Meet author Linda J. White
A native of Washington, D.C., I’ve been a government worker, a stay-at-home mom, and a newspaper editorial writer. I started writing fiction thirty years ago, when my husband, who made training films for the FBI, encouraged me to write. I believe in the power of story to convey transcendent truth. I have twelve published books, all mystery/suspense with some romantic elements. I live in Yorktown, Virginia, near my daughter and her family.
Tell us about your newest book.
A Great and Terrible Darkness is the sixth book in my popular K-9 Search & Rescue series. The series follows the story of Jessica Chamberlain Cooper, a former homicide detective turned private investigator, and her rowdy German shepherd, Luke. Mentored by Nathan Tanner, a wounded war veteran, Jess learns SAR, saves lives, discovers faith, and finds love.
What inspired you to write A Great and Terrible Darkness?
Almost everyone who walks with Jesus will experience something that challenges their faith: a difficult diagnosis, a failed relationship, the loss of a job, or the death of a loved one. I wanted to explore the “why” and “where is God” questions that naturally follow those experiences.
How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?
Jessica Cooper and her dog Luke help search for a missing college student in the mountains of Virginia. After her mentor, Nate, loses his wife he falls into despair. He decides to solo hike the Appalachian Trail through those very same mountains, a decision that alarms Jess. Circumstances collide, paths cross, and in the end, it’s Jess who’s in a fight for her life.
What genre do you focus on?
Mystery-suspense because it’s what I tend to read. My late-husband’s connection with the FBI gave me the inside-scoop on the Bureau’s procedures and practices. I try to write as authentically as I can.
Why do you write?
I write to make sense of life, to process questions I have or thoughts about faith. I write because I believe God called me to write, and to help others move closer to him through stories. I write because I can’t not write (believe me, I’ve tried!).
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
My writing work schedule has varied over the years. I am retired now (and widowed) and have the freedom to write when I want to. I publish a book a year and usually begin writing the next book as I’m putting the final touches on the current book. I write in the morning for about four hours, take a break, and then edit in the evening. I have to say I’m pretty obsessive about it once the story gets rolling!
What is the hardest part of being an author?
Sometimes the writing flows, and that’s a joy, but sometimes it can be incredibly difficult translating the images in my head into words that express those thoughts.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
When I write, I feel I am fulfilling my purpose. I think I was created to write, so for me, writing becomes an act of worship. Paraphrasing Eric Liddell, when I write, “I feel his pleasure.” And that’s the very best part of any creative project.
What is your favorite pastime?
I love birdwatching, the beach, hiking, spending time with my family, and teaching Bible studies. I also love dogs, but sadly I’m without one for the first time in fifty years. My Sheltie, Keira, died in November.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
A Great and Terrible Darkness is my twelfth book. The first six are FBI thrillers and the second six are K-9 Search & Rescue books. Most have romantic elements, all are designed to keep you reading right to the satisfying ending.
What are you working on now?
I am just beginning the seventh book in my SAR series. No title yet. I’m just starting the research, but I know it will be set on the Eastern Shore of Virginia.
Website: www.lindajwhite.net
Link to book: (Susan, I’ll send this as soon as I have it, in early May.)
Social media links:
Facebook: https://bit.ly/LindaJWhiteAuthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindajwhitebooks/
X: @rytn4hm
Meet author Tez
Tez Brooks is a multiple award-winning author and international speaker and named one of the Top Writing Coaches by the Coach Foundation. His work appears in Guideposts, Power for Living, The Upper Room, CBN.com, YouVersion, Focus on the Family, and more. He and his wife are full-time missionaries and have four children. You can learn more at TezBrooks.com
Tell us about your newest book.
Adult-o-Nomics offers experience and know-how collected from others who have forged the path. It’s a mix of ancient wisdom from God’s Word and advice from modern contemporaries to help readers experience more effective adulting. I’m excited because it’s a way for young adults to avoid anxiety when they move out on their own. Launching and making your way in life can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. In one study, over fifty percent of young adults boomeranged home after a few years.
How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?
Adult-o-Nomics is a gift book to yourself or others. It’s a collection of 500 short quotes, scriptures, and suggestions for those leaving home for the first time. Topics cover everything from practical housekeeping, automotive maintenance, and career advice to romance and spiritual living.
What genre do you focus on?
