Meet author Jean Alfieri
Jean knew when her eyes locked with those of a smooshy-faced little dog who sat inside a kennel at the Humane Society, that it was love at first sight. To capture their many adventures, she self-publishes short story poems starring her often mischievous and always adorable rescue pug named Zuggy. She enjoys visiting schools and community events, sharing “Zuggy the Rescue Pug,” a collection of light-hearted and beautifully illustrated books.
Tell us about your newest book.
Recently, there was not one, not two, but three new Zuggy the Rescue Pug books released. They are special edition coloring and activity books that celebrate the holidays of Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. In Costume Crazy, Zuggy isn’t sure the kids are on the right track as he must try on many costumes before finding the perfect Halloween outfit. In The Great Turkey Chase, Zuggy is worried that the whole family won’t be together for his favorite holiday … until he must save the day (and dinner) in this action-packed adventure. Lastly, Zuggy is sad when gifts are canceled after Mom loses her job. He tries to work some Christmas magic, but will the cat keep his secrets? Find out in Santa Paws Saves Christmas.
What inspired you to write these holiday stories?
The kids I meet, when I visit a school or the Childrens Hospital, are such a joy. It’s a delight when they point at a picture and giggle. I love to learn what parts of the story really grab their attention. I learn something new with each visit and leave more inspired to make the next Zuggy book even better.
How would you describe these books to someone in a 30-second blurb?
These stories are for dog lovers of all ages. Written as easy-to-read poems, they share fun Zuggy adventures and make reading fun. With loads of games, puzzles, and coloring pages these books are perfect for school breaks and vacations.
What genre do you focus on?
I’ve expanded from writing for children to offering self-guided journals to help people capture their fantastic stories. We all have them. Sometimes we just don’t know how to get started. Journaling can also be an instrumental tool for healing. A little guidance can make all the difference in getting the pen to paper.
Why do you write?
It started as a way to process the pain of my first pug dying. The thought of losing all our wonderful memories was agonizing. So, I started writing them down. Often it would make me laugh – then cry. After a year of journaling our escapades, I was still laughing and crying, and the journal was almost full. I realized that children would relate to the stories of my mischievous pug, and I started designing books with the kids in mind.
Who is your main character, and why did you choose that name?
Zuggy is a fictitious name based on a real dog. God willing, there will always be a pug underfoot because they are a lovely (if not stubborn!) breed and their expression alone, provides great writing material. The real Zuggy prefers to remain anonymous so he can move freely in public and not be swarmed by his adoring paw-parazzi!
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
There is no schedule, per se, but my goal is to indie-publish at least one Zuggy book and get one other article or story traditionally published each year. This year my flash-story, “How Far is Heaven,” was included in the Pikes Peaks Writers Anthology, titled “Journeys into Possibility,” which was published in March 2023. I also have a submission accepted for the 2025 publication of “All God’s Creatures.”
What is the hardest part of being an author?
I want to write for “everyone,” but I know, being a Christian author, that no matter how subtle I try to be (to invite non-believers in without making them feel pressured), I’m rarely confident I offer the proper balance.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
Being invited to speak. Whether it’s a presentation for an auditorium full of kiddos, a reading at the Children’s Hospital, a radio program or podcast interview, or an on-line networking group, I enjoy connecting with fellow readers and writers and making new friends.
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
Not many people know that I used to date a hot air balloon pilot and have floated through the skies of four different states (including a morning flight at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta).
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
The Lord continues to put different writing topics on my heart. I’ve learned that patience makes a better product and to appreciate the importance and power of words. I respect the calling to write more each day and do my best to be mindful of what I put out there. People need love, inspiration, and grace – now, it seems, more than ever.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
There are now eleven books in the Zuggy the Rescue Pug collection. I’ve also been published twice in the Pikes Peaks Writers Anthologies and have a devotional included in “Abba’s Heart,” published last year by CrossRiver Media.
What are you working on now?
I’m compiling a collection of short stories with a working title of: “Vintage Puppies – God’s Gift of Old Dogs.” It’s about senior pups that have touched my life in very special ways. Some, we were blessed to have live under our roof. Others I met during my work at the Humane Society. The way God uses dogs to shift our perspective, brighten our day, and provide companionship is really incredible and I hope the book will be an inspiration to all the dog-lovers who read it!
Website: www.JeanAlfieri.com
Link to book: Zuggy the Rescue Pug – Happy Howl-idays: Alfieri, Jean Marie: 9781734308686: Amazon.com: Books
Social media links: Zuggy the Pug | Facebook
Jean Alfieri (@zuggythepug) • Instagram photos and videos
Meet author E.V. Sparrow
E.V. Sparrow wrote anthologized stories, including for Guideposts and Bethany House publishers, before a contract with Celebrate Lit. Her readers encounter God’s unexpected presence through her character’s adventures. Her own involved travel in over twenty countries, living on an Israeli kibbutz, and hopping a freight train. California native relocated to North Carolina, she and her husband enjoy family and their grandchildren.
Tell us about your newest book.
It’s an eBook novella with Irish emigrant and tenant farmer, Mick Muldoon as the main character. My inspiration for Mick came from my dad’s family. I used letters, photos, documents, and family stories from my grandfather to guide me. It is highly fictionalized beyond the timeline, setting, and factual experiences.
What inspired you to write Muldoon’s Minnesota Darling: A Novella?
I’d written the manuscript of Book 1, Muldoon’s Misfortunes, of my 3-book contracted series. It’s called Those Resilient Muldoons, because the three books all center on a Muldoon family member.
Book 1 was too long, and an agent who mentored me at a conference said to cut the chapters from my manuscript but to keep that portion for something else. I did and added several chapters. Muldoon’s Minnesota Darling: A Novella, was born, and centers on Mick Muldoon’s ten years in Minnesota.
How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?
This post-Civil War novella tells of a resilient Irish emigrant’s resolve to escape his past. Especially someone he blames for the deaths of his wives and children. He drinks to numb his pain and doubts God’s love for him. Will America’s promises of a better life redeem his heart and soul?
What genre do you focus on and why?
After writing several short stories about overseas travel, I changed my focus to historical fiction. It allows me to include settings from my childhood experiences in rural towns. An element of romance from my years of reading. Regencies seeps into my stories and aspects of family relationships. My parents raised me in a small Gold Rush town in the Foothills of California, and anything to do with the 1800s fascinates me. Most of my friends’ families kept livestock like horses, cows, goats, chickens, and others. My mama collected antiques and took me shopping with her. I continue enjoying antique shopping and collecting if I can afford it. My dad was a builder by trade but a huge Western fan. I think their hobbies influenced my genre.
Why do you write?
I love words. As a child, I created and entertained stories in my vivid imagination. Many members of my family are avid readers. My creative imagination worked well in the mural painting business, and now it’s perfect for writing fiction. It’s easy for me to create a story based on a few facts, true experiences, and I’m happy to use Scriptural concepts in my stories. Often, a verse I read speaks to me, and I begin the “What if a person…” scenario.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
Six days per week, eight to nine hours per day, and much of it is social media. Writing a chapter takes me four to six hours twice per week.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
By far it’s sitting at a computer indoors. I never would have written books in my younger years, because I was far too active with hiking, kayaking, running, camping, riding, volleyball, or anything outdoors. We have a shaded porch in the woods to break the monotony where I work in the Spring and Autumn seasons. That is enjoyable.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
The ability to write something profound with God’s guidance and my creativity. I hope to reach hopeless people struggling to know if they matter to God and if He loves them. Can He forgive them? The ones in situations where it doesn’t seem like He’s there, and to be a bridge to their deliverance from those thoughts.
What’s one unusual fact about you?
I’ve always loved adventure, and I worked on a kibbutz in Israel for a summer. They only granted 3-month visas then. That was an unusual experience. I arrived there one day after a cease-fire to see a pits from rockets and blasted concrete buildings. They cleaned it all up within a week. There’s more to the story but I don’t have time to tell.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
My work has improved since 2015. More succinct, more depth of expression, and I’ve worked hard to open my heart’s emotions. That challenged me. I was too guarded. I kind of cringe at my earlier style of expression. Every class I took, each writer’s conference I attended, all the other writers who have critiqued my projects push me to apply what I’ve learned. One thing is true, all writers improve over time, and previous books we wrote as new authors are the building blocks to future books.
What are you working on now?
Besides learning how to market, and designing a new cover to match the series, I’m writing Book 2. I have a researcher digging into questions around my storyline, the era, and bits about Ireland in the 1850s-1860s. There are specific details I need for my main character, Orla Muldoon, once she settles near Lake Superior. She’s a spunky woman, but she has a horrific back story. How will I depict God’s love for her?
Website: https://sparrow.world
Link to book: Amazon URL:
https://www.amazon.com/Muldoons-Minnesota-Darling-V-Sparrow-ebook/dp/B0C51CWT62/
Draft2Digital UBL: https://books2read.com/u/bwN7EO where eBooks are distributed in the USA and worldwide for numerous eBook readers other than Kindle and Apple Books.
Social media links: https://linktr.ee/ev.sparrow Has every link.
Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/475597e34cd3/sparrowworld
Meet author Debbie W Wilson
Debbie W. Wilson, Bible teacher, former Christian counselor, and award-winning author, combines insight and encouragement to inspire readers to trust Christ with their lives. She and her husband, Larry, founded Lighthouse Ministries, a nonprofit biblical counseling and Bible study ministry. Despite time in Boston, the Midwest, and Southern California, she still says y’all. Her family, which includes two mischievous standard poodles, calls North Carolina home.
What inspired you to write Little Strength, Big God?
Hebrews 11 describes a group of men and women who “became mighty in battle” and “through weakness were made strong.” Those phrases intrigued me. I’ve certainly known what it is to feel weak. How did these men and women become strong in battle? How did God turn their weakness into strength? Those questions inspired and directed my study as I looked at the backstories of these heroes of the faith.
Would you be surprised to learn God chooses the weak?
Your heart aches watching oppressive influences threaten or bewitch your family, friends, and country. But what can you do? Using the lives of the men and women highlighted in the last half of Hebrews 11, Little Strength, Big God will help you:
- Discover a God bigger than your giants.
- Experience a Savior who sympathizes with your weaknesses.
- Turn your weakness into strength to accomplish God’s purpose in your life.
What genre do you focus on?
I write in the Bible Study and Christian Living genres. I worked as a Christian counselor for 24 years and have taught the Bible for twice as long. I love helping people fall in love with God’s Word and discover its relevance to their everyday lives.
Why do you write?
I want to connect fellow sojourners to the heart of Christ. I live in the Bible belt where more people may be religious, but many still lack a vibrant relationship with Jesus. The Scriptures provide timeless principles to guide us through the quagmire of our personal issues and an upside-down culture.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Little Strength, Big God covers the lives of the men and women in the second half of Hebrews 11 beginning with the midwives and Moses’s mother. It looks at Moses, Joshua and Rahab, Gideon, Deborah and Barak, Jephthah and Samuel, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and ends with David and us. Each one provides different insights on how we can become strong in our battles.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
I work better with deadlines. When I want to finish writing a Bible study, I tell one of the small groups I lead that we’ll study that topic for the next several weeks. That makes me write the commentary and lesson to email out each week. I take notes during our discussions and use them to polish my rough draft.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
I didn’t realize that authors must promote their work! I’d rather research and teach something new that I’m learning than promote something I’ve finished. That has been a challenge for me.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
It’s my job to immerse myself in the Scriptures and discover rich treasures that impact my own life before they reach others.
What is your favorite pastime?
I am an avid audiobook fan.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
Give Yourself a Break, Little Women, Big God, and Little Faith, Big God. Each one provides inspiration and insight to help readers experience God in their everyday lives.
What are you working on now?
Find free resources and connect with Debbie at debbieWwilson.com.
Link to book:
Social media links: https://twitter.com/DebbieWWilson
https://www.facebook.com/DebbieWwilsonauthor/
https://www.instagram.com/debbiewwilson/
https://www.pinterest.com/djwwilson/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-w-wilson-31305a168/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14350633.Debbie_W_Wilson
Meet YA author Janet E. Fichter
Janet writes to inspire readers to gain a broader, more spiritual perspective of life’s events. Her narratives and thought-provoking essays help kindle a passion for serving Christ. Janet is author of The Ministry of the Unveiled Face (non-fiction study) and Princess Tiara and the Crown of Virtues (young adult fantasy). Her third book, Princess Tiara and the Battle for Fruitful, releases this fall. Janet also maintains an active blog (www.atjesusfeet.com) of non-fiction and poetry.
What inspired you to write Princess Tiara and the Crown of Virtues?
This story celebrates my nieces and nephews. The original version was written when Tiara, the main character and my youngest niece, was only ten. Her siblings in the story are also my nieces and nephews. I have highlighted one of their strengths of character as well as their personalities because each one demonstrates virtue in real life and I adore them all. It was delightful crafting a story that honored them.
On a different note, I also wrote this story to support teachers. The book is designed to support instruction in literacy, and there are supplemental materials available for teachers on my website. As a retired public-school teacher and instructional coach, I loved creating these instructional guides, and I know classroom teachers are always looking for quality stories to use in instruction. Unlike the plethora of darker tales that flood the market for middle grade and teen readers, this story focuses on celebrating the call to live virtuously. There are spiritual undertones interspersed throughout the tale, including the very special character Princess Tiara meets at her crowning.
How would you describe this book to someone in a 30-second blurb?
How does a young princess prove herself worthy to wear a royal crown when she’s more passionate about exploring nature?
Tiara, the youngest princess in the royal family of the Kingdom of Fruitful, is the only child yet to wear a crown. The crowns of her six older siblings sparkle with a special gem they earned by a test of character. Now, as the last royal heir, Tiara must demonstrate a virtue she’d rather not even think about.
Can Tiara become a princess with purpose? What will her virtue be and what jewel will she earn for her crown? Perhaps a mysterious, old woman wearing a cloak that often glows can guide her quest? But will she pay attention to these encounters?
Princess Tiara and the Crown of Virtues is a must read for middle grade students, teachers, and parents. It will stimulate thought and discussion about what it means to be virtuous.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
My writing is always a time of fellowship with Jesus. I’m an uber morning person, so I rise at dawn to have a quiet time of prayer, worship and Bible study. Often these quiet times will inspire a piece of writing, whether that be a poem, a song, or an idea for an essay. Since my current focus is on fiction / fantasy, my quiet times now inform the spiritual analogies I bring in to the fantasy story.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
My first book, The Ministry of the Unveiled Face, is a nonfiction study for personal reflection or small group discussion. Like the unveiling of a beautiful bride at her wedding, the spiritual veil is removed, and Christ’s truth and goodness are revealed.
What are you working on now?
I am in the final stages of a sequel to Princess Tiara and the Crown of Virtues. The sequel is entitled, Princess Tiara and the Battle for Fruitful. Here’s a quick synopsis: When an unexpected enemy force arrives in the Kingdom of Fruitful, Princess Tiara and her siblings must draw upon their virtues to confront the threat. Princess Tiara follows Head Servant Joseph up the arduous trail to the Kingdom of Mysterious Peaks. Though Tiara believes she is there to assist Joseph, instead she encounters an amazing world of mystical creatures with spiritual powers. Eventually, the young princess realizes the ethereal beings from the Mysterious Peaks will be the salvation for her family’s kingdom in the valley below.
Meanwhile, her siblings ride frantically through the kingdom to warn some and confront others. Their virtues propel them as the lure of riches leads the enemy force to desecrate sacred and cherished sites in Fruitful. The conflict climaxes at the mysterious Cave of Stones. What is hidden deep inside the cave? Will supernatural assistance from The Kingdom of Mysterious Peaks conquer the enemy that threatens the peaceful Kingdom of Fruitful? Will the virtues represented by the jewels in Princess Tiara’s crown help the royal family rise above the sinister forces of desecration and destruction?
Website: https://atjesusfeet.com
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Princess-Tiara-Crown-Virtues-Adventure-ebook/dp/B0BLHQ11QS
Social media links: https://www.facebook.com/JanetFichterAuthor
Meet author Danielle Grandenitti
Danielle Grandinetti is an inspirational romance author, writing both historical and contemporary romance. A 2023 Finalist in the FHLCW Reader’s Choice Award, she has also won the University of Northwestern Distinguished Faith in Writing Award. Danielle is fueled by tea and books and the occasional nature walk. 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.
Will uncovering the truth set them free or destroy what they hold most dear?
Wisconsin, 1930—With her health in shambles and her archaeological career on the line, Cora Davis retreats to Crow’s Nest and the home of her great aunt to heal. She doesn’t think much of the missing memories from between the earthquake that caused her dizzy spells and her trip home. Until she begins remembering the danger that sent her fleeing her last dig and the person responsible.
After a decade as a ranch hand, Silas Ward returned to Crow’s Nest to provide for the women in his life. That same protective instinct propels him to Cora’s aid. But when finances dwindle, the lies and greed of others threaten to ruin his family. Unless Silas can walk the thin line of compromise. A choice that might cost him Cora’s affection. As winter’s chill threatens, will Crow’s Nest prove a refuge, or will both Cora and Silas have no choice but to sacrifice their chance at happiness to save those they love? Welcome to Crow’s Nest, where danger and romance meet at the water’s edge.
What inspired you to write Refuge for the Archaeologist?
This story was born out of a desire to write a character with migraine. It’s a neurological disease I battle, and I wanted an opportunity for others like me to read a character like us. With migraine, however, no two cases are alike, and my main character’s situation is definitely complicated.
What genre do you focus on?
I write inspirational romance. Refuge for the Archaeologist is my fifth historical romance with a suspense thread, but this summer, my debut contemporary sweet romance releases. I’m excited to be adding a second genre to my book list!
Why do you write?
I write because I love it. I love story and I love putting words on paper. It’s healing and refreshing, and a gift I thank God He has given me the opportunity to pursue.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Cora Davis is my main character. I wanted to give her a strong name for all she would face through the pages of my story.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
I love so much about being an author. I love the writing, the crafting of a story. I also love interacting with readers and fellow authors. The Christian bookish community is a joy to be a part of!
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
This goes back to the inspiration for this story. I battle chronic migraine and, for me, it’s more than just a headache. Because of how much it impacts my life, I also like to spread awareness for this incurable neurological disease. If you’re someone who battles migraine, you’re not alone!
What is your favorite pastime?
Perhaps it’s cliche to say as a writer, but I love to read. I read one to three books a week. It’s my way to decompress, and helps reduce stress.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
I do. As I mentioned above, Refuge for the Archaeologist is book 2 in the Harbored in Crow’s Nest series. Book One is Confessions to a Stranger. If you enjoy this series, then check out my first historical romance series, beginning with To Stand in the Breach. And, on August 22, my debut Love Inspired romance releases. It’s called A Father for Her Boys.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on Book Four in the Harbored in Crow’s Nest series. Relying on the Enemy is a marriage of convenience story following Silas’s sister-in-law, Marian, and her two little girls, who you meet in Refuge for the Archaeologist.
Website: daniellegrandinetti.com
Link to book: https://daniellegrandinetti.com/refuge-for-the-archaeologist/
Social media links:
Meet author Jane Daly
Jane is addicted to coffee, purple pens, and her husband, not necessarily in that order. A self-proclaimed introvert, she enjoys the solitude of riding shotgun in Rigsby, her 37-foot motor home. But when they pull into a new campground, her favorite thing is to make new friends and find hangouts featuring local musicians. Her fantasy involves writing lyrics for country music songs and listening to them on the radio. In the meantime, she’ll stick to writing novels. And seeing as much of the country as possible.
Tell us about your newest book.
It’s all about secrets. When we reveal our secrets and bring them into the light, they lose power over us.
What inspired you to write Broken Silence?
I wrote Broken Silence because when we hide our past sins from others, it puts up barriers to having deep and lasting relationships. Confessing our struggles to one another helps us grow.
What genre do you focus on?
I write contemporary women’s fiction because that’s what I like to read. I have two nonfiction titles in publication too, but my heart is in creating stories.
Why do you write?
I’ve wanted to write ever since I first got hold of the Nancy Drew series. Reading is my go-to relaxation place. I want to give my readers the same sense of satisfaction in reading a well-paced novel.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Jinxi is such an unusual name. I had a bank customer with that name and I immediately knew she would be in a book.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
I spend a lot of time writing ‘in my head’ before actually putting fingers on my keyboard. Once I sit down to begin, I have a good idea where I’m going to start and where the story will finish. Along the way, the characters let me know where we should go. Sounds weird to anyone who doesn’t write!
What is the hardest part of being an author?
The solitude! It’s hard feeling like you’re completely alone on this writing journey. That’s why I love to go to conferences and attend Zoom meetings with other authors.
What is your favorite pastime?
One of my favorite pastimes is to walk around the campground where hubby and I are staying and chat with people. Most people are super friendly. They’re on vacation and have plenty of time to talk. They’re sitting outside their motor home or trailer in a camp chair, just hanging out and enjoying nature. Conversations are easy to initiate. “I see from your license plate you’re from… Where are you headed next?”
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
Thank you for asking. The Girl in the Cardboard Box is a stand-alone novel dealing with adoption, foster care, and abortion, and has an adorable feral child. Broken, A Story of Redemption is the book that comes before Broken Silence. The third in the series, Broken Trust, will be released next year.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on the first round of edits for my next release, Where Is My Sister that will release in November.
Website: https://janesdaly.com/
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Broken-Silence-Book-2-ebook/dp/B0BYTLZS2R