Meet author Diana Leagh Matthews
Susan loves connecting with fellow authors, so let’s chat!
Diana Leagh Matthews has a heart for the hurting and shares God’s love through the written word and song. Her debut novel, Carol of the Rooms, was published in 2023 and was a Realm Award finalist and her second novel, Forever Changed, will be published on April 8th. Leagh lives in South Carolina with her spunky Maltese.
Tell us about your book
At the pinnacle of her Broadway career, Danielle Davis is savoring her success. Just as her dreams are now within grasp, tragedy forces her to return home to South Carolina. Following the untimely deaths of her sister and brother-in-law, Danielle discovers she’s now responsible for seven children, two grandmothers, and a farm she knows nothing about. When a young woman from the 1930s begins making mysterious appearances to her, Danielle embraces her as an unexpected confidant and encourager. Can Danielle find the healing and support she desperately needs in her new roles?
Caleb Donovan put his soaring music career on hold after making a terrible mistake. Following the loss of his best friends, he now guides Danielle as she learns about running a farm and caring for a family. Can Caleb find his own place amid the chaos? Will Danielle and Caleb be able to discover the career and relational paths meant for them? Can they learn how to let go of their painful pasts, and find it in their hearts to forgive, and move forward into an uncertain future?
What inspired you to write your story?
I’ve always longed for a family of my own and wondered what it would be like to suddenly be responsible for an instant family. Then I asked myself questions such as: What would be a challenge? What would I embrace? How would that twist effect my current life and dreams?
What genre do you focus on.
I always thought if I were going to be a writer, I’d write historical fiction, because I’ve always loved history and provide historical presentations in various local communities. So imagine my surprise when my stories continue to be primarily contemporary stories, although often they do include a little history lesson mixed in.
Why do you write?
Characters grab hold of me and will not let me go. I can’t not write, even if it were just for me. Writing helps me to process so many aspects of life and situations.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Danielle Davis and Caleb Donovan are the main characters. Davis is a surname in my family history and I liked the names Danielle and Caleb.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
I love seeing the story come together but holding the finished book in my hand and connecting with readers and hearing how the story touched their lives always does my heart good.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
I work a day job and also have caregiving responsibilities. So there are times when it’s difficult to get to everything that needs to be done. There’s so much more to writing than just writing and editing and it can be a challenge to see to all those tasks at times.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
There’s so much to learn as a writer that one never stops. However, the more I learn, the more I see how my confidence grows in both myself and my craft.
What is your favorite pastime?
I’ve been working on my family history for over 30 years. I don’t get to work on it as much as I used to but still enjoy exploring various rabbit trails from time to time. However, my favorite thing is to spend time with my Maltese mix, Bentley. Whether it’s snuggling, going for a walk or ride, or playing ball, he’s a load of fun.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
Carol of the Rooms released in late 2023 and is inspired by “A Christmas Carol.”
What are you working on now?
I have so many ideas but at the moment I’m editing a story that incorporates all the holidays.
I also have an idea for a prequel to “Forever Changed.”
Website: https://www.DianaLeaghMatthews.com
Link to Forever Changed: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F2DCBDQY
Social Media Links:
https://dianaleaghmatthews.com/
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Diana-Leagh-Matthews/e/B07C17QJJ
Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/DiLeaghMatthews
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/994850748295488
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/dianaleaghmatthews/
X: https://X.com/dileaghmatthews
http://www.pinterest.com/dileaghmatthews/
GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/9773997-diana-leagh
Meet author Lisa E. Betz
Susan loves connecting with fellow authors, so let’s chat!
Lisa E. Betz is an engineer-turned-mystery-writer, entertaining speaker, and speaking coach. She inspires others to become their best selves, living with authenticity, and purpose, and she infuses her novels with quirky characters who thrive on solving tricky problems. Her latest Livia Aemilia Mystery, set in first-century Rome, was a silver medalist in the Illumination Book Awards for mystery. Lisa directs church dramas, hikes the beautiful Pennsylvania woods, eats too much chocolate, and spoils her grandchildren.
