Interview with Christine Hill Suntz: Secret Identities, Goat Farms, and Historical Romance in 1837 Toronto

Interview with Christine Hill Suntz: Secret Identities, Goat Farms, and Historical Romance in 1837 Toronto

In this engaging episode, we’re joined by debut author and high school teacher Christine Hill Suntz, who shares the beautiful story behind her first historical Christian romance, The Lawyer and the Laundress. Set in 1837 Toronto during the Upper Canada Rebellion, this romance is steeped in rich historical context, faith-driven themes, and powerful character arcs. Christine opens up about her path to becoming a published author at 47, her life on a hobby farm filled with goats, and how her passion for languages and justice flows right into the pages of her novel. We talk about her heroine Sarah—who’s not quite what she seems—and James, the idealistic widowed lawyer with a heart for peace. Get ready for secret identities, enemies-to-lovers tension, and a sweet marriage of convenience twist you won’t want to miss!

Listen to the episode here.

Meet Christine Hill Suntz

Christine knew she wanted to write the day she finished Anne of Green Gables and she’s been lost in her imagination ever since. Winner of the  ACFW 2022 Genesis contest for Historical Romance, she also won the 2021 West Coast Christian Writers Golden Goldie Best-in-Conference award. She lives in Ontario on a hobby farm with her family and a herd of entitled goats. When she’s not writing, she teaches high school French and tries out historical recipes on her (mostly) willing family. Follow her for more adventures in 19th-century life.

Visit Christine’s Website

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Bible Verse for Encouragement

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.”
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4 (NKJV)

Christine Hill Suntz’s New Book: The Lawyer and the Laundress

Lawyer James Kinney isn’t looking for love, and laundress Sara O’Connor doesn’t want to be found. When their paths cross in a British colony on the brink of rebellion, a marriage of convenience may be their best hope of survival.

Canada, 1837. Widower James Kinney knows his precocious daughter, Evie, needs more than his lessons on law and logic, but Toronto offers few options. Classes with the neighbor children seem ideal until James discovers Evie is secretly spending her time with Sara O’Connor, a kind and mysteriously educated servant. For propriety’s sake, James forbids their friendship. But then Evie falls victim to the illness ravaging the city, and James must call upon Sara’s medical knowledge and her special bond with Evie to save his daughter’s life.

When Sara’s presence in his household threatens scandal, however, James offers an unexpected solution: become his wife, in name only, and help him raise Evie to be a proper young lady.

If Sara can ignore the sparks she feels when they’re together, his logical proposal could keep her secret secure forever. But soon, the forces of rebellion unravel their tidy arrangement. When James is accused of treason, Sara must find the courage to face a past that could save her husband’s life.

  • Includes discussion questions for book clubs
  • Clean and wholesome, marriage-of-convenience historical romance
  • Filled with love, faith, and adventure
  • Inspirational historical fiction that’s perfect for fans of Julie Klassen, Laura Frantz, and Tamera Alexander

💞 Tropes in The Lawyer and the Laundress

  • Enemies to Lovers
  • Marriage of Convenience
  • Secret Identity
  • Single Dad / Widower Hero
  • Class Difference / Upstairs-Downstairs
  • Found Family
  • Strong Heroine & Noble Hero

Get your copy today!

Amazon

Tyndale

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Kelly’s Personal Update

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you!

Finding Forevermore Novel

Finding Forevermore is available for preorder today on Amazon!

Her family secrets. His guilt. One road trip that changes everything.

Raven Cunningham has built a quiet life between the shelves of a small-town bookshop, ghostwriting stories for others while hiding her own. She’s long believed her father abandoned her, until a letter from her late grandmother reveals a shocking truth.

Convinced the reclusive author J.C. Nevermore is her father, Raven sets out to uncover the real story. When her childhood friend Cole Walker, a former Army medic wrestling with his own scars, offers to help, she’s not sure if she can trust him . . . or herself.

As they chase clues and revisit old memories, what begins as a search for answers becomes a journey toward something deeper.

