, doesn’t mean it’s going to work for you. We’re all different people who are layer after layer of complications and opinions and beliefs. So ultimately, I take it all with a grain of salt. I don’t write every day. I don’t read every day. I certainly don’t market my work every day. I do what I can and let God take care of the rest. The one unique thing that I do that I specifically think helped my writing immensely though, was actually taking acting classes in college. I learned all about body language and how to get into someone else’s head and how to ask questions to create characters. Those classes have been a Godsend in my life when it comes to my writing. So, that’s my own advice to give: if you get a chance, take some acting classes!

This will also be helpful If your books are ever turned into a series or film. You'll know what to look for in the lead actors! ;) Do you have a special place you like to write?

Catherine: I will write anywhere. In fact, my book What Hope Washed Up was written completely on my phone in the Google Docs app, due to the busyness of life at the time. A girl’s gotta do what a girl’s gotta do! However, my absolute favorite spot to write will probably always be the corner of a coffee shop. Caffeine, yummy snacks, earbuds so I’m not too distracted by the noise, and people-watching for when I get stuck are always a good thing. Plus, it means I won’t be distracted with chores at home. 

WOW. I am so impressed you wrote an entire book off your phone!! I'm curious what has been your favorite part of the independent publishing journey?

Catherine: Hearing from my readers. Hands down, that’s my favorite part. Second favorite part is working with my cover designers. They both have been great friends of mine and the process was so much fun and resulted in deeper friendships. 

I would have to agree, hearing from fans who have been touched by your work is really something special. And your covers are so beautiful! Okay let's throw a fun question out there. Do you have a favorite writing snack or drink (or both)?

Catherine: I am a Diet Wild Cherry Pepsi girl – especially out of an ice-cold two liter. I tend not to snack very much while actually writing since my fingers are busy typing, but I’ll never turn down good popcorn and a cheese stick, either.

I shamefully love white cheddar cheetos which is the ABSOLUTE WORSE snack for a writer. My keyboard becomes a disaster. Were there any challenges you faced when publishing your first book?

Catherine: Goodness, yes! I am not the most tech-savvy person in the world and, honestly, if it weren’t for my husband, I would have no books released! The formatting, though getting easier with each book, always presents some sort of issue which almost always requires a line-by-line indent check. I will say after having six books under my belt now, it has gone from something that had me in absolute panicked tears with the first book, to, with the most recent book, something that only made me grumble and roll my eyes before getting down to business. Yay, growth!

Yes! For my ebooks I always mess up the page breaks somehow when I upload to KDP. It is the most frustrating thing. Since this is the Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction, what advice would you give to someone who wants to be a Christian Fiction writer? 

Catherine: I have a two-fold answer. First, study your Bible. Don’t just read it, study it. Research it. Second, remember that you’re writing for the masses. You’re writing for those who want to know the Greek and the Hebrew but also to the new baby Christians. One thing I do is I have an atheist read my work. Her responses are invaluable to making sure anything too “Christianese” is explained properly.

That's incredible. On that same note, do you have a favorite Bible verse that inspires you?

Catherine: I absolutely love the verses in 2 Corinithians 12:9-10 “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness.’ Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me. So I take pleasure in weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and in difficulties, for the sake of Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

We have the same favorite verse!! Catherine thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me today! What’s next for you? Any current or upcoming projects you’d like to tell us about? 

Catherine: So many projects going and so many more in my head! I am in a busy season in my personal life, with the ages of my kids, so it’s extremely hard to make promises of the “wheres” and “whens” of the future, but eventually books two and three of A DGI Romance Collection will make their own Christmas debuts. Then I have two other standalone projects currently competing for attention on top of that. Slowly but surely, and of course the ultimate thanks to my readers for their understanding and patience! 

One last question! What do you hope Christian Readers take away from your books?

Catherine: I hope they take away questions that only God can answer for them. I hope they take away inspiration to care about the injustices of the world. I hope they take away a newfound courage to discuss topics rarely talked about in the church, and I hope they take away hope in a God who is always faithful, even when they can’t see it.

You can learn more about Catherine and find links to her books and to her social channels on her website: www.catherinebrusk.com

Hannah Hood Lucero Shares About Her Sweet Tooth for Just Desserts

Hello, friends! Today (Feb 28) is my birthday, and I'm tickled pink to introduce you to Hannah Hood Lucero. Hannah writes romantic suspense with military heroes and heroines. Keep reading to find out more about her "faith-filled fiction with a sprinkling of southern snark." Plus, find out about her giveaway!