I write Christian nonfiction, usually family-related… because it’s what I know. I have dabbled in fiction, but I’m most comfortable writing about real-life issues from a Christian worldview.
Why do you write?
I love teaching. When I see something that needs to be addressed (even if it has already been addressed), it hasn’t been written from my point of view, my voice. What drives me is “need.” I see a need to be met and want to be a part of that. I feel God’s pleasure when I move within his creative character.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
Marketing. I don’t like marketing, and I’m no good at it. But these days, you have to market. Even if you traditionally publish, you must somehow be involved in the marketing. I dread it, but I know I have to do it. It drains me.
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
I have a whole other life, a day job. I love writing and teaching others how to write better, but that’s all a side gig. My day job is being a full-time missionary, an entirely different life and work. I’ve traveled to over thirty countries, sharing the love of Jesus with unreached people groups, and I enjoy watching God transform people.
What’s one unusual fact about you?
Years ago, I served as an animal rescue volunteer for Florida wildlife. I love animals, and I love giving emergency medical care to wild animals when people would call on me.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
Over the years, I have become more confident in the messages that I have to share. With my first book, I felt so ill-prepared (and I was) but struggled with imposter syndrome and feelings of “Who am I to think I have anything of value to share?” That has disappeared for two reasons. First, I’m older now, which allows me to speak with authority and wisdom. Secondly, I have a lot of great writer friends who have made me a better writer. I surround myself with excellent authors, and thankfully, it kind of rubs off on me.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
Yes, I have written four other books alone and co-authored 12 more. Each one is unique, so it’s hard to box me in. I’ve written for single dads, first responders, animal lovers, poetry lovers, and devotionals… I’m all over the place when it comes to topics!
What are you working on now?
I’m writing a book for couples headed toward marriage. It’s 100 questions you should ask before you get engaged.
Website: tezbrooks.com
Link to book: Amazon.com
Social media links:
Twitter @tezd63
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TezWrites/
The Blessing of Writing
I just returned from a wonderful writers conference and was thoroughly blessed. When I read Matthew 5, I thought of how this scripture related to the writing life.
Jesus taught the multitudes, saying, “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they, which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they, which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.”
How can we apply the concept of “be-attitudes” to our writing life, our creative life, or just life in general in a new and fresh way? Although not in order of Matthew’s beatitudes, here’s what I came up with:
- Be patient. Writing is perfected over time.
- Be content. Enjoy the journey and stop wanting more.
- Be prepared. Learn all you can about writing.
- Be proactive. Schedule writing time and remember, you reap what you sow.
- Be clear. Communicate well.
- Be tenacious. It doesn’t matter how you feel; if God’s called you to write, never give up.
- Be doers. Write! Write! Write!
- Be connected. Find other writers and do life with them.
- Be dead. Die to your personal plans and live for God’s plans for your writing life.
But Jesus wasn’t finished. He went on to say, “You are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.”
How can we “salt” our writing to make our readers hungry and thirsty for Him?
And then Jesus said, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
Writers, creatives, and friends, let your light shine!
What other be-attitudes would you add to this list? I’d love to know!
Meet author Alicia Whittle
Alicia Whittle has always been fascinated with the American West and lives in Colorado. Cowboys and their lifestyle have enthralled her since childhood when television was full of stories about them. Travels with her Air Force husband and later with RVing have included fascinating places and people which have also influenced her writing. Alicia is an active member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). She’s a Literary Titan Award winner for Dead Ringer Cowboy.
Tell us about your newest book.
Natalie’s Cowboy is an inspirational western romance set in New Mexico. Natalie Westwood is on the fast track of her dream career of being a West Coast fashion designer until she’s told at the last minute she didn’t get the job. Losing her current job, the promised job, and now homeless, she temporarily stays with her mom and stepdad. Justin Remington who saved her life a year ago meets up with her. He’s a former PRCA rodeo champion who works long hours at his father and uncle’s ranch. As Natalie builds a business of clothing line and Justin is buried in ranch work, where will they find time for their growing relationship before ranch and career pull them apart?
What inspired you to write Natalie’s Cowboy?
The first book in the series, Dead Ringer Cowboy, which is about Natalie’s mother finding love the second time around prompted me to write about Natalie and her newfound attraction to Justin. Their very different lifestyles provided a challenge to see if romance would bloom between them.
How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?
She’s picking up broken pieces of her life’s dream. He’s trying to remedy a disjointed relationship with his father. Together can they have a stake in each other’s lives and find love?
