Romantasy Author Paige Reed

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let's welcome Paige to the diamond mine.

Meet Paige Reed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are three books on your current tbr?

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

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

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

Suzie: What does your writing space look like?

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

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

And did I mention it would be cute?

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

Paige: I tried to go the traditional route.

I studied craft.

I joined crit groups.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And I’m not just saying that.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

imaginations.

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

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

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

Two things come to mind—

1. That each book will reach its full potential.

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

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

About Reviving Embers

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

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

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

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

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

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

Even if the flame consumes their dreams.

Amazon | Goodreads

About Revealing Shadows

There is treachery without. And treachery within.

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

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

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

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

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

Or they let the shadows swallow them whole.

Amazon | Goodreads

Giveaway

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

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

Inspiration and a Closer Look at the Magi with Lana Christian

Welcome (or welcome back) to the Diamond Mine. I am so excited to introduce you to Lana Christian today. Lana's debut novel is about the Magi who traveled from Persia to Jerusalem in search of a star. I had the absolute privilege of reading New Star early as one of the editors, and there is such a powerful moment in this story that I will never be able to hear the story of the magi again without remembering this moment through the eyes of this author's magi.

About Lana Christian

Twenty years ago, a man said my writing was a sword and to keep wielding it. That comment galvanized why I write. Words can change the world—especially when applied for good.

I’ve seen that firsthand. As a master’s level counselor. As a clinician and educator. As a writer in multiple sectors of business, healthcare, and ministry.

For the past nineteen years, I’ve been a freelance medical writer by day and a faith-based writer by night.

Writing is an adventure—much like hiking, my favorite hobby. Often humbling, always exciting. You’re never the same afterwards. In one way or another, you go beyond what you were before. Like when I made it to Peyto Lake—a glacier-fed lake in Banff, Canada (photo at the top of this screen). I pray the same happens when you read my books.

Ever think about who and what shaped your approach to the world?

MY WHO: My dad, a mechanical engineer, seemed to be able to do anything by just figuring it out. He ignited my inquisitive mind—often to my mom’s chagrin. My aunt wrote children’s books for Simon & Schuster. My seventh-grade science teacher opened my eyes to the wonders of the universe.

MY WHAT: I survived a nearly fatal case of Lyme disease. At my sickest, my husband left me. Homebound, my only way to earn a living was to write—and figure out how to rise above the odds stacked against me.

When I was ready to give up, God called me to embrace life—not death. It gave me a new boldness. Like me (all of 5 ft. 1 in.) calling out a career CrossFit guy when he parked his truck in a handicapped spot at Kmart.

I’m living a life of faith. Sometimes stumbling through it but still moving forward. That resonates through my books. I’d love for you to join me in the adventure.

My friend, God loves us as we are, but He also loves us enough to not leave us where we are. He wants us to GO BEYOND what we can imagine for ourselves.

That’s my life theme. I pray you’ll experience it in my books. Will you step into the adventure with me? Enjoy what you discover and GO BEYOND!

Follow Lana Christian: Website | Twitter/X | Facebook

The Interview

Suzie: Welcome, Lana, and thank you for joining us today. Let's get started with a couple of warm-up questions (the first one is a bit of a literal warm-up question). What is your favorite warm winter drink?

Lana: Hot chai tea with a splash of almond milk.

Suzie: Yum. I love a good chai tea. Perfect drink for when the temperature drops.

What are three books on your tbr pile right now?

Lana: DiAnn Mills’s Lethal Standoff

Amanda Barratt’s The Warsaw Sisters

Naomi Craig’s The Weary World Rejoices

Tracy Higley’s Nightfall in the Garden of Deep Time

Anne Graham Lotz’s The Daniel Prayer

Suzie: I've read the first two books on your list, and the others sound good. I've added them to my tbr too. Let's move into writing now. Where is your favorite place to write? Why?

Lana: In quiet. I get so laser focused when I write that I often don’t hear my timer on my stove. (I can’t just casually listen to music while I write. I have too many years of piano and vocal training under my belt. I do listen to music when I take a break from writing.)

  

Suzie: I'm the same (can't listen when I'm writing/working but listen to it when I am taking a break). 

Who makes up your writing tribe? 

Lana: I have circles of wonderful authors: the ACFW chapter I’m a member of, fellow Scrivenings authors, several private author Facebook pages, and authors I’ve connected with through writing courses and Twitter. I also have amazing, supportive high school friends. (Our high school class has a very active private Facebook page.) Finally, I have awesome church friends and prayer warriors.

Suzie: You have a lot of terrific support in your writing journey. Now I'd like to talk about your book.

What inspired you to write New Star?

