Our own Voni Harris and her New Release Burning Rivals

Popping in to say, Voni is celebrating! And all of us here at the Diamond Mine are so excited for her. Her sophomore release, Burning Rivals hit the virtual shelf just a few weeks ago. It's an Alaskan adventure just in time for the boiling heat of July! Leave all that humidity behind along with those temperatures pushing passed ninety and pull up a iceberg for our chat with Voni!

Hey, Voni! So excited to highlight your new book. Refresh everyone’s memory and tell us where you are from and where you live now.

I live in the constant beauty of Kodiak, Alaska—a rain forest island— fishing village homes, mountains, the gorgeous and powerful Pacific Ocean, towering spruce forests, and the sky with a mix of colors, and bears, fish, sea lions, otters, all reminding me of God every day. Even on the rainy, icy, wintry days.

Of course it was also beautiful in Southern Indiana—rolling hills and farm country— where Rich and I lived after we were married…

…In Iowa, where we met in college in Des Moines. Also beautiful with corn farmland around and the Des Moines River running through town.

But I grew up in Wyoming, with mountains in the distance, and wind blowing with gusts that wanted to blow me away some days. Oh, the beauty and power of God!

Do you have pets?

You don’t know me if you have to ask that, lol. I’ve never been without dogs in my life, except you know, college where they weren’t allowed in the dorms. Rich and I have a black and white Australian shepherd (Sting, who thinks we exist to play tug every moment of the day.) and a black and white Boston Terrier (Kip, who thinks she must dart around and make us laugh, and beg for food every moment of the day).

What’s the most unusual animal you’ve seen in person not just in a zoo.

On our first hike in Kodiak, we saw Kodiak bears in the distance. A Kodiak bear several years later walked down our street. Another left some scat in our yard. Also, bald eagles are abundant here, majestic and threatening to small pets—one sat in our yard and ate our neighbor’s chicken with his partner.

Let’s talk favorites. Favorite recipe? Favorite dessert? Favorite color? Favorite book? Favorite Bible verse?

Recipe: I keep thinking of white chicken chili lately.

Dessert: Chocolate lava cake. Or butter pecan ice cream.

Color: I would say I don’t have a favorite color, but I love yellow with a soft green, yellow with blue, yellow with black, yellow with white, yellow with gray, yellow with red (not like a convenience store)…so, anyway, I’ll have to say yellow, especially a buttery yellow.

Book: Anne of Avonlea series from my childhood, or any Nancy Drew book. As a grown up, Dee Henderson books or Ronie Kendig or Lisa Phillips. I can’t pick one, lol.

Bible verse:

 [Jer 18:1-6 ESV] 1 The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD: "Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will let you hear my words." So I went down to the potter's house, and there he was working at his wheel. And the vessel he was making of clay was spoiled in the potter's hand, and he reworked it into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to do. Then the word of the LORD came to me:  "O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter has done? declares the LORD. Behold, like the clay in the potter's hand, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel.”

God goes on here in Jeremiah to talk about His power to shape Israel and the countries of the world. But I also see here God shaping me and the awesome life He has given me. May my heart always be soft like the clay in the potter’s hand.

Do you have a job outside of the home? Did you ever work outside the home, and if so, where?

I worked in restaurants as a server for a while. I worked in a company who was putting newspaper articles online for searches. I tutored (sometimes still tutor). But mainly, I homeschooled our daughter all the way through. Now, I write.

How did you get into writing, and how did you get into writing suspense?

I was an obsessive reader—reading while standing on my head and I had to be reminded to stop reading while walking. So there’s that. Also, Mom was a newspaper reporter, then editor of the paper. And Dad was the law enforcement instructor at the community college, friend and teacher of the cops in the local police department. So how else could I NOT end up writing suspense?

Your book Burning Rivals is set in Alaska. Tell us how your experience in Alaska fed into the setting.

When Rich and I were in Anchorage, we drove out to the city that inspired the setting of the Chasing Fire: Alaska series. It was so fun, and so full of people driving from Anchorage to Denali, or just touristing. Such interesting pictures to take and send to the other authors in the series.

What was the most exciting scene to write in Burning Rivals?

You know, I really enjoyed writing the scene where Cadee and Vince have to go to help rescue the people in the village she grew up in. They choose to, but they are smokejumpers, so if they’re needed, they go. It helps open their eyes to each other, especially Vince seeing Cadee’s past, like her growing up years.

Oh, and the scene with the river filled with dead salmon…fun to write, since they end up in that oily water. Typical Alaska during the salmon life cycle.

Can you come up with 5 things about Voni Harris that have nothing to do with writing?

1.      I am a whole 4’6”. My life is unique! Anyone wanna go shopping with me to reach the stuff on the top shelves for me? LOL.

2.    I have a degree in Radio-Television (Journalism)…but fiction writing is where I’ve always been headed, even while I thought it was just a hobby.