Finding Forevermore is a heartfelt story about faith, family, and the kind of love that’s anchored in God’s unfailing grace.

For Kindle Unlimited lovers, Finding Forevermore will be available starting October 25th 2025!

You’ll get updates by joining my free email list.

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Interview with Michelle Griep: Of Silver and Secrets, Lost Treasures, and Letting Go of Control

Interview with Michelle Griep: Of Silver and Secrets, Lost Treasures, and Letting Go of Control

In this interview, Michelle Griep, author of Of Silver and Secrets (book two in her Of Times and Treasures series) is back to chat all things cursed Roman rings, Regency romance, and what happens when you try to control life instead of trusting God. This episode is packed with heart, humor, and history as Michelle shares the inspiration behind her treasure-hunting heroine Eva, her roguish hero Bram, and the touching themes of surrender and vulnerability woven throughout the story. Plus, we dive into her love of gardening, Roman wax tablets, and the unforgettable moment she realized her husband does think about Rome. If you love second chances, hidden secrets, and faith-filled storytelling, this one’s for you!

Listen to the episode here.

Meet Michelle Griep

Michelle Griep headshot

Michelle Griep has been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayola. She is a Christy Award–winning author of historical romances that both intrigue and evoke a smile. She’s an anglophile at heart, and you’ll most often find her partaking of a proper cream tea while scheming up her next novel . . . but it’s probably easier to find her at MichelleGriep.com

Follow Michelle

Facebook Group: Inspirational Regency Readers

Bible Verse for Encouragement

Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.

– Psalm 55:22 (NKJV)

Michelle Griep’s New Book: Of Silver and Secrets (Time’s Lost Treasures Book 2)

Of Silver and Secrets by Michelle Griep Book Cover

Buried underneath are truths bent on keeping them apart. . . .

In 1889 Victorian England, Eva Inman is haunted by guilt over her parents’ deaths while struggling to care for her blind sister and manage her family’s crumbling estate. With the tax deadline looming, Eva’s situation looks dire until an ancient silver ring is unearthed on the property. Despite superstitions warning against disturbing the supposedly cursed acres, Eva’s need for funds ignites her curiosity about the potential of finding more buried relics.

Cambridge professor Bram Webb must prove a legendary Christian Roman settlement exists, or he’ll risk exposing his uncle’s deteriorating memory and they’ll both lose their positions. Then Eva steps into his office with the prospect of an archaeological dig that might lead to the very evidence Bram requires–provided he and Eva can set aside painful memories of a time they would rather forget. As the dig forces the two to confront their pasts, the work becomes fraught with challenges that threaten Eva’s and Bram’s hopes, as well as the growing attraction between them.

💞 Tropes in Of Silver and Secrets

  • Second Chance Romance
  • Enemies to Lovers / “Frenemies”
  • Forced Proximity
  • Treasure Hunt
  • Strong Female Lead with Hidden Vulnerability
  • Brooding Hero with a Secret Past
  • Historical Setting with a Touch of Mystery
  • Found Family

Get your copy today!

Amazon

Baker Book House

Get updates on our themed book giveaways

Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list.

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Kelly’s Personal Update

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you!

Finding Forevermore Novel

If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon.

I’ll share more updates by joining my free email list and you’ll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up

Follow me for updates

Interview with Elizabeth Musser: Finding Hope, Faith, & Redemption in the Rubble of WWII

Interview with Elizabeth Musser: Finding Hope, Faith, & Redemption in the Rubble of WWII

In this moving episode of The Christian Romance Podcast, we’re joined by award-winning author and missionary Elizabeth Musser, whose powerful new novel, From the Valley We Rise, explores themes of faith, forgiveness, and finding beauty among the ruins. Elizabeth shares her incredible journey from writing poetry at age six to serving over 40 years in missions in France, and how God wove her love for storytelling and service together in the most unexpected ways.

We dive deep into the inspiration behind her newest historical romance, set during the lesser-known Allied invasion of Provence in WWII. With rich historical detail, complex characters, and not one, but two deeply moving love stories, this book is a beautiful reflection of Isaiah 61 and God’s ability to rebuild what’s been devastated.

If you’ve ever struggled with brokenness, regret, or feeling disqualified, this conversation will uplift your spirit and remind you of the redeeming power of grace.

Listen to the episode here.

Meet Elizabeth Musser

Elizabeth Musser writes “entertainment with a soul” from her writing chalet (a toolshed) outside Lyon, France. A Carol Award winner and Christy Award and Georgia Author of the Year finalist, Elizabeth’s critically acclaimed novels have been translated into multiple languages and have been international bestsellers. The Swan House was named one of Georgia’s Top Ten Novels of the Past 100 Years. By Way of the Moonlight was a Publishers Weekly Top Ten Pick in Religion and Spirituality. Elizabeth and her husband, Paul, have worked with the nonprofit One Collective for over forty years.

Visit Elizabeth’s Website

Follow Elizabeth

Bible Verse for Encouragement

Isaiah 61:4 (NKJV)
“And they shall rebuild the old ruins,
They shall raise up the former desolations,
And they shall repair the ruined cities,
The desolations of many generations.”

Elizabeth Musser’s New Book: From the Valley We Rise

Loyalty during Peril
In the heart of war-torn France, Isabelle Seauve’s resolve is tested after her father sacrifices his life to protect her involvement in the French Resistance. Heartbroken, Isabelle becomes more dedicated to hiding Jewish children in and near the village of Sisteron despite the growing danger when she discovers a traitor within the Resistance ranks.

Truth amid Deception
As the shadow of betrayal looms, Isabelle’s world collides with that of US Army Chaplain Peter Christensen, who carries emotional scars from his first position in Kentucky and his service in North Africa. Together, they face the brutal reality of war as the second D-Day–the Allied invasion of Provence–unfolds.

Bravery through Trial
Fifteen-year-old René Amblard narrowly escapes a devastating German attack that claims the lives of his mother and their fellow Maquis fighters. With a Jewish orphan girl at his side, René seeks out his cousin, Isabelle, for refuge while he contemplates revenge.

When the bombs of Operation Dragoon begin to fall, this unlikely group of heroes must find freedom in their souls before they can rebuild what has been destroyed.

💞 Tropes in From the Valley We Rise

  • Wartime Romance
  • Slow Burn
  • Redemption Arc
  • Found Family
  • Grumpy Meets Sunshine (Peter & Isabelle)
  • Protector Hero (Renee’s story)
  • Secret Identity (Jewish orphan hidden as someone else)
  • Trauma Healing Through Love
  • Cross-cultural Connection
  • Faith Through Adversity

Get your copy today!

Amazon

Baker Book House

Get updates on our themed book giveaways

Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list.

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Kelly’s Personal Update

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you!

Finding Forevermore Novel

If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon.

I’ll share more updates by joining my free email list and you’ll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up

Follow me for updates

Interview with Wendy Galinetti: Writing Western Romance, Redemption, and Mail-Order Brides

Interview with Wendy Galinetti: Writing Western Romance, Redemption, and Mail-Order Brides

In this heartwarming episode, Wendy Galinetti chats about her incredible writing journey—from penning church skits to being selected by Sunrise Publishing to co-author a Western historical romance in a shared world with Lacey Williams! Wendy shares the story behind her debut novel A Dangerous Heart, part of the Wind River Mail-Order Bride series, and the redemptive themes woven throughout the love story between Isaac, a U.S. Marshal with a broken past, and Claire, a woman fleeing her outlaw family in search of a new name and future. We talk grit, grace, swoony heroes, and how God redeems our stories, one step of faith at a time.

Listen to the episode here.

Meet Wendy Galinetti

Wendy Galinetti writes contemporary and historical western romance set in rugged landscapes and small towns. Her stories blend grit, grace, and the kind of love worth fighting for—whether on a windswept frontier or a modern-day ranch. Raised in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, she now makes her home in the mitten, where she and her husband of over 40 years serve together in the church they planted. A mom and GiGi, Wendy is fueled by biblical wisdom, strong coffee, and the power of story to remind us that grace runs deep and redemption is always possible.

Visit Wendy’s Website here

Follow Wendy

Bible Verse for Encouragement

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV)

Wendy Galinetti’s New Book: A Dangerous Heart (Wind River Mail Order Brides Book 4)

Former U.S. Marshal Isaac McGraw wants nothing more than to forget his past and live in isolation on the family ranch. But his meddling family has cooked up other plans—plans that include matching Isaac with a mail-order bride who has two young boys in tow.

There’s something about Clare Ferguson that bothers Isaac…more than the haunted look in her eyes and the way she’s constantly glancing over her shoulder. Against his will—and better judgment—he finds himself drawn to Clare and her cheery disposition.

When Clare’s secret past and relationship to an infamous outlaw is revealed, Isaac must break free from the chains of his past to keep his new family safe…

💞 Tropes in A Dangerous Heart (Wind River Mail Order Brides Book 4)

  • Grumpy/Sunshine
  • Opposites Attract
  • Lawman & the Outlaw (family)
  • Redemption Arc
  • Mail-Order Bride
  • Heroine on the Run
  • Found Family
  • Small Town Western
  • Ready-Made Family (heroine brings nephews)

Get your copy today!

Amazon

Sunrise Publishing

Get updates on our themed book giveaways

Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list.

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Kelly’s Personal Update

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you!

Finding Forevermore Novel

If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon.

I’ll share more updates by joining my free email list and you’ll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up

Follow me for updates

Interview with Shelley Shepard Gray: Writing Suspenseful Amish Romance, Redemptive Love, and Finding Courage in Community

Interview with Shelley Shepard Gray: Writing Suspenseful Amish Romance, Redemptive Love, and Finding Courage in Community

In this heartfelt episode, bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray returns to chat with Kelly about her latest romantic suspense novel, Unshaken — a thrilling standalone set in the hauntingly quiet Amish community of Crittenden County, Kentucky. Shelley opens up about her creative process, overcoming writer’s block with unexpected help from neighbors, and how her characters wrestle with faith, fear, and redemption. This episode is full of warmth, wisdom, and a beautiful reminder that in Christ, we are all made new. Plus, Unshaken is included in this month’s special giveaway!

Listen to the episode here.

Meet Shelley Shepard Gray

Shelley Shepard Gray picture

With more than 2 million copies of her books sold, Shelley Shepard Gray has mastered the delicate balance of faith, romance, and suspense that readers have come to expect. In her newest standalone novel, Unshaken, Gray offers a tension-filled, tightly written tale that is sure to thrill fans of both Amish fiction and romantic suspense.

Shelley Shepard Gray is The New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than 100 books, including Unforgiven and Unforgotten. Two-time winner of the HOLT Medallion and a Carol Award finalist, Gray lives in Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town’s bike trail.

Visit Shelley’s Website

Follow Shelley

Bible Verse for Encouragement

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”
2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV)

Shelley Shepard Gray’s New Book: Unshaken

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.

PRAISE FOR UNFORGOTTEN
“Readers won’t be able to resist the propulsive plotting. This begs to be read in one sitting.”Publishers Weekly

“This uplifting story of healing reminds readers that God’s love and grace endures even within one’s trauma and fear.”Booklist

This tension-filled tale is sure to thrill fans of Amish fiction and romantic suspense alike. Acclaimed author threads together themes of protective hero, fish out of water, and confronting trauma.

💞 Tropes in Unshaken

  • Woman in danger
  • Forced proximity
  • Fish out of water
  • Protective hero (military background)
  • Opposites attract
  • Found family
  • Villain with a POV / morally gray antagonist
  • Glamping cabin bonding scene (Love Boat binge)
  • Slow-burn connection
  • Redemption arc

Get your copy today!

Amazon

Baker Book House

Get updates on our themed book giveaways

Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list.

[convertkit form=6900532]


Kelly’s Personal Update

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you!

Finding Forevermore Novel

If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon.

I’ll share more updates by joining my free email list and you’ll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up

Follow me for updates