Tell us about your newest book.
What would compel a girl to set foot in the house of Rome’s most devious and vindictive senator?
How about murder? When the wife of Senator Gracchus is found dead under suspicious circumstances, Livia Aemilia agrees to help solve the crime. Yes, it’s a big risk, but it’ll be worth it if she can prove Gracchus poisoned his wife. Because if he’s a murderer, Livia and her husband Avitus would finally be rid of Gracchus and his nefarious schemes to ruin them. With justice on their side and God guiding their plans, what could go wrong? The more Livia digs, the more it looks like Gracchus is guilty of poisoning his wife. Until the next victim dies, and everything she thought she knew is turned upside down.
What inspired you to write your story?
The inspiration for this novel came from two things: a villain from my previous novel, Fountains and Secrets combined with Avitus’s faith journey. An Ode to Poison begins with Avitus’s long-time enemy, Gracchus, threatening to destroy Avitus, Livia and their entire household. As the book progresses, I created a situation where Avitus is forced to choose between retribution and granting mercy to his enemy. He is not yet a follower of Jesus and his command to love one’s enemies. Can Livia convince her husband to extend mercy, or will he refuse?
What genre do you focus on.
I have always enjoyed reading historical fiction. What better way to learn about life long ago than through the pages of a great story? I also enjoy mysteries with their clever clues and twisty plots. I prefer historical mysteries, which usually feature amateur sleuths who figure things out with common sense and a bit of clever sleuthing. So eventually I decided to write the kind of book I love to read. I set my novels in first-century Rome because it’s a period I’ve been fascinated with for a long time. This is the world of Jesus and the early church. It’s fascinating to imagine what life might have been like for a Roman living in this era and learning about Christ.
Why do you write?
I have always loved stories—reading them, making them up, or acting them out. Writing honors the creative gifts God put in my soul. And since Story is a powerful way to challenge people’s thinking, writing fiction is one way I spread the truth to those who need it.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
My main character is a spunky young woman named Livia Aemilia. She’s a confident person who makes things happen and isn’t afraid to try something she’s never done before, such as solving a murder. In my first novel, Livia feels compelled to find her father’s killer to protect her innocent brother from being blamed for the crime. She succeeds in doing so, and in the process discovers she and her trusty maid Roxana very much enjoy the challenge (much to certain other characters’ dismay). I try to use authentic names for my characters, but many Greek and Roman names are long and intimidating to modern readers. I try to avoid hard-to-read names such as Pherenike, Vopiscus, or Caecilia. Thus, I chose the name Livia because it’s short and readable, yet not a typical modern name.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
I’m usually most productive in the mornings, from 7 am to 1 pm. I try to schedule writing early in the day and other activities after lunch. I also have to juggle writing time with my coaching client meetings.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
All the things authors need to do other than working on their novels. Working on (or fretting about) blog posts, newsletters, social media, marketing, pitching to podcasts, updating websites, etc. etc. etc. can take up far too much time if I’m not careful.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
The joy of creating. It’s a wonderful feeling to get absorbed in a writing project and then feel a sense of accomplishment and victory when the final product turns out well. Also, there’s nothing like getting feedback from readers on how your words and ideas impacted them.
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
I also blog and speak about living intentionally—standing firm in our identity in Christ instead of conforming to the world, living with purpose and faith, and rejoicing in our uniqueness.
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
I have been blessed over the years by many writers who have taken time to mentor and encourage me, whether it was a 15-minute meeting at a conference or years of interacting at a writer’s group. They helped me develop my writing skills and my confidence. Now I am happy to give back by mentoring and encouraging other writers. I love teaching writing workshops and working one-on-one with writers.
What is your favorite pastime?
I enjoy cooking and baking, and I love spending time with my grandchildren. I especially love combining the two, happily making cookies or pancakes together. What’s a little mess in the kitchen when you get to share your joy with those you love (and have something yummy to show for it)?
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
The first two books in the Livia Aemilia series are:
Death and a Crocodile—in which Livia’s father is murdered and she must find the culprit to prove her brother is innocent.
Fountains and Secrets—in which the newly married Livia investigates a crime behind her husband’s back only to discover it might ruin her marriage—or it could end her life.
What are you working on now?
The next Livia Aemilia Mystery. My working title is The Topaz Mystery
Website: https://lisaebetz.com/
Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Ode-Poison-Livia-Aemilia-Mystery/dp/B0DDBKSSDG
Social media links: https://www.facebook.com/LisaEBetzWriter
Meet author Elizabeth Renich
Susan loves connecting with fellow authors, so let’s chat!
Elizabeth Renich has written four Civil War novels, worked for two NFL teams, and visited all fifty United States of America. International travels have found her in Germany, Japan, Ireland, Israel, Scotland, and England. She hunts historical markers and shares hope as an ovarian cancer survivor. Her love of photography is evident as she documents research trips and life, giving glory to God for the great things He has done.
Tell us about your newest (re-)release.
I have recently re-released my Shadowcreek Chronicles (Word of Honor, Matter of Trust, Not Without Courage, Strength and Glory) as 25th Anniversary editions, and while the inside remains the same, the new covers are lovely! It’s my belief that history shouldn’t change, and so having the chance to re-release them with updated “faces” let’s the history and learning continue. I have a 3rd generation reader and was recently contacted by an author who told me she grew up on my books and in doing so was inspired to write for herself, and so she did.
What inspired you to write your story?
I was approached by a publisher and asked to write a historical novel for them. When I told a friend, she dared me to follow through. One book ended up turning into a four-book series.
What genre do you focus on.
I write historical fiction. My first series was set during the Civil War. There is so much more than what is taught in school and I wanted to share what I learned with others. I was born in California, and I made it a point to go find out what happened in my state during the Civil War. I’ve threaded that information throughout the series.
Why do you write?
I don’t remember a time when I wasn’t writing something. Little stories. Silly poems. I worked on both the newspaper and yearbook staffs in high schooled. I journaled. Now I write elaborate captions for photo books of my research trips. I write because I have been encouraged to do so, and I thank God for giving me words.
Who is your main character, and how did you choose that name?
Salina Rose Hastings (Barnes becomes her last name once she marries her beau)
I’m not entirely certain what inspired her name, it was just there, right from the beginning. My Salina is a 16-year-old Confederate spy who was inspired by real-life Confederate ladies who nursed in hospitals, smuggled medicine and mail, took pot shots at enemy soldiers, aided escaped prisoners, supplied food and shelter to Mosby’s Rangers, and forwarded messages containing critical information to military commanders: Belle Boyd, Amanda “Tee” Edmonds, Antonia Ford, Rose O’Neal Greenhow, Roberta Pollack, Laura Ratcliff, and Kate Sperry.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
I hold a “real job” 40 hours a week, Monday-Friday. Writing happens whenever I can get it in during the rest of my waking hours. If I’ve been on a research trip, I take notebook, phone/camera, and laptop with me so as I can get ideas recorded while they are fresh.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
The hardest part is that it’s not just writing. In addition to researching, there’s marketing, signings, designing, collaborating, social media, sales, taxes, business… It’s a second job that never seems to have enough hours to get all I want to get accomplished done. I couldn’t do all the peripheral without my support team, including my agent, encouraging me.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
When someone (in person or in a book review) says, “I learned so much from your story! I never knew that before.” This is true of historical and faith-based details.
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
I’m very particular about the details I include in my stories and historical accuracy is very important to me. I have to put away my soapbox when it occasionally sneaks out. I try not to drive more than 12 hours in a day to reach or return home from a research trip. (That’s more than one thing… too many words—ha!)
How have you changed or grown as a writer?
From the time I initially wrote my Shadowcreek Chronicles (the first two were written in Microsoft Works and turned in on 3.5” floppy disks!) to the Track Changes feature we use now, technology is a night and day difference. Personally, I came through chemo treatments for ovarian cancer and so since then, my brain processes things differently than it used to.
What is your favorite pastime?
When I have the time, I love creating photo books on Shutterfly. I also love to read, watch football, and get in the Jeep and go drive to something historical (library, museum, battlefield…).
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
I have the four Shadowcreek Chronicles (Word of Honor, Matter of Trust, Not Without Courage, Strength and Glory) and I was also published in a non-fiction collection called She Writes for Him: Stories of Living Hope. My submission was Chapter Four, called “Cancer is a Team Sport.”
What are you working on now?
After thinking I was done with writing and through being an author, a few years ago a different friend challenged me to start again—and pick a different time period. My new project starts after Pontiac’s Rebellion (1763) and will make its way through the years leading up to and through the American Revolution. (First book in the new series is set for a June 2025 release – stay tuned for title and cover reveal, newsletter subscribers will be notified first.) Going back in time another hundred years has been a whole new learning experience! The thing that proved a lightbulb moment for me was the fact we were all British until 1776.
Website: Https://telizabethrenich.com
Link to book: Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DDLH3H5Q?binding=paperback&searchxofy=true&ref_=dbs_s_aps_series_rwt_tpbk&qid=1738522470&sr=8-1
Social media links:
Instagram: @telizabethrenich
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/telizabethshadowcreekbooks
Facebook Group Page (Co-hosted with author Laura Frantz): https://www.facebook.com/groups/305339915561627
A Heart Island Love Story
Ever since I was a child, Boldt Castle’s story has fascinated me. It’s a story of love and loss and begins with the talented businessman, George C. Boldt, a German immigrant who became proprietor of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City and the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel in Philadelphia.
In the late 19th century, George and his beloved wife, Louise, spent summers in the Thousand Islands, a popular retreat for the elite of the Gilded Age. Mesmerized with the area’s beauty, Boldt purchased Hart Island, renaming it “Heart Island” as a symbol of his deep affection for Louise.
In 1900, Boldt embarked on an ambitious project to construct a six-story, 120-room castle inspired by the grand architecture of European châteaux. He meticulously planned every detail as an expression of his love and devotion, with hearts everywhere.
But tragedy struck in January 1904 when Louise died suddenly. Heartbroken, Boldt halted all construction and never returned to the island, and the castle was left unfinished.
For 73 years, Boldt Castle remained abandoned, exposed to the elements and vandalism. In 1977, the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired the property for one dollar, with the agreement that all revenue from its operation would fund restoration efforts. Since then, millions of dollars have been invested to rehabilitate and preserve the castle and its surrounding structures, transforming it into a premier tourist destination.
Today, Boldt Castle has become a summer destination for those who want to experience the beauty of the Thousand Islands and its Gilded Age wonder. Like I do every year, visitors can explore much of Boldt Castle and its picturesque surroundings.
The first and second floors have been restored and furnished, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the early 1900s. The upper floors, though unfinished, house exhibits detailing the history of the Thousand Islands region and the Boldt family’s story.
Besides the castle, other buildings on the island include:
Alster Tower: A unique structure with slanted and uneven walls, originally intended as a playhouse.
Power House: Designed to house generators for the island, now featuring exhibits on early 20th-century power generation.
Hennery (Dove-Cote): Built to house George Boldt’s favorite birds.
Peristyle Arch: Intended as the grand entrance for boats arriving at the island.
Adjacent to Heart Island on Wellesley Island is the Boldt Yacht House, a remarkable structure that once accommodated the family’s yachts and now serves as a museum showcasing antique boats.
Boldt Castle is accessible seasonally from mid-May to mid-October by ferry or tour boat from various locations, including Alexandria Bay, NY, Clayton, NY, and Gananoque, Ontario. Private boaters can also dock at Heart Island. As the island is a U.S. port of entry, visitors arriving from Canada must present appropriate identification for customs processing. For more information on planning your visit, including hours of operation and admission fees, visit the official Boldt Castle website: https://www.boldtcastle.com/visitorinfo
About Madison’s Mission:
Step into the captivating world of Boldt Castle in 1903, where dreams are forged in the fires of adversity and love.
Madison Murray, the devoted maid to the legendary Louise Boldt, harbors a singular mission—to care for her ailing mistress while hiding her own painful past. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Emmett O’Connor, the distinguished foreman overseeing Boldt Castle’s extravagant construction. Their connection sparks with promise, yet the chasm of class difference and hidden secrets loom large.
Just as their budding romance begins to flourish, tragedy strikes, shattering their world. A deadly accident leaves Emmett wrestling with guilt and at the center of an investigation that could unravel everything he holds dear. Then Madison finds herself ensnared in a dangerous coverup that threatens her very life.
When Mrs. Boldt passes away, Madison is left reeling—jobless and burdened by the weight of her perceived failures. In a world filled with uncertainty, can she summon the strength to move forward and confront her past? Will Emmett rise above his challenges to forge a future alongside the woman who has captured his heart?
Meet author Shannon Skaer
Susan loves connecting with fellow authors, so let’s chat!
Shannon Skaer is a homeschool mom of nine, beekeeper, and gardener. My life could be best described as a love affair with beauty, and my greatest joy is to know the One from whom all beauty comes. I write about the things I geek out over: ancient civilizations, unexplained catastrophes, forgotten people and improbable possibilities.
Tell us about your newest book.
Based on an incredible true story of an apocalyptic natural disaster, The Last Climb is a snapshot of what was arguably the greatest flood since Noah.
What inspired you to write your story?
I grew up in the path the Missoula Flood took. It would have covered my childhood home in hundreds of feet of water, and even if I began running as soon as the earth began shaking, I wouldn’t have made it to high ground in time. That’s not only a commentary on my running skills, the wave was 400 ft tall in places and reached speeds of over 60 mph.
What genre do you focus on.
I write Historical Fiction and Science fiction, but my interest in both genres is sparked by what I do focus on–Very Old Things. Historical fiction is about Old Things, so that genre is an obvious choice. What’s less obvious is my path to Science Fiction, so let me give you a tour: Nothing is older than the civilizations before Noah’s flood. Unfortunately, they were wiped out of existence. Unless…(feel that sci-fi vibe building?) unless pre-flood civilizations left behind a moon base similar to the one Elon Musk wants to build. What if the Artemis missions uncovered the oldest archeological discovery of them all–on the moon?
Why do you write?
I write stories to introduce readers to Creation Science. I want to demonstrate that our faith rests securely on the reality of a wise and living Creator, and to inspire Christians to rejoice in the firm foundation of His word.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
I write when the kids are asleep. That means I get up at 5:30 and we don’t let the kids come downstairs until 7AM. It’s 100% legal. I checked.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
I want to spend ten years on each story, making every detail shine. I also want it done yesterday. So far, I haven’t been able to achieve either.
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
I once appeared on Broadway. I accidentally got trapped on the road Broadway, in downtown NYC inside a huge 90’s RV filled with screaming toddlers.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
I have two books in the works, one sci-fi and one historical fiction.
What are you working on now?
Imagine Scarlett O’Hara caught in the web of intrigue and rebellion that was the earth’s first one-world government, aka the Tower of Babel. She’s an optimist with a plan. He’s a murderer looking for revenge. The earth will never be the same.
Website: www.shannonskaer.com
Link to book: Download a free digital copy at https://shannonskaer.com/freebook/ or check out the paperback on Amazon https://a.co/d/0stlITe
Social media links: https://www.facebook.com/RJSKAER https://www.instagram.com/shannonskaer/
Meet author Becky Van Vleet
Susan loves connecting with fellow authors, so let’s chat!
Becky Van Vleet is a retired teacher and principal and award-winning multi-genre author. She has been published in Guideposts, The Country Register, Christian Devotions Ministry, and more. Becky is frequently a guest speaker in schools where she promotes the values of the Greatest Generation and their WWII stories. She has devoted her website to preserving family memories and stories for the next generations through her monthly blogs.
