Episodios

  • Ep09: Interview with Kit Tosello, Debut Novel, Sweet Contemporary Romance

    Ep09: Interview with Kit Tosello, Debut Novel, Sweet Contemporary Romance
    Sep 30 2024
    In this episode of the Christian Romance Podcast, we welcome Kit Tosello as she shares the heartfelt journey behind her debut novel, The Color of Home. Kit opens up about how her personal experiences with loss, faith, and love have shaped her story, and she delves into themes of courage, hope, and embracing change. We also explore the importance of family relationships, the evolution of her tea shop business, and how community can uplift us in our faith journeys. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about finding joy in unexpected places and taking chances on love. Listen to the episode here: Meet Kit Tosello Kit Tosello is an award-winning writer of small-town contemporary fiction with a big heart as well as inspirational essays and devotionals. With her eye trained on the beauty hiding in plain sight all around us, she arranges words with tenderness, humor, and hope. When not writing, Kit can be found in the loose-tea shop she operates with her husband, exploring the great Pacific Northwest, or enjoying the “great indoors”—bookstores and libraries. Usually with a matcha latte in hand. Visit Kit at www.KitTosello.com and sign up for her newsletter called “The Tea.” Bible Verse for Encouragement Isaiah 43:19, NKJV: Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. Kit Tosello's Debut Novel, The Color of Home Audrey Needham felt she had landed her dream job as an interior designer for the rich and famous. But every job has its drawbacks, and her demanding boss and the competitive nature of her profession are taking a toll. When she receives a call for help from her Aunt Daisy, she reluctantly agrees to go to her. Although her aunt holds a special place in her heart, Charity Falls brings up suppressed memories of pain. Shortly after her arrival, Audrey’s life is thrown into upheaval. She is given an indefinite leave from her job, and with no savings, she must accept a temporary job at Homer’s Hardware. This position is a far cry from her preeminent role as a designer, but it also introduces her to a colorful cast of residents who begin to tug at her heart, including a lonely young girl and an attractive emergency medical pilot. Audrey is also drawn to the deteriorating inn near her aunt’s home that holds so many of her childhood memories—both good and bad. She is determined to out the party responsible for the inn’s neglect. But doing so will only cause pain to a family she’s come to care about. Get your copy of The Color of Home today on your favorite retailer: Amazon Baker Book House (best price) Barnes & Noble Bookshop.org (support your independent bookstore) ChristianBook.com Books-A-Million Target Walmart Get updates on our themed book giveaways Make sure to sign up for our email list and get a link to the most current book giveaway. Kelly's Personal Update My debut novel, Finding Forevermore, is coming soon to Kickstarter! I’ve been working on this book for a long time, and God has shown me so much in the process. I can’t wait to share more about it with you as it goes through the editing process. Follow on Kickstarter for updates.
