The Because Fiction Podcast

Chatting with Ashlyn McKayla Ohm is always a delight. Listen in as we chat about her spin-off new series and the first book, Between Heaven and Earth. I love Avery and can't wait for you to meet her and Addisyn. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Anyone listening to Ashlyn talk about Colorado will see just how much she LOVES the Rockies.  This new series combines her love of the mountains with a love of Lakota culture and the stories she's discovered there. Between Heaven and Earth by Ashlyn McKayla Ohm In the High Country, Heaven is closer than they know... After fighting to overcome her mother's abandonment, Avery Miles is thrilled to be working at a nature center in her beloved Colorado Rockies. But when her younger sister, Addisyn, begins revisiting their past, Avery's struggle with anxiety returns—especially as Addisyn comes dangerously close to the secret Avery kept to protect her. And Avery's problems worsen when she's forced to work alongside the creative—and cocky—YouTuber Creed Running Wolf on a conservation project with a surprising link to her own past. Now, Avery is caught between Addisyn's search for the truth and the anxiety that's becoming harder to hide…and the only answer lies in the town she ran from years ago. Creed Running Wolf has always been fascinated by the Lakota concept of kapemni—a doorway between Heaven and Earth. If that doorway exists, he's sure it's not in Colorado, the place he never wanted to see again. However, as he learns Avery's story, he begins to hope he can still rewrite his own—especially as he and Avery find common ground. But when the past resurfaces and his friendship with Avery is shattered, they will both have to face everything they've tried to escape—and discover once and for all what would truly bridge Heaven and Earth. Captivating and compelling, Between Heaven and Earth is an honest yet hopeful look at the stories we tell, the secrets we keep, and the healing power of forgiveness.  To learn more, visit Ashlyn's  WEBSITE.  Also follow her on GoodReads and BookBub! wildgoosewords.substack.com Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

Adoption can be tough on anyone, but being a teenager adopted and moved to a new country?  Whoa... Rume Emma-Okerhe's Rains of Mercy tackles a lot of tough topics. Listen in and see why I think it's such an important book. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. I love books that tackle tough topics, and this one tackles loss, adoption, culture shocks, teen pregnancy, and the love of a woman who didn't give birth to you or see you grow up from a small child. How amazing is that? Rains of Mercy by Rume Emma-Okerhe A Millennial's Story of Self-discovery and Faith Tehillah loses everything in a bomb explosion. She gets adopted by strangers. She relocates a thousand seas away from the country of her birth and heart. And… then ends up with a malicious adoptive sister. She struggles with culture shocks, low self-esteem, ends up in a dodgy relationship and becomes a single mum. Will Tehillah find a way to rebuild her life, rediscover her worth, and experience the mercies of a God who loves her more than she can imagine? Will she ever accept Mrs Ezegwu as her mother? And will she stop seeing Jordan as the shorter, younger boy she could never like? Learn more about Rume 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!

 When someone says, "Is there a new Tracie Peterson out?" the answer is almost always either "YES!" or "SOON!"  I had a blast chatting about Faithful of Heart with her. Listen in and see what's happening in this new series! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I loved that God in His gracious wisdom decided to set the release of Fairest of Heart set in Minneapolis at a time when His people would need encouragement and a reminder of what a lovely city it is with a rich history. He is so good to us! Can't wait to learn all the cool things. Faithful of Heart by Tracie Peterson Can forgiveness and love overcome a tattered legacy? When dedicated philanthropist Judith Stanford receives a summons from her estranged grandfather ordering her to come to Minneapolis to prove herself worthy of his inheritance, she is hesitant but can't ignore the potential of her grandfather's fortune to benefit her causes. And the only man to interest her since her husband's death lives in Minneapolis, leaving her hoping their paths will cross. Roman Turner, a local physician with a heart for the poor, harbors a grudge against Judith's grandfather. Years ago, his unethical actions ruined Roman's family forever. When Roman meets Judith again, he is shocked to learn the woman he's thought about all these years is related to the one man he can't forgive. As Judith tries to overcome the complicated history between the two families and disentangle her grandfather's tainted legacy, she begins to form a plan for reparation. But when it becomes clear someone else has nefarious intentions for the money, Judith's dreams of a new legacy are at risk.   Don't forget that you can get this and her other books at 30-40% off with FREE US shipping from Bakerbookhouse.com Learn more about Tracie Peterson on her WEBSITE. 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!

Sometimes, I see a book and think, "Did the author just decide to write that especially for me???"  Okay, I know Heather Tabers didn't write Books & Battlefields just for me, but listen in and learn why she did--and a lot more! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Loved chatting with Heather about this book, particularly since it's WWI set in the US!  That doesn't happen often. Also, I loved that she wrote the sort of "love triangle" that actually makes sense.  I also loved seeing how the Victory Book Campaigns could've been sparked by those that happened in WWI! Books & Battlefields  by Heather Tabers A spirited librarian with a guarded heart. A haunted surgeon battling the past. A quiet deputy who never stopped hoping. Isabella Pearson isn't looking for love—only a way to serve. In 1917, she leaves her privileged Denver life behind to volunteer as a librarian at Camp Sheridan, Alabama. With a suitcase full of books and a heart determined to remain independent, she never expects to find herself being pursued by two men: Nathaniel, her brother's steadfast best friend, and Byron, the brooding Chief Medical Officer who makes her pulse race for all the wrong reasons. Major Byron McDaniel has buried his heart with his late wife and plans to keep it that way. Yet Isabella's courage and compassion rattle the walls he's so carefully built. Meanwhile, Nathaniel Steele has followed Isabella to Alabama with hopes of finally winning the heart he's long treasured in silence. But as tensions rise at Camp Sheridan—with a suspicious fire, a string of accidents, and whispers of sabotage—Isabella must navigate more than just her feelings. When loyalty, love, and liberty hang in the balance, will she trust her heart—or her instincts?  Learn more about Heather 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!

 Oh, my.  When I learned about the awkward heroine in Even After This, I knew that I needed to chat more with Deborah Clack and get the scoop on what's coming in this book. Listen in to learn why she had me cracking up through the interview. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Don't miss out on this second chance (in life) romance as well as Deborah's Love Inspired marriage of convenience romance as well! Even After This by Deborah Clack When you're ready to live again, love often has a way of finding you. Four years after tragedy, Meredith Harper is tired of hiding in her corner of Texas and living life like a game of dodgeball. She packs up her grief, awkward social graces, and sizable life insurance in search of a vacation and investment property in Colorado Springs. A botched dinner reservation throws her into the path of a bona fide movie star, and Meredith pushes through her comical celebrity neurosis to discover he is charming but a terrible dancer. A viral video of a daring rescue makes Harlan Holcombe's celebrity star stronger, with millions of his fans deeming him a real-life Hercules. But a minute of heroism doesn't absolve his past mistakes. As Harlan and Meredith spend more time together, he helps her believe there might be more for her not just in life but in love. And she might be part of the solution to restore the legacy he fears is tarnished. But what happens when the path to redeem his mistakes collides with the path to redeem her loss? A poignant and humorous contemporary romance of second chances with swoon but no spice, grief and healing, celebrity meets reluctant widow, love after loss, and new beginnings. This clean and wholesome love story will delight fans of Abby Jimenez, Katherine Center, Annabel Monaghan, and Cara Bastone. Learn more about Deborah 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!

Oh, my! When I heard about Amber Gabriel writing about a supervillain going through "rehab" to become a hero, I knew I had to know more. Listen in and learn all about her "Rubber Bandit," and the world in which she wrote him. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I had so much fun learning about the world in which Amber Gabriel wrote this book, and boy am I going to have to read both of Amber's books in this world as well as those by H. L. Burke Bouncing Back by Amber Gabriel Being a supervillain is easy. Being a hero has costs. When Elam Bentley, formerly known as the infamous supervillain Rubber Bandit, agreed to enter the Supervillain Rehabilitation Project to train to be a hero, he didn't realize the sacrifices he'd have to make. Faced with teammates who don't trust him, former villains who see him as a traitor, and the prospect of making restitution for his past misdeeds, Elam doubts he has the ability to stick to the hero path. Knowing that his team leader, stressed-out single mom Rightcross, has put everything on the line to back his rehabilitation, raises the stakes even higher. He can't let her down. An investigation of slot machine manipulation leads to a tangled conspiracy ... and to someone targeting Rightcross and her team. Elam might be new to the hero world, but he knows how to think like a villain. He might just be the key to unraveling the mystery and keeping herself and her daughter safe—if only he can keep himself from falling for her in the process. Learn more about Amber 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!

