The Because Fiction Podcast

YA Christian fiction set in Israel?  Come on, that screams, "Sign me up!" Listen in as Bethany Crigger and I chat about her book, Sunshine for Yofi. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Love this different setting in particular. Seeing Jewish culture and a Christian set in it and seeing everything. through that lens?  Yeah. This is unique, fresh, and still relatable. Sunshine for Yofi by Bethany Crigger After Yofi bombs her big opportunity to share her music, she spirals into a pit of self-doubt. Who is she if she doesn't have what it takes to play in front of other people? Didn't God put music inside her to speak to others through it? Giving up isn't an option, but Yofi's nerves promise one thing: failure. So she does the only thing she knows to do. She cries out to God. His answer is puzzling—a verse containing lilies, paired alongside a new friendship with Ori—the boy who sees what Yofi is painfully blind to. But even if Ori's got her perfectly pegged, both the lilies and the captivating boy remain a mystery to Yofi. With her curiously intuitive cat by her side, Yofi weaves herself into the beautiful community of Yerushalayim (Jerusalem). But just as her playing improves, Yofi's world flips upside down. Nothing is coincidental; it's all a part of the plan. But whose plan? Is the burning in Yofi's heart to play and share her music God's leading, or is it merely her own selfish desire heading her straight for the deepest pitfall of all? Sunshine for Yofi is a uniquely crafted and heartfelt novel by Bethany Crigger. This wholesome coming-of-age story is a breath of fresh air, awakening the sleeping soul to dreams of hope long buried. If you enjoy clean, faith-filled themes, you'll pine for this story of perseverance, friendship, love, generosity, and community attuned to God. Learn more on Bethany's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

 One thing good fantasy often has is the whole "prophecy" angle--and how it affects the folks involved. But what if, in addition to that, you also find out that who you thought you ARE... is all wrong?  Listen in as R. T. Ward and I chat about her book, Prophecy Changer. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  The creativity of God's people never ceaces to astound me, and this conversation was further proof of that. Prophecy Changer  by R. T. Ward Trauma has taken root in Thea's soul, leaving behind questions she can no longer silence. When long-buried memories begin to surface, the truth presses in demanding to be seen, felt, and faced. Adopted by the Mirascan people, Thea has always believed herself to be human. But as fragments of her past return, doubt follows. Drawn by questions she can't answer and a pull she can't explain, she steps beyond the only world she has ever known, hoping to uncover who she truly is. Her search leads her into the unknown and into the path of Ilan. Through him, Thea begins to unravel the lies that shaped her life, awakening a deep ache of anger, betrayal, and grief. What she uncovers changes everything. Caught in the center of a living prophecy, Thea learns of Creashu, the world of her origin, and the calling placed upon her life. As new gifts awaken within her, she must decide whether she will allow her pain to define her...or refine her. Determined to pursue truth, forgiveness, and the path set before her, Thea faces a choice that will alter more than her own destiny. The future of two worlds hangs in the balance, and the role she was born to fulfill can no longer be ignored. But becoming a Prophecy Changer was never meant to be easy. All proceeds go to livingseeds.foundation Learn more on her WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

 Dystopian in the desert?  Sign me up!  Seriously, listen in while Lauren Smyth and I chat all things "glowy" in the desert! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Not a lot of people write books about the boring Mojave Desert.  When they do, I take note. Especially when it's a super-cool dystopian delight! EEEP! All That Glows by Lauren Smyth The apocalypse didn't take everyone. It just took us. Ever since the rain turned green, Kyrie's world has been bathed in glowing dust. She packs it into old mascara tubes and sells it as makeup alongside dried cacti, threadbare blankets, and long-expired canned food. There's not much else to do when everyone outside Kyrie's small town in the Mojave Desert died from the plague-bearing rain ten years ago. Everyone—except the man in the rubber mask. He's on the dangerous side of the fence, huffing infected air like it's nothing, babbling to Kyrie about college and umbrellas and yogurt and everything else that disappeared the day it rained. He doesn't seem to know that the world ended, and he has no explanation for how he survived the apocalypse. But Kyrie doesn't believe in ghosts. She can't trust him, but he's right about one thing: Towns without secrets aren't surrounded by chain-link fences. And chain-link fences won't keep out the plague forever. Learn more on Lauren's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

I did a whole video on dementia in Christian fiction and how we need more not long ago.  Now Carolyn Bourke has given us another wonderful addition to the line up in A Beautiful Death. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  This book shows how people with dementia are still people with love to give and needs. If you loved The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip, I suspect you'll enjoy this book, too! A Beautiful Death by Carolyn Bourke A moving story of resilience, second chances, and the unbreakable bonds of familial love. World-renowned pianist Cassie Brennan faces a devastating diagnosis: rapidly advancing younger-onset dementia threatens to steal her memories and identity. As she grapples with the lonely life she's always led, an unexpected friendship with newbie journalist Elle Jones offers a glimmer of hope. With time running out and the shadows of dementia closing in, Elle helps Cassie confront her deepest regrets and search for reconciliation. Together, Cassie and Elle embark on a journey of forgiveness and self-discovery, testing the boundaries of friendship and the resilience of the human heart. Bourke weaves a tapestry of emotions that will resonate with readers long after the final page in this heartwarming tale of resilience and humor in the face of dementia, where Cassie's quirky attitude and indomitable spirit captivate. Perfect for fans of Sara Brunsvold's The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip, A Beautiful Death is a testament to the enduring power of love and the indomitable strength of the human spirit. Learn more on Carolyn's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

I love the Pinkertons--give me a Pinkerton story any day. Add to that one with an undercover woman as an agent, and you've got me hooked. Listen in and see with Denise M. Colby has done in A Whole New Plan to ensure I read this one ASAP. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Though NOT the last in the series, this book is the last for now, anyway! Don't know about you, but I'm eager for more! A Whole New Plan by Denise Colby Sometimes God's best plan is the one we never expected. California, 1870. Pastor William Baker has built his life on faith, routine, and safe choices—until Lydia Spencer walks in and turns everything upside down. Independent, outspoken, and guarded, Lydia is unlike any woman he's ever known. She has no interest in church… and no intention of revealing the truth she's hiding. Because Lydia isn't just a schoolteacher. She's a Pinkerton detective, sent west to track a dangerous crime boss—and she'll do whatever it takes to protect those she loves, even if it means keeping her distance from the one man who sees straight through her defenses. But when unexplained thefts shake their quiet small-town rural community, and a desperate boy appears with ties to a deeper mystery, Will and Lydia are forced into an uneasy partnership. As danger closes in, so do their hearts. What begins as a reluctant alliance soon becomes a forced proximity neither of them expected—and neither can ignore. Yet the very things that draw them together may be the ones that tear them apart. Lydia's life is built on secrets. Will's is built on truth. And when her past catches up with her, they'll have to decide what matters most—holding on to their own plans… or trusting the One who sees the bigger picture. Because sometimes surrender is the only way to find the life you were meant to live. Set against the backdrop of the American West, A Whole New Plan is a heartfelt story of faith, courage, and a strong woman learning to trust again—woven with threads of mystery and hope.> If you enjoy western Christian romances with elements of intrigue and heart, you'll love A Whole New Plan—perfect for fans of Misty M. Beller and Mary Connealy. Step into a story of courage, trust, and unexpected love—grab your copy today. Learn more about Denise on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Don't miss the first interview with Denise.  Listen in HERE. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

Have you been longing for a trip to Leathersby?  Well, Ann Swindell promises to take you there AND reveal what a hundred years has hidden in her upcoming release, Secrets in the Castle Library. Listen in for all the news! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Love that we talked about stereotypes and how they relate to our pasts and when they don't.  Also love how she focused on sanctification of believers who don't know how that's going to look.  Don't miss how she talks about how God has a great ending for each of our stories. Secrets in the Castle Library by Ann Swindell The past year of Melanie Tallebois's life has unraveled, both professionally and personally. Usually unflappable, she can't understand why life isn't going to plan. So when she's offered a professorship at the University of Lethersby, she seizes it as her chance to find the happiness that has eluded her for as long as she can remember. The fact that her best friend is the nation's princess and has invited her to live in the castle for the summer doesn't hurt, either. The only thing eluding Eddie Canon are answers. As director of the National Museum of Lethersby, he's spent years chasing the truth behind Queen Alma's disappearance over a century ago. Now, tasked by the royals to tie up the loose ends of the national mystery, he's studying in the castle library and still coming up empty-handed. The last person Eddie wants to work with is Melanie, who inserts herself into his research—and his life. She's brash, annoying, forthright…and altogether brilliant. Eddie thinks it wise to push her away, but as the research continues to stall, he can't ignore that their friendship has begun to blossom. When the long-lost queen's mysteries finally come to light, Melanie is plunged into darkness—and Eddie questions everything he thought he understood about faith and love. Together, they must uncover the secrets in the castle library and decide whether they're willing to trust God with a story far greater than their own. Learn more about Ann on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

The last place you want to be when the electricity gives out is the desert--especially in summer. Listen in as I chat with Dante Lupinetti about his book, Desert's Edge and how it tackles a trek across the desert and up into the mountains... with a couple hundred people in tow! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Growing up in the area that this book takes place in, I can't WAIT to read it. EEEP!  It's sitting right there on the shelf, taunting me. Must. Finish. My. Own. Book. Desert's Edge by Dante Lupinetti The grid is down. Phoenix has 72 hours. And the only way out is through 200 miles of desert. Former Army Ranger Jack Cross hasn't spoken to his father in three years. Hasn't been inside a church. Hasn't let himself believe in much of anything since nineteen firefighters trusted him and didn't come home. But his father has been broadcasting on emergency radio every night since the EMP hit. Come north. There's room. Come anyway. Jack has 210 terrified strangers, one missionary doctor running from her own ghosts, and a wooden cross he can't bring himself to throw away. The desert doesn't care about any of that. Neither does the clock. When an electromagnetic pulse kills every electronic device in Phoenix during a 118-degree heat wave, Jack faces an impossible choice — stay in a city of 1.7 million people as the infrastructure collapses, or lead more than two hundred terrified strangers two hundred miles north through the Sonoran Desert to Camp Kadesh — his father's off-grid Christian retreat in the Prescott mountains. The father he hasn't spoken to in three years. The refuge the old man spent five years building while everyone called him a fool. Joining him is Dr. Faith Morrison — missionary physician, Haiti veteran, and a woman whose faith has been ground down by years of watching children die of treatable diseases while her prayers went unanswered. Together they'll lead a caravan of families, elderly couples, frightened children, and one man hoarding water while others go thirsty — through crashed planes, contaminated water sources, rattlesnake strikes, and triple-digit heat that turns every mile into a question about whether God is still in any of this. Jack's father has been broadcasting on emergency radio every night. Come north. There's room. Come anyway. The wooden cross is still in Jack's pocket. Some things you can't throw away. Some debts can't be balanced. And some refuges are built by people who believed — long before anyone else did — that the day would come when you'd need somewhere to run. Desert's Edge: A Jack Cross Novel is a post-apocalyptic survival thriller about what it costs to keep walking when everything in you says stop — and what grace looks like when you finally arrive. Especially for readers of Kyla Stone, Jamie Lee Grey, and William Forstchen. Series: A Jack Cross Novel, Book 1 Genre: Post-Apocalyptic Survival Thriller / Christian Fiction Content: Clean read. No profanity. No explicit content.   Learn more on WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

I love women's fiction when it tackles tough stuff, and boy does Laura DeNooyer's House of Wind promise some hard topics. Listen in as we look at a pastor's family and how things aren't always as they seem.  note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Church hurt is a real thing, but what about for those who live with the perpetrator? AAAK.  I knew the minute I read the synopsis that this would be on my TBR. House of Wind by Laura DeNooyer Wendi Burkham lives in an emotional prison she unwittingly walked into. Nobody understands and her captor holds the keys.  Married to a respected pastor, Wendi lives a life others admire—with two children and a home that reflects faith, stability, and love. But behind closed doors, Wendi is trapped in a cycle of control, manipulation, and emotional abuse no one else can see—and no one would believe. How do you escape when no one believes you need to? For sixteen years, she has stayed silent. Stayed faithful. Stayed afraid. Until one night forces her to choose between the life she's built . . . and the truth she can no longer ignore. Her husband's warning echoes: "Planting wind only reaps a harvest of tornadoes." But what if the storm is the only way out? Learn more on Laura's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

 I feel like Christian fantasy is really exploding. So when I read about Cheryl Weber's Never Forsaken, I knew I'd have to read it. Listen in as we chat about the world, the faith, and the story. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Never Forsaken by Cheryl Weber Giant snake gods. Worshippers of sensuality. A jealous rebel. A failing king. A courageous, young prince who struggles to uphold truth and justice. Caught in the middle, one young woman fights for her future and the very destiny of her soul. Ariel Summerfield was a girl when tragic loss, followed by a devastating betrayal, broke her heart and robbed her and her family of wealth and prestige. Ten years later, she is still struggling to hold them all together. Can what was lost be restored? Will she ever be free to pursue her dreams? But those with vile intentions for Ariel lay in wait. And one terrible day, she finds herself captive to a fate she never would have chosen. Will she yield to the voice that promises victory over her enemies but leads to the ultimate destruction of body and soul? Or will she entrust her life and dreams to the all-powerful One who cherishes her like no other and can redeem the shattered remnants of her life? Even when all seems lost.   Learn more on Cheryl's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

Mystery is my absolute favorite genre, so when I heard that Kari Trumbo had taken her Wayside Ranch and spun it off into a mystery series, you know I was excited.  Kari? Plus mystery? Listen in and hear why Beneath Still Waters is next on my "must read" list! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Okay... mystery that isn't focused on romance?  That's like this book was tailor-made for me!  EEEP! I love what Kari is doing with this series and now this spin-off. This is gonna be great! Beneath Still Waters by Kari Trumbo Fresh out of training and still haunted by a near-fatal shootout, Ferd Kincade retreats to Wayside Ranch to heal. She expects quiet. Instead, she finds a body. When she discovers a mysterious boat washed ashore on a nearby lake, nothing about the scene makes sense and Ferd can't walk away. Pulling Piper's Ridge detective Duke Campose into the investigation, she soon uncovers signs of something far more dangerous than a simple murder. Someone is hiding a deadly secret. And they're willing to kill again to keep it buried. As the truth points to a ruthless drug operation, Ferd becomes the next target. Now, she'll need every ounce of her training, and a lot of faith, to survive long enough to bring a killer to justice. Don't miss the giveaway that ends September 7th.  Books will be shipped to US addresses, but feel free to enter from anywhere and have the book sent to a friend! No purchase necessary! Just click HERE to enter. Learn more on Kari's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

I love me a good, unlikely hero. Chatting with Lucas and Shauna Fischhaber gave me a new one to root for. Listen in and see why I'm eager to read Gathering Storms. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  The world, the plans, the way Lucas and Shauna interact and brainstorm--it was awesome! Gathering Storms by Lucas Fischhaber As storms descend, who will rise? Amber Veloré never asked to be a hero. A daughter of the forest, her gift for taming wild creatures should have been enough. But when a legendary griffin crashes into her world on her nineteenth Crossing Day-majestic, wounded, and brimming with primal fury, a creature beyond even her ability-her quiet life shatters. To the villagers of Thunder Ridge, the griffin is a curse, a living reminder of the Haze, a storm-born terror that cannot be contained. To the ruthless Dracara, its young is a prize worth blood and fire.  To Amber, it is a choice she cannot turn away from... even if it costs her everything. Far beyond her forest home, whispers of forgotten powers stir. Ancient artifacts, tied to Solaris' greatest cataclysm-the Great Event-begin to resurface.  And as storms gather on the horizon, destinies entwine: a failed Dracara warrior desperate for redemption, siblings bound by loyalty and loss, and a girl who only ever wished to remain Amber, daughter of the forest. The storm is coming. And when it breaks, who will rise?  Every song whispers history. Every poem hides truth. In Gathering Storms, even the smallest verse carries the weight of forgotten worlds.  Set in the mythic world of Solaris-a land scarred by the echoes of a forgotten age-this sweeping tale blends adventure, mystery, and heart. Readers will uncover a world where griffins soar through thunderclouds, ancient artifacts hum with lost power, and the choices of a few can alter the fate of all.  For fans of the mythic wonder of The Inheritance Cycle, the depth of Earthsea Cycle, and the epic scale of The Lord of the Rings, Gathering Storms is a character-driven epic fantasy of memory, courage, and the power that awakens when hope refuses to fade.  Learn more on Lucas' WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. Don't miss their YouTube Channel. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

The Blood of Kings: Legends has another fabulous addition. Niki Florica's Son of Embers promises a great story. Listen in to learn more note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. A scarred squire and a girl with poison in her slippers must outrun the dark before it claims them both. Son of Embers  by Niki Florica He's the slave a dozen masters threw away. She's the lady no one in Er'Rets knows what to do with. Now, they're both wanted by a town full of traitors… and one another's best chance of escape. Born to serve, slave-turned-squire Mezaedo Chevyah was sent to Har Sha'ar with a simple plan: investigate a noblewoman's disappearance, and prove to the Kingsguard that he's worth keeping. Instead, he finds a bounty on his head, the voice of a dead villain stirring in the back of his mind, and two unlikely allies — one, a traitor, the other a lady as strange as her poison-toed slippers. Lady Halona Pitney — anomaly, herbalist, and self-proclaimed harbinger of chaos — came back to Har Sha'ar to find her missing grandmother and confront her childhood friend, Erro Coble. But Erro has changed, and the secrets he's keeping are the kind that get people killed. So when he asks her to help him smuggle a wounded squire out of the village — alive — how can she refuse? Forced into an alliance no one wants, Mezaedo, Halona, and Erro have one chance to escape Har Sha'ar alive before every bounty hunter in the mountains closes in. But the wilderness beyond the walls hides a darkness worse than any of them imagined. Loyalties will fracture. Secrets will surface. And what's growing between the squire and the lady may cost more than they know how to pay. To survive what waits, Mezaedo and Halona will have to trust each other — and the God who carried them this far — before the dark swallows everyone they came to save. Two unlikely hearts. Enemies on every side. A faith that may be the only thing left standing. From the bestselling fantasy author of the Blood of Kings and Kinsman Chronicles, Son of Embers is a stand-alone, faith-forward romantasy set in Jill Williamson's beloved Er'Rets — perfect for readers who enjoy slow-burn romance wrapped in quirky characters, courageous faith, and prose that crackles like a hearth in a winter storm. READERS WILL LOVE… A slow-burn romance built one stitched wound and shared fire at a time. A slave-turned-squire whose smiles will completely undo you — even with a bounty on his head. An audacious noblewoman the world has never known what to do with, with poison in her slippers and chaos in her shoes. A childhood friend turned traitor — and the impossible question of whether love can pull him back. A trio of misfits forced into the wilderness beyond the walls. Faith that gets tested in the snow, the cave, the ash — and a town full of traitors hunting their every step. You can listen to the first interview HERE. Learn more about  Niki on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. And don't forget her YouTube channel. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

 Anyone who knows me knows I love a good heart-rending story, and To Fly on Broken Wings by Fayla Ott sounds like the best kind--one with hope even in the difficult things. Listen in and see why it reminds me of Patti Paige! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Oh, boy. No way can I not read this book ASAP! To Fly on Broken Wings by Fayla Ott Mississippi Delta, 1941 Lila Rose never expected life to offer her more than the quiet rhythm of cotton fields and small-town whispers. Raised in poverty and caring for an alcoholic father, she's learned not to hope for much. Then she meets Graham, a young pilot from one of Mississippi's wealthiest families. Their unlikely love changes everything. But when war tears them apart and Graham is reported killed in action, Lila believes the future she'd dreamed of has died with him. Determined to move forward, she remarries and begins building a new life. Until Graham comes home. Now the man she buried in her heart is standing before her, and the life she's fought to rebuild hangs in the balance. Faced with an impossible choice between the love she lost and the promises she's made, Lila must discover whether faith can guide her when every path leads to heartbreak. To Fly on Broken Wings is a moving Christian historical novel about love, loss, impossible choices, and the quiet courage to trust God when the path ahead is anything but clear. Learn more on Fayla's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

 Edwardian England? Yes, please!  Listen in as Chelsea Bobulski and I chat about her book, Deal with a Debutante. Is it a marriage of convenience... or not? note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I don't think there are enough Edwardian novels out there, so when I heard this one wasn't Regency but Edwardian... EEEP! Add to that an American heiress and an Earl?  Double eeep! A Deal with a Debutante by Chelsea Bobulski She's running from London's marriage mart. He's running out of time to save his estate. Neither planned on falling in love--but their hearts have other plans. American heiress Calliope Hart is thrust into London's high society against her will, all because her mother is determined to marry her off to an aristocrat. Despite being named "the debutante of the season" back in New York, Calliope wants nothing more than to avoid becoming another pawn in the social game. Edward Chase, the Earl of Hayward, is on the brink of financial ruin. To save his estate, he must marry, and Calliope Hart is his last hope. When he boldly declares his intentions, she swiftly rejects him, making it clear she has no interest in marrying for convenience. Undeterred, Edward offers a deal: He will escort Calliope to all the best sights of London that she's been dying to see if she agrees to visit his estate and consider what they could accomplish together. What begins as a business arrangement soon sparks something much more complicated--an undeniable chemistry neither can ignore. But as their hearts begin to soften, both must confront their fears: Can Calliope trust Edward with her heart, and can Edward truly win her love when she's convinced he only wants her fortune? Learn more on Chelsea's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

Being a spy in WWII must have been harrowing--being responsible for a network of them?  Listen in as Roseanna M. White and I talk about her newest release, The Spy Keeper of Marseille. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. One thing that always surprises me is how much the German invaders supported the arts.  It's not what you expect during a time of war.  I love how Roseanna shows faith flourishing and growing in times of trouble as well as triumph. The Spy Keeper of Marseille by Roseanna M. White In occupied France, a woman becomes a spy for the Resistance and rises to lead the largest intelligence operation in the country in this propulsive new World War II historical novel by bestselling author Roseanna M. White. Marseille, France, 1941. Zelie Bellerose never fit the mold of an army officer's wife. She was too passionate in her convictions, too indifferent to societal expectations. After her husband is killed in the war, Zelie focuses on securing a brighter future for her children, hoping to help free her country from the Nazi regime by joining the Resistance. She is soon one of the most trusted operatives in Alliance, and when their leader is imprisoned, she takes command, hiding her identity from all but a few. With enemies closing in, Zelie must earn the trust of her network and prove herself to those who doubt a woman's place at the helm of France's largest spy ring. Marcel Laurent was a renowned concert pianist before joining the French army and being sent to a POW camp. Freed in a prisoner exchange by a wealthy businessman with ties to the Resistance, Marcel agrees to spy for Alliance by conducting a youth orchestra, gathering intelligence from patrons who are loose-lipped Nazi sympathizers. Marcel's weekly radio broadcasts introducing the orchestra's performances give him the perfect cover to send coded messages over the airwaves. As Zelie and Marcel grow closer through their shared love of music, she begins to rely on him. But betrayal from within Alliance puts everything they've fought for at risk. When a double agent infiltrates their ranks and the two are captured, their bond faces its greatest test . . . and any misstep could jeopardize not only Alliance but the very outcome of the war. A thrilling, propulsive novel based on the real life of a female spy during World War II Perfect for fans of WWII historical fiction by Ariel Lawhon, Lynn Austin, Martha Hally Kelly, and Kristy Cambron A captivating romance featuring a strong female heroine and a musician hero Includes discussion questions for book clubs Learn more about Roseanna M. White on her WEBSITE (with all the bookish merch) and follow her on BookBub and GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

I blame Clint Hall for me singing Roger Millers "Two Worlds Collide" for the last couple of months.  No, his sci-fi Worlds Collide has nothing to do with that song, but... I'm DYING to read it.  Listen in and see why. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Space wars? Prophecy?  EEEP!!! I found Worlds Collide while writing one of my books and was eager to get a copy of it. Thanks to Clint for the lovely copy sitting on my shelf right next to me.  Time to start! Worlds Collide by Clint Hall Five worlds at war. Only one can survive. Ten thousand years ago, five cosmic beings—a dragon, a phoenix, a serpent, a lion, and a wolf—set their worlds on an inevitable collision course. Each civilization was given one command: destroy the rival worlds, or crash into them and die. As the planets draw near to each other, the moment of final reckoning is at hand. In a galaxy filled with starfighters and superweapons, magic and manipulation, planet-killing devices and mechanized legions, five heroes must defend their homeworlds against overwhelming odds. But when prophecy and destiny collide, a far greater power begins to stir—one that challenges everything they've been told. Oaths will be broken. Chains will be shattered. Champions will rise. The fate of the universe hangs in the balance as these heroes discover whether any world deserves to survive. The War of the Creators has begun. Perfect for fans of Red Rising, The Expanse, and mythic sci-fi epics, Worlds Collide blends high-stakes interplanetary war with a legendary, fate-driven mystery—where the final battle may not be what it seems. Learn more on Clint's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. The Experience podcast starts up in September. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

Love a fast-paced suspense novel?  Listen in as I chat with Taylor Newport about her newest release! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Don't know about you but this series sounds AWESOME. Overdrive by Taylor S. Newport The mission looked simple. But the enemy is closer, faster, and deadlier than they imagined. Tyler Reid needs a break, but trouble finds him first. A call from London pulls him into a missing-person case linked to a powerful surveillance project that's suddenly worth killing for. The deeper he digs, the more bodies he finds—and the more obvious it becomes that someone wants the entire system for themselves. Alexandra "Alex" Romanova is looking for an escape from Veritek and the weight waiting for her back home. A trip with Tyler should've been the break they both needed. But when the case escalates and puts her company in the crosshairs, she goes with him—trying to keep him grounded even as the danger forces him to speed up. The investigation spirals into a breakneck pursuit, ambushes snapping at their heels as their unknown enemy stays one move ahead. Someone is erasing anyone tied to the project, leaving bodies instead of answers. With the elusive threat closing fast, Tyler and Alex are fighting to get ahead long enough to expose who's hunting them. Learn more about Taylor on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Don't miss the first episode HERE. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

If you love fantasy and allegory as much as I do, The Chosen One might just be the book for you. Listen in as I chat with Sheri Bradley about her novel and all that went into it. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. I had a lovely time chatting about the world Sheri has created. I haven't read the book yet but that will be rectified posthaste. The Chosen One by Sheri Bradley Before Bara was born, a royal decree sealed her destiny: she would one day marry the prince and reign as queen. But as years pass without a word from the palace, doubt creeps in. When betrayal strikes and Bara is torn from her home in a violent abduction, her world spirals into chaos. Amid shadowed forests, whispered secrets, and a priceless sapphire that holds the promise of a future, Bara faces the ultimate question-does she truly have a choice, or has her path been written all along? The Chosen One is a sweeping allegory of love, sacrifice, and redemption, inviting readers to wrestle with the tension between free will and destiny. Will Bara embrace the role she was created for, or forge her own way in defiance of the king's plan? Learn more on Sheri's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

I always love a "What if?" story, and when I chatted with Stephanie Mack about her Twenty Something Else, I knew this would be an amazing one. Listen in and see what it's all about. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Stephanie Mack sure seems to have a fun, unique voice, and I can't wait to read all the books! Twenty Something Else by Stephanie Mack Sutton Layne is almost-forty and fabulous, with a happy marriage, three beautiful children, and a successful interior design business. But there's plenty of chaos behind the scenes of early midlife. Her preteen son is going off the rails, her husband is bailing on the party he was supposed to throw her, and that thriving business? If she can't land her next big client, it might all come crashing down. Then a surprise DM from someone in her past sends her spiraling into what-ifs. What if she settled down too young? Walked away from her big break? Never had her great adventure? Despite her simmering mini-crisis, Sutton can't wait for the birthday luncheon and pickleball tournament her friends have planned in her honor. But when an accident on the court knocks her out cold, she wakes up somewhere else . . . and is offered the chance to do it all over again. She can revisit her twenties―out of order and on her own terms. And this time around, anything goes: cities, careers, friendships. Even love. Learn more on Stephanie's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

I can't be the only person who cut her reading teeth on mysteries, and author Becca Wierwille has a great series for young readers with THREE new books coming out.  Listen in and learn all about the new Scout & Barnaby books AND how you can get them early! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Don't miss Becca's Kickstarter! You only have a couple of days left!  Find that HERE! Also, don't miss the first interview about this series HERE. Scout & Barnaby Series by Becca Wierwille The Scout and Barnaby Mysteries are funny, heartwarming Christian chapter books for kids ages 6-10 by award-winning children's author Becca Wierwille. These lightly illustrated mysteries star a girl named Scout and her unusually perceptive dog, Barnaby. They team up to solve mysteries at a Christian wilderness camp using her love of big words and his super sniffer. The series begins when Barnaby eats Scout's dictionary—and after that, he can understand words! Written as a bridge between chapter books and longer middle grade works, these books combine fun whodunit mystery elements with faith and humor. Books feature a larger font for emerging readers, stay short at approximately 15,000 words, and include illustrations by award-winning illustrator Brad Smith. This campaign is not just for one book, but for the next THREE books in the Scout and Barnaby Mysteries (books 4-6)! Learn more about Becca on her  WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. And listen to her PODCAST HERE. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE Laura Thomas' work, especially her Bite of Betrayal series.  Ribbons of Guilt takes the suspense to almost thriller level. Listen in and see why I can't wait to find out what's coming next! (I mean, I've already read this so... note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. My review (from my advance reader copy from the publisher). With more twists and turns than a pirouette, Laura Thomas sets the stage for a heart racing story that begins in beauty and builds to a crescendo you pray won't come. In her signature style, Laura layers secrets and sinister situations into one impossible-to-put-down novel. Romantic suspense rises to the next level as Leo and Harriet wrestle not only with the strange events taking their lives hostage but also the possible death of a marriage neither is ready to give up on. Or are they? Stock up on snacks and drinks before you sit down to read, because once you pick up this book, you'll be the next hostage--to the next page! Ribbons of Guilt by Laura Thomas A marriage in crisis. A betrayer in the wings. A life at stake. Harriet Duval has it all—a handsome French husband, a delightful young daughter, a successful career as a professional ballerina behind her, and a beautiful future in a charming village in the English countryside. Even her beloved sisters can't see the painful truth she hides beneath her perfect mask… Successful businessman Leo Duval is at a breaking point physically, emotionally, and spiritually as he is forced to harbor secrets in Paris while his marriage in England dissolves before his very eyes. The magnetic pull of Harriet's old dancing life and the shocking murder of a Swan Lake ballerina causes her to question everything: faith, future, family. When the killer begins targeting the Duval family, Leo and Harriet's vulnerable marriage is tested by an unimaginable traumatic event. Will the guilt they carry divide them when they need each other most? Learn more about Laura on her  WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. To learn about Captured in Frame, the first book in the series, listen HERE. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

Chatting with Laura Frantz is always a delight, and considering America's 250th celebration, it's apropos that she has a new release. Listen in as we discuss this latest story! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Make reading The Belle of Chatham part of your celebration this summer... even if you're not American. We love celebrating with everyone over here.  If you're British... um... sorry?  (not sorry).  But um... maybe you can see it as an escape from those crazy Yanks? ;) The Belle of Chatham by Laura Frantz A  tale of courtship & marriage, duty versus desire, faith & forgiveness.  * In 1777, caught in the crossroads of the American Revolution, sisters Maebel and Coralie Bohannon's quaint New Jersey village becomes a battleground as they house American officers in their home. Rebellion ripples through their family as members take opposing sides--Patriots and Loyalists--causing a deep chasm that fractures their once-unbreakable bond. As Mae's friendship grows with the American general Rhys Harlow, Coralie continues her liaison with her childhood sweetheart, a British officer stationed in New York. Torn between her growing love for the general and suspicion that her sister is a British spy, Mae leaves the only home she's ever known for the New York frontier. When betrayal strikes in the heart of the wilderness, she's forced to take a perilous journey that tests her very survival and those she loves, all in the name of liberty. * Proclaimed wordsmith extraordinaire by Library Journal, Laura Frantz delivers a stirring tale of divided loyalties, sisterhood, and love. Don't miss out on Bakerbookhouse.com 's 30% off with free US shipping. You can find that HERE. Learn more about Laura on her  WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

 No one does split-time like Melanie Dobson, and boy has she got a fabulous one for us now!  Listen in to what she shares about her latest, The Lost Story of Via Belle. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I love hearing about authors' research, but actually getting to see Grace Livingston Hill's WRITING ROOM?  WHAT?  The Lost Story of Via Belle by Melanie Dobson Searching for a story to adapt for film, an aspiring screenwriter becomes captivated by a bestselling classic novel and the mysterious disappearance of the woman who wrote it. 1940. Via Belle's sweet romance novels made readers believe in happily ever after. But Via's reality was much more complicated. While her first husband was alive, her creativity thrived in a beautiful stone estate situated above a pristine lake and moonflower garden. After his tragic death and a whirlwind second marriage shrouded in secrets, Via vanished from public life, leaving behind a shadow of scandal . . . and her final story. 2006. Screenwriter Harper Rayne is desperate for a breakthrough, if only she can find the right story to tell. But when she digs into the life of her late mother's favorite novelist, she never expects it to become personal. Drawn to the quaint Pennsylvania town where both her mother and Via once lived, Harper discovers more than a mystery to solve—she finds echoes of her own longing for love, healing, and home. As long-buried secrets come to light, Harper must decide if she'll protect the past or rewrite this particular ending. Described as a "powerhouse in dual-timeline Christian fiction" (Library Journal), Melanie Dobson delivers another rich, atmospheric novel about the legacy of sacrificial love and the redemptive power of truth. Standalone dual-timeline historical mystery filled with drama, faith, and intrigue Clean, suspenseful historical fiction, perfect for fans of Susan Meissner, Lisa Wingate, or Patti Callahan Henry Includes discussion questions for book groups   You can learn more about Melanie Dobson on her WEBSITE.  Also follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

 One of my favorite series is Lisa Phillips' Brand of Justice. Listen in as we talk about the final book (Psst... it can be read as a stand alone) in this sixteen-book series! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I've been holding out on finishing the series since I finished book three.  IT's time. So once we got done talking, I loaded up the next book on my phone and wheeeeeee! here we go! Now Until Forever by Lisa Phillips **The Epic Stand-alone Finale** Born into a legacy, Eliana must find her own brand of justice. After moving to Chicago to work at the mysterious Shrine museum, Eliana is determined to uncover the family secrets she's never been told. When she stumbles upon her first ever dead body, everyone around her believes she should try and solve the murder. But taking cases isn't what she came here for. Despite her plans, things are about to turn far more sinister, and the path she's on seems determined to drag her back into a nightmare. Chicago PD Officer Carlos Ryson was born into a legacy of his own. He's here to look for his missing sister, Luci, and wants to enlist Eliana's help. This is a family problem, and only family working together can solve it. But Eliana has never forgotten the way Carlos shredded her heart. If he wants them to team up, he'll have to confront the damage he did and find a way to repair it. While the city around them descends into a chaos that resembles the end times, someone has seized the opportunity to get what they want from the Shrine. Only Eliana stands in their way, but if she's going to figure this out she'll need to trust that the people around her have her back. Before it's too late. Now Until Forever is the stand-alone finale to the Brand of Justice series, and is set in the near-future. It features a happily ever after romance mixed with high-stakes suspense in this gripping crime fiction story. Don't miss The Lazerus Protocol preorder, too1 Learn more on Lisa's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

 Because Fiction is a celebration of fiction, but when I had the chance to chat with Felicia Hurd, I couldn't resist. Listen in and see why Count It All Joy is the first (and possibly only) nonfiction book we'll feature here. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  People often ask why we go through hard things, but hearing others' stories often helps us learn and grow. Count It All Joy by Felicia Hurd Count it all joy! Have you heard these words before? Is that even possible? How can you count it all joy when life's challenges are coming at you, often one right after another, before you have time to recover from the challenge before? You may have heard the saying, "count it all joy," in church for many years. While the phrase can be difficult to grasp the concept, it is possible in God's timing and strength. In Count It All Joy, you will see how first-time author Felicia A. Hurd reveals her account of trials and challenges that shook and eventually strengthened Felicia's faith. On this faith journey, from not trusting God to trusting God and studying His Word, Felicia has learned to count it all joy, even during trials, while learning to thank God in advance of the outcome, even if Felicia disagree with the outcome. God is a good Father, and Felicia has come to trust and believe that God knows what is needed and when. Welcome to the journey of Count It All Joy ~ Including the Broken Pieces  Learn more on Felicia's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