    Más Menos
    46 m
  • Ep 08: Interview with R.C. Mogo, Debut Novel, Historical Romance

    Ep 08: Interview with R.C. Mogo, Debut Novel, Historical Romance
    Sep 21 2024
    In this episode of The Christian Romance Podcast, R.C. Mogo shares how her faith journey influenced her transition from secular writing to Christian romance and her challenges in aligning her work with her beliefs. R.C. discusses the inspiration behind her protagonist, based on a close friend lost to suicide, and how her historical research uncovered the perfect figures and events for her story. R.C. also emphasizes the importance of planning and outlining and the power of storytelling in conveying messages of faith and personal growth. Listen to the episode here Meet R.C. Mogo ​R.C. Mogo is the pen name for Rebecca Claire Mogollón, who works as an e-learning developer for a California-based tech software company from the comfort of her home in Spring, Texas. She married her first love in 2011, and then birthed her next three loves in 2014, 2017, and 2020. ​R.C. Mogo comes from a family of brilliant salespeople and a librarian. Being the daughter of a real librarian has given her serious cred her whole life. Nothing sweetens the historical romance author deal more than, "My mom can expedite that interlibrary loan." ​When her 2-year-old son was diagnosed with leukemia in early 2020, the world stood still. Writing ground to a halt. Dreams desaturated. Fear threatened to sink its claws in. But, God. ​He made their whole family better off through the trial, with stronger faith and a deeper appreciation for every moment, every laugh, and every sparkle in his eyes. When he rang the bell in 2022, the sound that rang out was loud and clear: "The Lord is good, his mercy is everlasting!" Visit R.C. at her website Follow R.C. Mogo on social media R.C. Mogo's Debut Novel Innocents of Marbella by R.C. Mogo 15th Century. ​Gifted linguist Zahra flees to France following a traumatic incident, leaving her baby sister to fend for herself in Marbella. Years later, when a young girl arrives on her doorstep, so begins a divine adventure toward redemption. ​ Gruff and ill-tempered Englishman Stephen Kempe is on the hunt for his abducted niece, until corrupt church officials accuse him of sorcery and throw him in prison. ​ While Zahra interprets at the trial of a historic serial killer, the young girl is snatched from her bedchamber. In a desperate attempt to get help, Zahra frees Kempe from jail, only to face betrayal as he thrusts her into a deadly inferno. But instead of meeting her end, Zahra's story has just begun. Get your copy on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or Black Rose Writing Website Bible Verse for Encouragement Romans 1:16, NLT "I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first, and also the Gentile." Get updates on book giveaways Sign up for our email list and get updated on new book giveaways every month Kelly's Personal Update I have been writing like crazy! I just finished my novella, Love in Pages. Nina LeRoux dreams of opening a bookshop in Elkwood, Pennsylvania, to honor her late mother. But after a crushing setback, the future she’s craved is just outside her reach. Determined to succeed on her own, she’s thrown off guard when Patrick, a local contractor, steps in with an offer to help. Sparks fly in more ways than one, stirring feelings Nina isn’t ready to face. As the grand opening nears, a sudden accident forces Nina to confront a painful past she’s left behind in France and choose what matters most. Can she hold onto her fierce independence while learning to trust again? Or will her fear of being hurt keep her from embracing the future God’s preparing? Love in Pages is a story of resilience and the unexpected ways love can rewrite your story. Nina’s journey shows that even in the hardest moments, faith and love can shape the future in ways we never...
    Más Menos
    44 m
  • Ep 07: Interview with DiAnn Mills, Romantic Suspense

    Ep 07: Interview with DiAnn Mills, Romantic Suspense
    Sep 15 2024
    In this episode, DiAnn Mills shares her journey into writing, highlighting the importance of confidence and self-challenge. She delves into her love for romantic suspense, the research behind her books, and her new release, Lethal Standoff, exploring family dysfunction and betrayal themes. DiAnn also discusses her mentorship program, the value of critique groups, and her passion for listening and understanding body language. She offers insights into the Bible verses that have inspired her writing career. Listen to the episode here. Meet DiAnn Mills DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who believes her readers should expect an adventure. She combines unforgettable characters with unpredictable plots to create action-packed, suspense-filled novels. DiAnn believes every breath of life is someone’s story, so why not capture those moments and create a thrilling adventure? Her titles have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists, won two Christy Awards, and been finalists for the RITA, Daphne Du Maurier, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol award contests. You can download a list of her published titles by clicking here. DiAnn is a founding board member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), a former director of Blue Ridge Christian Writers, and a member of the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and