Lana: A live Nativity. On December 17, 2017. I was home, sick, watching Shadow Mountain Community Church’s Sunday service online, which included a 17-minute live Nativity with incredible music. It was like God shined a spotlight on every part of the scene, starting with the star, and whispered, “There’s a story to tell here.” New Star is dedicated to everyone who made that live Nativity possible.

Suzie: What a beautiful inspiration. You took on a lot with a piece of a story that is so well-known.

What was the hardest part of writing New Star?

Lana: For me, the hardest part is making sure I understand why characters do what they do. For example, history and the Bible tell us Herod the Great changed his will right before he died so his son Antipas wouldn’t succeed him as king. Why did he do that? How did that affect Antipas and all his decisions after that?  History and the Bible only hint at the “why,” so I have to crawl around inside their heads to figure out their motivations. In that regard, I may do as much “noodling” as I do writing. But when I get the motivations right, truly authentic scenes start to write themselves.

Suzie: You gave each of your characters realistic and believable motivations in the book.

What message do you hope to convey to your readers?

Lana: (1) The Wise Men were real people who risked much and paid a high price for what they did in searching for Jesus. 

(2) Our belief will cost us something, but the reward is much greater than any price we pay. 

(3) God is big enough to handle all our questions.

(4) There is absolute Truth. His name is Jesus.

Overall, I hope that gives people hope!

Suzie: As someone who has read your story, I believe you've successfully delivered that message.

Can you tell us a little about your next project(s)?

Lana: New Star is the first installment in my series, The Magi’s Encounters. That series comprises four books, so I’ll be turning in a manuscript every January for the next three years. In addition, I have several devotional books in various stages of development, a historical fiction novel and a contemporary retelling of a biblical story in early stages of drafting.

 

Suzie: I am looking forward to catching up with Akilah and the others in the next book.

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

Lana: Isaiah 64:3-4 has been my go-to ever since starting my writing journey with New Star. I paraphrased the verses like this: 

EXPECT the impossible. 

CELEBRATE the unseen. 

And PRAISE God for it! 

I printed that as big as I could and taped that where I could see it all the time. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve prayed through, claimed, and trusted those words from Isaiah.

 

Suzie: I love your paraphrase. What a wonderful reminder for each of us every day. I want to end with this question: How can we pray for you?

Lana: Pray that God would use New Star in ways I can’t imagine (see Isaiah 64:3-4). Pray that readers would find the book a safe place to explore their questions about God and finish the book with a new appreciation for the Wise Men—and for the Bible. I would love for a reader say, “This prompted me to crack open a Bible.” Also, please pray that I would keep writing even when I’m discouraged about it. God has a plan; I need to put in the sweat equity, co-create with Him, then watch Him do what only He can.

Suzie: Amen. 

Thank you so much for spending some time with us this week, Lana. It was a pleasure learning more about you, your inspiration, and what's to come.

About New Star

AKILAH, a highly respected priest-scholar in the Lower Council of Magi society, considers all his astronomy discoveries well-deserved stepping-stones to a more fulfilling life. But the appearance of a new star challenges his priorities. As Persia totters on the brink of an undesirable king coming to power, Akilah declines an Upper Council position that could turn the tide. Instead, he studies an elusive star that doesn’t appear in any almanac or other writings. Except Jewish.

 

His research makes him a target of Persia’s religious and govern-mental conflicts. As dangers at home and abroad plunge Akilah into circumstances beyond his imagining, he realizes his knowledge of Jesus could destroy Magi society, its influence on Persia’s government, and Persia’s official religion. Untrusting of his Council, a thousand miles from aid, and bound to his cousin in a potentially career-ending contract, Akilah must decide how far he will go to protect what he knows of Jesus—and whether the cost is worth the risk.

Amazon | Scrivenings Press | Goodreads

Giveaway

One of our readers will win an e-book copy of New Star to one of you. Giveaway ends Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at 11:59 pm EST. Enter here or below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Falling for Chris Posti

Hello Diamonds - As a reader, one of my favorite things to do is discover new authors. I'm intrigued by so many different pathways that lead to publishing that first novel. It's a dream come true for all of us, but it never comes easily. I often say God parts the waters differently for each one of us, but we all have equal parts faith and a 'failure to quit' that eventually bring our stories to life.  

Today, we get the chance to meet Chris Posti. She's been a great friend and source of encouragement, as we're both with Elk Lake Publishing, Inc. Within a couple of weeks, I will get to meet Chris in person at the Blue Ridge Writer's Conference. But for now, all we've got are my hot-seat questions and her enchanting answers. 

Before we get started, there are two things you need to know about Chris: 

1) Her debut novel, Falling Apart, Falling for You, is a Selah Award Finalist. That an amazing accomplishment! 

2) She writes in a genre geared toward 50-year-old women and up. It's even in her subtitle - Real Life and Romance for the 50+ Woman. Fascinating. 

Pay attention. These facts will come up again later. 

First, meet Chris. 

Chris Posti’s writing experience comes in a variety pack. She was a newspaper columnist for more than 20 years and has written three nonfiction books, two blogs, and a workbook. Self-employed for 30 years as a career & executive coach, Chris also wrote training programs, speeches, resumes, LinkedIn profiles, executive summaries, and proposals. 

Her debut novel, Falling Apart, Falling for You (Elk Lake Publishing in April, 2021), is a fun, witty, and uplifting story of three women who reunite 40 years after graduating from high school, just as their perfect lives are upended.

Chris's second novel in this series of three will be released in late 2023.

Me: What were your reading and writing habits as a child? 

Chris: I vividly remember my excitement the first time I read a book that had no pictures in it. I thought I’d be bored by it—but I wasn’t. After that, I got my library card and checked out piles of books every week. Reading led to writing. I still have a little book of poems I wrote for my mother when I was eight; it certainly wasn’t my first effort at writing, but it was a memorable one. Books taught me my life could turn out very different from what I saw around me—and, indeed, my life has been much more wonderful and exciting than I could have imagined, and writing has always been a significant part of it.

Me: At what point did you realize this was really going to happen? 

Chris: Being self-employed most of my career, I wrote a Sunday workplace & careers column for a Pittsburgh newspaper, as well as a lot of business-related communications. As a result, I considered writing an important part of my career. But in 2011 when I self-published my first nonfiction book, I remember turning to my husband and saying from somewhere deep from inside me, almost in another voice: “I am an author.” It was a powerful moment; I knew I’d taken a big step forward in my career and in my life.

Me: Your debut novel is now up for a Selah Award. What does this change for you? 

Chris: Anytime you write something—whether it’s a novel, a nonfiction book, an article, a newspaper column, a blog post, or even a carefully worded email—you always wonder how it will be received. You may think you have done a masterful job, but until you get some kind of validation from others, there’s always that doubt lingering in the back of your mind torturing you.

Since my debut novel, Falling Apart, Falling for You, was published on my 70th birthday, I didn’t want to waste any time writing any other books in this series if no one appreciated the first. So I entered a few writing contests to get some outside opinions. I was elated when Falling Apart, Falling for You got an Honorable Mention in the 2022 Angel Book Awards, followed by being named a Finalist in The Author Zone Awards.

Then, earlier this year, I was reading emails on my laptop at the dining room table when I happened to see my book had been named a Finalist in the Contemporary Novels category of the 2023 Selah Awards. I was so stunned that I slid off the chair and fell to my knees. I cried and gave thanks to the Lord!

Me: What do you wish you'd known before you published?

Chris: Before being published, I was thinking, I just want something challenging to occupy my mind during the pandemic. I figured I’d write one novel and then move on to something else like painting or mosaics. But I found love writing fiction. It’s a fulfilling mental challenge. I could be wrong, but I feel like it’s added years to my life. I’ve just finished the manuscript for the second book, and the plot of the third is already in my head. After that, I’m thinking I might write a romance about a woman in her 60s. 

Me: What happens next?

Chris: Along with writing the third book in this series and possibly a romance, I would like to get involved in some kind of artistic pursuit. I always say one of these days, I’m going to paint clouds. Maybe I will. Truly, only God knows.

Me: You came up with a new-to-me genre (50+ Woman). Yet, most readers I know fit this classification. How did you choose your genre, and will you ever write for another? 

Chris: I could never understand why nearly all the women in novels (and movies) were in their 20s and 30s—maybe (if they were “old”), in their 40s. When I had time on my hands during the pandemic, I searched on Amazon for novels about older women but in all honesty, I couldn’t find anything I wanted to read. Yes, there are many stories that include older women but I wanted them to be the main characters, not a doddering old granny who provides comic relief. I wanted them to be vibrant, smart, loving, real-life, and relatable women who overcome challenges, grow in their faith, have reasons to be hopeful about their future, and find some romance too. So, I wrote the book I’d like to read.

Me: Are your characters based on real people? 

Chris: Sometimes, yes, but only vaguely. Suzanne was modeled after a woman I met 40 years ago who worked as a trainer in the airlines. A classmate who appeared in my sixth-grade class, who stayed in my town only that year and resided with her aunt, was the inspiration for Marla. As an inside joke, I also scatter some names of family members and friends throughout the scenes. And it probably goes without saying, there is a lot of myself in each of the main characters.

Me: What do you do for fun? 

Chris: My two grandsons (6 and 3) who live nearby visit a lot and we do silly things together—mudpies, chalk on the driveway, searching for fossils in the dirt, playing hide and seek. My husband and I live in Pittsburgh, where it’s too cold most of the year to swim outside, so our house has an indoor pool. The grandsons love it, and so do I. Water a great place to play, think, exercise, and pray.

Me: What is the most satisfying part of writing? 

Chris: I wish I could say it’s the piles of fan mail, or all the times people tell me they loved my book, but the truth is, most authors don’t get a lot of that kind of feedback. Or at least I haven’t! 

So I’ve learned to write in a way that pleases me, and I hope it pleases others too. When I’ve labored over a scene or a chapter, I read it aloud to see if it flows. When I get through an entire chapter without stopping to edit anything, that’s a big thrill, and if the writing moves me emotionally, that’s the biggest thrill of all.

Me: Do you know how your stories will end when you start them? Or are you as surprised as your readers?

Chris: For both my novels, I painstakingly wrote out every single scene multiple times and felt sure I knew exactly how both books would end. But somehow when you’re in the flow of the writing process, you just type and see what happens. Usually, you will be surprised. I know I was.

Check out her books on Amazon. 

For more information on Chris, visit https://chrisposti.com.

Meet Debut Author Danielle Grandinetti

One of the great things about being an author is you get to meet so many other great authors. I met Danielle Grandinetti through an editing Facebook group and then through a Word Count Sprinting group this year. Yesterday she released her prequel novella, To Stand in the Breach, and in April, A Strike to the Heart will release. Both books however are already available to purchase/preorder.

I am so excited for you to meet Danielle and to get to know this wonderful person and author.



Danielle Grandinetti is a book blogger at DaniellesWritingSpot.com. Her short stories have appeared in several publications and her writing has won the University of Northwestern Distinguished Faith in Writing Award. Originally from Chicagoland, she currently lives along Lake Michigan’s Wisconsin shoreline with her husband and their two young sons. Danielle especially loves quiet mornings served with the perfect cup of tea.

You can check out her landing page for To Stand in the Breach here.

Connect with her through her newsletter, on Instagram, Bookbub, Goodreads, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, her website, or her blog.


CC: What are you reading right now?

DG: I'm reading Malicious Intent by Lynn H Blackburn. It's the second book in the Defend and Protect series.

CC: Oh! That one is on my TBR pile. I heard the series includes the Secret Service, which sort of has a special place in my heart. ;-).


CC: What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

DG: I think of my first draft like a skeleton. It’s short of my word goal and needs much fleshing out, which I do during the second draft.

CC: I just giggled at the very punny image of a skeleton and “fleshing” it out. I’m familiar with the terms, but it never fails to amuse. 🙂


CC: What is your favorite Bible verse? Why?

DG: It’s hard to narrow it down to just one, so I’ll pick a whole book. The Psalms. They always express what my heart is saying better than anything else.

CC: I do love how the Psalms really show the unrestrained emotion of man, and yet how it is always brought back to God.


CC: What is your work schedule like when you’re writing?

DG: Since I’m a mama of littles, I snag writing time whenever and wherever I get a chance, but mostly during naptime.

CC: Bless you! Writing with littles is so hard. I am amazed you are able to do it.


CC: What is your writing Kryptonite?

DG: Description does not come naturally to me, but it’s fun to layer it in during the editing process.

CC: Praise the Lord for editing processes, and for your willingness and desire to layer it in, even when it is hard.

In October, Danielle released her novella To Stand in the Breach as a prequel to her upcoming release A Strike to the Heart. Let’s talk a bit about the novella.



She came to America to escape a workhouse prison, but will the cost of freedom be too high a price to pay?

1933, Wisconsin – Large animal veterinarian Katy Wells takes her patients’ welfare personally, so it’s no surprise when she stands up to angry farmers planning a milk strike or takes in an injured draft horse to save its life. But after a visitor from the past discovers her location and reveals a threat, she must choose between her work and her freedom, and whether to trust a man to keep her safe.

To Stand in the Breach is the prequel novella to A Strike to the Heart, releasing April 2022 from Heritage Beacon Fiction/Iron Stream Media.


CC: Who was the most challenging character to create? What made them so difficult?

DG: The bad guy. Making his reasoning logical when it … isn’t.

CC: Villians are so challenging because they always are the hero in their minds.


CC:Which character was the most fun to create? What makes them fun?

DG: Katy. Her character began to develop while writing A Strike the Heart and I knew I had to tell her story.

CC: I love when side characters take on their own life and demand their own story.


CC: What was some of your favorite research you discovered while preparing for To Stand in the Breach?

DG: Cow health issues, such as udder infections, and the prevention and ramifications of them.

CC: That would be fascinating. . . and kind of gross.


CC: How did this story affect you as you wrote it? Did God teach you anything through the writing?

DG: Not so much taught as provided an outlet for my own wrestling through what it looks like to stand between those with power and those without in a given situation.

CC: Writing is a great way to wrestle through those tough topics!


CC: How do you select the names of your characters?

DG: In the case of the animals, Clover, Nessa, and Glenn, I purposefully chose Irish names as a nod to Katy’s Irish heritage.

CC: That is fun! I love looking up names for characters, and I love how you connected the animals to Katy’s heritage.

Thank you so much for joining me today and providing all of us with a wonderful distraction. As my final question, I have my usual “Fun Question”.


If you could travel anywhere without worry about cost, where would you travel?

DG: My list is too long! I’d probably pick New Zealand because it’s the only hemisphere I haven’t been to yet.

CC: I want to see the hobbit holes there!!! One day we will both make it!

You can purchase Danielle’s book at Amazon or other retailers.



To be entered to win an e-copy of her novella, comment below with your favorite Great Depression-era book or one on your TBR pile. Don't forget to include your email.

Meet Abigail Kay Harris, Debut Author

Today we welcome Abigail Kay Harris to the mine. I love it when readers like Abigail become authors. Her first novella arrives in just a few days (on Memorial Day). More about that later!

About the Author

Abigail Kay Harris is a daughter of the King with a personal degree in book-nerdiness. A sister to seven, her passionate love of the written word and deeper meanings hidden in normal things leads her to spend her time reading, writing, using sarcasm, and defining obscure words. When she's not chasing words, she enjoys watching shows, classic romance movies, tea, sunrises, and the outdoors, especially mountains, beaches, and forests.

Connect with Abigail:

Website | Newsletter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | MeWe | Amazon | Goodreads

SW: Welcome, Abigail, we're elated to have you join us this week. Congratulations on your upcoming novella.

Let's play a quick round of "Would You Rather" as an ice breaker.

Would you rather have a rewind button or a pause button on your life?

AKH: A pause button, I wouldn’t want to rewind anything as I would lose the lessons I’ve learned in the past and I would prefer to know what I know now and see the mistakes and achievements I made in the past.

SW: Excellent answer! Would you rather be able to talk to animals or speak all foreign languages?

AKH: Oooh, this one is hard only because I would love to be able to speak to animals. They show you so much but that’s still not knowing what an animal is going through. However, I would pick to be able to speak all foreign languages, or at least be able to read them. I can read slight bits of Latin, German, and Dutch but have mostly forgotten what I played around with when in school.

SW: I'm waiver on that answer too, and it changes on any given day. Ok, one more: Would you rather be without internet for a week or without your phone?

AKH: This one hurts. I actually don’t have internet right now as my brother (family tech know-it-all) has been working on upgrades the past week, thankfully his laptop has internet and he’s kindly allowed for me to borrow it. Quite honestly, I would prefer not to have my phone for a week! I’ve done that many times as I seem to lose my phone often. The internet is a pain, and I am not so in love with the lack of ability to do everything I need to do to get ready to launch my book. It’s been fun and gut-wrenching for sure with several publishing deadlines! ;)

SW: Yeah, we do rely on both pretty regularly. 

Ok, let's go deeper. Tell us a little about yourself? Family? Hobbies?

AKH: I’m the oldest of eight kids, we’re the kids of a homeschooling stay at home small business owner mom, and an Air Force veteran dad. I’m a blogger and writer of nearly five years, a proud owner

of a hedgie, and lover of randomness. I love reading, writing, and especially love sharing books with others! I also love to be outside when it isn’t melting hot out. I’m normally reading or writing in my spare time, what else is needed as a hobby when I can read or write?! Another hobby of mine is researching and teaching myself everything I can learn/find about writing. I’ve always been interested in what goes into publishing a book and I’ve taught myself everything I’ve needed to write and indie publish my own book. The hardest of which was formatting and it turned out to be my second favorite thing about publishing a book. I also love graphic design and dabble in making covers for myself along with mock covers just for fun! I keep some of my favorites here!

SW: There is a plethora of things to learn about writing, for sure. And it changes often.

What drew you to writing?

AKH: I loved the idea of writing a book ever since I stopped hating reading in my preteens, in my midteens I had started a blog and was talking with lots of other writers. I thought it would be fun to publish as a young teen and didn’t really expect it to be hard… Which turned into a big joke when I started wanting to write just because I hadn’t finished a book yet and then I just couldn’t stop writing even when I wanted to give up.

SW: It definitely draws you in. I am acquainted with you from the book blogging world, so what are three books on your current TBR?

AKH: Oooh, I love this question because it has to do with books and I don’t have to answer an insane

question like what’s my favorite book. ;) I have some VERY different books on my TBR pile but right now my top next reads are In a Far-Off Land by Stephanie Landsem set around the Great Depression, a young adult spy-thriller called Deadlock by P.D. Atkerson, and finally a Marine romance by Jess Mastorakos A Match for the Marine is the first book in her series First Come Love.

SW: Yeah, I dislike that "What's your favorite book" question because I'm constantly adding favorites to my list. Can you share a little about your writing routine. 

AKH: I don’t have a set time to write lately. I mostly write every spare minute of the day I get! However, when I start a new story I take about two to four days to write out a VERY short draft around 2,000 words long by hand and then I break it up and put it in a doc to go back over each part making chapter breaks. I set it aside a while, around a week to a month, then I format it so I can make lots of notes, print it, do another round of rewrites, and do another write as I read my paper copy and type it into my laptop from anywhere to a week to a month depending on what other projects I do.

SW: Ah, another author who writes longhand to start. What have you learned while writing your first series?

AKH: That my writing style is weirdly different from any other writers and that that’s okay. I found my way of writing a story and it’s my way and that’s okay.

SW: Different is good! Tell us more about your Oh, the Brave series.

AKH: Ah, my current favorite subject. Haha, anyway, the Oh, The Brave series features four main books, one being my novella releasing on the 31st, followed by three novels each releasing on a holiday notable to military, military families, and Americans! Oh, The Lamented will release on November 11th (2021) in honor of Veterans’ Day, Oh, The Dwindling will release on the Fourth of July (2022) in honor of the 4th, and Oh, The Slain will release on September 11th (2022) in honor of 9/11. There are also going to be some shorter stories along the way or after the main novels are out because I can’t seem to leave these characters alone. The series was born out of a very short little flash fiction I wrote a while ago and I couldn’t be happier with how it is turning out.

SW: Readers have lots to look forward to from you over the next couple of days.

I saved the most important question for last. How can we pray for you?

AKH: That I would write what God wants me to and not be discouraged by the setbacks that happen sometimes, and that I would clearly show my passion for the subjects I’m writing about in a way that glorifies God.

SW: Thank you for taking the time to share with us, Abigail and the best of luck with your series. Readers, please tell us in the comments what intrigues you about the Oh, the Brave series or welcome Abigail. And now, let's here's the promised information about Oh, the Fallen, releasing this Memorial Day (5/31/21). You can pre-order the ebook for $0.99.

About the Book

In the cause of freedom, some will give their all.

When Matt Renicker joins the Army, he's determined to give his best for his country and his Lord, even if it means risking everything he loves most. But when tragedy strikes on a routine patrol, more than one heart is left shattered and lamenting.

In the wake of a terrible loss, will those left behind find the strength to go on? Or will the faith, family, and freedom Matt fought to preserve be broken beyond repair?

Amazon | Goodreads

Meet Debut Author Amanda Wen!

Welcome back, friends. I invite you to get comfy in my tea parlor, grab a scone, and pour yourself a cup of tea. Today's guest is a brand new author to the Christian Fiction scene.

Amanda Wen is an award-winning writer of inspirational romance and split-time women’s fiction. She has placed first in multiple contests, including the 2017 Indiana Golden Opportunity Contest, the 2017 Phoenix Rattler Contest, and the 2016 ACFW First Impressions Contest, among others. She was also a 2018 ACFW Genesis Contest finalist.

In addition to her writing, Amanda is an accomplished professional cellist and pianist who frequently performs with orchestras, chamber groups, and worship teams, as well as serving as a choral accompanist. A lifelong denizen of the flatlands, Amanda currently lives in Kansas with her husband, their three adorable and hilarious Wenlets, and a snuggly Siamese cat. Roots of Wood and Stone is her debut novel.

Welcome, Amanda! I am so glad to meet you and to introduce you to the world. Let's get started!

CC: First off, how can we pray for you?

AW: I would love prayer for the launch of Roots of Wood and Stone. It’s a dream come true, and while I’d love to say I’m excited and joyful and soaking up every minute, I’m actually very anxious about it. I have no idea how to ensure a book’s success once the writing is done, and I’m a little confused as to why God would choose to have me release this book in the midst of a global pandemic when many things are shut down, in-person launch events can’t happen, and the economy is less than amazing. Every aspect of writing this book, though, has been an exercise in trust, so I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that releasing it is any different. But if you could pray that a) those who God wants to read this book will read it and be brought closer to Him, and b) that I’d be able to relax and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience without worrying that I’m somehow doing it wrong, that’d be amazing.

CC: When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

AW: I’ve written stories for fun off and on ever since I was a kid, but the writing bug hit me big-time in January 2008, when I wrote stories and actually let other people read them. Then came the Wenlets—all three within four years—so that gobbled up my time until 2014, when story ideas came out of nowhere and refused to let go. Around that time I started letting a lifelong friend, herself a multi-published author in the general market, read my work. She took me under her wing and gently corrected all my newbie writing errors, but told me I had publishable talent and ideas. I decided that if God had given me that gift, I should probably pursue it through whatever avenue he chose.



CC: What has been the biggest challenge for you on your writing journey?