I've had so much fun chatting with Laura DeNooyer about her books, and The Broken Weathervane sounds amazing. Listen in as we talk about family secrets and see them across dual timelines. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I love split-time novels, and I can't wait to read this one.  We also chatted about being eclectic writers--people unable to stick to just one genre when stories demand different ones. The Broken Weathervane by Laura DeNooyer Two coworkers want the same truth. Only one of them can afford to reveal it. Leslie Wickersham has spent years hiding her connection to the legendary Buckwalter family—a secret her grandmother made her swear to protect. Now, thriving in her new role at Raymond University, she's tasked with helping brassy English professor Dr. Gregory Scott Stafford achieve full professor status. But there's a problem: Greg is racing to complete a biography of celebrated author Linus Fritz Buckwalter, and one final interview stands between him and publication. Leslie knows exactly who that interview subject is—her grandmother, Klara—and why speaking up could expose secrets her family has protected for decades. When Klara finally entrusts Leslie with her 1950s diary, the pages reveal why Fritz's brother, Edmund, quietly disappeared—and the devastating truth that fractured the family forever. As deadlines close in, Leslie finds herself caught between professional obligation and personal loyalty. The closer Greg comes to the truth, the more fragile Leslie's carefully guarded silence becomes—and the higher the risk of whatever choice she makes. Unfolding across dual timelines, The Broken Weathervane explores family loyalty, the stigma of mental illness, and the cost of telling the truth. Readers who enjoy thoughtful, book-centered fiction with layered timelines and emotional depth will appreciate this novel in the vein of Rachel Hauck, Susie Finkbeiner, Erin Bartels, Amanda Wen, and Katherine Reay. Discover The Broken Weathervane today and step into a story where the past refuses to stay quiet. Don't miss the Celebrate Lit Tour HERE. Learn more on Laura's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

Three Women. One Unlikely Mission. One Town Forever Changed. If that doesn't grab you, nothing will! Listen in as I chat with Sharon Wilharm about this intriguing book. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Loved our conversation--life in Florida during the late 19th century, authors, books, and movies she reminded me of, and even... THE NEXT BOOK!  Can't wait to see what publisher snaps that one up! EEEP! The Amazing Crab Alley Revival by Sharon Wilharm In 1897 Florida, a widowed woman searching for purpose finds herself drawn into an unexpected friendship—and a revival that will transform an entire town. The year is 1897 and wealthy widow Lydia Culpepper is evaluating her mundane existence. For sixty-three years, she's faithfully gone through the motions of fulfilling everyone else's expectations for her life, but nothing she does is ever enough. She longs for something more. When a young boy comes to her house in search of his missing coon dog, she gets her wish. She meets Emily Reed, a young finishing school instructor, and Opal Jackson, an Irish single mother, and the three women join together on a mission that turns the First Baptist Church on its head. Suddenly, the town is in an uproar as lives are being changed. When Yellow Fever hits, it looks like their efforts may have been in vain, but the epidemic isn't enough to thwart the fruits of the Crab Alley Revival.  Learn more on Sharon's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

 Looking for YA fantasy that gives all the great world-building vibes, fabulous faith, and a nod at forbidden romance? Listen in as Jil Koller and I chat about Heart of a Bowman and see why I absolutely LOVED THIS BOOK! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Okay, the way Jill built her world, talking and planning, and getting people on board to help figure all the things out? EEEP! That is awesome!  I loved the stories she told about writing it, about seeing how things came together--all of it! But best of all,  LOVED the book. My review of it can be found on GoodReads HERE. Heart of a Bowman by Jil Koller RISING FROM THE ENDLESS SEA is the Vertical Horizon, a massive rock spire holding four tiers of kingdoms. Four Truth Stones, one for each of the spire's interdependent tierdoms, help maintain a delicate power balance. But when a stone is stolen, the Spire is plunged into war. Seventeen-year-old Princess Aratess of Ardenia is destined for the shallow life of the royal court—and an arranged marriage to a selfish prince—but she longs to serve her people in a different way. For years, she's practiced archery in secret, and when the chance arrives, she matches her talents against Colt, an elite King's Bowman. Fiercely loyal to the crown, twenty-year-old Colt questions how his mother's people, the Reyjik, could betray the Realm. He also questions the judgment—though not the skills—of the fiery young woman who has inserted herself into his mission. Tess keeps her identity a secret, knowing Colt would forbid his princess from risking her life. Colt, meanwhile, strives to keep a secret of his own: his growing feelings for Tess. As Reyjik overrun Costair's capital, Colt and Tess escape skyward to warn the King of Ardenia and mount a counterattack. Desperate, they enlist the help of Deacon, Colt's estranged childhood friend and a lighter-than-aircraft pirate. Will Colt, Tess, Deacon, and a motley crew of pirates prove enough to stave off invasion and turn the tide of war? Learn more on Jil's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

I really love a good book with broken people finding redemption.  So when I got to chat with Gloriaea about her book, Broken Algorithm, I knew this was going to be right up my alley. Listen in and see why I'm so excited. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. We chatted about so many things, including the inspiration for the book, her setting--all the things! Broken Algorithm by Gloriaea All she wanted was a home… Brit has moved from one prison to another since she was eight. Now she's free, and nothing will stop her from getting back her family. Nothing…except the people who tore her life apart. She didn't need his help. So why was he everywhere? Sam finally has his life on track. Working for the Canadian federal police is miles away from his teenage rebellion. Nothing could prepare him for the petite ex-convict with magnetic coffee eyes. The clock is ticking for Brit's family reunion and shadowy figures haunt her steps. Will Brit discover the true meaning of home? Or will she lose the family she has sacrificed everything to save? Learn more on Gloriaea's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

A chilling read from Chris Underwood... literally. What happens if you're in the Midwest in winter and the power goes out? Listen in as I chat with Chris Underwood about his Cold Winter series. Content warning: While these books do have characters who are Christians and live their faith, the first book (not sure about the rest) does include a few instances of foul language in the first few chapters. I'm switching from audio to print to finish. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Talking about all the research he did for this series was a blast. I loved hearing about his travels with the crew and the prepper side--everything. The Cold Winter Grid-Down Series by Chris Underwood  The Cold Winter Series begins with a power grid failure at Niagara Falls three days before Christmas, as a snowstorm approaches. Welcome to The Cold Winter. It follows a group of families in Central Ohio who want to help stranded motorists who end up on their porch. Even when doing the right thing doesn't work out, they keep on trying. There is a sense of morality and faith as the emergency continues to worsen. In the second book, they learn that the power outage is an attack on the nation, and join a civilian minuteman militia to fight back. The third book of the series ramps up the action and features the first major battles of the minutemen militia. Since modern machinery cannot be trusted, vintage military equipment is utilized by the militia, such as a Huey Helicopter and a WWII Landing Ship, the LST-325. This ship is an actual floating museum on the Ohio River and is used by this militia to go upstream to rescue a VIP and bring him to safety. River locks are liberated from the enemy, and a dramatic battle is staged on Wheeling Island, where the landing ship performs much as it did on D-Day in Normandy: Landing aground with troops and equipment pouring out the front for battle! The fourth installment of the series introduces more vintage equipment, including a Cobra Attack Helicopter and a P-47 Thunderbolt, to fight modern naval ships in an effort to liberate the Niagara Falls power station from the enemy. Even the WWII Destroyer, USS The Sullivans, in its current engineless state at the Buffalo Naval Museum, is somehow used in the battle! It's an epic showdown of antique airpower against modern naval might! Learn more on Chris's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

One of my favorite people, Laura Ashwood has expanded one of her earlier and republished it. Women's fiction lovers should not miss this story!  Listen in as we chat about A Life Rewritten. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Laura Ashwood is an eclectic author with books in historical romance, royal romcom, and women's fiction. Don't miss out on her other awesome books as well! A Life Rewritten by Laura Ashwood Get lost in an absolutely fabulous read, perfect for fans of Kristin Hannah, Elin Hilderbrand, and Nancy Thayer. One woman's life falls apart in a single night. What she builds in its place will change everything. Abby Whitney had it all—or so she thought. A glittering Manhattan life. A powerful husband. A future that seemed secure. But when her husband, Michael Whitney, dies suddenly, Abby discovers the shocking truth: the man she loved was living a double life, and he's left behind a daughter who has no one else in the world. Becoming guardian to eight-year-old Cami forces Abby to confront the wreckage of her marriage and the emptiness of her own existence. Trading the scrutiny of New York's high society for the quiet shores of Bluefin Bay, North Carolina, she begins to uncover the strength she never knew she had. As Abby attempts to mother a grieving child, she discovers friendship, purpose, and the stirrings of a love that's honest and true. But will she be able to let go of the woman she used to be? A heart-stirring novel of betrayal, resilience, and the healing power of love, this is an unforgettable story about finding home where you least expect it—and becoming who you were always meant to be.  Learn more on Laura's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

I don't know about you, but the title, The Goodness of Unicorns, grabbed me.  That cover?  Also amazing! Listen in as Kayla M. Green chats about her writing and just what this goodness of unicorns is all about note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Eye color changing? Losing the ability to SEE color?  That totally grabbed me.  My copy is on my bookshelf waiting for a chance to read it. Yay! The Goodness of Unicorns by Kayla E. Green  One girl determined to heal her sister and another looking for purpose in a nation on the brink of war. And unicorns—with a twist you've never seen before. It's Rowan Tritonia's sixteenth Naming Anniversary. Her plans for the day never included a headache that causes her to almost faint on a day meant for celebration. When the world comes back into focus, her brown eyes have changed to magenta. But what scares her more is that everything around her is now black and white coupled with a mysterious ability to see the light and shadows in a person's soul. Then a local cleric implies that Rowan could have the power of Sight, a gift which has only been seen in the stories of unicorns in the Book of Verimor, an ancient text. Rowan is perplexed. Why would Verimor give her something she never asked for instead of answering her greatest prayer to help her younger sister, Blythe? News of the girl with Sight quickly travels beyond Rowan's local village. When the King of Wisteria learns of her gift from a letter, he summons her to the castle. With growing political tensions from neighboring nations, Rowan may be able to provide the aid they desperately need. Linnea, the king's sister and his primary advisor, prays that Rowan has truly been blessed by a unicorn and can save the nation and its people from encroaching darkness. Meanwhile, back at home, Blythe, sets out on her own journey. She feels helpless, tied down by the pain that keeps her homebound most of the time. Although she wears a smile to comfort those around her—especially her family—Blythe wonders if her life will ever amount to anything more than fading into the background. Is she truly too broken for any greater purpose, or can Verimor still use her? Don't forget to check out Kayla's Metamorphosis blog tour HERE. Learn more on Kayla's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

High school is hard enough without trying to navigate all the ups and downs without your mother.  Listen in as I talk with Joan Lovestrand Farley about Letters to Cassie, what you'll find inside, and why she wrote it. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I love the idea of a mother being so proactive as to write letters of encouragement and guidance when she realized she wouldn't be there to offer it in person.  My copy is at my house now, and I can't wait to get started on it. Letters to Cassie by Joan Lovestrand Farley Cassie always imagined her high school graduation would be a moment of celebration, surrounded by her family. But when her mother passes away from cancer just before her senior year, that dream shatters, and her future feels empty. Grief consumes her, and the path ahead seems impossible without her mom's steady guidance. Who am I? What are my strengths? What will I do with my life? Why does it all feel so meaningless? Even the smallest decisions feel overwhelming without her mom by her side-until her dad reveals something extraordinary: nine letters her mom wrote, each with a special task for her senior year. These letters become a lifeline, not just a series of challenges but a journey of healing, self-discovery, and faith. With each letter, Cassie is led closer to understanding her purpose and finding her identity as "God's girl," uncovering the depth of God's love for her. Follow Cassie on this emotional and empowering journey, and discover how these letters might inspire your own personal growth, one challenge at a time. Learn more on Joan's WEBSITE or her other WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

I've been anxious to read this one since the moment I saw it. I mean, come on! Secrets are always cool but then Frank L. Baum? And The Pilgrim's Progress? WHAT?  Listen in as Laura DeNooyer and I chat about A Hundred Magical Reasons. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. The L. Frank Baum connection was a draw, but then she brought in The Pilgrim's Progress, and it took the whole story idea to a new level! I had a blast chatting with Laura and I'm excited to read this one. It'll probably be my flight read tomorrow.  EEEP!   A Hundred Magical Reasons by Laura DeNooyer Some fairy tales don't end when the story is over…they begin when the truth is finally told. At eighty-eight, Charlotte Rose Gordon has spent a lifetime guarding secrets—burdens that have turned her into the town's most notorious recluse. But before her story ends, she has one final quest: to set the past right and clear her husband's name. Even if it means facing the dragons she's spent decades avoiding. Carrie Kruisselbrink is fighting dragons of her own. Fresh out of college and desperate to escape the weight of her parents' expectations, she risks everything to chase a dream that feels just out of reach. An unlikely job with the reclusive Mrs. Gordon seems like a temporary solution. Until it becomes something much more. As Charlotte begins to unravel her past—from a stifling childhood to an extraordinary friendship with author L. Frank Baum—Carrie is drawn into a story filled with imagination, loss, and long-buried truth. But the deeper Carrie digs, the more she's forced to confront her own fears, her own choices… and the cost of living someone else's life. Because some stories were never meant to stay hidden. Spanning generations and woven with echoes of a beloved literary legacy, A Hundred Magical Reasons is a moving tale of courage, identity, and the kind of hope that only comes when truth, grace, and imagination collide. Can two women from different generations find the strength to rewrite their stories—before time runs out? Step into a story of secrets, second chances, and the courage to believe again. Learn more on Laura's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

Amish life in the Depression? Don't know why, but it never occurred to me that they would've felt the effects. And a fictionalized version of Sarah Heatwole's family's story?  Listen in and see why I bought my copy right away! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I'm always looking for great depression stories, but I have to admit that I didn't expect to find on about the Amish. I also loved hearing about them choosing Jesus above all.  Yep. Time to read! Into the Promised Land by Sarah Heatwole  As a child Andy Troyer longs for a brighter future, one free from the desperate shadow of hunger and loss. When his father becomes a minister, it lifts the family out of poverty, but the newfound improvement in circumstances does nothing to quell the desires in Andy's heart. Can the peaceful life his Amish community offers provide the answers he seeks, or will his heart carve its own path? In the neighboring district, Sylvia grows up in a world painted with love and privilege. An unexpected tragedy throws her life into turmoil, plunging her into a world of darkness. One night, a dream ignites a profound transformation within her, unfolding a journey infused with faith, redemption, and changing the trajectory of those around her forever. When Andy and Sylvia's paths converge, they find in each other a shared spirit and an undeniable connection. Their lives become intertwined as they fall in love with each other and Jesus. As they reckon with the repercussions of embracing their new beliefs, they must find the courage to follow their hearts. Inspired by a true story, Into the Promised Land is an old-fashioned tale of love and loss, courage and forgiveness, and the reminder that the irresistible call of God isn't always easy but following Him changes lives for eternity. Learn more on Sarah's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

 Don't know about you, but even the title of Tattooed Woman at the Well screams, "Sign me up!"  I mean, that's pretty riveting, wouldn't you say?  Listen in and see why Terri McAdoo's book won the Genesis Award! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Okay, so trucks?  Not my thing.  Tattoos?  Not my thing.  This story?  Man, I NEED TO READ THIS. Because this is totally my thing.  I don't know why it's giving me contemporary The Count of Monte Cristo vibes, but it is.  Tattooed Woman at the Well by Terri McAdoo A tale of revenge, resilience, and redemption awaits in Terri McAdoo's Tattooed Woman at the Well. Step into the world of Bleu Yarbro, a tough-as-nails truck driver on a mission to right the wrongs of her past. Across America's highways, Bleu navigates an unpredictable landscape of bullies, thugs, and heartache. Her only solace is the rooftop garden where she grows irises in memory of her beloved grandpa. But as Bleu's quest for vengeance consumes her, she must confront the ultimate choice: Will she rise above revenge or sink under its weight? Buckle up for a fun and dangerous ride through the world of truck driving, tattooing, and temptation. With unlikely heroes and despicable villains at every turn, Tattooed Woman at the Well will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. Can Bleu find redemption on the open road, or will her past catch up with her? Fans of gritty, character-driven novels won't want to miss this stunning debut from award-winning author Terri McAdoo.  Learn more on Terri's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

 What if Earth had a twin planet, but the people God created there never sinned?  Listen in as Chuck Richardson and I chat about his book and what it all could mean if it happened. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I'm still reeling from the idea that a sinless sacrifice is what was needed, so a sinless human (as Jesus was) could actually pay the price for sinful man in this fictional world he's created. Assuming he even goes that route someday. Still fascinating. Paradise Unfallen by Chuck Richardson What if Adam and Eve had resisted the serpent? Welcome to Erimea-Earth's twin world, untouched by original sin. Solis and Livi, the first parents of Erimea, begin their lives in perfect fellowship with God. But their obedience does not end the war. Satan and his legions simply turn their fury upon the new world. As the population of Erimea rises, tensions crack the harmony of paradise. A powerful life-giving resource becomes scarce. Rumors spread. God is silent. And a restless humanity flirts with fear, force, and false gods. To save their descendants from repeating Earth's tragedy, Solis and Livi must confront deception, division, and the relentless pressure of darkness. Their journey-from innocence to holiness-will determine the future of an unfallen world. If you enjoy Christian fantasy, biblical what-ifs, spiritual warfare, and epic worldbuilding, you will love Paradise Unfallen. Perfect for fans of: C.S. Lewis Ted Dekker Step into the world that might have been-and the war that still rages. Learn more on Chuck's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

Getting to chat with Gina Holder was a blessing because that meant I could finally read her books!  Listen in as we chat about her newest release, The Escape Game. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Spoiler alert: This series is definitely on my FAVORITE series this year list.  You don't want to miss it! The Escape Game by Gina Holder  Twenty years ago, the world's leading enigmatologist disappeared, leaving behind a cipher no one could solve… not without his journal. Puzzle shop owner Demi Kayne has spent twenty years hoping her father would return home. When she discovers his hidden journal tucked inside the walls of her family home, she finally uncovers the clue she's been waiting for—but it leads somewhere far more dangerous than she imagined. Liam Shepherd, a missionary and escape-room enthusiast, is searching for answers of his own. His sister has vanished without a trace, and the trail of clues leads him straight to Demi—and the secrets hidden in her father's journal. Their search brings them to the eerie Ives Mansion, where its brilliant and reclusive owner has designed a deadly challenge. Once inside, Demi and Liam realize they're no longer guests. They're players. Trapped inside a twisted real-life mystery game based on a stolen puzzle design, they must solve a series of lethal riddles before time runs out. Each puzzle brings them closer to the truth about Demi's missing father and Liam's sister—but also closer to a killer who has spent years perfecting a game no one survives. With the clock ticking and lives hanging in the balance, Demi and Liam must confront their fears, their pasts, and the faith that may be their only hope of escape. In this gripping Christian suspense novel, every clue matters—and every mistake could be fatal. Can Demi and Liam solve the final puzzle before the game ends…or will the escape room become their tomb? Perfect for fans of Lynette Eason, Dani Pettrey, and Irene Hannon who enjoy puzzle-driven Christian suspense filled with danger, secrets, and faith under fire. Learn more on Gina's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

I loved my conversation with Nicholas Teeguarden about his Masa Chronicles, and I loved the story. Listen in and see why. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. For those of you looking for action over romance, you get it in this book! There IS a light romance, yes, but it's strongly secondary to the main plot. Note: I read the book and LOVED this story. I really loved the story, actually. I listened to the audio, though, and since I was so excited about the audiobook, I thought I should mention that I didn't enjoy the audio experience. My biggest complaint is the pronunciation of so many things.  Story great. Others might not have trouble, but I needed to be honest about that since I was so excited to see it. The Copper Scroll  by Nicholas Teeguarden Book of the Year Finalist A lost scroll. A deadly secret. A race across the Middle East—where every clue could be fatal. When grad student and Army veteran Joshua Bennett uncovers a cryptic Dead Sea artifact, he's thrust into a world of coded messages, ruthless rivals, and ancient conspiracies. Every answer leads to new danger—and every ally could be an enemy. Perfect for fans of Dan Brown, Steve Berry, and Indiana Jones—this is a clean, high-octane archaeological thriller you won't want to put down. Learn more on Nicholas's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

I love it when YA deals with real issues kids face, so I was crazy excited to hear about Stephanie Cardel's This Isn't Shakespeare. From what direction her life should go to peer pressure of various kinds, Cardel weaves a story that I feel is important. Listen in and learn why. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  This Isn't Shakespeare by Stephanie Cardel To be or not to be…a professional dancer. Seventeen-year-old Madison is a hopeless romantic who loves quoting Shakespeare and dreams of becoming a professional ballet dancer—a dream she hides, afraid of disappointing her mom and her boyfriend. But when her dreams fall apart, she believes it's a sign from God that she should commit to her boyfriend and make a new dream. When she realizes God wouldn't give her a sign that points her to sin, the happily-ever-after she's planned crumbles. Now Madison must confront the lies she's told herself and all the red flags she's ignored. In the process, she begins to understand that seeking God's will may not lead to a perfectly scripted ending—but it might just lead to something real.  Learn more on Stephanie's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

 Author of the Susa Chronicles, Megan Schaulis came on and chatted with me about all things Susa. Listen in as we learn about the world of Rebuilder. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Just a reminder. Megan recommends having both Protector and Proclaimer on hand, because there's definitely a cliffhanger! Rebuilder by Megan Schaulis Bitter and broken from his imprisonment in the Citadel, Hatch can't stand to watch the woman he loves start her new life. When the king offers him a position as the governor of Evania, an island territory populated by Alphanites, Hatch sees the job as a chance to escape his heartache. But from the moment his crutches hit the sand of this tropical island, Hatch is deemed an outsider, particularly by Myah, an artsy adrenaline junkie the locals have nicknamed "Princess." Myah is content to spend her days writing letters to her far-off fiancé. The last thing she needs is a government official taking over Evania and poking at old wounds. But when an enemy attack causes the island to start sinking into the sea, Myah must convince the sullen governor that her home is worth saving. With only fifty-two days to stabilize the island, Hatch and Myah must confront the pasts they both long to leave behind. As the ground literally sinks beneath them, will they drown in their regrets or ride the waves of change to a future neither could've imagined? Listen to the first episode about the Susa Chronicles HERE.  Learn more about Megan on her WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

 What happens when an author writes an intense epic fantasy and collapses exhausted at the end?  She writes a romantasy trilogy, of course! Listen in as Demi Griffin and I chat about her newest series and why you should read it (I can't wait!) note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Okay, stop right now and head over and check out the hardback cover! Isn't it FABULOUS?? EEEP! This series has everything I think people are looking for, fantasy and romance combined without all the "spicy smut." Add faith and... WHEEEEEEEEE! Cerulean Rose by Demi Griffin EVERY ROSE HAS ITS THORNS. Hidden in a tiny cottage away from the ordinary existence of Cerulean's citizens, Aural lived a simple life with her father in Sabean Woods. When he is struck by a serious illness, that ordinary life suddenly became extraordinary. In search of a physician, Aural breaks her promise never to leave the woods. When her path crosses with a Mystic, the manipulative Duchess, and the Prince of Cerulean, Aural realizes something beyond her simple quest to help her dying father has mapped out her journey. An ancient legend about a brotherly rivalry that resulted in tragedy stirs up the Fates guarding Cerulean. If the Cerulean Rose doesn't bloom again, the kingdom is destined to perish. A wild path filled with romance, mystery, and intrigue shapes Aural's heart in ways she could not have imagined as she gets sucked into the legend. Would it be enough to restore the foundation of true love that established the kingdom of Cerulean hundreds of years ago? Could a simple girl satisfy the Fates, capture a prince's heart, overcome a king's prejudice, and save Cerulean's Rose?  Learn more about Demi on her  WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

Talking with Dana is always a hoot, and this interview was no exception. Listen in as we chat about the Elements of Danger series and what's next for her. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Okay, I was serious, guys. We need earth and wind!  Please email Revell and beg for two more books to complete the elements!  Please go to https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/pages/revell and let them know we want more!  (can't hurt, right?) Raging Waters by Dana Mentink As the dam crumbles and water sweeps across the terrain, their battle for justice and survival is just beginning. When Mackenzie Bardine's brother Aaron was murdered in a drug deal gone wrong, she started a true crime podcast dedicated to exposing "Bullseye," the drug kingpin responsible. But her protective heart has never let go of the blame she places on herself and Aaron's best friend, Gideon Landry. On the run to the wilds of Washington to chase a recent lead, she meets none other than Gideon himself. While conducting a wilderness survival class in remote Washington, Gideon never expected to cross paths with Mackenzie, and he's certainly not interested in helping her after he's already declined to participate in her vigilante podcasting. He carries a mountain of guilt about Aaron's fatal choices, but not for the reasons Mackenzie suspects. As killers begin to circle Mackenzie like sharks, it's clear to Gideon she's in over her head, and in light of his troubled past with her brother, he can't bring himself to ignore her perilous situation. Then a flood threatens the town, turning their investigation into a race to escape the raging waters and the wrath of a powerful kingpin who wants to sink them both.  Learn more Dana about on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

 Jane Kirkpatrick finds the stories of real women that history knows just a bit about and fills in their stories for today's discerning reader. Listen in and see why I'm so excited about this series. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  With the Enduring Tides by Jane Kirkpatrick A Story of Resilience, Redemption, and Friendships That Endure On the rugged Oregon coast in the early 1900s, the lives of a group of women intertwine through their shared pioneering spirit and the steadfast presence of Mary Gerritse. Struggling with her daughter Belle's desire to live with her grandparents, Mary discovers her own mother facing illness and her father hiring a caretaker with a troubled past. Despite tensions, Mary leaves Belle with her grandparents, feeling guilt and uncertainty. When past secrets bubble over into trouble in the present, Mary's identity is shaken. As Mary seeks to heal her family--and herself--her friends provide comfort even as they face challenges of their own: Jewell explores questions about her own identity, Henrietta navigates managing a homestead, Virginia seeks refuge from an abusive situation, and Olivia faces the heartache of lost love. The women must endure to find encouragement in each other and refuge in the faith that brings strength amid great uncertainty. You can find out more about Jane on her WEBSITE. and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

If you ever wanted to mingle romantic suspense and "ghost ships," Elizabeth Goddard has you covered. Listen in to see how she got that idea and all the things. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Learning all about this "Ghost Ship" stuff worked, how she wove it all together was awesome. I just LOVED this conversation Deadly Currents by Elizabeth Goddard  USA Today Bestselling Author Elizabeth Goddard Presents a Gripping Thrill Ride Investigative journalist Cressida Dane arrives in Hidden Bay after a worldwide journey to finish her late father's manuscript on shipwrecks. As she tries to discover the story behind the "ghost ship" Specter's Bounty, her only lead is a name her father left behind--Evelyn Monroe. As Cressida uncovers more about the ship, she quickly realizes that her research has placed her in the crosshairs of dangerous forces. County detective Braden Sanders is in Hidden Bay for one reason--to get his niece lifesaving medical treatment. To do that, he is assigned to protect Cressida from a revenge-driven enemy. Together, Braden and Cressida dig deeper to discern the myth from the facts surrounding the Specter's Bounty. But more is brewing under the surface than they could ever imagine. Entangled in secrets, they must unravel the past before the current sweeps away their future. Praise for the Hidden Bay Series"A thrilling ride, perfect for devouring in one sitting."--Lynette Eason, bestselling and award-winning author, on Storm Warning "Fans of Lynette Eason and Nancy Mehl will love this thrill-a-minute ride from Goddard."--Library Journal on Storm Warning Brace yourself for Elizabeth Goddard's final adrenaline-inducing installment in the Hidden Bay series. This clean romantic suspense combines maritime mystery with protective hero romance that readers of Dani Pettrey and Nancy Mehl will enjoy. Don't miss our first interview about this series HERE. Learn more about Elizabeth Goddard on her WEBSITE and follow her on BookBub and GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

One of the best parts of being able to interview authors is learning about how their lives influenced their writing, and my chat with Meg Calvin is one of those. Listen in to our chat about There, He Holds Her and see why I am looking forward to reading this book--despite it being very different from my usual choices. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Learning about Meg's personal history in ministry and her passion for helping authors was a delight.  There, He Holds Her by Meg Calvin Some love stories end. Others just go underground. There, He Holds Her is a dual - timeline novel for readers who want to be swept away and wrecked a little - in the best way. 1979, Plockton, Texas Eighteen - year - old Vivian Chelsee sneaks out on graduation night to meet the boy she loves. By morning, everything has changed - and not in the way she dreamed. What her family calls protecting her future, she will spend a lifetime quietly questioning. 2018, Rutherglen, Texas Vivian's daughter, Rev. Heti Stone, has built her life on discipline, denial, and an upcoming bishop nomination. Then Aunt Moira dies and all her plans unravel. An alluring stranger shows up at her church who has absolutely no interest in who she's supposed to be. Old family secrets surface that were not intended to be heard. Dreams bleed into waking life. The dead feel close. To move forward, Heti must face what women in her family were taught to sacrifice - and reckon with the possibility that love, grief, and the Divine don't always show up the way the Church said they would. To move forward, Heti must wrestle with the question: What if your deepest desires were never shameful at all -  but holy ground? If you want to preorder and get goodies, go here: https://www.megcalvin.com/there-he-holds-her/  Learn more on Meg's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

YA fiction with a young woman's dreams, family secrets, and tough decisions?  Sign me up.  Listen in and see why Wildflowers might just be exactly what Christian YA needs note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. I loved that Samantha focused on how easy it is to see things as God's will when convenience comes into play. Wildflowers by Samantha Roman The show might not go on for Candy—and maybe not even her relationship with Scott. Just when her band is finally gaining traction, Candy is about to lose her spot. Then a devastating fire destroys the Chancellor Homes building, turning Honeybrook upside down and tearing open wounds she thought had healed. As a buried family secret rises from the ashes, Candy stands at a crossroads: walk away from her music to save the people she loves… or keep chasing the dream that once felt God-given. When an unexpected "wildflower" appears in her path, she begins to wonder if God still blesses broken roads—and whether they still lead to the cross. For fans of Christian YA fiction, faith-based coming-of-age stories, and clean teen romance with a strong spiritual core, Candy's journey in Wildflowers is a heartfelt look at what it means to follow God when everything is falling apart. Dead men tell no tales… or do they? Leslie's past comes roaring back when a thirty-year-old mistake resurfaces, ending her fragile peace. A teenage accident she can't undo collides with a present-day crisis no mother could ignore. And when she meets Chris, a man who brings unexpected light into her dark season, she must choose between protecting him… or risking everything to love again. As mother and daughter face the secrets, sins, and second chances that refuse to stay buried, they'll discover that even in the wreckage, wildflowers still grow. Wildflowers is Book Two in the Honeybrook High series, a small-town Christian young adult saga that began with Butterflies, a novel about grief, hope, and redemption. This second installment deepens Candy and Leslie's story with more family drama, stronger faith themes, and a reminder that God can redeem even the worst mistakes. Christian YA novel with dual POV (teen daughter and mom) Clean teen fiction Perfect for readers who love small-town Christian fiction Explores grief, forgiveness, family secrets, and second chances Ideal for Christian teens, moms, youth groups, and book clubs If you enjoy emotional Christian YA series with real-life struggles and hopeful, faith-filled endings, you'll love returning to Honeybrook in Wildflowers. Learn more on Samantha's WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

Chatting with Suzanne Woods Fisher is always a joy, but something about her National Parks Summers is even more fun to discuss. Listen in and maybe you can tell me why! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. I love what Suzanne is doing with this series, and Acadia?  Yes, please! Chase the Light by Suzanne Woods Fisher  She uncovered a piece of history--but can she make peace with her own? When Acadia National Park ranger Scout Johnson discovers a weathered note near a remote lighthouse, she never imagines it will expose a century-old mystery. The cryptic message points to a forgotten shipwreck, a vanished treasure, and a lighthouse keeper's suspicious death. Seeking answers, Scout enlists Naki Dana, a thoughtful man whose Penobscot heritage provides crucial insights. As they venture deeper into Acadia's rugged wilderness, their unlikely partnership begins stirring feelings Scout didn't expect to find. But they aren't the only ones searching. Chase Fletcher, a charming local journalist, sees this treasure hunt as his last opportunity to save his failing paper--and finds himself increasingly drawn to the ranger leading the search. With pressure mounting and loyalties tested, Scout must navigate a winding path between history and justice, truth and betrayal . . . and determine who--and what--deserves her trust. Suzanne Woods Fisher weaves a contemporary romance filled with mystery, treasure hunting, and adventure as a park ranger uncovers a century-old shipwreck and dangerous secrets at Acadia National Park. Perfect for fans of mysteries and love triangles. You can learn more about Suzanne from her WEBSITE.  Also, follow her on BookBub and GoodReads. Get Chase the Light for 40% off with free US shipping until May 5 (30% off after that) from BakerBookHouse.com. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

Lovers of Joanna Davidson Politano won't want to miss this episode! Listen in while we talk about the first book in a new SERIES and eeep! It's split time! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Cornwall?  Lost memory?  Hasty marriage?  A portrait that shouldn't exist in a house on a cliff? Sign me up! The Life She Forgot by Joanna Davidson Politano He promised to help her reclaim the memories she lost—no matter what they found. Until she remembered another man. Cornwall, 1913 For three years, Merryn has lived without a past—no family, no history, no home that's truly hers. When the threat of being locked away for her own "protection" looms, she takes a desperate chance on AJ Winthrop—a warmhearted, whimsical stranger who offers a hasty marriage of convenience and a promise: he will take her back to Cornwall and help her uncover the truth about who she once was. But along the wild Cornish coast, the memories that begin to surface are not the ones she expects. Another man. Another wedding. A life that may already be hers. When a hidden painting reveals Merryn's own face staring back from another life, the fragile life she's begun to build with AJ begins to unravel. Because the truth waiting in her past could destroy the love she's only just found. Cornwall, 1947 Haunted by the war and estranged from the wife he still loves, William Crawford is determined to save their family home for her—even if it means selling the mysterious portrait of Merryn Dunn tucked away in his cottage. But the secrets hidden within the painting threaten to overturn everything he believes…or lead him toward a redemption he never expected. Decades apart, two lives are bound by a single portrait—and the truth it refuses to keep hidden. This sweeping dual-timeline historical mystery weaves together lost memories, buried truths, and a love story that refuses to fade. Perfect for fans of Mimi Matthews, Susanna Kearsley, and Kate Morton. Learn more on Joanna's WEBSITE and don't forget to check out her Reader Group on Facebook. Also... GoodReads and BookBub are good places to follow authors. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon YouTube and more!

If you read Illuminary, then you know why I've been drumming my fingers for the next book by Chawna Schroeder. EEEP! Listen in and see what's going on in this one! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Illuminary left me eager for more, and after talking to Chawna about the next book in the Septer & Stylus series, I'm even more excited about Perplexity! Perplexity by Chawna Schroeder Assemble the clues, dismantle the danger. Yosarai Patican never wanted to finish her schooling in the Indeli capital, but after several months, she is finally finding her footing . . . until her world is shattered by the unthinkable. Facing loss after loss, she struggles to adjust to a new position and new responsibilities, including the repayment of a massive debt. A debt more easily managed if she can qualify for the elite politico sphere on the upcoming placement exam. Some, however, would do anything to prevent Yosarai from earning one of the coveted positions. Meanwhile, in the northern realm of Egdon, Crown Prince Xander faces an increasingly hostile Parliament. Not only are they questioning the necessity of the monarchy, but they are also demanding an accounting of some mysterious expenditures by the former king. Unless Xander can unearth a reasonable explanation, his coronation may be more than postponed. It may be cancelled—permanently. As old rivalries escalate and hidden threats emerge, both Xander and Yosi must choose their paths wisely, before evil eliminates everyone in its way. Learn more about Chawna on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Don't miss the original interview about the first book HERE. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

Seriously, the best fictional place on the planet, Gossamer Falls, has a final book for fans. Listen in as Lynn Blackburn and I chat about the future of this beautiful world she's created. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I was so excited to hear that there might be more to Gossamer than we first thought.  As always, I loved chatting with Lynn about what she's got going. Last to Fall by Lynn H. Blackburn She's caught in a deadly game. He's the only one who can help her win. Bronwyn Pierce has poured everything into The Haven, her family's exclusive mountain resort in Gossamer Falls. But when financial discrepancies surface and the numbers suggest something far darker than simple mismanagement, she's forced to call on the one person with the skills to help her: Mo Quinn, a former Army intelligence officer, her first love, and the last person she ever wanted to trust again. Mo has spent years avoiding the woman he once loved and the secrets that tore them apart. But when Bronwyn calls, he can't walk away--especially when it's clear someone wants her gone for good. As they dig deeper into the treacherous motives behind a blackmail scheme, their proximity reignites long-buried feelings neither of them are ready to face. And when the evidence points to an unexpected culprit, Mo faces an impossible choice: trust the proof in front of him or trust his heart. With danger closing in and no one else to turn to, Bronwyn must break years of silence with Mo to uncover who's trying to destroy The Haven. They'll have to risk everything--including their hearts--to expose the truth before it's too late. The finale to Blackburn's Gossamer Falls series is an exhilarating romantic suspense novel packed with tension. This gripping read will hook fans of the family rivalry, bodyguard, small town, second chance romance, and forced proximity tropes. Learn more about Lynn and her books on her WEBSITE. Don't forget to follow her on BookBub and GoodReads. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!