International Thriller Writers. She shares her passion for helping other writers succeed by teaching writing workshops around the country. DiAnn has been termed a coffee snob and roasts her own coffee beans. She’s an avid reader, loves to cook, and believes her grandchildren are the smartest kids in the universe. She and her husband live in sunny Houston, Texas. DiAnn is very active online and would love to connect with readers on any social media platform. Visit DiAnn on her website Follow DiAnn on social media DiAnn's New Book Release Lethal Standoff Hostage negotiator Carrington Reed is called to the scene when reports come in that fifteen hostages are being held by the Kendrix brothers in an abandoned house in south Texas. When she arrives on site, Carrington quickly learns that the brothers are armed and refuse to release their victims, a group of undocumented immigrants, until the local police identify their father’s murderer. Working closely with Levi Ehrlich, a handsome investigative reporter who has covered some of Carrington’s negotiations in the past, she finds herself being undeniably drawn to him. Carrington digs deeper into the death of the Kendrix brother’s father and begins to notice that some details surrounding his death aren’t adding up. As Carrington investigates the brothers’ claims and tries to piece together their motive for taking innocent people captive, it soon becomes clear that they are trying to hide something and that revenge for their father’s death may not be what they’re really bargaining for after all. To protect the hostages and ensure the brothers don’t carry out the rest of their sinister plot, Carrington must get to the bottom of one family’s secret and the truth they’re trying so hard to hide before time runs out. Award-winning author DiAnn Mills delivers pulse-pounding romantic suspense about secrets, betrayal, and finding a path to forgiveness. Recommended for fans of the following: Romantic Suspense, Christian Fiction, Clean Romance Baker Book House Get it Local. Today! Murder By The Book Target Tyndale Walmart Bible Verse for Encouragement Jeremiah 20:9, NKJV: Then I said, “I will not make mention of Him, Nor speak anymore in His name.” But His word was in my heart like a burning fire Shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, And I could not. NIV: But if I say, “I will not mention his word or speak anymore in his name,
    Más Menos
    54 m
  • Ep 06: Interview with Carrie Turansky, Dual-Timeline and Historical Romance

    Ep 06: Interview with Carrie Turansky, Dual-Timeline and Historical Romance
    Sep 7 2024
    In this episode of The Christian Romance Podcast, Kelly interviews author Carrie Turansky about her writing journey and her new book, A Token of Love. Carrie shares how she started writing and the challenges she's faced. She discusses her transition from contemporary to historical fiction and her decision to write dual-timeline novels. The conversation delves into the inspiration behind A Token of Love, which is set in both the Victorian era and the present day, and explores themes of human trafficking. Listen to the episode here: Meet Carrie Turansky Carrie Turansky is the award-winning author of twenty-two inspirational novels and novellas and a winner of the Carol Award, the International Digital Award, and the HOLT Medallion. She loves traveling to England to research her Edwardian novels, including The Legacy of Longdale Manor, No Journey Too Far, No Ocean Too Wide, and the Edwardian Brides series. Her novels have been translated into several languages and have received starred reviews from readers worldwide. Visit Carrie at CarrieTuransky.com Check out her Free Book just for you! Download Keeper of Her Heart today. Follow Carrie Bible Verse for Encouragement Isaiah 58:6-8, NKJV: "Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh? Then your light shall break forth like the morning, Your healing shall spring for the speedily, And your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard." Carrie Turansky's New Book In 1885 London, Lillian Freemont embarks on a treacherous journey to reunite with her long-lost niece who was abandoned at the Foundling Hospital eight years ago. Fueled by her sister’s plea and armed with the gold token that identifies her niece, Lillian teams up with investigative reporter Matthew McGivern to expose the grim reality of the shadowed streets of London. As Lillian and Matthew unravel the mystery of Alice’s disappearance, their partnership blossoms into one of shared purpose and undeniable attraction. In present-day London, Janelle Spencer finds herself unexpectedly running the Foundling Museum. When filmmaker Jonas Conrad arrives to document the museum’s history, their collaboration takes a surprising turn as they uncover articles from the past that shed light on a haunting connection to the present. As Janelle becomes caught between exposing the truth and protecting the museum’s reputation, she must decide if she can risk everything for love and justice. Get your copy of A Token of Love today! Get Updates on Themed Book Giveaways Make sure to sign up for our email list and get a link to the most current book giveaway My debut novel, Finding Forevermore, is coming soon to Kickstarter! I’ve been working on this book for a long time, and God has shown me so much in the process. I can’t wait to share more about it with you as it goes through the editing process. Follow on Kickstarter for updates.