3.    I may be obsessed with movies—but call me a film buff. Okay, TV series as well. NCIS, Blue Bloods, etc. But doesn’t “film buff” sound so meaningful and consequential?

4.    Hubby and I love to travel. Of course, how else are we going to see family?

5.     Our family fills my heart. Daughter, Son-in-law, Grandson, and Granddaughter. 

What’s your next writing move? Writing? Editing? Publishing?

I am planning out my next book (I am a plotter!), but working on figuring out the backstory of the crucial computer…this is hard for some reason. But SO fun to travel down some fascinating research rabbit holes.

 Thank you for the opportunity to share the beauty and fun of the life God has created for me. And the fun of your questions!

And thank you for your answers and sharing your new release with us! Win a copy of Burning Rivals by leaving a comment of entering your info on our contact form. If you can't wait (and why would you?), follow the links to grab your copy of Burning Rivals by Voni Harris right now!

Thanks for stopping by! Have a super-spectacular reading day!

No Teasing~Megan Besing is Releasing!

 Hello, my diligent readers! Happy November, I'm interviewing my real-life author daughter this week—April Fools! BUT, only one thing in that last sentence is false. I'll let you figure out which one. ;) But I'll tell you one thing that not trickery. A new book release! Let's dive right in with author Megan Besing.     

  

Tell us the type of fiction you write, and is there a secret genre you wished you could write in?

Well, my upcoming April 3rd release, Falling into Love, part of the collection Hometown Second Chances, is a sweet Christian Romantic Adventure, which means it’s a little less on the suspense side of things. But I do have three full romantic suspense books, too. Technically I also have two published Historical Romances as well. And my Contemporary Romance will be releasing later this year. So, I think I’m keeping pretty busy with just those genres at the moment, but I’m ready for whatever the future may hold. 😊

What area of the country has most influenced you in your life? Rural? City? North? South? Midwest? East? West?

Since my husband was in the army when we first got marry, we’ve had the opportunity to live in a variety of places, but the small-town, rural area is my favorite. Which is probably why most of my stories are set there.

Fantasy house choice: cottage by a lake, Victorian with a sweeping lawn, cabin in the woods, or a bungalow by the sea?

I think my answer is even going to surprise me because I love the ocean; however, I’m going to go with the cottage by a lake. Usually, being by a sea doesn’t mean I’ll get all the seasons, and despite complaining how cold it can get, I do enjoy a bit of snow. Plus, my hair’s volume really doesn’t need to be too close to the sea on a full time bases.

Favorite snacks while rattling the keys to create a new story? Chocolate? Chips? Kale? Other?

Chips are often on my writing desk, along with Chex mix or Cheese-its. It really depends on what drink—water, soda, tea, or even coffee—I have to pair my snack with.

What led you to writing and is it the only work you do throughout the day?

After I finally fell in love with fiction reading, I once read a book that made fun of God, and then I woke up the next day deciding that I would write a book. One that I would want to read and that also honored God. I think it helped that my mom was an author, which gave me the courage to try writing. Currently, my day-to-day job is teaching 6-8th graders at a small Christian School.

Favorite Season and why.

Another hard one, and today I’m going to say summer because I have more free time to write during that season.

Tell us how the anthology, Hometown Second Chances came together.

My suspense writing mentor Lisa Phillips and Two Dogs Publishing organized it. My fellow authors in the Hometown Second Chances collection: Tabitha Bouldin, Andrea Christenson, Rebecca Reed, and myself just had to come up with a light suspense book, and I think we have a variety of stories that will keep readers entertained.

Where is your story Falling into Love set and how did you come up with the premise of the plot?

Years old, I had written a novella that had finaled in ACFW’s Genesis contest, and I had always loved that story, especially the jumping out of the airplane scene; how it revolved around a wedding, and the enemies-to-loves trope. But I knew I wanted to change it up and add some suspense and mystery to it. Plus, I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of the bridesmaid for hire concept, so I added that to my heroine’s job description, and I think you’re going to really enjoy it. I also set Liz and Asher’s happily ever after in my home state—just in imaginary towns. So, it’s an old story molded into the book that now is Falling into Love, which is the first book in the Hometown Second Chances collection.

So tell us—we have to know—does Liz the wedding planner really jump out of a plane?

Yes, and it was for sure not her idea, but she was ready to do anything to save her bridesmaid for hire business. But, there are some major hiccups involved, and yet I think if you’d ask Liz at the end of the book if it was all worth it, and I believe she’d say one hundred percent yes. Though, she may not want to jump again anytime soon.

Is there any way you can give us a peek as to why Liz’s main love interest Asher Chase is the family’s sworn enemy?

Hmmm, I don’t want to give too much away. However, Asher and Liz’s step sister dated for a brief time in the past. And there are of course two sides to every breakup, and I promise Asher is cheer worthy when the truth unfolds throughout the book.