AW: Trusting God’s timing, which is I think a common one for us writers. So many of us finish our first novel and then we think we’ve Arrived somehow, and we want to run out and get it published. I was absolutely no exception. And though my first novel won a few contests and landed me my wonderful agent, it did not sell to publishers. I was pretty disappointed, as anyone would be, but while that book was on submission, I’d started to write another book in a slightly different genre—one I truly loved writing and felt at home in. My agent wasn’t as excited about it as she had been my first book, but she believed in my writing and said she’d pitch anything I wrote. That second book didn’t do as well in contests and was on submission for over a year…but the folks at Kregel fell in love with it, and that book is the one that became Roots of Wood and Stone.

One postscript illustrating God’s perfect timing: Roots of Wood and Stone was inspired by my mom’s research into our family history, and I dreamed of the day when I’d get to tell her that the book was under contract. The day that dream came true and I finally got to call her with the news, I got to call Ireland, where she and my dad were celebrating their 50th anniversary. At the time of the call, they were eating lunch in a little café in the hometown of the ancestor whose life inspired the book. It doesn’t get much more perfect than that.



CC: Did you hide any secrets in your book that only a few people will find?


AW: This book is inspired by aspects of my own family history. My mom is a genealogist and has been tracing our family—and sharing their stories—my whole life. As an homage to her and all the rest of my ancestors, many of the people and places in the book are named for my ancestors. There are also several shout-outs to Wichita, Kansas, my home for most of my life, which people who’ve been around these parts might recognize.



CC: What was your hardest scene to write?

AW: I can narrow it down to two, and I really can’t go into detail about either one of them because MAJOR spoilers. However, I can say that these two scenes forced me to confront my two greatest fears, and seeing how God was present for my characters helped me realize that even if these fears do come to pass at some point in my life, He is still God, and He is still good.

Roots of Wood and Stone

This historic home holds the keys to their destiny . . .and their hearts


Abandoned at birth, her family roots a mystery, historical museum curator Sloane Kelley has dedicated her life to making sure others know theirs. When a donor drops off a dusty old satchel, she doesn't expect much from the common artifact . . .until she finds real treasure inside: a nineteenth-century diary.Now she's on the hunt to find out more.


Garrett Anderson just wanted to clean out his grandmother's historic but tumbledown farmhouse before selling it to fund her medical care. With her advancing Alzheimer's, he can't afford to be sentimental about the family home. But his carefully ordered plan runs up against two formidable obstacles: Sloane, who's fallen in love with both the diaries and the house, and his own heart, which is irresistibly drawn to Sloane.


A century and a half earlier, motherless Annabelle Collins embarks with her aunt and uncle on the adventure of a lifetime: settling the prairies of Sedgwick County, Kansas. The diaries she left behind paint a portrait of life, loss, and love--and a God who faithfully carries her through it all. Paging through the diaries together takes Sloane and Garrett on a journey they never could have planned, which will change them in ways they never imagined.


This warm, beautifully written split-time novel will resonate with readers looking for stories that reveal the beauty of God's plan for our lives, and how our actions ripple for generations.



You can check out Amanda's book Roots of Wood and Stone at your favorite retailer.


If you would like to be entered for a chance to win a copy of Roots of Wood and Stone. Be sure to comment below with a "Congratulations!" and your email in (at) (dot) form. :-)

Interview with debut author Leann Austin

by Kathleen L. Maher

New writers and books are popping up on the scene like fresh grass in springtime. There are true gems out there, sometimes thrown unnoticed in the haystack, unrecognized by the world because the author is new, hasn’t developed a huge cheering section, and hasn’t received the attention they deserve. I know an author like that, with a book that offers a pertinent message for a generation increasingly in need of safe passage through the minefield of toxic relationships.  She speaks from experience and authority, and with a delightfully readable voice.

May I introduce to you an accomplished children’s writer with over twenty short stories in publication, a generous and supportive soul who has been cheering authors in the Christian writing community for at least as long as Facebook has been around…

Leann Austin, it is my pleasure to feature you for our readers here.

·        Tell us a little about yourself and your book! 

Thank you Kathleen. I'm happy to be here with you today. I started to write professionally in 2006 as a newspaper correspondent. I reported on village and school board meetings in my small town and have written over a hundred newspaper articles. I earned my BBA in 2014 while raising my four fabulous children. I knew I wanted to write for children, so I enrolled in The Institute of Children's Literature to prepare me for writing children's stories. To date I have written twenty stories for Primary Treasure magazine. I recently wrote my first article for almostanauthor.com. I was also awarded honorable mention in Writer's Digest 75th Annual Writing Competition in the Mainstream/Literary Short Story Category.

Finding Henry is my first Young Adult novel. Emelia recently graduated from the class of 1982. Life is sweet with her handsome boyfriend, her forever bestie, and her totally awesome friend Henry. But when Emelia learns Jasper cheated on her, she realizes Henry isn't around to cheer her up. Henry is the boy next door type of friend that's always around. When he tells Emelia he has feelings for her, she chooses Jasper over him. Now he has left for Cornell University. The trouble is Henry never showed up. In a time before the internet and social media, will Emelia find the friend she thought would always be around? And in her search for Henry, will she find herself?

Here is my (Kathleen's) endorsement for Leann’s wonderful debut:

Emelia Berggren is the kind of everyday girl that makes Finding Henry powerful in its chilling relatability. The author’s recreation of a retro 1980’s setting and her authentic portrayal of an often-misunderstood personality disorder make this not just a compelling read, but an important cautionary tale. A must-read for every girl who gives too much and asks too little.

·        Why is this story near and dear to your heart?

            You know the old saying, write what you know? I guess that's what I did. I set Finding Henry in the 1980s with a lot of the pop culture that goes with it.  I also had several girlfriends in high school with boyfriends like Jasper. I thought that was normal. I learned too late in life that it's not.

·        Who is your ideal reader? And what do you hope they take away from this lovely story?

            I think anyone who enjoys Young Adult novels, the 80s, or time travel stories would enjoy Finding Henry. I wrote it for young adults, but have received feedback from people in their 70s who say it wasn't the kind of book they'd normally read and they loved it. I tried to write it so anybody could read it and not feel uncomfortable. I hope readers will learn more about hidden abuse, the type that destroys a person from within and doesn't always show in a woman's  physical appearance. I also hope that anyone who reads Finding Henry and relates to Emelia, will realize their worth and come out from the shadows of their abuser, seek help, and walk in their true purpose. And maybe someone will recognize that abuse in their daughter, friend, aunt, sister, mother, and gain a greater understanding and compassion for the woman in that situation.

·        Please tell us one (or two) quirky memory(ies) from your high school years that may or may not have inspired or informed your characters or a plot line in your brand-new book, Finding Henry.

            It started when a memory of my very own Henry came to mind one day. He liked me too much and looking back, I don't think I believed he was sincere. I wasn't worthy of that kind of affection and I thought he was goofing around until we had a moment like the one Emelia and Henry had on the bench after graduation. I didn't know how to put the idea into a story until one day I had a memory of when I had gone to the Gala Days with a friend. She coaxed me into seeing the palm reader. I went along for the fun of it. The palm reader told me what the fortune teller in Finding Henry told Emelia. Like Emelia, I laughed it off.

·        What fuels your passion to write?

            In children's stories, I hope to send a positive message and help them step outside themselves to see the world from the perspective of someone different from them.

            It's my passion to reach out to women like Emelia, no matter what their age. Women don't choose the verbally or physically abusive man. They are drawn to them because it's their normal. I've heard both men and women say that a woman who is with an abusive man must like it because they stay with him. I don't think that's true. I think it's their comfort zone if they were raised in a violent home or were neglected as a child. Once they realize it's chipping away at their soul, it's difficult to leave due to financial hardships, threats from the abuser, and the fear of losing their children.

·        What hobbies or pastimes do you enjoy when not writing?

            I love to read and always have a book with me. I also crochet. It's what I do to decompress and relax when I'm stressed. Making baby hats for the hospital's newborns has been a good way to fuel my hobby and not accumulate things I don't need. I also do some knitting and have made hats for soldiers in years past.

·        What is your favorite book?

Ah, that's a hard question. There are so many wonderful books to choose from. The book that I can read and always get a smile from is a Little Golden Book titled The Monster at the End of This Book. I read that book over and over as a kid and shared it with all four of my own children. I love how creative and interactive it is.

·        What is next on your writing journey?

            I have an idea for another young adult novel that centers around the daughter of a country star. It takes place in a small town in Pennsylvania.  I'm also planning to compile my children's story into a book collection. And I'll continue to write my children's stories for church take-home papers.

Thank you, Leann. And thank you readers, for stopping in today!

I am offering an e-copy of Finding Henry to one lucky commenter who answers this question by the author: What is the one moment you would go back to and do differently if you could?

Please leave your email addy (name at mailserver dot com) with your comment so we can be sure to notify you if random dot org selects you to win.

Extra entries can be earned if you share this interview on your social media. Just mention in your comment where your shared. Okay, good luck!

________________________________________________________

 Kathleen L. Maher

Stories Where Every Underdog Has His Day.

Kathleen L. Maher’s first crush was Peter Rabbit, and she’s loved conflicted heroes ever since. She has two novellas in BARBOUR BOOKS' collections: Victorian Christmas Brides and Lessons on Love. Winner 2012 ACFW Genesis Award. Author of Sons of the Shenandoah Series: The Abolitionist's Daughter and The Chaplain's Daughter.
Kathleen and her husband live in an old farmhouse in upstate NY with their children and a small menagerie.
Follow Kathleen at
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