What genre do you focus on and why?
Inspirational romance., with a western flair. I’ve always enjoyed the culture of the men and women who built the American West. Clean and wholesome romance is lacking in so many of our books today. I believe strong lasting love and marriages are built on God-centered relationships.
Why do you write?
I write to reach out to others that there are good stories a reader can escape to. With so many dysfunctional “romantic” relationships, I hope that my books will inspire readers, especially younger readers, to see the strengths of a healthy love relationship.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Her last name was the same as her mother’s in the first book and my daughter’s name begins with an “N” so I chose a name which began with that letter.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
I’m very sporadic with writing, but when I commit to time, I can sit for two hours and write with only tiny breaks in between. I’m working on being more scheduled.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
The hardest part of being an indie author is the marketing. Most authors just want to write. When it comes to promoting your book there is a time element that must be set aside to publicize your book.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
Now that I’m retired, the best part of being an author is having time to create a book that readers will enjoy. I have the flexibility to choose day or night to write, although I prefer daytime. I can work other chores, errands, and meetings into that schedule. Also, it is a mental escape for me to picture the characters and scenes in which they play a part.
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
Most authors are introverts. All my life I have seen myself as an extrovert, but recently one of those personality tests put me in the introvert category. That might make me unusual as I believe I have both qualities.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
I have learned so much about writing. It’s not sitting down and pounding out what you think is the greatest novel ever—there are courses to take, networking with other authors, and conferences to attend to improve your writing.
What is your favorite pastime?
My favorite pastime is reading, of course!
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
My other published book is Dead Ringer Cowboy, about a widow who goes on vacation with her daughter and meets a rancher who looks identical to her deceased husband.
What are you working on now?
I’ll begin work on the third book in the series, Cowboys of the High Desert.
Website: https://aliciawhittle.com
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Natalies-Cowboy-Cowboys-High-Desert-ebook
Social media links: Facebook.com/WriterOutWest , alicia.r.whittle@gmail.com, Instagram at alicia.r.whittle.author.
Meet author Danielle Grandinetti
Danielle Grandinetti is an inspirational romance author fueled by tea and books, and the occasional nature walk. An award-winning author and FHLCW Reader’s Choice Finalist, her stories span from the Great Depression to present day. Originally from the Chicagoland area, she now lives along Lake Michigan’s Wisconsin shoreline with her husband and their two young sons. Find her online at daniellegrandinetti.com.
Tell us about your newest book, Relying on the Enemy.
She’s protecting her children. He’s redeeming his past. But there’s nothing convenient about saving their patchwork family.
Wisconsin, 1931—All widowed mother Marian Ward wants is to provide for her girls. However, she faces the dead of winter with no income and dwindling resources. Then she overhears a nefarious conversation, putting her life and that of her children in immediate danger. Aiming to make amends to the Wards, Gilbert steps in when the threat to Marian escalates. It costs him dearly. Either lose his career or marry her, and be tied to his past until death do them part.
He leaves the decision to Marian, who will do anything to protect her girls, even marry the son of the man who ruined her family. How will their fledgling trust prove strong enough to fulfill their vows as winter tightens its grip and desperation stalks at the door?
What inspired you to write Relying on the Enemy?
I’ve always wanted to write a marriage of convenience since it’s my favorite trope to read. And Marian’s situation provided the perfect opportunity!
How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?
This is a marriage of convenience with a twist of Anne of Green Gables.
What genre do you focus on?
I love weaving mystery and suspense into my historical romance, and setting it against the Great Depression adds a perfect layer of desperation that puts my characters into difficult circumstances.
Why do you write?
I write because it is a way I connect with God.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Marian Ward. Her name fit as a hard-working mother.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
As a mom of younger children, I write in small spurts throughout the day.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
The hardest part is finding new readers and convincing them to take a chance on a new-to-them author.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
My readers. They are such an encouragement to me!
What’s one unusual fact about you?
While everyone talks about Mr. Darcy … Gilbert Blythe is where it’s at.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
The more I write, the more grateful I am to have the opportunity to tell stories.
What is your favorite pastime?
Reading!
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
I do! Relying on the Enemy is book four in the Harbored in Crow’s Nest series. While each book can be read as a stand-alone (each book has its own romance), there are spoilers in Relying on the Enemy for the other books, especially Refuge for the Archaeologist.
