Interview with award-winning and best-selling author Sarah Hamaker!

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

Today we are going to pry into the private life of CHAT with award-winning and best-selling author Sarah Hamaker!

Award-winning and best-selling author Sarah Hamaker loves writing books “where the hero and heroine fall in love while running for their lives.” She’s written romantic suspense novels and nonfiction books, as well as stories in Chicken Soup for the Soul volumes. As a writers coach, her heart is encouraging writers. Her podcast, “The Romantic Side of Suspense,” can be found wherever you listen to podcasts. 

Connect with Sarah on her website, newsletter, Facebook, Book Bub, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!

Interview ~

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

*drum roll*

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

Hot tea all the way! I love a good cuppa of black tea. Some of my favorite blends of black tea are Earl Grey Supreme, cranberry black, blueberry black, and Scottish Afternoon. Add a little sugar and a splash of cream—the perfect drink for writing.

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

This is a hard one for me because I’m not a huge foodie—I’m more like my late father in that he ate to live, not lived to eat (not that I don’t like to eat, just not super picky about what I’m eating). But if I could order anything in the world, it would be a juicy cheeseburger made with grassfed beef and cooked medium rare with crispy, lightly breaded onion rings on the side.

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

My office because I have a comfortable chair, a split keyboard and large monitor. I can also shut the door if I need a little peace and quiet. But I do my best thinking there.

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

I have a reader’s vocabulary. At least, that’s my mother’s explanation for the fact that I have trouble pronouncing (and spelling, if we’re being honest) some words. I wasn’t taught phonics as a child and always read above my grade level, so I’d pronounce things in my head and usually that was not how those words are actually pronounced. Even today, I’ll substitute a “smaller” word for the “bigger” one in my head because I’m not sure how to correctly say it.

I can definitely relate. What inspired you to write Justice Denied? 

The story. It’s always the story that needs to get out of my head and onto the page. In Justice Denied, which is book two in my Seeking Justice series, I wanted to give the hero, Seth Whitman, his own story because I liked him as a side character in Justice Delayed, book one. Seth needed to find his own happily-ever-after and was the perfect complement to my heroine, Jetta Ainsely.

A father’s tarnished legacy drives a daughter to untangle a web of deception with the help of a photojournalist. 

Jetta Ainsley’s life had been complicated enough as she navigates cleaning out the family home while her mother recovers from a car accident. When her dog is hurt, her next-door neighbor, Seth Whitman, offers his help. Seth would like to do more for Jetta but the walls she’s placed around her heart are unsurmountable.

Then she learns her late father had been accused of embezzlement, drawing Jetta into a web of secrets that could prove his innocence—or destroy her. When digging into her father’s past brings danger to their doorstep, Jetta turns to Seth for assistance in uncovering who stole millions before someone gets hurt. 

Seth tries to protect Jetta and her mother from the increasing danger, while clues lead them ever deeper into a tangled conspiracy. Unraveling the sinister plot will require all their courage, faith, and trust in each other.

But will uncovering the truth clear her father’s name—or destroy their growing love for one another?

Everyone, check out Justice Denied! What led you to write in this genre? 

I love weaving the romance around the suspense part of the story, probably because I read way too many mysteries as a kid and teenager. I started with the Happy Hollisters and Nancy Drew, then graduated to Agatha Christie and other gothic mystery writers. Frankly, I doubt I could write anything without the dash of mystery and suspense!

How fun! What message do you hope to convey to your readers? 

That our God is a God of second chances and redemption. All of my main characters are believers and it’s important to me to have them live out their lives as authentically as possible on the page so that readers can see how faith in action in sometimes hard circumstances looks like.

That's awesome! Can you tell us a little about your next project(s)? 

Right now, I’m finishing the rough draft to a short novel for a collection next summer, then I’ll move on to editing the first book in a new series featuring 911 dispatchers as the heroines. Like my husband says, I’ve always got something on my writing plate.

Exciting stories are coming! Do you have a favorite Bible verse or story that inspires you on a soul level?

One of my favorite verses is Psalms 37:4, which says “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” All too often we focus on the latter part of this verse about how God will give us the desires of our hearts rather than the vital first part about delighting ourselves in the Lord. When we focus on the former part, our desires and God’s will align, and God’s desires for us will be what our hearts desire too.