Tell us about your newest book.
Unintended Hero is a WWII historical fiction, inspired by the true story of my father, Walter Troyan, a gunner on the USS Denver in the Pacific Theater. Growing up with parents from the Greatest Generation, I heard tidbits here and there about WWII. But nothing specific until I pressed my father later on for more details, and he allowed me to record his battles and experiences. Fast forward thirty years, I wrote his story, a book that preserves his first-hand accounts of the world’s most commemorative war.
What inspired you to write your story?
I’ve always been passionate about family stories. And I’ve always been passionate about WWII. Putting the two together, I knew I had to write my father’s personal and up-close story of his adventures, battles, and everyday experiences in the war. I believe these firsthand accounts should be preserved for future generations to read about the sacrifices, teamwork, and patriotism of the Greatest Generation. Unless these stories are preserved, we lose them with each person who passes away from this generation. My book was my calling.
What genre do you focus on.
As a writer, you could say I’m an outlier! I started writing children’s picture books first. And with this new knowledge of the publishing industry, I stepped out in faith to write my father’s story, my first adult novel. I’m currently working on my third historical fiction novel. Along the way, I wrote a women’s devotional book, a non-fiction piece of work. But the thread that runs through all my writing is family stories. All my writing centers around my family memories and actual situations. Why? This is what I’m passionate about.
Why do you write?
Writing is a hobby for me. I started late in life, after I retired. On this new path, I have garnered so many treasures I can’t name them all. But for starters, new writing friends. Some in person, others online. But the networking and the spirit that wraps us up together is extraordinary. I wouldn’t trade this blessing for anything.
What is your work schedule like when you’re writing a book?
Every day, and even every week is different, due to my active status as a grandmother. But typically, Mondays are clear, and I devote the whole day to writing. Other days, I usually tackle writing projects in the morning, after my devotion and taking a walk.
What is the hardest part of being an author?
I would have to say the hardest part for me as a writer is the marketing thing. Oh my, I’m never sure what steps to take or what direction to go. But since marketing is pretty significant whether you’re traditionally published or an indie writer, it must be tackled. It’s confusing for what really works. So many voices out there. Some marketing is costly. But I pray for discernment and ask God to be in control of my marketing efforts.
What’s the best part of your author’s life?
As I mentioned earlier, I have collected all these new writing friends I would not otherwise have had. And they are precious to me. I’m very active with my local ACFW chapter. It’s not uncommon for me to go out for lunch with one of the other members. I’m in a critique group that is amazing where we “meet and talk” weekly. I love investing in all the friendships.
What’s one thing your readers should know about you?
I am very passionate about the values we learn from the Greatest Generation. So much so, that I speak to students about the love of America we learn from this generation. Their spirit of patriotism, putting country first, and selfless acts of courage they displayed in WWII is like none other. And we must not forget. I donate my time for school presentation, in person or zoom, for grades seven and up. Feel free to get in touch with me if you’d like more information.
What is your favorite pastime?
Easy question, easy answer—writing, of course! I love it. But I also enjoy power walking, gardening, and oil painting.
Do you have other books? We’d love to know.
You can find my four “traveling” children’s books on Amazon as well as my women’s devotional book. These are all found under my name.
What are you working on now?
I recently completed my manuscript for my second novel, The Best Is Yet to Come, a true story about my Polish grandmother’s immigration to America. So excited it will be published by Elk Lake Publishing in 2025. I’m now going full bore with my third historical fiction novel, Wave After Wave, also inspired by a true family story. Additionally, I’m wrapping up my fifth “traveling” children’s picture book, also due to be published in 2025.
Website: www.beckyvanvleet.com
Link to book: https://amzn.to/47p4k2y
Social media links:
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/becky-van-vleet
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorbeckyvanvleet/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/becky-van-vleet-ms-806055181/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/becky_van_vleet_author/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/beckyvanvleet/
Amazon Central Author Page: https://amzn.to/3INHIPB
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/125841473-becky-van-vleet
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beckyvanvleet9907