Give us 5 things about Megan Besing that have nothing to do with writing.

1.            I go mushroom hunting every Spring, but don’t like to eat morels.

2.            I went surfing for the first time last month.

3.            I really like carbs, especially potatoes.

4.            I play the piano.

5.            My favorite Bible verse is Proverbs 3:5.

Hometown Second Chances comes out April 3rd. Which direction are you heading now in terms of writing? 

After Hometown Second Chances releases in a few days, my next novel: Redeeming the Bull Rider comes out December 29, 2026 from Love Inspired. That story is about a washed-up bull rider who has to become a nanny. It has some super cute kids in it and, of course, a cheer-worthy hero and heroine. But until you can read that story, here is the blurb for Falling Into Love.

Wow! You are one busy author! In case you were wondering, here's Falling into Love's blurb to whet your appetite for an amazing read:

When a last-ditch marketing plan sends her the perfect bride-to-be client, Liz Skye is literally willing to jump out of a perfectly good airplane to save her company. Even if that means being tethered to veteran Asher Chase, her family’s only enemy. However, when danger strikes, wedding bells won’t be in anyone’s future if they can’t stop the person set on revenge. But can Liz depend on Asher, who won’t leave her side, or does he have an agenda of his own? With her life and company on the line—the ultimate cost may just be her heart.

Thanks, Megan! You can win a copy of Megan's latest book, Falling into Love by leaving a comment or your info on the contact form. But in case you're looking for more details about this new release, keep reading! You can pre-order today.

Bio:

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

Find Megan Besing here:

Newsletter signup: https://www.meganbesing.com/newsletter

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

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

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

Heather Kaufman Brings Biblical Fiction to Life

I'm so excited to bring our next guest on The Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction! Heather Kaufman's new release entitled On Living Stone is the third book in the Women of the Way series, and I believe it will be a blessing to all our readers!

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PT: Welcome, Heather! First let the readers know from what region you hail.  Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, South, or Southwest?

HK: I’m from the Midwest where the weather is forever fickle!

PT: Me too! Just survived 14 inches of snow and now it is 50 degrees, LOL. Gotta love that! What lured you to writing and what genre do you write in?

HK: There’s something about escaping into the world of story that has always compelled me. From a young age, I enjoyed reading, and in middle school I set my heart on becoming a novelist. I love playing with words and creating stories that transport and captivate readers. I also love studying the Bible. Now I write in the Biblical fiction genre which allows me to marry my two loves—story and the Word. It’s been so transformative to imaginatively place myself in biblical events . . . to slow down and linger in ways I hadn’t before.

PT: Wow, great niche for you! Could you tell us what you want to impart to your readers through your books?

HK: I hope to invite readers to linger with me in the pages of Scripture. It can be easy to gloss over names we’ve read a thousand times, but there’s so much value in slowing down and placing ourselves in those first-century disciples’ shoes. There’s also great value in studying the Gospels through a cultural lens. When we do so, we’ll find that Jesus is even more beautiful than we can imagine. I hope readers are invited into deeper intimacy with Jesus and find themselves picking up their Bibles with renewed excitement.

PT: That’s a worthy goal. Now, give us your typical day/work time/devotion time, etc.

HK: I have three elementary age kiddos, so I wake up before they do to enjoy my time in the Word. After the morning rush of getting them off to school, I sit myself down to write in the morning when I’m freshest. After lunch, I transition to other tasks such as crafting social media posts, my author newsletter, emails, etc. Before picking the kids up for school, I squeeze in some Pilates. And, of course, there’s all the normal, every day, endless tasks of laundry, grocery shopping, and cleaning! This is the first year all three of my kids are in school full-time. Most of my Women of the Way series was written in the margins—naptimes, preschool mornings, evenings, etc. It’s been an amazing transition to have more daytime hours for my work!

PT: Do you have a Bible verse that currently inspires you?

HK: Ephesians 2:20 has become especially meaningful this past year, and it served as inspiration for my latest book, On Living Stone. Leading up to this verse, Paul is discussing the reconciliation of Jew and Gentile in Christ and culminates with the message of a unified dwelling that is built upon the “foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone” (NIV). I love this picture of the Church. There’s so much that can divide us, so much that feels shaky and uncertain in this world. But Christ is stability and in Him we have unity! What a beautiful picture and a taste of what heaven will be like.

PT: Yes, having Christ Jesus as our cornerstone helps us face all kinds of trials. I love that reminder. I’d like to find out some of your favorite things! First of all, Coffee, tea, water or other?

HK: I enjoy dark roast coffee in the mornings with oat milk creamer and maple syrup as a sweetener. In the afternoons, I enjoy herbal tea.

PT: Cat or dog?

HK: I’m allergic to cats, so I’m fully in camp “dog.” I had a golden retriever growing up, and my husband and I adopted a Jack Russell mix soon after we got married. He was a great family dog for many years and lived a long and loved life.

PT: City or country?

HK: I get a little disoriented in cities, which is funny because I live near St. Louis and my husband works downtown! If we go into the city as a family, I make him drive. So, I’m going with country for this one.

PT: Favorite color?

HK: I love earth tones—dark greens, browns, rusty oranges, and lighter neutrals.

PT: Favorite weather?

HK: I love springtime! The weather is still mild and the promise of new life is everywhere. Unlike the colder months where I just want to hibernate and do nothing, I get so energized in the spring and begin tackling a bunch of new projects. Now, whether I follow through with all of them or not is another thing!

PT: Favorite T-shirt (or other favorite)

HK: I have an old T-shirt from Well-Watered Women with the Fruit of the Spirit represented as flowers. Not only is it beautiful and comfy but it’s just the right amount of baggy. It’s pretty worn at this point, but I’ll never part with it!

PT: Love those favorites! Next is my favorite prompt. Tell 5 things about Heather Kaufman that have nothing to do with writing.

HK: 1) I grew up as a military brat and moved all over the U.S. although never oversees. The Midwest, however, feels like home since my dad retired here and I did both my undergraduate and graduate degrees here.

2) I’m half Italian. My paternal grandmother was born in Italy and in 2005, I had the opportunity to travel to Italy with her—an experience I will never forget!

3) I will pick savory food over sweets any day!

 4) I’m the oldest of six, and my youngest brother is still in college. There’s sixteen years between us.

5) My favorite holiday is Easter. There’s less commercialism surrounding it than Christmas, but it’s still filled with fun family traditions, and it takes place in my favorite season—Spring! Especially after writing my Women of the Way series, Christ’s resurrection is just so precious. I find myself filled with anticipation leading up to this holiday!

PT: Let’s center on your amazing books. How did you conceive the idea of your series Women of the Way and how you selected Martha, Joanna, and Salome?

HK: The first book in the series, Up from Dust:Martha’s Story, came to me back in 2016 during an Easter sermon. I was struck by a deep admiration for Martha as she encounters Christ in John 11. Her brother is four days dead, she is personally disappointed in Jesus, and yet she gives one of the strongest confessions of Christ as Messiah in the Gospels! I knew right then that I wanted to write her fictional backstory, tracing how she transformed from a woman wrapped up in worry to a woman of strong faith. Initially, I was going to write a trilogy on the siblings: Martha, Lazarus, and Mary. When Bethany House showed interest, they suggested pivoting and doing female followers of Christ. I was instantly intrigued by the idea and knew that if I was going to do this, it would be the “lesser-known” women surrounding Jesus. I relished the challenge of digging into women who haven’t been portrayed as much in fiction. Joanna’s name came right away, since I’ve always wondered what her discipleship looked like since her husband was so close to Herod Antipas. Salome’s name came next because I’ve always had empathy for this mother who longed for her boys to remain close to Jesus’ side.

PT: Talk about your newest book On Living Stone.

Every stone sings as it finds its purpose. This is the lesson restless Salome learns from her father as she grows up by the Sea of Galilee. Known as the wild girl with the quick tongue, Salome is determined to silence the critics who claim she has no future. An unexpected romance and the gift of two sons, James and John, leave her hopeful and resolved to prove herself as a mother.

Salome’s dreams are challenged, however, when her sons answer the call to follow Jesus of Nazareth. As James and John are drawn deeper into Jesus’ Ministry, opposition to his message intensifies, leaving Salome with a choice. Can her family continue down the path of discipleship, when it might cost them everything? With threat abounding, Salome must confront her fears, even as she discovers her own worth in the most unexpected rabbi.

A journey of faith unfolds in this New Testament-inspired story of Salome, mother of Jesus’ apostles James and John. This compelling biblical fiction book explores themes of family, sacrifice, courage, and redemption, making it a stirring read for fans of The Chosen, Francine Rivers, Tessa Afshar, and Angela Hunt.

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HK: On LivingStone is the story of Salome, the mother of the Sons of Thunder—the Apostles James and John. In keeping with the format of my first two books, I structure the story in a Part One / Part Two. Part One gives us the “before picture” as Salome falls in love and has her sons. We walk with her through grief and joy and get a peek into what forms her as a person. Part Two gives us the “after picture,” moving forward in time to when Jesus comes on the scene and changes everything. It was such a unique perspective to explore—viewing Jesus’ ministry through the eyes of a mother watching her sons being formed into pillars of his Church!

PT: Oh, gracious! I can’t wait to read it! How involved is the historical/Biblical research for each of these books?