    Más Menos
    38 m
  • Ep 05: Interview with Suzanne Woods Fisher, Contemporary and Amish Romance

    Ep 05: Interview with Suzanne Woods Fisher, Contemporary and Amish Romance
    Aug 27 2024
    In this episode of The Christian Romance Podcast, Suzanne Woods Fisher shares her journey as an author and her deep love for writing. She discusses how she began her writing career, her experiences across various genres, and the profound impact her faith has had on her work. Suzanne also introduces her latest book, Love on a Whim, part of the Cape Cod Creamery series, and explores the themes of new beginnings and embracing change within her stories. She reflects on the Bible verse Isaiah 43:18-19, which has been a source of encouragement throughout her writing journey, reminding her to release the past and welcome the new things God is doing. Listen to the episode here: Meet Suzanne Woods Fisher Suzanne Woods Fisher is the award-winning, bestselling author of more than 40 books, including The Sweet Life, The Secret to Happiness, and Love on a Whim, as well as many beloved contemporary romance and Amish romance series. She is also the author of several nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace and Amish Proverbs. She lives in California. Learn more at SuzanneWoodsFisher.com and follow Suzanne on Facebook, Instagram, Goodreads and X @SuzanneWFisher. Bible Verse for Encouragement Isaiah 43:18-19, NKJV: Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you know it? Suzanne's New Book When her plans wilt before her eyes, can she revive her dreams? Escape to Cape Cod–where you just might find the secret to happiness. Callie Dixon had the world by its tail . . . until it all slipped away. Fired from her dream job after making a colossal mistake, she’s escaped to her aunt’s home on Cape Cod for time to bounce back. Except it isn’t a home, it’s an ice cream shop. And time isn’t going to help, because Callie’s bounce has up and left. There’s a reason she made that mistake at work and she’s struggling to come to terms with it. Things go from bad to worse when Callie’s cousin Dawn drags her to a community class about the secret to happiness. Happiness is the last thing Callie wants to think about right now, but instructor Bruno Bianco–a curiously gloomy fellow–is relentless. He has a way of turning Callie’s thoughts upside down. Her feelings, too. Could Bruno be right when he says that hitting rock bottom is the very best place to be? If so, how is that supposed to help her find exactly what–or who–has been missing all along? Get your copy today! Baker Book House Get updates on our themed book giveaways! Sign up for our email list and get a link to the most current book giveaway. Kelly's personal update I have been writing like crazy! I’m working on a contemporary romance novella set in the same world as my debut novel, Finding Forevermore, coming soon to Kickstarter. I can’t wait to share it with you! It’s about Nina LeRoux--- a French-American bibliophile who dreams of opening a bookshop in the quaint town of Elkwood, Pennsylvania. But when disaster strikes, she’s forced to choose what matters most—preserving her dream at all costs or embracing the unexpected bonds of community and love that life throws her way.