A Little About Hannah

Hi! I'm Hannah. Christ-follower, wife, and mother are my primary roles. I've held so many titles in my lifetime that I can't remember them all. My favorite non-primary role is Author. I love to tell stories, which is something I learned from my grandfather. He told the most wonderful tales, usually in the form of a song. My favorite words to hear as a child were, "I'm gonna sing you a ditty."

I have roots on the Mississippi Gulf Coast as well as in the blue ridge mountains of western North Carolina. Both of my homes are rich with history and vibrant culture. Places you will have the opportunity to explore in my books include Asheville, New Orleans, Biloxi, Pensacola . . . and perhaps a sprinkle of the Rocky Mountains as well.

I love a good book. If there is conflict, suspense, and kissing . . . I'm there for it! That's what you can expect from my faith-based fiction. I write contemporary Christian Romance!

Connect with Hannah: Website | Newsletter | Instagram | Facebook

Suzie: Welcome to the Diamond Mine, Hannah. We’re delighted to have you this week. I always like to start with a couple would you rather questions.

Hannah: Thank you for having me! I’ve been looking forward to it. Let’s roll!

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

Hannah: Oooh. This is tough for me. I live in south Mississippi and our air conditioning has gone out in the height of triple-digit temps. I suppose for survival’s sake, I’ll have to sacrifice all else. But living without the internet would crush me. I know we shouldn’t be dependent on it. As a homeschooling mom of three littles, I need my bookstagram and Christian Mommy Writer networks . . . desperately.

Suzie: I'm with you. Cold showers and fans would suffice over not being able to connect with my reader friends!!

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

Hannah: Do tacos ever really get old? There are so many variations (if that’s allowed…)Suzie: Excellent point. Plus, you can take all of the ingredients and make them into something else. Burritos, nachos, etc. 

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.

Hannah: Hmmm. I really have most of it in my bio. OH! I’m a huge conspiracy theorist. My friends know this well. For marketing purposes, I haven’t made it part of my brand (HAHA!). I love digging into things and seeing what different people believe about aliens, the moon landing, assassinations, government corruption, etc.

Suzie: Seems about right for a suspense author, lol! What are three books on your current tbr?

Hannah: Only three? Okay. I’ve been eyeballing the second book in Heather Wood’s family saga, Until

We All Run Free. I know it’s about one of my favorite characters from the first book. I wanted to read it in January—but you know how beta and ARC promises sneak up on you…

Speaking of ARCs, I’m really excited for Kendra Warden’s debut romantic suspense. I’ve already read some of her work and love her stories, so I can’t wait to get Forged in Peril any day now.

JJ Samie Myles has written book 3 in the A Breed Apart series presented by Ronie Kendig. I’m ashamed to say that I hadn’t gotten around to reading any of Ronie’s books until this year even though my mom loves them. But I recently read the first book, Havoc, and the action in it was right up my military vet alley. So my third on the list is definitely JJ Samie Myles’s RIOT coming in March!

Suzie: And here I thought that was an easier questions than "What's your favorite book."

What does your writing space look like?

Hannah: A colossal mess! I’m not exaggerating. Disorder doesn’t seem to help or hinder my creativity. But I really should get my life in order. There are stacks of books, notebooks, random art from my children . . . send life tips to Hannah.hood.lucero@gmail.com. HA!

Suzie: You are not alone. My desk really needs the stacks cleaned off the top! Let's just call ourselves disorganized perfectionists. :)

Would you share with us a little about your road to publication?

Hannah: Yes! I’m actually pretty new to this entire world. My only connection to a real author or anyone “in the know” was Jamie Ogle. We worked together at a Family Christian Store the holiday season of 2009. Though our careers in retail rapidly dwindled, our friendship never did. I remember visiting her in Iowa after she moved away and sitting outside of one of her writing classes, wishing I had gone to school for writing instead of massage therapy. Before I wrote my debut novel, I had this mindset that I couldn’t be an author because I didn’t go to school for it—a bit antithetical to being a rebel, right?

When I finally got fed up with the content in the books my friends would recommend, I secretly sat down to write one I’d actually want to read. It was a story that had been in my heart for 20 years and it just flowed out of me. Don’t get me wrong . . . the first version was a step above garbage. That’s being too generous. It was a whole dumpster fire. Ask Jennifer Q. Hunt about that first draft of Cathey’s Creek Road.

Anyway, I had a big mess of a novel. Well over 80K words. I didn’t know where to go from there. Jamie gave me tips, the most valuable being to get plugged into the Christian Mommy Writer community. There I found so many tools and resources. Most importantly, I found encouragement and edifying friendships with women at all different stages of the process, both Trad and Indie authors.

I never knew about indie publishing before I started this journey. I thought everyone had to find an agent and a publishing house to get their book out. I truly dreaded the whole idea of that. For me, rules and hard deadlines take the joy out of things I otherwise enjoy. When I met women like Jennifer Hunt, Heather Wood, and Latisha Sexton . . . I thought, “Maybe I can really do this!” And then I did it!

Suzie: Yay!! Aren't other authors in our space so encouraging? I've made some wonderful friendships over the years.

What are some of your favorite things about writing romantic suspense?

Hannah: This is my passion and comfort zone. I’ve yet to write a book without a military element. It’s what I know and love. I was a combat medic in the Army and my husband was a Navy Seabee who still deploys about 8 months out of the year as a private contractor. I love spotlighting different jobs within the military and showcasing the heart of the heroes who are willing to lay down their lives for a righteous cause.

I also enjoy creating truly horrible people, just to kill them off. I’ve got a real sweet tooth for Just Desserts.

Suzie: Again, spoken like a true suspense author!!

Tell us more about your upcoming release.

Hannah: Crossfire at the Precipice is book 3 in my Sons of Vigilance series. This one was the hardest to write and developmentally edit. It’s my attempt to shine a bright light on the horrors of human trafficking, but I wanted to do it differently than other’s have, so it’s probably not what you expect.

My husband and I are very passionate about this issue. We’ve partnered with Rapha International for about 15 years now, so it’s not as new to us as a lot of people who are just now realizing the extent of the global evils of trafficking. It’s a huge spiritual battle, and that definitely showed up in the process of writing Crossfire.

If it weren’t for the prayers of the Christian Mommy Writers, I don’t think I would have been able to finish it. By the time it was all said and done, Jennifer Hunt (my developmental editor) and I both wondered if anyone would even like the book, because we were just so OVER IT. God really blessed our efforts. Two of my beta readers even say it’s their favorite in the series . . . TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

Suzie: Isn't it amazing how God can take something that wrings us out and reach readers?

What are you currently working on?

Hannah: Several things! Finishing up copyedits and formatting of Dereliction of the Heart, book 4 in the Sons series. My personal favorite! And working on developmental edits of my first book with a female military heroine.

So far, I’ve done all men in uniform with sassy civilian women stealing their hearts . . . so it is definitely time for a hardened female Marine to meet her match on the treacherous streets of New Orleans. I’m hopeful to release The Glory of Light on the Marine Corp birthday (November 10th).

Suzie: Oh, I love the title!!

Before we wrap up, how can we pray for you?

Hannah: Thank you for asking! Please pray that my books always glorify God and draw people to Him. I know reading the right books can be edifying, and I want my stories to be included in the list. And maybe pray for husband and kids . . . they have me for a wife/mom after all!

Thanks so very much for having me on! This was even more fun than I anticipated! 

Suzie: You are so welcome. Thank you for taking the time to chat with us!! We are praying God blesses you, your family, and your writing career. 

About Crossfire at the Precipice

Heading home in high spirits after securing a career-building business deal, Cynthia Sumrall encounters a grumpy—and handsome—ginger. What begins as two strangers traveling in the same direction soon spirals into dangers and uncertainties that leave Cynthia floundering. A few chance meetings shatter all her preconceived ideas about what she wants and leave her questioning everything she believes about God’s purpose for her life.

Liam Flynn is dutifully going through the motions until a tenacious redhead shakes up his mundane world with her sunshiny personality and adorable southern drawl. For the first time in his life, Liam wants something for reasons other than pleasing his family and rising above the stigmas attached to his questionable past. Real happiness seems within his reach until tragedy strikes and Cynthia disappears.

Will Cynthia and Liam be able to navigate through the headwinds of hard realities to find purpose and belonging together, or will the turbulence of fear and loss prove too much for their already tattered souls?

Amazon | Goodreads

Giveaway

To enter Hannah's giveaway, subscribe to Hannah's Newsletter, follow her on Instagram, follow Lantern Rescue on Instagram or Facebook, and/or Rapha International on Instagram or Facebook. One entry per follow. Grab an extra entry by leaving a comment here and telling us what the last great romantic suspense book you read was.

Once you've followed and left a comment, email (or DM) and let her know where you followed.

Giveaway ends 3/15/24.