HK: The research has been incredibly involved! Before and during the writing of Up from Dust, I read books on how to approach the Bible through a cultural lens, what daily life looked like at the time of Jesus, commentaries on key biblical passages, and even some Christian living books that touched upon Martha. When I began writing Before the King, it was like starting all over again with the research because Joanna came from a much different background than Martha. I studied the politics of the time, especially in regards to Herod Antipas, and did research on the lifestyles of the affluent, city life, and Sadducean beliefs. For On Living Stone, I was able to draw upon a lot of my previous research and had built up a decent library by that time. My reading mainly revolved around studying the twelve apostles, reading all four Gospels chronologically, and diving into the fishing industry. So much goes into writing biblical fiction because not only are you trying to get the facts straight and stay true to Scripture, but there’s also a theological underpinning to the story that needs to remain sturdy, strong, and true. I cover each of my books with tears and prayers!

PT: I’ll be honest, I’ve read Up from Dust and it was so, so good. So good! (Readers don’t miss this one!) I have your next book Before the King which I can’t wait to dive into. Your books were the first I’ve ever read in Biblical fiction. So, my questions is, how do you construct your stories along with subplots around actual Biblical characters?

HK: Because my heroines are real women from the Bible, I begin with what we know of them from Scripture and then ask myself how they came by those characteristics. For example, with Martha, we see her wrapped up in worry. Christ gently observes that she is “worried and upset about many things” (Luke 10:41 NIV). And so, I imaginatively wondered what “things” Martha carried in her heart that weighed her down. What formed her into the Martha we see in Scripture?

With Joanna we see a brave woman who dares to support Jesus’ ministry even though she comes from a sphere where this was surely dangerous. I wondered how she came by that bravery. What happened in her life that made her desirous for truth and willing to risk her position for what she believed in? With Salome we see a determined mother who will do anything for her sons. She needs to learn to let go of her vision of the future and submit her plans to Christ. What might make this tricky for her? What background might she have had that informed her character and made surrender difficult? Part One in each story is an exploration of my heroine’s formative years so that hopefully, by the time we get to Part Two and some of those known events from Scripture, they land a little differently because we’ve walked so closely with this heroine and now experience those biblical events like we’re standing right there.

PT: Will there be more books in your Women of theWay series or are you heading in a new direction? If so, what Bible characters are next?

HK: On LivingStone concludes the Women of the Way series, but I’ve signed a two-book contract with Bethany House for a new series! This new duology will still be New Testament era biblical fiction but will take place in Samaria and include more fictional characters as well as a male POV. The bulk of the first book occurs before Jesus’ ministry and the second will coincide with His ministry. Both stories will hopefully serve to highlight the Samaritans—a group of people it can be easy to overlook and yet a group of people Jesus was very intentional in reaching. The first book is scheduled to release August of 2027, so there will be a bit of a wait, but I’m hoping readers find it worth that wait!

PT: I am absolutely sure it will be worth the wait! Thank you so much for joining us on the Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction, Heather.

And Heather has graciously offered a print copy of her book, On Living Stone (US address) for one blessed person who comments or leaves her/his information on our contact form. Don’t miss this great opportunity! 

ENTER NOW for the drawing! 

If you can't wait, click the links above or below and add these books to your TBR right this minute!

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Heather Kaufman is the author of multiple books, and her devotional writing has appeared in such publications as Portals of Prayer, Open Windows, YouVersion, and Guideposts. Her novel Up from Dust was a Carol Award finalist. An editor-turned-writer, Heather worked eight years in the publishing industry while earning her master’s degree and spinning tales late into the night. When she fell in love with studying the Bible through a cultural lens, the words of Scripture came springing to life, and Jesus became even more astoundingly beautiful. Now she delights in crafting stories that highlight the goodness of God and compel readers deeper into the Bible. When not reading, writing, or accumulating mounds of books, Heather can be found exploring new parks with her husband and three children near their home in St. Louis, Missouri. Learn more and stay in touch at HMKStories.com.

Newsletter: https://www.hmkstories.com/newsletter

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

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

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/heather-kaufman

Goodreads: https://goodreads.com/hmkstories

Emily Conrad Brings Holiday Cheer with her Christmas Novel

 It's a doggone blessed time of the year! And Merry CHRISTmas to all! I have one last holiday book for you and it's not too late to grab a copy! I've leashed in author Emily Conrad and her new book Risking His Heart for your last minute stocking stuffer, plus her real-life story of the cutest surprise Christmas present ever.

May each of you be blessed by the Lord this Christmas Season as we take time to celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ.

PT: Hello, Emily, and welcome during this special season. Could you tell us all how did you come to be a writer and write in contemporary Christian fiction?

EC: I’ve been writing since childhood, but after a middle school short story unit, fiction became a constant hobby for me and something I dreamed of doing as an adult. Writing contemporary Christian fiction came naturally to me, as it’s obviously the time period I live in and my faith is integral to how I look at the world. Blend those elements with emotional depth and romance, and you’ve got the building blocks of a story that captures my interest.

PT: Do you write in any other genre (or secretly want to) or do any other type of writing?

EC: I’m very happy in the contemporary Christian romance genre and don’t have any plans to switch. I’ve found my happy place, at least for the foreseeable future.