 I had the best time chatting with Tim Bishop about his book, The Road Unveiled. If you want to learn about the phobia that I never knew I had, listen in. I mean, there's a great story you won't want to miss learning about as well.  note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I loved Tim's heart for people, cycling, and the Lord as we chatted about his books, his later-in-life marriage, and their own long cycling trips! And I'm really glad my husband likes to cycle alone!  Far away from tunnels. The Road Unveiled by Tim Bishop Two wounded hearts. Long, winding roads. And second chances neither saw coming. Lauren Baumgartner pedals toward Yellowstone National Park, anticipating a grand celebration when she reaches the Atlantic Ocean. But when her wedding plans collapse, old wounds resurface—and a haunting secret still holds her heart hostage. Traveling alone with bear spray and a one-woman tent, she shares the highway with motorcyclists bound for a massive rally, including gang members who eye her as theirs for the taking. Doug Zimmer, another lone cyclist, is grappling with loss and wondering if anyone will be alongside him when he figures out what's next. He isn't the only one drawn to Lauren's vitality and spirit. But Lauren may already be in too deep. What she faces on the Golden Prairie Indian Reservation tests her courage—and her faith—more than anything she encountered as a missionary in Uganda. A woman with a secret and a man healing from loss pedal the rugged roads of the American West on a quest for love and purpose that leads to unexpected horizons.  Visit Tim's online store HERE and put in code: FRIEND for 25% off your order! Learn more about Tim on his 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!

Of course, no one writes Biblical Fiction like Tessa Afshar, and her new book in the Queen Esther's Court series has such a cool premise.  Listen in as we talk about her fun research and a bit of Persian culture and history!  note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I think one of the coolest parts of our conversation had to do with Tessa taking pottery classes with her husband and how it gave her context for her character as well for Scripture! The Royal Artisan by Tessa Afshar Sazana of Persia creates exquisite pottery that graces Susa's finest tables, but her master, Lord Haman, does not know her secret: Sazana is one of the Jews he has vowed to eradicate. When Haman discovers her true identity, he forces her into indentured servitude. But at Haman's sudden downfall, Queen Esther becomes the new master of the pottery workshop, restoring Sazana to her rightful place. Yet her troubles are not over as Haman's sons are enraged by his death, and the queen assigns one of her men to root out any threats. Sazana is shocked to discover the identity of the queen's agent is none other than Jadon, the man who left her heart in ruins years ago. But despite his presence, danger still lurks, and when Sazana and Jadon become entangled in the hunt for an ancient artifact, so much more than their own hearts and lives depends on the success of their mission. Experience the thrill and intrigue of secrets and romance within Queen Esther's royal domain in this biblical fiction tale that will appeal to fans of ancient history, The Chosen, House of David, Francine Rivers, and Angela Hunt. Don't miss the first interview about this series HERE. Learn more about Tessa on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Don't miss the book at 30% off with FREE shipping from BakerBookHouse.com. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

Too often we forget that part of England was under German occupation during WWII, but Sarah Sundin and I chatted about her newest release that takes place on Jersey. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  We chatted about the way the different Channel Islands spent the war.  Sarah had so many cool things she'd learned during research to share. And, I loved learning about her characters and how she came up with her story. Excellent! Mists over the Channel Islands by Sarah Sundin  Behind enemy lines, adversary and ally become impossible to distinguish. The German invasion of the British Channel Islands shatters Dr. Ivy Picot's peaceful world, forcing her to shoulder the weight of her father's medical practice and hold together a family unraveling under the strain of war. As conditions worsen in Jersey with the arrival of thousands of forced laborers, Ivy's quiet allegiance to the Allies compels her to risk everything by providing medical aid to escaped workers--even as danger closes in. Dutch engineer and resistance member Gerrit van der Zee volunteers to build fortifications for the Germans so he can secretly send maps and diagrams to the Allies. On his arrival in the Channel Islands, he crosses paths with Ivy, who shows him contempt for the uniform he wears. As tensions mount and their missions grow increasingly dangerous, Ivy and Gerrit must confront the cost of courage, the meaning of sacrifice, and whether love can survive in the shadow of war. Will their covert efforts turn the tide--or will they pay the ultimate price for defiance? Renowned WWII fiction author Sarah Sundin crafts a compelling historical romance featuring enemies-to-lovers, wartime resistance, and medical intrigue--a tale of loyalty, resilience, and courage when love and duty collide. Get Mists over the Channel Islands at 40% off and with free shipping from BakerBookHouse.com. Learn more about Sarah (and request your preorder goodies!) by visiting Sarah's 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 and more!

When your past comes back and shakes up your present, what are you supposed to do? Listen in as Stacy Ladyman and I chat about her novel, Shep and the King of Hearts. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. We talked about the origin of this story and how parts of her life inspired her to attend that gambling addiction talk and then how it helped her define this story. I loved that she got to talk to those men and had pastors praying for her and the story.  It's a beautiful picture of how we're all broken and estranged and need to get back to a right relationship with each other and God. Shep and the King of Hearts by Stacy J. Ladyman Some wounds run deep. Love digs deeper. As a hospital administrator, Chris Warren thrives on order, control, and clean emotional boundaries. But when the father who abandoned her decades ago stumbles back into her life—disheveled, addicted, and clinging to what little dignity he has left—everything she's built begins to unravel. Desperate for answers—and closure—Chris finds herself reluctantly leaning on Shep, the hospital's unorthodox, chaplain whose faith is as bold as his sense of humor. What begins as a reluctant partnership becomes something far more personal as Chris and Shep navigate her father's self-destruction, each other's guarded hearts, and the jagged path toward grace. Inspired by true events, Shep and the King of Hearts is a raw and redemptive contemporary romance about love that doesn't flinch in the face of failure. This story invites you into a journey of second chances, spiritual reckoning, and the unexpected ways love breaks through—when we finally stop running. For readers who crave romance wrapped in redemption and a love story that heals more than just the heart. Faith. Forgiveness. Falling in love. Begin the journey now. Learn more about Stacy 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!

Don't know about you, but I don't think there's enough Christian dystopian novels out, but thanks to Katelyn E. Pfeiffer, we have another series. Listen in as we chat about the first book of the Provenance Chronicles, City of End.  note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. City of End by Katelyn E. Pfeiffer  The year is 4085. Aoire, a young woman with a hidden past, is living in secret in the underground cavern City of End. A great evil has been growing, waging war on the human race since the day a nuclear genocide eradicated the surface of the Earth in 3080. Now on End's most important day of the year, Aoire must reveal herself not only to all of End, but to the dark forces as well. Can she find a way to save her city, while also navigating the destiny forced upon her and her desire to finally have a life to call her own? Learn more about Katelyn 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 love a gripping story with solid faith content and a bit of time travel (who doesn't love time travel, right?), look no further than Sarah Hanks' Time Sailors series. Listen in as we discuss the second book in her series, Braving Fiery Waters. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. I loved the first book in this series, so I'm confident this second one will be even better! Braving Fiery Waters by Sarah Hanks Her husband died in a fire. Now she's heading straight into one. Marina Stone planned an ideal family vacation, perfect for reconnecting with her two teenagers after their father's death. But those plans go drastically away when she time sails to the White Cloud in the year 1859. Now she must face her greatest fears and complete a mystery mission before she can return to her life and children. But what if they no longer truly need her or want her? A family vacation to South Haven, Michigan, was the last thing Aiden wanted for his summer. Having just been dumped by his girlfriend and ticket to his future, he'd rather numb his mind with adventure. But when he connects with Nevaeh, a girl whose beauty is only matched by her faith, he might find there's no place he'd rather be. When his sister runs away, he must work with Nevaeh to help guide her home. In this second book in the Time Sailors series, new friends join the old in a faith-filled time travel novel you won't soon forget. Learn more about Sarah 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!

The charming Amish district of Stoney Ridge has new residents.  Listen in as Suzanne Woods Fisher and I chat about this latest book, A Hidden Hope, and the fun she had writing it. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Chats with Suzanne Woods Fisher are always lovely.  We talked about this book and about her love of writing about outsiders and how they find their place in the world. A Hidden Hope by Suzanne Woods Fisher With the arrival of three unexpected newcomers to Stoney Ridge comes an array of secrets and emotions brewing just beneath the surface. Supervising two newly minted medical residents might be the toughest challenge Ruth "Dok" Stoltzfus has ever faced. Wren Baker, sharp and ambitious, graduated at the top of medical school with a hidden agenda in tow. Charlie King, at the bottom of the class, is determined to succeed--though Dok isn't convinced he's got what it takes. Then there's traveling nurse Evie Miller, whose quiet love for Charlie doesn't go unnoticed, especially by Wren. Boarding at Windmill Farm, the trio struggles to balance modern medicine with Plain living. Between medical emergencies, cultural misunderstandings, and brewing romantic tensions, Dok finds herself juggling far more than she bargained for. Soon the stage is set in the small Amish community of Stoney Ridge for plenty of professional and personal complications. PRAISE FOR A HEALING TOUCH "The author perceptively sketches her characters' emotional arcs as life's challenges yield unexpected gifts, speaking to the power of second chances, faith, and love."--Publishers Weekly You can learn more about Suzanne from her WEBSITE.  Also, 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!

 For those who loved Becca Wierwille's Road Trip series, she's back with chapter books for young readers--mysteries, no less! Listen in to see why I'm eager to read the Scout and Barnaby series myself.  note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Don't forget that book one, Book 1 The Case of the Four-Legged Friend just came out. You can get it on Kindle, paperback, or audiobook!!!  The next book releases February 4th and the third on March 4th! Scout & Barnaby Mysteries by Becca Wierwille The Scout & 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 and her unusually perceptive dog who team up to solve mysteries at a Christian wilderness camp using her love of big words and his super sniffer. 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 larger font for emerging readers and stay short at approximately 15,000 words. 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 and more!