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

I’m currently reading Honor, book three in the Long Hot Summer Christian Romantic Suspense collection. I enjoy anthologies and these short novels are a great way to sample many different authors.

Anthologies are so much fun! Thanks for answering all of my prying questions, Sarah!

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

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

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

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

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 

Laura Thomas on Writing Tribes, Inspiration, and the English Countryside

Hello, miners! Welcome back. I am excited to introduce Laura Thomas today. Her novella Snow Globe Secrets just won the FHL Reader's Choice Award for novella.

First, here's a little about Laura

A published, award-winning Christian author, Laura writes heartwarming encouragement for your soul—especially in her numerous romantic suspense novels, as well as her teen fiction, marriage, and children’s books. Laura is a hope*writers certified writing coach, a book-loving chocoholic mom and nanny, and is married to her high school sweetheart. Originally from the UK, they now live the empty nest life in Kelowna, British Columbia, with their French bulldog! 

Find all her books, blog, bio, and writing coaching, and sign up for her free monthly newsletter at: www.laurathomasauthor.com

Connect with Laura: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads | Bookbub | YouTube

Suzie: Welcome to the Diamond Mine, Laura. We are happy you took some time out of your day to visit
with us. Let's start with some easy get-to-know-you questions.

What is your favorite summertime refresher?

Laura: I may be English, but I’m coffee over tea any day of the week, and my beat-the-heat favorite is a tall, iced, skinny caramel macchiato!

Suzie: Yum. What are three books on your TBR right now?

Laura: I just checked my Goodreads, and I could actually name over 300 books on TBR! I’ll choose an eclectic mix: A Stranger’s Game by Colleen Coble, Every Time We Say Goodbye by Natalie Jenner, and The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame!

Suzie: That is an eclectic mix, but some good reads. Where is your favorite place to write? Why?

Laura: I do almost all of my writing in the peace and quiet of my home office. It’s bright and pretty and has become the place where I can focus and be inspired, surrounded by my best friends (shelves of books!) with Lulu my Frenchie curled up on her fluffy bed next to my feet. Or situated on my lap, which makes typing tricky…

  

Suzie: I have the same trouble with my cat. She always wants to cuddle when I need to work. 

Who makes up your writing tribe? 

Laura: This is a great question! A writing tribe is vital, and my people currently consists of my critique partner, local writing group, literary agent, publisher, editor, publicity manager, my amazing book launch team, several online writing groups, writer friends, and the support mentally, emotionally, and financially of my phenomenal husband! 

Suzie: Love that you are surrounded by so much support. What inspired you to write Captured in Frame?

Laura: I often find inspiration on my travels, and the initial spark for Captured in Frame came in January 2019 when I was visiting my family back in England (hence the English setting!). I was staying with my sister and her family in a charming little countryside village and thought it would make a delightful backdrop for a story. But I write suspense, so … one dark, rainy evening I saw (in the figment of my overactive imagination) a huge, drenched, grizzly man lit up by a flash of lightening outside my sister’s French doors. I freaked my poor sister out, but suddenly I had a character who would invade the serenity of this quaint country village in my future novel! Ta-da! 

Suzie: LOL. And your sister now has a story to tell about her crazy author sister. What led you to write romantic suspense?

Laura: Honestly, when I started my writing journey, I wanted to write for children and never dreamed I would write novels for grown-ups! However, I absolutely loved READING Christian romantic suspense—I was obsessed with Colleen Coble, Dee Henderson, Terri Blackstock and the like for years. I appreciated the blend of a love story with spine-chilling suspense, and marveled that at the end of the

book I had a spiritual take-away, even if it was subtly woven through the story. But God had plans in mind for me and my writing— and after my Christian teen fiction trilogy was published and I’d written some other stories for children, we were on vacation in Jamaica when I had the nugget of an idea for The Glass Bottom Boat, which ended up being my first published Christian romantic suspense novel. After that, there was no turning back…

Suzie: Isn't it amazing how God sometimes leads us to things we've never imagined. What message do you hope to convey to your readers?

Laura: My ultimate desire in writing all my Christian fiction books is to encourage and inspire readers in their REAL lives with compelling stories of hope, leaving no shadow of doubt that they are loved by God. Always. 