    Más Menos
    39 m
  • Ep 04: Interview with Lisa Jordan, Sweet Contemporary Romance

    Ep 04: Interview with Lisa Jordan, Sweet Contemporary Romance
    Aug 22 2024
    In this episode of The Christian Romance Podcast, Lisa Jordan shares her journey of becoming a Christian romance author, from her love of reading as a child to her decision to write novels that create a heart sigh with readers. She discusses the challenges in her faith journey and how she rediscovered her relationship with God. She emphasizes the importance of trusting God, leaning on Him, and being open to His guidance. Lisa shares how she found support and guidance through My Book Therapy/Novel Academy, emphasizing the importance of relationships and community in writing. She also details her latest book, Bonding with the Cowboy’s Daughter, which explores themes of grief, redemption, and the presence of God in difficult times. Listen to the Episode here: Meet Lisa Jordan Heart, home, and faith have always been important to Lisa Jordan, so writing stories with those elements comes naturally. Represented by Cynthia Ruchti of Books & Such Literary Management, Lisa is an award-winning, Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author for Harlequin’s Love Inspired, writing contemporary Christian romance that promises hope and happily ever after. Additionally, she is the line director for Hometown Hearts, Sunrise Publishing's contemporary romance line, and an author for Sunrise. She is also the operations manager for Novel Academy, an online writing academy powered by My Book Therapy. Happily married to her own real-life hero for thirty-five years, Lisa and her husband have two grown sons and two rascally rescue dogs. When she isn’t writing, Lisa enjoys quality family time, being creative with friends, or getting lost in a good book. Learn more about Lisa at lisajordanbooks.com. Resources/Affiliates mentioned: My Book Therapy/Novel Academy Sunrise Publishing ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) Love Inspired Bible Verses for Encouragement Psalm 34:18, KJV: The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; And saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Matthew 6:26, NKJV: Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Matthew 5:3-5, NKJV: Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, For they shall inherit the earth. Matthew 5:9, NKJV: Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God. Lisa's New Book She’s left her old life behind … only to find a new love waiting After a broken engagement, Callie Morgan decides to move to Aspen Ridge, Colorado, to fix up her late grandmother’s gift shop. But the shop is in bad shape and Callie runs out of money faster than expected. Old childhood friend and single dad Wyatt Stone comes to the rescue, offering her a job at his family’s ranch, Stone River Ranch. While their friendship is rekindled, will Callie ever risk loving again…even as Wyatt’s little girl is already stealing her heart? Purchase today through Harlequin, Amazon, B&N, or your favorite retailer where books are sold. Get updates on our themed book giveaways Kelly's Personal Update I have been writing like crazy! I’ve been working on my novella, Love In Pages, set in the same town as my debut novel, Finding Forevermore. The heroine is a go-getter who must surrender and let God revive her new bookshop … and her heart. I can’t wait to share it with you! I am also getting ready for back-to-school time. My oldest is going into fifth grade. Ahhh! Please excuse my bawling in a corner, cradling the beloved bear he's had since preschool. Mamas out there, I am with you.
    Más Menos
    49 m
  • Ep 03: Interview with Heidi McCahan, Sweet Contemporary Romance

    Ep 03: Interview with Heidi McCahan, Sweet Contemporary Romance
    Aug 10 2024
    In this episode of the Christian Romance Podcast, Kelly sits down with Heidi McCahan, an inspiring author whose journey from growing up in Alaska to becoming a published romance novelist is remarkable. Heidi shares how her love for writing blossomed in a small native village and how a contest entry changed her life. We dive into her new book, Her Alaskan Family, explore her approach to connecting with readers, and discuss the role of faith and resilience in her writing. Heidi also shares her passion for prison ministry and the powerful scripture that guides her work. Listen to Episode 3 here: Meet Heidi McCahan Heidi McCahan began dreaming up stories as a little girl. Now, she writes uplifting, inspirational romance novels set in small towns. Originally from Alaska, Heidi moved to North Carolina because she rarely has to shovel snow and is within a day’s drive of the mountains or the beach. She’s been married to her handsome husband for over twenty years. They have three incredible sons and the world’s greatest Goldendoodle. A perfect day for Heidi includes a good cup of coffee and reading books with happy endings. She loves connecting with readers, so please visit her website, www.heidimccahan.com. Follow Heidi Bible Verse for Encouragement Romans 15:13, KJV: "Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." Heidi McCahan's New Release One lost little girl could be the key to a permanent family. Recently fired, Savannah Morgan dreads attending her ten-year high school reunion as a failure. But for Levi Carter, Savannah’s return home might solve all his troubles. The newly single dad needs reliable childcare for his temporary foster daughter–and a fake girlfriend at the reunion to deflect any pitying glances after his recent breakup. But as the line between real and pretend begins to blur, will a secret Savannah keeps ruin their chance at a permanent commitment? Get Her Alaskan Family by Heidi McCahan today on Amazon and most major book retailers. Get updates on our themed book giveaways Make sure to sign up for our email list and get a link to the most current book giveaway. Kelly’s Personal Update: My debut novel, Finding Forevermore, is coming soon to Kickstarter! I’ve been working on this book for a long time, and God has shown me so much in the process. I can’t wait to share more about it with you as it goes through the editing process. Follow on Kickstarter for updates. I am almost finished with the novella set in the same world as the novel. It's about surrendering and trusting God with any circumstance. I can't wait to share it with you soon!
