Meet author Jill Dewhurst
Jill Dewhurst writes novels that seamlessly weave a page-turning story with the truth of God’s unconditional love. A Selah Award Bronze Medalist, Christian Author Award Winner, Will Rogers Medallion Award Gold Medal Winner, and bestselling author of historical Christian fiction, with her varied experience as an RN, a musician, and a homeschool mom, Jill creatively weaves a part of herself into each story. When not writing, she enjoys playing her flute and thanking God for the hubby who lassoed her heart for keeps. Publishing her Rugged Cross Ranch series has been a dream come true.
Tell us about your newest book.
Heidi’s Faith, Book 4 of the Rugged Cross Ranch series:
Will the brushstrokes that capture light on canvas help Heidi Müller find the light of God’s promises in her soul? Will she rise above the fear that threatens to overwhelm her? When her family moves to a secret location for her protection, will she learn to trust again? “Sometimes all you need to overcome something hard is a new perspective—and maybe a guide to help you find it.” And when that new perspective is grounded in God’s promises, the result is a stronger, more resilient faith in the God who loves us. The handsome stranger may have been speaking to Heidi’s brother Frederick, but the message penetrated deep within Heidi’s heart where she struggled with fear. Jacob Collins desires a family of his own, but when that seems impossible, he focuses on becoming the man God wants him to be and leaves the details to Him. Will God use Jacob’s desire to help his neighbor to place him where the impossible could become possible? When God uses Jacob to renew Heidi’s trust in God, will a traumatic accident give Heidi the opportunity to return the favor?
What inspired you to write your story?
All of us struggle with fear in one form or another. The timeless truths in Heidi’s Faith remind each reader that through meditating on the promises in God’s Word, remembering His unconditional love, and surrounding ourselves with the support of family and friends, victory over fear is possible. God does not want us to live in fear, and He promises that [His] perfect love will cast out fear (I John 4:18).
What genre do you focus on.
Historical Christian Romantic Fiction. While those living on the American frontier did not have an easy life, they tended to prioritize what was truly important—faith, family, and community. Faith is an intrinsic theme in each of my novels.
Why do you write?
“A well-written story reaches the imagination. A faith-filled story reaches the heart.” My heart’s desire is to write a story that would inspire readers by reminding them of a God who loves them unconditionally and longs to have a personal relationship with them.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Heidi Müller is the heroine of the story whose faith overcomes her struggle with a fearful event in her past. Because her family were recent German immigrants, she needed a German name. My original choice was Kirstyn, but my editor kept reading “Kristin” instead and insisted that I needed a more authentically German name. Heidi was the perfect substitute. Not only was it a popular German name in the mid 1800s, but all the Heidis I have known have been just as sweet as my protagonist.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
Finding dedicated uninterrupted writing time is consistently the hardest part of being an author. A close second place is creating characters and storylines that are unique and memorable.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
The best part of my author’s life has been meeting my readers and other authors. That’s quite a stretch for this friendly introvert, but God continues to push me out of my comfort zone.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
Attending writers’ retreats and conferences and making new author friends have improved the craft of my writing immeasurably and provided a delightful source of fellowship and encouragement.
What is your favorite pastime?
When I’m not writing, I’m an avid reader. Aside from books, my favorite pastime is playing my flute and piano. In my spare time (Ha!), I’m learning to play the cello.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
Yes, the other novels in the Rugged Cross Ranch are Julie’s Joy, Emily’s Hope, and Laura’s Redemption.
What are you working on now?
I am currently writing the manuscript for Clara’s Courage (Rugged Cross Ranch Book 5).
Website: www.jilldewhurst.com
Link to book: https://www.jilldewhurst.com/heidi-s-faith or direct Amazon link: www.amzn.com/dp/B0DBTL28NN
Social media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DewhurstPublishing/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jilldewhurst.author/
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