PT: So share with us what genre you mostly read.

EC: I’ve narrowed down to reading mostly contemporary Christian romance, but lately I’ve purposely dabbled in some historical romance and some no-spice general market romances too. I occasionally read other genres as well. For example, one of my critique partners writes contemporary fiction, and I enjoy her stories as well. Reading inside my genre helps me understand what readers like mine are looking for, but reading outside of it helps me look at the bigger picture of what makes a compelling story. Either way, I also just enjoy a good story as a reader myself!

PT: Regionally, are you East Coast, Midwest, West, or West Coast?

EC: I live in the Midwest. The multi-author series Christmas in Redemption Ridge was set in Colorado, so I had to learn more about an area of the country I had only visited before for that, but I have happily set the rest of my novels in the Midwest, where I’m most familiar with the setting and way of life.

PT: Favorite Christmas memory?

EC: When I was 18, I wanted a dog. I was attending college, but I lived at home, and my parents didn’t want a dog, so I knew I couldn’t get one. For Christmas, my parents gave me an ornament that was a ceramic dog bowl. They also gave me a dog treat jar, and at that point, I remember thinking it was a little cruel to remind me of what I wanted but didn’t have. Little did I know they’d rescued a nine-month-old black Lab. I wish I remembered the exact moment of realization, but I think the picture where I’m reading in the collage is when I read that they’d gotten me a dog. The guy in the photo was my then boyfriend (now husband), who was there for the big reveal. He’s the one who drove me to go pick her up. She was such a sweet, good dog. These were the days before camera phones, so I don’t have a ton of good pictures. The one in the lower right is her a few years later, dressed for a winter walk.

PT: Awww! That was a heart-melting story! Anything with paws makes the holiday even more special. So, do you have a favorite Christmas food?

EC: My family makes a certain cutout sugar cookie recipe that, to me, says it’s Christmastime like nothing else. They’re time-consuming to make, but they’re always a hit!

PT: Pro-snow or hate snow?

EC: I am pro-snow any time of year when it’s going to be cold and dark. For example, in Wisconsin right now, the sun has been setting shortly after 4pm. The snow we have on the ground brightens up the night considerably! It’s also something I really like to have for Christmas. Years when my part of the state doesn’t have snow as Christmas is approaching find me checking online white Christmas predictor maps. Thankfully, more often than not, we have at least a dusting of snow.

PT: Oh, me too. I am so pro-snow, but I always feel sorry for those who have to travel in it. Now, tell us about your new Christmas book, Risking His Heart.

EC: Risking His Heart is a best-friends-to-love romance set in a small Colorado town. It includes a little bit of mystery, some laughs (I hope!), and a whole lot of heart.

Falling for her best friend is not on her (forced, way-too-early, medical) retirement bucket list.

Career-driven cop Neenah Casper is forced by an injury to turn in her badge at age thirty-two. The same day she’s named guardian of an orphaned fifteen-year-old girl. With all her plans in pieces, it’s no wonder she starts feeling more than friendship for her supportive best friend Cody. But life’s taught her nothing lasts forever, and surely these feelings will pass once she finds a new life’s purpose.

Though Neenah friend-zoned him years ago, Officer Cody Adams has never stopped watching her back and hoping for more. Helping with her new ward could be just the opportunity to show her how much more he could be. Meanwhile, he’s also fighting to earn a promotion and impress his unpleasable police chief father by catching a home burglar and a Christmastime prankster. Neenah’s newly minted neighborhood watch might help him save Christmas and earn the job, if only the group didn’t bring complications of its own.

As Neenah and Cody wrangle octogenarian vigilantes, Christmas bandits, and complicated families, the chemistry between them only grows. But if they act on it, they won’t be able to go back. With their friendship and careers on the line, is love worth the risk?

PT: Is this part of a series? How did the setting get started?

EC: Risking His Heart is the final book in the Christmas in Redemption Ridge series. Some readers love a long series, in which case they’ll be happy to hear there are 18 books! But readers who prefer shorter series or standalones will be happy to learn each book can be read as a standalone. The series has been written by 6 different authors, who each contributed 3 books. It’s loosely connected to an earlier series organized by Tara Grace Ericson called The Heroes of Freedom Ridge. When they ended that series and started a new one, that group of authors had a slot open up, and they invited me to join the fun. The series has been such a blessing to me.

PT: Is there more books for this series?

EC: The Christmas in Redemption Ridge series is now complete. I wrote three books for the series, however, so if readers are looking for my other contributions, they are Bidding on a Second Chance, and Matchmaking the Cowboy.

PT: What’s next on your writing agenda?

EC: I’m hoping to release three Christian romances in 2026. Two of them are shorter romances I’ve already drafted that I need to polish up for their edits. Then, I’m working on A Faithful Protector, which is book two in my main ongoing series, The Many Oaks Romances. Stories in this series are longer and delve into grittier topics, (alcoholism and recovery is one example from A Faithful Protector), but always through the lens of faith and redemption. I find one way I experience God most powerfully is through fiction that deep dives into realistic questions and conflict, and I’m so excited to see what He does with this one.

PT: It's been great having you, Emily, at the Diamond Mine of Christian to tell us more about Risking His Heart. Readers, if you would like to be part of the book giveaway for Emily's book, leave a comment or use our contact form.

May your heart and soul be blessed as we commemorate our Savior birth!

Kim Griffin Spills the Tea on her Favorite Things and her New Novel

Hi readers! It's me again, and I'm peppering this week's featured author for a list of her favs. Kim Griffin, a huge Jane Austen fan, joins us to talk about what's going on in her life and her new book Not Quite Mr. Knightly. (PS. Her next novel, Not Quite Miss Austen drops on Jan. 31st.)

PT:  Hi, Kim! So let’s start on page one. What genre do you write in and why?

KG: I write Christian women’s fiction with romance. Most of my books are contemporary, but there is a 1970s book and a 1955 book. I love to craft stories that point Christian women to Christ and encourage them to read His Word.

I also love a good romance story, but always want readers to understand that though a godly romance is very satisfying, it will never completely fulfill our desire to be loved and will never be perfect. Only God can love us perfectly and fill those empty places. When we go into a relationship and ultimately marriage understanding this, we learn to gain our significance from Christ and not our spouse. This frees us up to love them better and strengthens us when our spouse fails us (because they are not perfect).

I also write devotionals, and I’m working on a Bible study. This is a natural outpouring of my years of studying scripture and leading Bible studies. I’ve been leading Bible studies since my freshman year in college, so I’m in my 37th year! I advocate for inductive Bible studies, which teach people to study deeply using God’s word as the primary source and uncover God’s truths for themselves.

 PT: Is there any genre you secretly would like to write in?

KG: Christian Regency romance. I love Regency romance but it is intimidating because there are so many who have gone before me in that genre, including those, like Jane Austen, who lived through it. I worry I will get the details wrong. Eventually, I will try it.

PT: What drew you to become a writer, and what’s the best thing about the writing process for you?

KG: I’ve been making up stories for as long as I can remember. I was almost five by the time my twin brother and sister were born, and at that time I had a whole cast of imaginary friends and family that I made up stories about. I was just too young to write them down. I wrote a number of short stories throughout my younger years and even wrote a couple of plays for my siblings and neighbor friends to perform.

In sixth grade,  I convinced my best friends to help me put together a “newspaper” for our grade, and we wrote stories and articles for it. In middle school, my creative passion moved to interior design.

I was always a reader, though, and as an adult, it wasn’t until my oldest two children had graduated from homeschool and my third was taking dual enrollment classes that I had time to read for myself and not just books for their schooling. In 2019 I discovered an online writing platform, and it had a lot of non-Christian garbage, but there were a few Christians there. I decided I could put some of the ideas that were always bouncing around in my head into story form and use it as a platform to share Christ.

At the time, I had no aspirations of publishing my books, though people suggested I should publish. Eventually, I realized that my reach there was limited as the platform became less popular, and God kept placing people in my path through social media who were independent authors. I did some research, prayed, and felt like God was laying everything before me to begin publishing my books. Not Quite Mr. Darcy was my first published book, and I just celebrated it’s two-year anniversary on October 18.

PT:  Do you have a genre do you enjoy reading the most?

KG: Most any Christian fiction with romance. I read a little of almost every type of book except horror, and I’m picky about fantasy. I love historical, mystery, and books with unexpected twists and turns in stories.

PT: I love music so let me ask what your favorite song is right now?

KG: I have a couple that are very different. The first is Andrew Peterson’s “Is He Worthy.” I love that it puts me before the throne, worshipping and longing to be face to face with my Savior. The second is “Dusty Bibles” by Josiah Queen. It is a reminder that we are constantly distracted by electronics and should pick up our Bibles and spend time with God.

PT: I’m stuck on a favorite list now, LOL. Favorite verse?

KG: I have so many, but I’ll share a section in Hebrews and my writing verse from Romans 15.

Hebrews 12:1-3 ESV - 1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.

I love the way Hebrews beautifully ties together the Old and New Testaments. In fact, I have a lot of verses from Hebrews in my Starry Night: Christmas Advent Devotional. But these particular verses remind me to keep my eyes on Jesus and lay aside and ignore the things that distract me from what He has called me to do in my time here on earth. I’m reminded of the faith of those who have gone before me (those listed in the chapter before). And most meaningfully, I’m reminded that Jesus endured the cross for me and each believer—we were the joy before Him that spurred Him to go on.