What are you working on now?
The grand finale of the Harbored in Crow’s Nest series: book six, Investigation of a Journalist.
Website: daniellegrandinetti.com
Link to book: https://daniellegrandinetti.com/relying-on-the-enemy/
Social media links:
https://linkin.bio/danielleswritingspot
Meet author Kathy Rouser
Kathleen Rouser is a multi-published author of historical and contemporary Christian romance. Kathleen has loved making up stories since she was a little girl and wanted to be a writer before she could even read. She loves Jesus and is a fan of the three Cs—cats, coffee, and chocolate. She lives in southeast Michigan with her hero and husband of many years and two sweet cats who found a home in their empty nest.
Tell us about your newest book.
She only wants a fresh start, but her past might be the only hope to save his life—and the lives of countless innocents.
Determined widow Maggie Galloway dreams of a peaceful life and a successful business. And winning the Silver Leaf Flour Company baking contest could be the key to that success. She even has a chance at a prestigious position through a dashing former beau. But when her son gets into a fight with the local pharmacist’s son, Maggie’s peaceful life is derailed.
Reserved pharmacist and recent widower Thomas Harper is also looking for a fresh start for himself and his four children. But when Thomas falls gravely ill, his only choice is to enlist the help of the local baker with a knowledge of concocting remedies. He’s even more reluctant to admit that Maggie may also be the remedy for his grieving heart. And when a traveling medicine man’s medicines beget tragedy, Thomas and Maggie must overcome their differences to save the children of Stone Creek—and face the growing attraction between them—before it’s too late.
What inspired you to write Secrets and Wishes?
The idea for writing Secrets and Wishes sprung from getting to know one of my secondary characters in Rumors and Promises. Reverend Ian McCormick’s outspoken older sister and housekeeper, Maggie, needed to have her story told too. My interest in the history of medicine and pharmaceuticals made it easy to bring in a turn-of-the-century pharmacist as a hero. The true stories of children who were accidentally overdosed with opioids from over-the-counter mixtures sold as medicine of the day provided me with part of the conflict in the story.
There was something fun about writing about such an opposite hero and heroine and the antics of their children. I intended for it to be rather humorous and family-centric. My original title for the story was A Good Medicine taken from the verse Proverbs 17:22: A merry heart does good, like medicine, But a broken spirit dries the bones.(NKJV) I suppose that was part of my inspiration to write Secrets and Wishes as well.
How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?
Tidy, outspoken widow, Maggie Galloway encounters reticent and unorganized widower Thomas Galloway and his unruly brood. When she’s enlisted to help him recover from a grave illness and they’re later thrown together in the battle against a traveling medicine man’s fake remedies, attraction grows between them. It could take dire circumstance for Thomas and Maggie to see they are the healing balm for each other’s grieving heart before it’s too late.
What genre do you focus on?
Though I have written a couple of contemporary romance stories, I tend to focus on writing historical romance. I love traveling back in time in my imagination and writing stories that deal with the challenges people had in times past. I’m also a sucker for the happily-ever-after ending and love writing about people falling in love. I feel it’s reflection of God’s love for us—the greatest romance of all in sending His Son, Jesus, to redeem us.
Why do you write?
The power of story spoke to me at an early age and I enjoy making up stories that reflect God’s truth. I pray that glorify Him with the stories I write.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Maggie Galloway, nee Maggie McCormick. It seemed like a good name for a lady of Irish heritage with auburn hair. I just felt it fit her character.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
I love the flexibility of an author’s life. I can write for traditional publishers or write indie books if I choose. It gives me options. Also, the fun of making up characters and their backstories, seeing how I can fit their lives together with the lives of other characters, kind of like a puzzle. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it to wait and see how my story is revealed as I create.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
I’ve realized that you never stop growing. There’s always something more to be learned. And I’ve grown in my desire to write what’s pleasing to the Lord. I want to tell stories with an authentic voice that speaks to people’s hearts with His message.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
Yes, the first book in the Stone Creek Bride Series, Rumors and Promises. The third book in the series will be released in April and is titled Scandals and Mercies. Other books of mine are: The Pocket Watch in the Brave New Century anthology, The Last Memory, and my contemporary with a split-time subplot, When Hearts Take Flight.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a contemporary romance set in small-town Michigan, working title: A Family of Her Own.
Links to my website and social media: