In this episode, Kelly chats with rom-com author Marline Williams about her bold and nostalgic Jesus Revolution Romance Series. With a heart for storytelling and a deep love for the 1970s era, Marline shares her journey from advertising to independent publishing—and how God called her to write laugh-out-loud romances set in the heart of the Jesus movement.
Kelly and Marline dive into the setting of Love the One You’re With (book two in the series), unpack the spiritual truths woven into her heroine’s journey, and even talk about campus revivals, witnessing with ginger ale, and the importance of letting your light shine. Whether you’re a fan of second chances, enemies to lovers, or a good ol’ Jesus Freak throwback, you’ll love this episode!
Marline Williams—rom-com novelist (and unapologetic Jesus freak since 1971)
In her pre-authorial existence, Marline Williams was an advertising copywriter and editor. Ideal for learning to craft fiction, really. After a quarter of a century of convincing consumers to buy things they don’t need with money they don’t have, Marline retired. She tossed her snarky coffee mugs and reunited with her childhood joy—writing crazy, wonderful stories.
Marline weaves midcentury-modern nostalgia and Jesus Movement memories into offbeat love stories for women who aren’t sure they believe in happily-ever-afters anymore. Her upbeat, faith-soaked romances are set in the swingin’ ’60s and funkadelic ’70s (with occasion trips to the nifty ’50s). Sweet-yet-swoony stories that go deep, but not dark.
Her debut novel, All Men Are Liars (Jesus Revolution Romance, Book 1) launched September 2024. Wild and Sweet, a 1960’s Christmas novella (part of the Christmas in the Cascades anthology) quickly followed with a October 2024 launch.
She’s currently working on the second book in the Jesus Revolution Romance series–the next adventures in the life of her “All Men Are Liars” heroine, Dana Whitman.
Marline Williams’ New Book: Love the One You’re With
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?
💞 Tropes in Love the One You’re With
Love Triangle
Opposites Attract (Jesus Freak vs. Atheist)
Second Chance Romance
Fish Out of Water
Finding Your Identity
Faith Journey / Spiritual Awakening
Friends to Lovers (previous book)
Cross-cultural romance (American girl meets English guy)
Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you!
Finding Forevermore is available today!
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.
In this episode, Kelly chats with award-winning biblical fiction author Tessa Afshar about her newest novel, The Royal Artisan. Set during the reign of Queen Esther, this story blends historical intrigue, second-chance romance, and powerful spiritual truths. Tessa opens up about writing through spiritual warfare, the theme of living with an “orphan spirit,” and how God’s identity as our Father transforms our lives. With touches of suspense, a hidden identity, and a rekindled romance, this episode is a must-listen for fans of faith-filled fiction and timeless storytelling.
Tessa Afshar’s award-winning biblical fiction has been on Publishers Weekly, CBA, and ECPA bestseller lists and has been translated into twelve languages. Born in the Middle East, Tessa spent her teen years in England and later moved to the United States. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life. Tessa is a devoted wife, a mediocre gardener, and an enthusiastic cook of biblical recipes.
“But now, O Lord, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand.” — Isaiah 64:8 (NKJV)
Tessa Afhar’s New Book: The Royal Artisan
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.
Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you!
Finding Forevermore is available today!
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.
In this heartfelt episode, Kelly chats with Ann Swindell—author, teacher, and lover of Earl Grey—about her newest novel, Love in the Castle Library. Known for crafting stories that point to Christ’s presence in everyday life, Ann opens up about her transition from nonfiction to fiction, her passion for equipping Christian writers through Writing with Grace, and the deeply spiritual themes woven into her latest romantic tale. With a fake-dating twist, a castle garden setting, and a heroine learning to see God as her true Father, this story offers both swoon-worthy moments and soul-deep truths.
ANN SWINDELL writes stories that point to Christ’s presence in our day-to-day lives and the hope He brings to our hearts. She is the author of multiple books and the owner of Writing with Grace, where she teaches Christ-centered writing classes for women. Ann lives in West Michigan, and she enjoys adventuring with her family…usually with a cup of Earl Grey tea in hand.
1 John 3:1 (NKJV) “Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.”
Ann Swindell’s New Book: Love in the Castle Library
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. Delphine hesitantly accepts Jack’s offer—and finds her heart being stripped of every predictable and efficient emotion she’s ever had.
Jack Worthington believes that his instinct to protect Delphine was the right one, even if it means posing as her boyfriend. But he’s determined to stay focused on his research for Lethersby—and to keep his emotional distance after reeling from a broken heart. Yet as the clues to discovering the Lost Queen’s story unravel and the court case determining Delphine’s fate looms, both Delphine and Jack must step out in faith, choosing to trust that what God has ahead for them is more valuable than the lives they thought they wanted.
💞 Tropes in Love in the Castle Library
Fake dating / pretend relationship
Forced proximity
Opposites attract
Prim heroine meets gregarious hero
Dual POV (point of view)
Slow emotional healing
Found family / father figure support
Historical mystery woven into a contemporary romance
Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you!
Finding Forevermore is available today!
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.
In this heartwarming episode of The Christian Romance Podcast, Kelly chats with award-winning author Sarah Monzon about her latest rom-com, Hearts in Circulation. Set in a cozy Tennessee town, this story features an adorably optimistic librarian, a grumpy recluse with a tender heart, and a bookmobile full of unexpected blessings. Sarah shares her personal writing journey, from indie beginnings to traditional publishing, and opens up about the powerful themes woven into her novel—grace, purpose, and the healing power of love. If you’re a fan of opposites attract, laugh-out-loud moments, and stories that shine God’s truth, this episode is for you!
HOLT Medallion and Selah Award–winner, and Christy and Carol Award finalist, Sarah Monzon is a stay-at-home mom who makes up imaginary friends to have adult conversations with (otherwise known as writing novels). As a navy chaplain’s wife, she resides wherever the military happens to station her family and enjoys exploring the beauty of the world around her. Learn more at SarahMonzonWrites.com.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.”
Sarah Monzon’s New Book: Hearts in Circulation
Can a rundown bookmobile be the vehicle that brings two unlikely hearts together?
Little Creek’s bookmobile is more of a death trap on wheels than a vehicle of literary delights, and circulation librarian Hayley Holt is afraid it’s going to careen down a mountainside with her in it. Yet she sees it as a way to serve her community and be worthy of the liver transplant that saved her life as a child. However, her fears come true when the bookmobile breaks down and a rockslide traps her in the small hollow of Turkey Grove.
Reclusive mechanic Levi Redding lives in tiny Turkey Grove to get away from people. He can handle getting the bookmobile running again, but the endless chatter and unsettling touches from the vibrant librarian leave him overstimulated. When forced proximity leads to a misunderstanding, a note of apology begins an epistolary friendship, proving that sometimes the happiest of endings aren’t contained within the bindings of a book.
Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you!
Finding Forevermore is available today!
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.
In this interview with Jaime Jo Wright dives deep into the gothic mystery behind her latest release, The Bell Tolls at Traeger Hall. Kelly chats with Jaime about her signature blend of dual-timeline suspense, richly atmospheric storytelling, and faith-infused themes of grief, hope, and healing. In this candid and heartfelt conversation, Jaime shares how personal loss shaped her writing, how God meets us in the darkest moments, and the eerie Victorian customs that inspired her newest tale.
With a romance between a guarded heroine and a surprisingly charming undertaker (yes, you read that right!), this episode is a must-listen for fans of deep, emotionally resonant stories that shine light in the shadows. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at the true crime inspiration behind the novel and why sometimes the most terrifying places are the ones locked inside us.
Jaime Jo Wright is a Christy, Daphne Du Maurier, and Carol Award-winning author, and an ECPA bestseller of thirteen novels. Known for titles like The Vanishing at Castle Moreau, The House on Foster Hill, and The Reckoning at Gossamer Pond, Jaime carves out her own lane with stories that blend gothic mystery, haunting themes, and a spark of hope. She lives in Wisconsin with her family and a few fabulous felines.
Psalm 33:18 (NKJV) “Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, On those who hope in His mercy.”
Jaime Jo Wright’s New Book: The Bell Tolls at Traeger Hall
An abandoned estate encased in stagnant darkness . . . A haunting legacy intent on silencing all within reach . . .
In 1890, the ominous tolling of the bell announces that death has come to Traeger Hall, leaving orphaned Waverly Pembrooke to piece together the puzzle behind her uncle’s and aunt’s murders. Bound by the terms of her uncle’s eccentric will, Waverly finds herself alone in a manor shrouded by death and questioning the reasons for her uncle’s paranoia. A madness hovers over Traeger Hall, and Waverly–as well as the people of nearby Newton Creek–are ill-prepared for the woe that has descended.
In present day Newton Creek, whispers of a family curse still cling to the century-old, abandoned property of Traeger Hall. When Jennie Phillips takes possession of the estate after her mother’s passing, she is intent on solving the mystery of the Traeger murders. Yet a modern cold case suggests that untimely deaths and mysterious occurrences still plague the property. And as thorny truths surface, Jennie realizes the dark legacy threatens not only the town and the Traeger descendants . . . but also, chillingly, Jennie herself.
Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you!
Finding Forevermore is available today!
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.
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