When I read that Julie Klassen's Whispers at Painswick Court was perfect for lovers of Austen and Agatha Christie, I knew this was the book for me, but the story of her visit to Painswick... yeah, sold me. Listen in to see why. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  After talking to Julie, I'm now eager to read the book, of course, but I want to go to Painswick, preferably in a Tardis about three years back. Because, come on! Staying there?  EEEP! I'm also fascinated by the nursing book she mentioned, and will probably be checking that out as well.  I think my favorite part of our conversation was comparing just how similar the people in our "very different" worlds, only a couple of hundred years apart, are. Whispers at Painswick Court by Julie Klassen  She expected her return to Painswick would bring memories of the past--not danger and romance. Anne Loveday, a surgeon's daughter, is determined to live a single, useful life. To escape her matchmaking stepmother, she accepts an invitation from an old friend to return to Painswick, the place where she and her sister spent many happy summers until that last, fateful year. Soon after arriving, Anne is asked to serve as sickroom nurse to Lady Celia, who forbade her nephew to marry Anne's sister years before. Pushing aside resentments, Anne moves into Painswick Court, a shadowy old house rumored to be haunted. Also in residence are Lady Celia's spinster daughter, her handsome adult nephews, and a secretive new lady's maid. Two local doctors visit regularly as well, one of whom admires Anne while concealing secrets of his own. As an escalating series of mishaps befalls her patient, Anne realizes someone is trying to kill the woman. But who? When Anne finds herself a suspect and her resolution to avoid romance challenged, can she discover the real culprit--and protect her heart--before it's too late? Agatha Christie meets Jane Austen in this compelling Regency-era novel laced with intrigue, love, and English village charm for fans of historical romance and whodunit mysteries. Learn more about Julie on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Don't miss the Regency Facebook Group HERE! Whispers at Painswick Court is available at 30% off with FREE US shipping from BakerBookHouse.com Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

Don't know about you, but America's 250th anniversary has me a bit obsessed with finding all the best Christian fiction focused on the War for Independence. Megan Soja's Scars of the Revolution will definitely make my reading list. Listen in to hear why. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  It's easy to forget just how torn this country was before it was even it's own country. Neighbors held opposing opinions (kind of like politics today, no?).  But unlike today, falling for the wrong person could be seen as either treason or disloyalty.  Scars of the Revolution by Megan Soja Some scars are born from duty, others from rebellion—theirs were carved by both. Libby Caldwell has been in love with Isaac Harrison for years, ever since her late father befriended him. While her head knows there is no hope of sharing her life with a British soldier, her heart is much more difficult to convince, especially now that he is quartering in her home. With Boston under siege and battle looming, each day together forces her to recognize how deep her feelings truly are…and how forbidden. Bound by duty to both his family and country, Isaac is determined to serve honorably in the King's army, despite never wishing to be a soldier. But quartering with the widow and daughter of his old friend places another obligation on his shoulders—that of their well-being. The more time he spends with Miss Caldwell, the more that duty begins to feel like something personal, something he cannot allow. As the siege of Boston tightens, Libby finds herself drawn into a dangerous game of espionage that could save the Patriot cause—and destroy any chance of a future with the man she's growing to love. Will betrayal and war keep their two worlds forever apart? Or will they look to the One whose love knows no bounds to bring them healing and a future? Don't miss the first interview with Megan about the first two books of the series HERE. The America 250 website is available HERE. Learn more about Megan 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!

 I'm a sucker for a Christmas play novel, and second chances? Listen in to see why I'm eager for Kelli Galyean's I Know the Feeling.  #BecauseChristmas! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Don't we all know someone who doesn't know when to quit?  The shock that comes the one time they could keep pushing... and don't?  Yeah that!  OY! I Know the Feeling by Kelli Galyean They say timing is everything. ER Nurse Maddie Reed is barely keeping her head above water at work. She certainly doesn't have time to take over directing the children's Christmas play at church. But when the director is put on bedrest at the last minute, Maddie can't say no. The children are counting on her! Maddie agrees to step up, prepared for the worst. Turns out "the worst" is worse than she thought. Her new assistant director is Chris Calvert, the most obnoxious man on the planet. To say they have history is an understatement. Maddie braces for a disastrous month of pranks and shenanigans, but something about Chris is different. Working with him wasn't supposed to be good, much less great. And when Maddie's painful past shows up, Chris' friendship proves steady again and again. Maddie wrote Chris off a long time ago, but now she wonders. Is it possible to leave behind the old and let something new grow? Learn more about Kelli on her WEBSITE and follow her 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!

The only thing better than historical Christian fiction is possibly... historical Christian fiction at Christmas? One full of faith and possibility?  Listen in as Heidi Gray McGill talk about her Discerning God's Best series and her new release, A Place to Belong.  note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Don't miss tomorrow's release Before We Belong--the PREQUEL to the whole series FREE from Heidi's WEBSITE. A Place to Belong by Heidi Gray McGill Some fresh starts begin in silence… others begin with a baby's cry. Josephine Blake has run out of places to hide. Pregnant and burdened by secrets, she flees the whispers of Philadelphia, clinging to the hope that her former boardinghouse roommate in Shumard Oak Bend will take her in. When a weathered but kind-hearted miner offers her a ride west, she dares to believe she might finally outrun her shame. But hope comes at a price… and Josephine isn't sure she can afford it. Jeremiah Remington lost everything in the war—his family, his home, even one arm. Now a quiet fixture in the growing town, he avoids entanglements, content to live on the edges of community. But when Josephine arrives with wary eyes, an iron will, and a child on the way, Jeremiah is drawn to something he thought he'd given up for good—a second chance at family. As Christmas nears and the town orphanage opens its doors, Josephine is offered a new beginning—not just for herself, but for her daughter. But when the past threatens to unravel it all, she must decide: keep running… or stay and fight for the place—and the man—God may have prepared for her. A marriage of convenience. A scandalous past. A baby who changes everything. And the kind of love only a Savior can give. If your heart longs for stories of quiet redemption, fierce hope, and homes built one act of grace at a time, A Place to Belong will welcome you in. Fans of Misty M. Beller, Liz Tolsma, Karen Witemeyer, and Jody Hedlund will feel right at home in this heartfelt Christmas novella. A Place to Belong is a standalone Christmas companion novella in the Discerning God's Best series, following Healing of the Heart (Book 5).  Learn more about Heidi on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Don't miss Heidi's YOUTUBE Channel where you can listen to some of her books FREE. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

All authors put a bit of themselves in their books. They can't help it. But while chatting with author Joy Crain, I saw it in a whole new way. Her books in the Royals of Andelar series are her story--and not. But they are. Listen in to see what I mean and to hear her amazing life story. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. What happens when an author lives where internet is tightly regulated?  We get creative. My usual recording program? Not allowed.  Zoom? Nope. Finally, I recorded us with "print screen video."  Of course, I had to extract the audio separately and all but... we got there in the end.   What a great conversation! The Cost of the Crown by Joy Crain  Missy Hanson never dreamed of falling in love and living happily ever after. In fact, she doesn't know what she wants to do after she graduates from college; nevertheless, she's content working as a journalist for her local newspaper and assisting at her aunt's California bakery. When a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity emerges for her to visit the southeast Asian country of Andelar, Missy is thrown into the world of royalty as the special guest of the king and queen—and it's clear she doesn't belong, despite her family ties to the area. But the royal family isn't without its mysteries. Rumors abound that a secret prince is hiding amid Andelar's society, and Missy is determined to find out who he is. Aiden Waverly never wanted a crown or a title. He craves a normal life, but being a secret prince of biracial background is difficult enough and would create chaos amid the tabloids if the press learned about his parentage. After years of traveling the world to help those in the greatest of need, he's faced with a life-altering decision: take his place as crown prince or walk away as a commoner. With no clear path that will satisfy him and the royal family, the tug between following his heart and doing his duty to Andelar becomes harder every day. Learn more about Joy on the 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 Jessica Wakefield has pulled together a Christmas romance extravaganza. Calling it "Gilmore Girls meets Romeo and Juliet" (sans unintentional death pact), Wakefield offers a Christmas party like no other. Listen in to see what I mean. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Full of fun tropes, It Shouldn't Be You is exactly what the Christmaws doctor ordered. It Shouldn't Be You by Jessica Wakefield To revive his stalled career, jaded journalist Declan Collins is assigned to cover the Hamiltons' extravagant Christmas party—the same Hamiltons who are demolishing the community centre where Declan spent some of the best moments of his childhood. Addey Bennet, the event planner behind the party, needs everything to go perfectly. Her business is on the line, and so is her chance to mend a strained relationship with her powerful parents—the ones footing the bill. Neither of them expects the spark between them. Addey never planned to fall for the man who resents everything her family stands for. Declan never imagined he'd be drawn to the Hamiltons' daughter. But as tensions rise and emotions deepen, their unexpected connection could cost them everything they've worked for—and maybe even a shot at love. It's Gilmore Girls meets Romeo and Juliet in this heartfelt, kissing-only story, combining humor and faith, with sparks flying off the page. Learn more about Jessica 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!