    Más Menos
    42 m
  • Ep 02: Interview with CJ Milacci, YA Dystopian with Hope

    Ep 02: Interview with CJ Milacci, YA Dystopian with Hope
    Jul 23 2024
    In this episode of the Christian Romance Podcast, my friend and fellow author CJ Milacci shares her writing journey and mission to provide hope-filled stories for teens and young adults. She discusses the lack of books with action and hope that led her to start writing her own, along with a strong pull from God. CJ shares details about her podcast, Read Clean YA with CJ, where she highlights authors who write clean and exciting stories for young readers. CJ is an award-winning author who provides stories addressing hard questions and offering hope in difficult circumstances. Her writing journey with Jesus often reflects the message in 2 Corinthians 12:10, "Therefore I take pleasure in my infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong." Listen to Episode 2 Here: Meet CJ Milacci Award-winning author CJ Milacci writes stories for teens and young adults with heart-pounding action and hope. As the podcast host for Read Clean YA with CJ, she loves talking about books and the deeper themes woven into the pages of each novel. She’s passionate about crafting stories of good overcoming evil, finding hope during seemingly hopeless circumstances, and true acceptance. Visit her online at www.CJMilacci.com Follow CJ CJ's Kickstarter In a world shattered by chaos and divided by the brutal reign of the Raiders, one woman longs to break free from the shackles of her family's legacy. Born into darkness and raised to become heir to the ruthless Raiders, Princess Catori yearns for a life beyond the violence and oppression that defines her existence. When she meets Micah, a riverboat captain with an unwavering sense of justice, she sees a glimmer of hope for a different future. But her grandfather, founder of the Raiders, has a plan for Catori’s life that he refuses to relinquish, and he’ll stop at nothing to see her become all he has prepared her to be, whether she wants that existence or not. Will Catori and Micah escape to the new life they long for, or will Catori become something she despises? In this gripping companion novel set in the world of the Talionis Series, readers transport on a thrilling journey with Catori and her companions. Filled with action, suspense, and romance, Abandoned Shores is a story of survival, hope, and the power of love in the face of adversity. Fans of dystopian fiction and epic romances will be captivated by this heart-pounding tale of adventure, danger, and the unbreakable bond between two unlikely allies. Visit CJ's Kickstarter campaign to get a bundle of her Talionis series, including the YA Christian romance Abandoned Shores. You only have until July 26th, 2024. Check it out today! You can receive her YA romance Abandoned Shores in a special bundle in her Kickstarter rewards. Get updates on our themed book giveaways Make sure to sign up for our email list and get a link to the most current book giveaway. Kelly's Personal Update: My debut novel, Finding Forevermore, is coming soon to Kickstarter! I've been working on this book for a long time, and God has shown me so much in the process. I can't wait to share more about it with you as it goes through the editing process. Follow on Kickstarter for updates. I've also been writing a novella set in the same world. Once that's finished, I'll share more details on how you can get it for free! Subscribe to the Podcast Subscribe to hear updates on more giveaways, winners, and more!
    Más Menos
    40 m