In Captured in Frame, the overarching theme is one of forgiveness and the beauty of second chances, and as my characters deal with all kinds of insecurities and trust issues, I finish the book with this beautiful quote by C.S. Lewis, which sums up my heart behind the message: 

“Though our feelings come and go, God’s love for us does not.” 

Suzie: What a terrific message. Can you tell us a little about your next project?

Laura: I would love to! I have another romantic suspense novel set in the English countryside—The Final Word is book 2 in the Bite of Betrayal series and is scheduled to be published by Mountain Brook Ink in June 2025. It continues on from Captured in Frame but, as is the case with all my novels, it can be read as a stand-alone title. In this one, I had fun incorporating some of my favorite things: Paris, writing, baking, opera, the city of Bath, a cool sports car, and some definite Cinderella vibes … I can’t wait to share it!

 Suzie: Sounds like a fun read! Before we wrap up, how can we pray for you?

Laura: That’s so kind—thank you for asking. I would be grateful if you would join me in praying that by God’s grace my books would get into the hands of readers at the perfect time for them to be encouraged. Also, that I would have patience and wisdom and courage as I continue on the writing journey—for His glory. Amen. 

Suzie: Amen. Thank you again for spending some time with us this week.

About the Book

“In an idyllic village nestled in the English countryside, photographer Georgia Brooks is desperate to begin a new chapter in her life. Bramble Cottage was supposed to give her space to heal and hope again after suffering betrayal and rejection by the only man she ever loved. This was Georgia’s chance to rekindle her faith and reconnect with her sisters in a place that held sweet childhood memories—not expose herself to the ugly underbelly of the art world and put her family in danger.

Local pediatric surgeon, Doctor William Hughes, is captivated by the Canadian beauty with a camera over one shoulder and the weight of the world on the other. After suffering his own tragic loss and balancing a demanding career with raising a toddler, he recognizes the heaviness of grief . . . and the burden of guilt.

When Georgia discovers she could be in possession of incriminating evidence to frame a criminal ring, she needs to trust someone. She chooses Will. Postcards, photographs, paintings—something about Bramble Cottage is worth killing for. Can Georgia uncover the truth in time?”

Amazon | Goodreads

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. 

Interview and GIVEAWAY with Megan Besing, author of Expired Hope!

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

Today we are going to pry into the private life of CHAT with Megan Besing, author of Expired Hope! 

Despite always adoring happily-ever-afters, Megan Besing didn't unlock a love for reading until her mid-twenties, which quickly expanded into writing. Her own stories have won many awards, including the Selah for her novella, Perfect for the Preacher, along with the Pre-published Maggie for The Rancher's Want Ad Mix-up which landed #5 on PW's Religion Fiction list. And now she's thrilled to be a Sunrise Publishing author. However, her most cherished achievements are being a wife and mother.

She lives in a pocket-size Indiana town, centered around extended family, where she's always planning a road trip with a view. Yet, her favorite place may just be on her front porch drinking tea. Connect with Megan at meganbesing.com. 

Instagram, Facebook, BookBub, Goodreads, Amazon Author, Twitter, and Pinterest 

Interview ~

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

*drum roll*

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

My drink order preference would be tea first, then a hot chocolate (especially, if it’s snowy.) and lastly, coffee. 

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

Oh, this is hard. I’m not sure where to begin, but it would probably involve a starch. Potatoes, for example. I love mashed potatoes, but some homemade French fries with some cheese sauce sounds lovely. Which then would lead me to a soft pretzel with cheese. And then fried cheese with marinara. Then I may just circle back to some breadsticks with cheese sauce. So basically, cheese and a starch. But a fresh no bake cookie sounds nice right now too. Lol.

All the best answers involve cheese and a starch! Where is your favorite place to write, and why is that your favorite place?

I have what I call my writing room. However, it’s less like a room and more like an outdoor shed. Originally, my husband built a tiny building at my in-laws to be used as a greenhouse. (Pretty much the entire front is covered in windows and a glass door.) Recently, my in-laws no longer wanted it, so they moved the building to our house, and we put it by our lake. My husband then put electricity in there for me to run my computer and also a fan or heater depending on the weather. My writing “shed” is just large enough for a desk on one side and a lawn chair on the other, but it’s quiet, and I love looking out at the water while I’m writing.

I'd like to borrow your writing shed! LOL! Do you have an odd habit that is only explained by your bookish, writer tendencies? Safe space. ;-)

Hmmm, I don’t know if this is considered odd, but ever since I’ve started writing, I can predict most movie endings. Maybe an odder thing would be that if I see that someone in my family has left a book open and face down to “keep” their page. I will grab some kind of book mark and slip it in that page and then close the book, because I don’t want the binding “stretched.”

You're a hero for saving all those bindings! What inspired you to write Expired Hope?

I knew I wanted my heroine, Natalie, to be a veteran. My husband is a veteran and so based on my experience as an army wife living on army bases, I thought I could bring an authentic feel to her character. The first scene sparked from something my husband once shared with me after a deployment. I want to share more, but I don’t want to ruin anything in the story. So, I’ll just encourage you to read the special reader’s note at the end once you finish Macon and Natalie’s story.

Well, I'm hooked! What led you to write in this genre? 

I like suspense shows, but I was a little afraid to try and write a suspense novel. I had been a historical author before, but when Sunrise Publishing announced a mentor opportunity with a suspense author, I thought this could be a perfect opportunity to learn. And I’m so glad I made the jump into suspense. It has really grown me as a writer, and I think this story may just be my best one yet.

That's awesome! What message do you hope to convey to your readers?

We are all flawed people looking for fulfillment, love, peace, and hope. And all of that can only be found in Christ.

Great message! Can you tell us a little about your next projects?

I’m working on a secret unannounced suspense story. Stay tuned to my social media and my newsletter for that information which I hope to share soon. But outside of that, I’m also working on a contemporary romance, and if I ever find time, I need to edit a historical too. But until then, you can check out my published historical, The Rancher’s Want Ad Mix-up. It’s about a heroine who thinks she’s answering an ad for a teaching position, but really, it’s a mail-order bride ad placed by the unexpecting groom’s parents.

Lots of exciting stories! Do you have a favorite Bible verse or story that inspires you on a soul level?

My go to verse is Proverbs 3:5-6. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…” That verse seems to cover all the things that pop up in my life from my worries to fears to hopes. It reminds me of what my priorities should be and also who holds the future.

For my book Expired Hope, I used the verse : "But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you. Psalm 39:7 NIV. My characters, Macon and Natalie, learn that their hope needs to be placed in God alone.

Love those verses! What are you currently reading? Inquiring minds -- mine! -- want to know. ;-)

I’m reading Tunnel Creek Ambush by Kerry Johnson and The Baby Inheritance Tina Radcliffe.

Awesome! Thank you for answering all of my prying questions, Megan!

Check out Megan's new release, Expired Hope! 

Fire. Family. Faith.

A fire chief, a woman in danger, a forbidden love...can it survive the flames of revenge?

She's running to a fresh start...

Veteran and therapist Natalie Atkinson just wants to help heroes survive their past. But when she's rescued from a fire...and falls for the one person she's supposed to help...she could destroy both their futures.

It's his last chance to get it right...

Fire Chief Macon James is the right man for the job--he just has to prove it to the counselor who is signing off on his team. What he doesn't expect is to fall for her.

But danger is stalking her and someone is going to get hurt.

So, he'll have to protect her, without crossing any lines. And she'll have to make sure that she doesn't get him killed.

A romantic suspense with a heroic but wounded fire chief, a woman on the run, secrets, a forbidden love, and a plot that will keep you guessing.

Grab a copy of Expired Hope HERE!

Giveaway ~ 

Megan has generously offered an Expired Hope Bookmark and Mini Scripture Notebook for two US winners! 

Rules, Info, and Such ~

The author is giving away an Expired Hope Bookmark and Mini Scripture Notebook for each of the two winners!

This giveaway is open to the US only! 

This giveaway will close on 5/18/23 at 12:00 A.M. for all the night owls.

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

Enter via the handy Rafflecopter link below. May the odds be ever in your favor. ;-)

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY HERE!

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

Hugs!

~V. Joy Palmer

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

Connect with Joy on her website, personal blog, devotional blog, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, and Amazon Author Page!