Nothing hurts more than family turning against you--unless it's God's family. Listen in as author Sarah Hanks and I talk about her Brave Authors anthologies, why she organized them, and more. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Large publishing houses have to be careful with what they offer the public. Taking risks is a fine way to ensure they go under. But many readers want the tougher stories, the grittier, "this hurts but we can do something about it" tales that go beyond, "it was a difficult time" and works to debride the wound through story. Hanks and her anthologies dealing with difficult topics like church hurt and abuse and abortion and trafficking... they do just that. Every Voice Heard by Sarah Hanks & Others Praise Through the Pain by N. Y. Dunlap She walked away from the church. He's finding his way back. One year after the tragedy, their paths cross, and God's not finished with either of them. A poignant Christian romance about rediscovering faith, and the kind of love that gently leads you home. Rapha by D.T. Powell After leaving her home church several months ago due to malicious rumors, Rebecca is tired of searching for a new congregation. When she settles on a church to visit through the holiday months, she discovers that her newest supervisee at work is the pastor. And not everyone is eager to have him behind the pulpit. For the Love of Truth by Sarah Hanks Candi loves her role as personal assistant to megachurch pastor Richard Blake. But when she meets Justice, he exposes the flaws of her "perfect" church family and she discovers her pastor isn't who he seems to be. Freedom lies on the other side of truth, if only she'll allow Justice and the Lord to lead her there. 10% of all proceeds go to beEmboldened, a non-profit that exists for the prevention of and healing from spiritual abuse. Don't miss the Brave Author Website! Learn more about Sarah 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!

In a world that says, "be silent about your faith," Michael E. Cafferky writes about one man who risks everything to be authentic and open about who he is in Christ. Listen in to learn more about Cafferky's inspiration and what's coming down the line. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Sometimes, life-altering moments show us just what is most important and changes our trajectory. But what if doing the right thing has further life-altering consequences? Had a blast talking with Michael about this book and some of the ideas he has for future books.  He's an author I'm going to watch closely! On the Brink by Michael E. Cafferky To save his career, he must risk it all—including his marriage. Gabriel Oliver has everything he's ever wanted—a successful career, a loving wife, a position of influence. But when a life-threatening illness forces him to look inward, Gabriel realizes he's been living his Christian faith in name only. He returns to work committed to be an ambassador for Christ in his workplace, but instead sparks tension, alienates his colleagues, and puts a strain on his marriage. Should he keep quiet and protect all he holds dear, or stand up for his beliefs and risk everything? Join Gabriel as he discovers what being a believer in an unbelieving world truly means. Learn more about Michael on his 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!

Marline Williams' love for Jesus and His people shine through her Jesus Revolution romances. Listen in while we learn what Marline has in store next for her characters... in LONDON! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Had a great conversation about London in the seventies, how the Jesus People changed how the church looked to those outside, about atheism and so much more. Love the One You're With by Marline Williams To thine own self be true. Yeah, right.  Street-preaching in Hyde Park, singing Godspell's greatest hits at the Royal Albert Hall, performing at Jesus People music festivals—Dana Whitman has finally met her tribe! It's spring 1974 and Dana arrives in swingin' London wearing her heart on her sleeve and Roland Schowalter's ring on her finger. A ring that seems dangerously close to slipping off when she matches wits with droll, dashing Oxford atheist Cyril Hawthorne, self-appointed pirate king of the wild Shakespeare troupe she's joined. Her long-distance romance with all-American Roland feels fuzzy and far away, their small-town future increasingly unappealing. Rumors about Roland's loyalty—and doubts about her own—force a freaked-out Dana to do some of her most convincing acting off-stage. But her return to the States will make everything okay again. Right? How can Dana be true to herself and the man she's promised to love? Don't miss the first episode where we chatted about her debut novel! ALSO: Get her FREE 1939 novella HERE! and Her FREE 1965 novella HERE. Learn more about Marline on her WEBSITE and follow her 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!

Nothing pulls at my inner middle-grade than a good mystery, and Kay DiBianca provides that in spades!  Listen in to learn what her young sleuths, Reen and Joanie, are up to next! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. After their success with the time capsule treasure, Reen and Joanie head off to "The Big Apple" for more adventures! Knights in Manhattan by Kay DiBianca WHO NEEDS ARMOR? TWO LITTLE KNIGHTS IN SNEAKERS TAKE ON THE BIG APPLE... A gang of tricky thieves is on the loose in Manhattan, but no need to worry. The Reen & Joanie Detective Agency is on the case. The two pint-sized detectives track the crooks through some of the most famous landmarks in New York, but can the girls decode the strange clues and stop the criminals before they get away? Hamsters, secret passageways, and a seven-year-old genius named Miles all contribute to this fun, action-packed romp through the streets and buildings of Manhattan. Learn more about Kay on her  WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Don't miss the episode about Lacy's Star (the Lady Pilot in Command series) HERE. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

Not all historical fiction focuses on an actual person, but Terrie Todd found one amazing woman and her story set during WWII to bring to life through story.  Listen in and learn why she wrote it and who this amazing woman was.  note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. WWII is full of incredible stories and has inspired some of fiction's greatest novels. Terrie Todd adds to her own collection of amazing WWII novels with the fictionalized story of one brave woman's determination to save children from death after Germans blew their ship out of the water. Even if I Perish by Terrie Todd  Based on a miraculous true story of courage in the face of impossible odds. "If I perish, I perish." A sermon based on Queen Esther's famous words spurs music teacher Mary Cornish to action. She volunteers to escort a group of 15 girls from England to Canada as part of Britain's World War II child evacuation program. All is well aboard the SS City of Benares until September 17, 1940. With a storm brewing in the North Atlantic, a German U-boat releases its torpedo and breaches the ship's hull. Do the Nazis know ninety children are on board? In the scramble to save as many lives as possible, Mary lands in a crowded lifeboat as the only female among crew members, passengers, and six young boys. In the storm's aftermath, two things soon become crystal clear: that Lifeboat 12 has become separated from all the others, and that Mary has been placed here for such a time as this--even if she perishes. Learn more about Terrie 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!

There's so much pain in the world, and the church doesn't escape it. Whether "friendly fire" or abuse, people hurt, and the authors of Every Voice Heard decided to tackle it through story. Listen in as I chat with D. T. Powell about her story in the anthology. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Powell gives us her reasons and her heart behind her story of church hurt. Every Voice Heard by N. Y. Dunlap, D. T. Powell, and Sarah Hanks Praise Through the Pain by N. Y. Dunlap She walked away from the church. He's finding his way back. One year after tragedy, their paths cross, and God's not finished with either of them. A poignant Christian romance about rediscovering faith, and the kind of love that gently leads you home. Rapha by D.T. Powell After leaving her home church several months ago due to malicious rumors, Rebecca is tired of searching for a new congregation. When she settles on a church to visit through the holiday months, she discovers that her newest supervisee at work is the pastor. And not everyone is eager to have him behind the pulpit. For the Love of Truth by Sarah Hanks Candi loves her role as personal assistant to megachurch pastor Richard Blake. But when she meets Justice, he exposes the flaws of her "perfect" church family and she discovers her pastor isn't who he seems to be. Freedom lies on the other side of truth, if only she'll allow Justice and the Lord to lead her there. 10% of all proceeds go to beEmboldened, a non-profit that exists for the prevention of and healing from spiritual abuse. Learn all about the series at BraveAuthors.com and purchase them HERE. Learn more about beEmboldened HERE. Also, find D. T. Powell 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!

Secret police, an enslaved populace, a suppressed faith. Listen in to see what you can expect in J. A. Webb's next thriller in the Seeker Series! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. I want to say that when you look at the world today and compare it to Webb's Seeker Series, you can see where things could lead to.  But it's not just today.  Compare it to the 1950s or the 1910s or... or... or... Interregnum by J. A. Webb The Book of Eli meets Frank Peretti An Epic Thriller of Deception, Faith, and the Fight for Truth Now comes the third installment in J. A. Webb's "Seekers Series"- and the War in Heaven, the Battle in Unseen Places . . . just got real. It's the year 2158 and the world did not end- it was enslaved. Now the Seekers are humanity's last hope. Hunted by the Eye of the Eternal—the Order's merciless secret police—these brave rebels have risked everything to find the lost Words of Creator God, banned for generations and lost to living memory. Now, what began as a quest for Truth has evolved into a desperate struggle for survival as, trapped and cornered, the Seekers must overcome not just their pursuers, but also their own doubts and fears as their own faith . . . and even their sanity . . . begins to unravel. Their beleaguered company threatens to fracture beneath the pressure of constant pursuit and uncertain reward as they ask- Is this quest worth the sacrifice of their lives? But still, something ancient and powerful calls them forward, promising answers to questions they've only dared to whisper in the dark. Because their search is now not only one of survival, but has evolved into a battle for the soul of humanity itself. And the hunters that stalk them are not all of this world. A Gripping Tale of Power, Deception, and the Courage to Seek Truth Fans of Frank Peretti, Ted Dekker, and the sprawling worlds of Dune and Atlas Shrugged will be captivated by the pulse-pounding fusion of high-stakes thriller, epic sci-fi, and profound spiritual warfare. ⚡ A suspense-filled journey into a world where illusion is law and questioning it means death. If you love stories of faith, defiance, and the battle against unseen tyranny, this is the book for you. The Order has ruled from the shadows long enough. Are you ready to see the truth? Learn more about J. A. Webb on his WEBSITE and follow him on GoodReads and BookBub. Listen to 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 and more!

 Looking for a cozy holiday read, Tasha Tackett's got you covered. Listen in while we talk about her Holidays in Hadley Springs series. Don't know about you, but Planning for Nickie sounds delightful. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  EEEP! I had a blast chatting with Tasha about her Hadley Springs series. I'm thinking we need to urge her to go on to do more than just major holidays. What about National Donut Day or Beach Reads Day (that's a thing, right?  If not, maybe she can make it one!) Planning for Nickie by Tasha Hackett  "Fifty-three weeks is plenty of time to find a wife. One week to plan, fifty-two to execute." Career-obsessed Mark is history. From now on, my heart is open and ready for a family. No more fifth wheel. No more working alone through dinner in restaurant booths. Solo Mark is out. Family man is in. As with every challenge, I've divided the task into a step-by-step process. While on holiday in Hadley Springs, Nebraska, I drafted the twelve-month plan. I included a detailed description of what I'm looking for and a spreadsheet for the expected timeline. Project: Find-A-Wife will commence as soon as I return home to Phoenix. It's all well and good until I join my cousins on a blizzard walk for a few donuts. Who knew a chance encounter with a scrubs-wearing, sweet-smiling, schedule-wrecking woman would derail my life so efficiently? To Do: 1. Drink coffee 2. Review the plan 3. Find a wife *** If you loved the Carol Award-winning novel, Waiting for Gilbert (Holidays in Hadley Springs, Book 1), get ready to fall in love all over again in Hadley Springs, Nebraska. Learn more about Tasha on WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Subscribe to her YouTube channel so she gets paid for sharing her FREE Audioboks! Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

After a pile of sweet romances, sometimes you need something with... teeth.  You know?  And what's better than a book with a bit of both?  Listen in while Lori DeJong and I chat about Mistletoe and Malice! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  This was such a fun conversation. And chatting about the fun of hiding from would-be abductors, reluctant bodyguards, and all the fun?  How could it not be??? Mistletoe and Malice by Lori DeJong After barely escaping an attempted abduction, Houston attorney Riley Hudson is forced to accept her wealthy father's demand for private security. The last thing she wants is a bodyguard—especially one as maddeningly arrogant, bossy … and handsome as Colton Blankenship. Yet as the threat against her escalates, she begins to rely not only on his skills, but his steadfast presence. Colton isn't thrilled about giving up his hard-earned holiday vacation to protect a spoiled heiress. But he soon learns Riley is nothing like he expected. Fierce, independent, and unwavering in her faith, she's everything he thought he'd left behind after tragedy shattered his own beliefs. As the unknown threat circles closer, the tension between them ignites into something deeper … and far more perilous. When a second attempt on Riley's life nearly succeeds, Colton faces a terrifying truth. Protecting her means risking more than just his life. Haunted by a past he can't outrun, and a faith he's all but lost, he must decide if he can trust God again … before he loses Riley—and his heart—for good. We also talked about the final book in her True Calling series, Love's True Measure. You can learn more about Lori (and join her newsletter!) on her WEBSITE. Find her on GoodReads and BookBub. Listen to the first two episodes about the True Calling series HERE and HERE. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

What's better than a second-chance romance?  Maybe one wrapped in a beautiful women's fiction story?  Listen as Rachel Hauck and I chat about her latest book, The Sands of Sea Blue Beach. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Loves writing about characters healing their wounds and coming to the knowledge of Truth.  Psst... don't miss Meet Me at the Starlight Inn, too! Sands of Sea Blue Beach by Rachel Hauck Can anything rekindle the summer love between former sweethearts facing old wounds and a divided town? Emery Quinn finds herself at a crossroads between her career and complex family dynamics. Struggling to connect with her blended family and ready for a fresh start, Emery accepts the position of editor-in-chief at the Sea Blue Beach Gazette. Upon her return to the Sands Motor Motel, she is flooded with bittersweet memories of her late mother and past regrets from a long-ago summer. Architect Caleb Ransom has returned home to Sea Blue Beach, a place filled with cherished memories and potential opportunities. He means to make a difference for his family and his hometown by caring for his troubled sister's son and preserving the history of the town as the leader of the new Main Street initiative. He certainly never expected to run into Emery Quinn, the girl who captured his heart sixteen summers ago. As Emery and Caleb revive their friendship, they find themselves facing a bitterly divided town. Together, they navigate family challenges, professional setbacks, and a high-stakes royal visit to discover how forgiveness and love can reshape their hearts and their destiny. You can find out more about Rachel on her WEBSITE.  Follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. And don't forget that you can get 30% off the book with free shipping at BakerBookHouse.com. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

Writing with passion for women of the past, Jane Kirkpatrick is back with Across the Crying Sands, book one of The Women of Cannon Beach. Listen in to learn about the woman who inspired this book. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Women can be crazy resilient--using seemingly odd things to overcome difficulties. Taking on a mail route for mental health?  Well, if that's what she needs,  I'm all for it! I love the way Jane Kirkpatrick shows how history's women refuse to be neatly tucked into pigeon-holed boxes as a one-note.  Beautiful. Across the Crying Sands by Jane Kirkpatrick A Tale of Uncharted Adventure and Discovery Inspired by a True Story In 1888, Mary Edwards Gerritse is a witty and confident young woman who spends as much time as possible outdoors on the rugged Oregon coast, where she and her husband, John, have settled. The two are a formidable pair who are working hard to prove their homesteading claim and build a family. But as Mary faces struggles of young motherhood and questions about her family of origin, she realizes that life is far from the adventure she imagined it would be. After losing the baby she's carrying, grief threatens Mary, but she finds an unconventional way to bring joy back into her life--by taking over a treacherous postal route. As Mary becomes the first female mail carrier to traverse the cliff-hugging mountain trails and remote Crying Sands Beach, with its changing tides and sudden squalls, she recaptures the spark she lost and discovers that a life without risk is no life at all. In this inspirational historical Christian novel, a pioneer female mail carrier lives a life of resilience, including grappling with grief and the loss of a child and facing the challenges of frontier life. You can find out more about Jane on her WEBSITE. and follow on GoodReads and BookBub. Grab your preorder of book two at Bakerbookhouse.com HERE. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

Chapter books about sharing Jesus with the world?  Yes, please!  Listen in as Jenny Marcelene and I chat about her new series and the heart behind her stories. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I keep thinking of this series as "Jumanji meets The Chosen Kids" but for new readers.  How cool is that!   Christmas is coming, and this would be a great stocking stuffer for a new reader in your life! The Dreamer by Jenny Marcelene Join God's Global Plan Ten-year-old Jason is unsure if God is still at work around the world. That is, until he and his younger brother, Fred, discover a board game that transports them to countries across the globe. But one mistake could mean being stuck in a country with no way home. In The Dreamer, Jason and Fred must fulfill a strange mission to deliver a holy book to a dreamer in Afghanistan. If only the brothers knew who. Can they lose the mysterious person following them and figure out who needs the book before time runs out? Find out in this first book in Jenny Marcelene's To the Ends series. To the Ends is an international adventure series helping children ages 6-10 cultivate a biblical worldview and spark prayer for the nations.  Learn more about Jenny 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!

Sometimes, the dystopian worlds of good fiction feel all too familiar when it shouldn't. Listen in to see why I couldn't help but draw parallels between the worlds of J. L. Burrows' Freefalling and certain sections of the world today. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Not only did we talk about Burrows' dystopian world, we also discussed the education system today and how it is and isn't serving our children. Freefalling by J. L. Burrows Under the Dome, peace reigns ... forcefully. One hundred and eighty years in the future, the U.S. government eradicates warfare and violence. Serenity should feel safe, but she doesn't. Serenity Knowles knows two things for certain. Finishing her government assigned community service as a teacher is mandatory in order to start her adult life. And stopping those in power from reconditioning two of her favorite students will ruin her chances at a future and a life. Everything she thought she once knew to be true, suddenly is now in question after her typically peaceful girls fight in plain view of everyone at school. The Federal Bureau of Acceptance storms in and collects them both for reconditioning—chemical brainwashing. With no one to help, Serenity is driven into a wild rescue and escape plan. The girls can't be made into shadow children, brainwashed and limited to a menial future. All that stands between the overreaching government and her girls is Serenity's budding faith, a furry beast companion, her modified illegal AI, and a ragtag group of men and women set against the use of cutting-edge technology and genetically modified bio-weapons on citizens under the Dome. If any of them get caught, they will be reconditioned. If they don't move fast enough, the girls will be lost. If she doesn't become a hero, any hope of a real future will be forfeit. In her transformation from a teacher with a broken family to a radical defector leading a team of rebels, Sere discovers America's deadliest threat—its own government. Also, don't miss Parabolic Orbits--Jesus' parables told in SCI FI worlds. EEEP!   Wonders within the Starlit Inn is a great idea for Christmas!!! Learn more about 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 and more!

Some authors know just how to tug at my heartstrings before I even open the book.  Listen in to see why I'm eager to read Katie Powner's latest book, When the Road Comes Around. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  If you're looking for books with depth, tackling tough topics with gentleness and grace, look no further.  Powner shares her heart for story in this interview.  You don't want to miss her books. They're sure to soothe the soul and point you to Jesus. When the Road Comes Around by Katie Powner Only trouble can bring about the beauty of redemption and grace. In the small town of Grady, Montana, twenty-four-year-old Tad Bungley has a reputation for trouble. When he lands a job at Come Around Ranch, however, his life seems to take a positive turn. As he develops a soft spot for Sam, the ranch owner's disabled son, and a special bond with TJ, a rescue horse with a poor reputation of his own, Tad becomes determined not to bungle it up this time. Forty-eight-year-old Anita Wilson is too young to feel so old, but rheumatoid arthritis limits her ability to work on the guest ranch she owns with her husband. It was a risk to hire Tad for the summer, but Anita is convinced he just needs a bit of encouragement to find his footing. What she doesn't anticipate is that Tad's presence at the ranch will change everything, including her relationship with her son. And when Tad finds himself in more of a mess than ever, he and Anita must learn when to hold on, when to let go, and what grace really means. Learn more about 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 and more!

The one-year anniversary for book one of the Dauntless Defenders is TODAY! Listen in to  my chat with Taylor S. Newport and learn all about the series and the latest in it, No Time to Die. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. The Dauntless Defenders series novels do not stand alone. Be sure to read the first book first.  By the time we got done talking about these books, I was ready to forget the book I NEEDED to work on and just read for a few days.  Can you blame me? No Time to Die by Taylor S Newport The enemy believes the battle is nearly over, but he's just getting started. Sector 17 has tried to silence the Ghost of Oz, but he doesn't back down. Back on the hunt, Tyler Reid uncovers chilling truths that challenge everything he knows about his enemy and the woman who works for them. Caught between protecting a Russian heiress and the job she has to do, Tyler starts to question who he can rely on. Alexandra "Alex" Romanova has been told who she is, but fragmented memories hint at a past she's reluctant to reclaim—a past far darker than what she remembers. When Tyler offers her a chance to escape her cruel boss at Sector 17, the plight of young recruits being turned into killers weighs heavily on her conscience. She's determined to give them the same freedom she's found, but doesn't realize that in doing so she has put them all at risk. As the head of Sector 17 clings to power, Tyler and Alex are caught in the middle of a deadly war for lives, freedom, and revenge. With enemies closing in on all sides, they can't save everyone. The stakes are higher than ever—there is no time to die. Don't miss book three on January 23, 2026. Learn more about Taylor 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!

When I looked at the cover of These Blue Mountains by Sarah Loudin Thomas, I couldn't help but think of the cover from the early editions of Anne of Green Gables. Listen in to see what Sarah has to say about that. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. We talked about so much that I have a hard time remembering everything, but I loved hearing about how Sarah writes the stories that inspired previous books and her next one, too. Inspired by the book, The German Invasion of Western North Carolina by Jacqueline Burgin Painter These Blue Mountains by Sarah Loudin Thomas  A moving story of love, betrayal, and the enduring power of hope in the face of darkness. German pianist Hedda Schlagel's world collapsed when her fiancé, Fritz, vanished after being sent to an enemy alien camp in the United States during the Great War. Fifteen years later, in 1932, Hedda is stunned to see Fritz's name in a photograph of an American memorial for German seamen who died near Asheville, North Carolina. Determined to reclaim his body and bring closure to his ailing mother, Hedda travels to the US. Her quest takes a shocking turn when, rather than Fritz's body, his casket contains the remains of a woman who died under mysterious circumstances. Local deputy Garland Jones thought he'd left that dark chapter behind when he helped bury Fritz Meyer's coffin. The unexpected arrival of Hedda, a long-suffering yet captivating woman, forces him to confront how much of the truth he really knows. As they work together to uncover the identity of the woman in the casket and to unravel Fritz's fate, Hedda and Garland grow closer. But with Hedda in the US on borrowed time while Hitler rises to power in Germany, she fears she'll be forced to return home before she can put the ghosts of her past to rest. Learn more about Sarah 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!

When Lara d'Entremont began describing her YA portal fantasy, The Painted Fairytale, I knew this would be right up my alley. Listen in and see how art becomes the portal to other worlds! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Portal fantasy is my favorite, so I was crazy excited to learn about this one--especially the art tie-in. I can't wait to dive in myself. We chatted about her characters, the world, and the faith that connects them. The Painted Fairytale by Lara d'Entremont Seventeen-year-old Wren Devine refuses to share her art with anyone-other than her parents and her sister (who died three years prior). But when her mother submits her artwork to a mentorship program, and she gets accepted, Wren is forced to display her artwork for the eccentric Professor Hayes. Despite her fears, Wren hopes this mentorship will finally make her as worthy as her sister. But this mentorship is about more than painting. Wren soon learns that she has a magical ability to turn her paintings into portals to travel not only to other places but also to another world entirely. An eerie children's book in the professor's classroom reveals a wicked pirate with a vengeance who has her eye on Stefan Branson, a former student of Professor Hayes. As all four of these lives intersect, it becomes apparent that everyone has a secret--some more deadly than others. The longer these secrets brew, the more deadly and heavy they become, and possibly lead to never seeing her former, earthly realm again. Wren must not only learn to release the shadow of her beloved sister but step boldly into her own world. Learn more about Lara on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads.or on Subtack. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

 Oh, boy! Patricia Bradley is at it again!  When you hear the lengths this author goes through to get things right, you can see why she's so beloved. Listen in for a chat about On the Edge of Trust! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Okay, so maybe Patricia didn't ask a ranger where a good place to hide a body is this time, but she sure did have a lot of fun research stories to tell.  This Logan Point novel will keep you on your toes. I can't wait to get started.  On the Edge of Trust by Patricia Bradley Sometimes the closer you get to justice, the deadlier it becomes When decorated FBI undercover agent Scott Sinclair suffers a gunshot wound in his right arm, the injury threatens his future career in the field. He is determined to regain his former job by training himself to use his left hand, and failure is not an option--especially when he's unofficially pulled into an investigation. Tori Mitchell is a passionate crime reporter and podcaster who has dedicated her life to seeking justice. Her relentless pursuit of the truth has freed a wrongfully convicted man from prison, making Tori an enemy of the true killer. When her nephew is accused of a different murder, nothing can stop her from getting involved and clearing his name. Soon after Tori and Scott reconnect on the case, shots are fired, leaving them to wonder which of them has been targeted. As the investigation intensifies, so do the threats and the sparks between them, but Tori's doubtful if she can extend grace and trust to Scott. They'll have to combine their skills and rely on their growing relationship to outsmart the killer.  Learn more about Patricia and her books at PTBradley.com and PatriciaBradleyBooks.com! 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!

 A chat with Tracie Peterson is always a treat, and this was no exception. Listen in as we talk about A Moment to Love, the last in the Hope of Cheyenne series.  note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. I've been loving what Tracie is doing in this Cheyene series, but something about this book really hit home. I think the themes of revenge for heinous crimes and the indignity of our work being stolen are things we relate to whether it's the 19th or the 21st century. Also, don't miss out on her Christmas novella collection with Karen Witemeyer and Misty M. Beller, On a Midnight Clear.  A Moment to Love  by Tracie Peterson A shared heart for justice pulls them together, but is their love strong enough to survive their trials? Dr. Carrie Vogel's heart is shattered when her groundbreaking medical research is stolen and falsely credited to her ex-fiancé. With years of diligent work lost, she grapples with the disastrous turn of her career and leans on her faith for strength. When she learns that her Pinkerton friend Spencer Duval is on a justice-driven mission to her hometown of Cheyenne, she agrees to an arranged marriage to provide him with a cover story. But merely pretending to be in love with Spencer becomes increasingly difficult the more time she spends with him. Spencer is determined to apprehend the ruthless murderer who killed his father years ago, but his quest ignites unexpected emotions--both for Carrie and about the desire for revenge that has dominated his life. As the web of suspects tightens, their futures hang in the balance, and they must learn to trust God's plan as unexpected love takes flight. Return to Cheyenne, Wyoming, with bestselling author Tracie Peterson for a journey of healing and forgiveness in this exquisite western frontier romance that will appeal to readers of faith-filled stories and When Calls the Heart. Don't forget that you can get this and her other books at 30-40% off with FREE US shipping from Bakerbookhouse.com Learn more about Tracie Peterson on her WEBSITE. 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!

From a master of Biblical Fiction, Connilyn Cossette is back with a new book set in the time of Saul and David. Listen in to learn more about The King's Men series. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I loved chatting with Connilyn about this series. One thing that struck me was that the time period--I'd never thought about how things that happened in the Bible happened during historical "ages" like the Iron Age.  Whoa. This series really gives new perspective on the time and culture surrounding the time of Saul and David. That's the richest part of good Biblical fiction--giving you insight into how they probably lived.  Splendor of the Land by Connilyn Cossette Gavriel, a soldier in the elite company of Yonatan--son of King Saul--dreams of forging his destiny through crafting weapons with his own hands. Despite earning his place among Israel's finest, he is haunted by a dark past that no distraction can dispel. When his reckless behavior crosses a line, Yonatan gives him one last mission to prove his worth: help persuade a distant Kenite tribe to sever their ties with the Amalekites. Zahava, a gifted goldsmith hidden behind her father's legacy, lives in the shadows due to her physical affliction. Her unmatched and unrecognized talent is a closely guarded secret within her family. Disheartened by a future that seems unattainable, she resigns herself to a life of obscurity. However, when Gavriel arrives in her village, they're tangled together in ways neither could have imagined. As they navigate unforeseen dangers and enemy threats, Gavriel must confront his past and either bend his knee to the One True King or lose the woman he loves forever. Set against the backdrop of ancient Israel, this exhilarating Old Testament-era tale is threaded with themes of redemption, courage, and sacrifice. This Iron Age story will appeal to readers of biblical fiction, Francine Rivers, Tessa Afshar, and Angela Hunt.  Splendor of the Land is still 30% off with FREE US shipping from BakerBookHouse.com. Don't forget to get your novella on her WEBSITE (and sign up for her newsletter!) You can also find Connilyn Cossette on BookBub and GoodReads, and don't forget Connilyn's Bibliophiles on Facebook. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

There's something extra special about historical romance at Christmastime, so chatting with Julie Klassen about A Sea View Christmas was guaranteed to be a fun time. Listen in to hear about Julie's latest novel. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Julie shared about research, the series, and how Christmas looked in Regency times.  A Sea View Christmas by Julie Klassen  The holiday stirs up excitement as fondly remembered guests come to stay and acquaintances grow into more. . . . With a promise to her youngest sister, Sarah Summers declares that this year's Christmas at Sea View will exceed all expectations. But an upcoming trip to Scotland--and the prospect of becoming reacquainted with dashing widower Callum Henshall--blows a flurry of doubts into her mind. Sarah had discouraged his attentions before yet soon finds herself once again torn between attraction and duty as alluring thoughts of a second chance at love weave their way into her practical heart. Meanwhile, seventeen-year-old Georgiana eagerly anticipates the exciting Christmas of her dreams after last year's dull, disappointing holiday filled with endless chores. She enjoys all the promised parties, music, and dancing, but is taken by surprise when young love comes knocking. Does the festive romance of a Sea View Christmas hold the key to a happily-ever-after for both sisters? Spend the holiday season with the Summers sisters on the charming Devonshire coast, where family bonds are strengthened, love is rekindled, and Christmas joy abounds. Learn more about Julie on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. Don't miss the Regency Facebook Group HERE! A Sea View Christmas is available at 30% off with FREE US shipping from BakerBookHouse.com Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

 Kate Angelo is one of the best "new" authors out there. I LOVE her suspense (and so did my mom!)  But The King Legacy takes this to a new level. Listen in and see why I'm crazy excited for this series. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  The King Legacy deals with a guy who runs a gym where law enforcement officers workout in the same place as at-risk kids. Wouldn't a place like that be a game changer in cities all over the country??? Girl Lost by Kate Angelo  A LOST BABYLuna Rosati found acceptance and comfort with her childhood foster family, but when she became pregnant at sixteen, she gave the baby up for adoption and left without a word. Now a CIA counterintelligence officer, Luna wants to reconcile her fractured sense of self by finding the only blood family she has--the teenage daughter she's never met. As Luna closes in on learning the girl's identity with the help of her mentor, Stryker, she prepares to meet him in her old neighborhood--the last place she wants to be. Then Stryker is captured.    AN INESCAPABLE PASTSpecial Agent Corbin King changed his last name to escape the shadow of his convicted father serving a life sentence. When he runs into Luna, the object of his failed teenage romance, the two must put their pasts aside and work together to expose a secret that someone's willing to kill for. A DEADLY THREATBut when they encounter a kidnapping, missing bodies, and murder, the secrets Corbin and Luna are keeping from one another are only the beginning of the threat they face with more than their own lives at stake. "Kate Angelo skillfully unveils the savagery of greed under the pretense of good."--DIANN MILLS, bestselling writer "An exciting story that will capture readers' emotions while also taking them on a pulse-pounding, suspenseful roller coaster ride they won't soon forget."--NANCY MEHL, author of the Erin Delaney Mysteries To learn more about Kate Angelo, visit her on her WEBSITE. You can also find her on BookBub and GoodReads. Don't forget you can get the book at 30% off and FREE US shipping from Bakerbookhouse.com Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

 Christmas is beautiful any time of year--whether it's in autumn to prepare you for the upcoming season, in winter while you're in active holiday mode, prolonging the joy into spring, or having fun with Christmas in July (when we often need the illusion of cool!) Listen in to see what's up in Bavarian Falls this summer! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I had a blast learning about Katie's planning, choosing the place, the in-person research to get things just right--everything!   A Very Bavarian Summer by Katie M. Reid Holly Noel Brigham is thrilled about her boyfriend's upcoming visit to Bavarian Falls. What could go wrong? Navigating a long-distance relationship is no picnic. Work demands, a wildfire, and insecurities threaten Holly's and Nik's summer plans and future goals. What was supposed to be a season of carefree dates and tender kisses is complicated by unexpected loss, a surprise visitor, and the pressure of the Christmas in July Festival. In an effort to strengthen their relationship, Holly and Nik decide to ask each other twenty questions... What do you dream about? What makes you cry? What are you second-guessing? What makes you angry? Why do you love me? The questions eerily parallel reality, causing a roller coaster of emotions and a high-elevation argument. Is Holly's and Nik's relationship strong enough to endure some twists and turns or is this the end of the road? Learn more about Katie 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!

There aren't enough authors willing to tackle the difficult stories. There just aren't.  Many (guilty here!) feel inadequate to the task, want to escape the tough stuff rather than confront it--so many reasons. Listen in as I chat with D. T. Powell about what made her write, With Mercy's Eyes. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Loved chatting with Powell about her heart for those who often find it hard to interact with Christians--whose choices make others uncomfortable.  Powell shows love and compassion without ignoring Biblical truth, and the result is a powerful story we could all learn from. With Mercy's Eyes by D. T. Powell He turned his back on God a long time ago. But God never forgot him. Six months after struggling actor Lane Harris lost his husband in a tragic accident, he lands a movie role guaranteed to put him on the Hollywood map. But one producer holds the power to shut down his shot at stardom—and she's a Christian. If she finds out he's gay, it's over. Lane is careful not to say too much around her. When an alcohol-fueled tryst with his co-star ends in humiliation, and his landlord hands him an eviction notice, Lane looks for someone to talk to. He finds a confidant in the Christian producer. After a night of too little sleep and not enough coffee, he lets slip his sexual orientation. Instead of a verbal flogging, the woman recounts recently losing her own husband. The only Christians Lane knows condemn him upon learning he's gay. But this one is different. She doesn't embrace his sexuality, but instead of treating him with disdain, she offers compassion. Christians are supposed to hate people like him. So, why doesn't she? - - - - - - - With Mercy's Eyes by D. T. Powell is an issue-facing, contemporary novel for adult churched Christians. It addresses homosexuality and same-sex attraction from a Biblical perspective without falling into the trap of the extreme responses we too often see from modern churches. It holds similar views to Jackie Hill Perry, Becket Cook, Rosaria Butterfield, and Christopher Yuan. Learn more about on WEBSITE and follow on GoodReads and BookBub.   withmercyseyes.com Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

 Ann Swindell's world of Leathersby stole a piece of my heart and now... it's back to grab some more with another book in the series. EEEP!  Listen in for what's happening in Love in the Castle Library and our discussion on how writing helps authors in their faith. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. I think my favorite part of our conversation is how we talked about how we meet Jesus in our writing of characters and understand Him better. Additionally, about gifts and how God uses them in our lives--and how it's "BOTH" in things not just for the blessing of others but also it blesses us in the process.  Love in the Castle Library by Ann Swindell  Predictability and efficiency have marked Delphine DuVert's orderly life as Castle Stewardess in the small European country of Lethersby—until she is tasked by the monarchy to hire a British researcher. Lethersby needs help solving the 100-year-old mystery of their Lost Queen, a young royal who disappeared into the night during World War I. Delphine's split-second decision to hire Jack Worthington, a doctoral student at the University of Oxford, has long-lasting consequences when he steps in to protect her from an angry colleague determined to ruin her life. The only catch? That protection looks like Jack posing as her beau. Jack Worthington believes that his instinct to protect Delphine was the right one, but he's determined to stay focused on his research for Lethersby—and keep his emotional distance after reeling from a broken heart. Yet as the clues to discovering the Lost Queen's story unravel and the Delphine's future hangs in the balance, both Jack and Delphine must step out in faith, choosing to trust that what God has ahead for them is worth any risk.  Learn more about Ann on her WEBSITE and follow her on GoodReads and BookBub. For preorder goodies, order HERE. Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

We've all met someone who challenged us--our hopes and dreams or maybe our determination to avoid such frivolous things.  Jennifer Willcock's Hymn of Life shows how that plays out in the lives of two very different people... and the romance that unsettles everything. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  I loved chatting with Jennifer about how she came to writing, how she moved into fiction, and her heart for stories. Hymn of Life  by Jennifer Willcock She's sworn off love and faith. He's about to challenge both. Can Aaron show Lauren that both are worth believing in? Lauren Grace is determined to find her happily ever after, but on her terms, which doesn't include romance. Aaron Miles Scott is a rock star who has lost his muse when it comes to writing music. He doesn't need a relationship to complicate his life. Lauren and Aaron are brought together in a head-on collision as they judge a talent competition. Aaron represents everything Lauren has sworn off—success, fame, notoriety. He definitely doesn't fit into her new life. Neither can deny the chemistry between them but is it enough? Will they be able to find their way past the secrets, lies, and wounds to their happily ever after? Learn more about Jennifer 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!

 It may seem weird, but my favorite way to read Amish fiction is with mystery or suspense added. I think I like the juxtaposition of the "simple, quiet" life and the upheaval. Listen in to my chat with Shelley Shepard Gray about her newest book, Unshaken. note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. There are so many questions about the Amish, their ways of life, and their differences from us and from each other. We talked about the differences between people, sure, but we also looked at how the Amish look for the ways people are similar to them etc. Of course, we also talked about the Rumors in Ross County series and how her newest book connects.  Unshaken  by Shelley Shepard Gray He helps her hide until danger has passed. She hopes her cover lasts long enough. When Stephanie Miller planned her visit to a dollar store in southern Ohio, she was expecting to pick up a few items she couldn't find in her Amish community. She was not expecting to find herself an innocent bystander as a drug deal went horribly wrong. The sole witness to a murder, now Stephanie is targeted by the gunman. Hardy Anderson is always ready to help his social worker sister, Bev--which now includes hiding an Amish woman until a killer can be brought to justice. Surely if they dress her in English clothing, Hardy can hide her at the sprawling ranch where he works. But the killer is desperate--and there's no telling what lengths he will go. You can learn more about Shelley on her WEBSITE.  Don't forget to follow her on BookBub and GoodReads. AND!!!  Don't miss her Buggy Bunch group on Facebook, too!  Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at: Apple Castbox Google Play Libsyn RSS Spotify Amazon and more!

I absolutely judge books by their covers, and as one of the top covers I've seen all year, Sowing Hope doesn't disappoint. Listen in to learn how Heather Wood weaves parts of history many don't know much about into amazing stories! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. I love that Heather writes about skilled Irish artisans before the potato famine.  She also shared about how she wrote to show how slavery was getting worse, how she deals with an actual martyr, and about the Underground Railroad. Sowing Hope by Heather Wood Encounter the True Story of Abolitionist Editor Elijah Lovejoy Patrick Gallagher has done all he can—and it hasn't been enough. Now in his mid-thirties, he battles discouragement over his inability to make a difference in eradicating slavery. Longing to regain the hope and passion that once fueled his calling, Patrick sets out from his home in Maryland to meet his hero, Elijah Lovejoy, an anti-slavery editor in Missouri. Anna Markland actively serves her community and those traveling on the Underground Railroad. But her efforts feel small when she is constantly beset by headaches that leave her prostrate for days on end. When the enigmatic Mr. Gallagher enters her life, she discovers their hearts beat with the same dreams. Yet Anna knows that if she allowed him to pursue her, her weakness would hinder him from reaching his potential as an abolitionist leader. In the free states along his path, Patrick discovers that the Black and abolitionist communities are anything but free. Violent mobs, hateful rhetoric, and spineless politicians create a tinderbox of danger. What will he sacrifice for the cause he's devoted his life to—and will God finally use him to make the difference he longs to see in society? Don't miss the first interview with Heather HERE. Learn more about Heather 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!

Riddles? Hidden treasure? Secrets?  Sounds like things are causing chills in Marlin County! Listen in to see what fearsome things Rae Riley will face in JPC Allen's latest mystery! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. I just love Allen's world in Marlin County, Ohio, and seeing her back with this new book is the highlight of my autumn. I mean, how much more Octobery can you get than a book with "Riddle" and "lonesome October" in it?  Anne Shirley (if she'd been a mystery buff, anyway) would totally approve. A Riddle in the Lonesome October by JPC Allen How do you survive a season of fear? October is a hard month for Rae Riley's family. Her dad, Sheriff Walter "Mal" Malinowski lost his wife and father then. He also has to manage the trouble Halloween brings to rural Marlin County, Ohio. But this year, Rae's uncle fights for his life after a riding accident, and a family feud over a lost inheritance erupts at a local Halloween attraction. As Rae tries to support her family, she and her cousin Amber work to unravel the 70-year-old riddle that will reveal the location of the inheritance so their great aunt Lily and her kids can gain a fortune. And Rae must deal with the secretive behavior of the deputy she's fallen for. When a bogus medium conducts a séance to contact Cyrus Morley, the man who devised the riddle, the results stun everyone, and the aftermath is even more shocking. There's only one way to survive a season of so much fear--and only one way to unmask a killer.  Learn more about JPC Allen 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!

 If you loved Jill Williamson's Blood of Kings series, you're in for a treat.  Jill, working with Sunrise Publishing, has new authors publishing in her world, and I got to chat with one!  Listen in to see why I'm really excited about Niki Florica's book in this series (and why I love her cover the best!). note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Niki and I had a great time chatting about fantasy, the world of the Blood of Kings, how she became a part of the Sunrise family, and more! Heir of Light by Niki Florica Sir Rigil Barak came to Land's End expecting a routine mission: investigate some rumors, spy on some nobles, and above all, play the perfect knight. Instead, he is reunited with his less-than-shining past--the same past that has kept him on the road for years, fleeing his noble father's scorn and grieving the woman he thought dead. Until now. Because in Land's End, he sees a face he never thought he'd see again . . . at least, not outside his dreams. And if she's alive, he'll do anything for a second chance to save her. Years of captivity to a madman left Sethe with a face full of scars and one rule: never be trapped again. Except, to keep that rule, she'll have to ask for help from Rigil, the thief who broke her heart and abandoned her long ago. Now, years later, he shows up to rescue her from Land's End like a knight in shining armor? Who does he think he is? And even if the boy from her past has become a real knight with real honor, can she fall for a man who lied to her? Maybe that doesn't matter now, because Sethe's old captor is hot on her heels with a new invention that could turn her into something worse than a prisoner. He could turn her into a weapon. Fortunately, Rigil and Sethe always did know how to pull off a heist--and if they can steal the enemy's deadly new weapon, they can save the kingdom. For Sethe, this means trusting Rigil without letting him anywhere near her heart. For Rigil, it means a second chance with the woman whose heart he once broke. And this time, failure could cost them everything. Dive into this swashbuckling story of second chances, forbidden love, espionage and epic adventure in this fourth book in the Blood of Kings: Legends series. Blood of Kings: Legends Book 1: Squire of Truth Book 2: Lord of Winter Book 3: Lady of Shadows Book 4: Heir of Light 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 and more!

 I had a fascinating chat with Ann Gabhart recently. She's always full of wonderful stories about Kentucky, and this was no exception. Listen in to learn what about her story... is true! note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.  Hearing about the hot springs and the girl who danced for one night made me wish I had a Tardis. Wouldn't you love to go back in time and follow her so you could find out what happened? The Pursuit of Elena Bradford by Ann H. Gabhart  Nothing would please her family more than her securing an admirable match, but true love and loyalty are harder to come by than she imagined. At twenty-two, Elena Bradford has never met a man who made her consider marriage. But when her father dies and leaves the family deeply in debt, Elena becomes their only hope. Her mother uses their last funds to take Elena and her younger sister to Graham Springs, Kentucky, where people find healing by drinking the mineral spring water and healthy recreation through the many daily activities--including dances almost every evening. As her mother schemes to find Elena a wealthy husband, Elena finds herself drawn to two men her mother would never consider. Charming artist Kirby Frazier spends his days drawing and painting the guests, but his real mission is to find a wealthy bride to finance his dream to go west. Melancholy Andrew Harper has come to Graham Springs in need of healing after a broken heart. When a beautiful young lady shows up at the Springs with no chaperone and a story that seems suspicious, nearly everyone is charmed and intrigued. But when an unexpected tragedy occurs, Elena, Kirby, and Andrew will all be faced with decisions of life, love, and loyalty. With a Southern flair and a spark of intrigue, this stand-alone clean historical romance will charm readers with masterful artists, colorful dances, a love triangle, and endearing family relationships. 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 and more!