I’d also like to share my writing verse. Romans 15:13 ESV - 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

This is the verse I use as my theme verse for writing—both my fiction and nonfiction. In my nonfiction, I strive to lay out important truths in scripture that will strengthen your relationship with God and help you understand those truths so you will have joy and peace in Him! My fiction takes characters through hard things and brings them to a place where they see God is the only one to place their hope in, and they also have glimpses of His mercy (not getting what they deserve) and grace (getting what they don’t deserve or God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense).

PT: Favorite drink?

KG: Hot tea. I love both herbal and caffeinated teas with no sugar or cream. Right now I’m loving Lady Grey tea. I’ve never been a coffee drinker, though I love the smell, and it reminds me of growing up since my parents drank it.

PT: Favorite season?

KG: Summer. I love to run around in shorts and flip-flops, and I get cold easily. I thrive when it’s above 70. In the winter I have to wear so many layers and I want to hibernate.

PT: Favorite holiday?

KG: As an adult, Easter because it’s easier to focus on Jesus. I love Christmas, but there’s so much commercialism around it, and so much is always scheduled that time of year that it is real work to carve out quiet times with God. That’s how I ended up writing my Starry Night: Christmas Advent Devotional. It was a way to slow my mind down and focus on Jesus in the midst of the Christmas chaos.

PT: Favorite Fictional character?

KG: Elizabeth Bennet—I love her introspection and dry wit.

PT: Now MY favorite prompt. Tell 5 things about Kim Griffin that have nothing to do with writing.

KG: My degree is in Interior Design / Interior Architecture.

I was a homeschool mom, but all of my children have now graduated. My youngest just did in May!

I have 4 children; the youngest is adopted from Haiti, and two grandchildren.

I’m a city girl living in a rural community in middle Tennessee, and we have a few beef cows (I leave that up to my husband. LOL).

I love to cook healthy food, but I will eat a delicious dessert now and then, especially if it’s chocolate.

PT: Tell us how you started the Not Quite Series.

KG: I’ve loved Jane Austen’s books for years and had read Pride and Prejudice, Emma, and Sense and Sensibility many times. But I always wished Jane had put a faith message in them. As much as I enjoy a good love story, I know that our culture often builds up romance and romantic love as the ultimate goal in life—as if we will be fully satisfied once we find our person. That creates an unrealistic burden on marriages and relationships because our spouses are not perfect. 

I had written several books that I hadn’t published before I decided to publish, and in my first published book I wanted to marry the idea of the perfect Mr. Darcy, who generations of women have swooned over, with the realism that no man except Jesus can love us perfectly. That was my idea behind Not Quite Mr. Darcy. I didn’t intend for it to be a series at first, but when I was partway through, the idea for Not Quite Colonel Brandon formed. The stories kept coming.

PT: How do Jane Austen’s books connect with yours?

KG: None of the series books are anywhere near retellings, but they each have nods to the books that correspond with the name. Each of the main characters also enjoys the books that correspond with the name. In the back of each book, I have a QR code for an extras/trivia page on my website that tells its connections with the corresponding Jane Austen book. It also gives fun details about how I came up with ideas, other Easter eggs, and details I found when researching the book.

PT: Tell the readers more about Not Quite Mr.Knightly.

KG: Here’s the tagline and blurb:

A runaway bride

A marriage of convenience

A love worth fighting for

While interning at the U.S. Embassy in London, Nancy Wilson, a spirited Southerner from Greenville, South Carolina, thought she’d found her very own Mr. Knightley—straight from the pages of Emma.

Yet on the eve of her wedding day, a devastating letter from her future father-in-law shatters her dreams, leaving her with a heart-wrenching decision. Opting to leave London, Nancy returns to the familiarity of Greenville, only to be haunted by regret and a longing to reclaim her lost love. After attempting reconciliation and facing an unexpected rejection, she questions everything she once believed.

Back home, Nancy must grapple with newfound challenges, testing her resilience and faith. Amidst her broken heart, she encounters a surprising proposal that could change her life forever—a marriage of convenience that may hold the key to finding her true Mr. Knightley. This tale of love, loss, and self-discovery will resonate with anyone who has ever yearned for a love story worth fighting for.

Set in 1970, Not Quite Mr. Knightley is the third book of the Not Quite Series and can be read as a standalone, though it’s best enjoyed after reading Not Quite Colonel Brandon. While not a retelling of Emma, this story contains elements Austen fans will appreciate.*

PT: Ahhh, the tea tastes great! And that cover is sweeter than sugar. You can get your copy of Not Quite Mr. Knightly today by following the links or visiting your favorite bookstore, or you can stay around for the free book given to one lucky person who leaves a comment. 

Thanks, Kim for visiting the Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction and spilling the tea about your new novels!

 

*Content Warning: This book contains characters who consider abortion and who have an abortion in their past. Abortion is discussed several times from a Christian perspective, emphasizing forgiveness and healing in Christ. If you have an abortion in your past, please read the resources section at the end of the book and visit DeeperStill.org for free Christ centered retreats.