Author Amy Walsh recently stopped by my blog to share some about her writing life.
When do you find time to write? I work full-time as a fifth-grade writing teacher at a public middle school in Scranton, Pennsylvania, which keeps me wonderfully busy. After a full day of guiding energetic young writers and grading stacks of papers, I don’t always feel like tackling my own stories in the evening. One of the great perks of teaching, though, is having summers off—so most of my writing happens between June and September.
On summer mornings, you’ll usually find me on our front porch, which I’ve happily claimed as my outdoor office. With a notebook or laptop in hand, I write to the background music of chirping birds and the gentle mountain breezes that drift up the hill. There’s something about those quiet, sunlit hours that makes creativity come alive and stories flow a little more freely.
What did you want to be as a child (and did that dream come true)? I wanted to be so many things when I was young—a detective, for one. In third grade, I signed every letter to my pen pal, “Amelia, the Great Detective.” I also dreamed of becoming a singer, a National Geographic explorer, a spelunker, an artist, the owner of an orphanage… and, of course, an author.
In many ways, my life as a teacher has allowed those dreams to find their fulfillment. I use my creativity every day in the classroom. I sing with my students often. Being surrounded by children brings me genuine joy. And as for running an orphanage—well, raising the three children God blessed me with was adventure enough!
I’m especially grateful that God eventually opened the door for me to become an author. It’s been a gift to finally put to good use the imagination that once got me into trouble as a chronic daydreamer in school. Now those daydreams have become stories, and those stories have become one of the sweetest callings of my life.
What is one of your favorite ways to connect with readers? I truly enjoy connecting with readers in Facebook groups—especially during virtual celebrations and shared literary adventures. Over Valentine’s weekend, I had the pleasure of hosting a mystery tea party where readers concocted tea recipes inspired by book descriptions. We also solved a tea-themed whodunit that everyone seemed to delight in.
Through gatherings like these, I’ve formed some very dear friendships online. It’s a special gift to have friends all over the world who share a love of reading—and a love for God.
What’s the hardest part of writing romantic suspense? I write in several different genres, though I tend to gravitate toward romantic comedy and historical fiction more than romantic suspense. For me, the greatest challenge in writing suspense is immersing myself in a world that feels gritty and a bit dark—especially when the real world already holds so much of that. My husband is a police officer, and at times he comes home with heartbreaking stories of real-life crime, which makes stepping into that atmosphere on the page even more sobering.
Still, there have been moments when God seemed to place more suspenseful stories on my heart—Voices in the Sanitorium and The Sisters’ Tour among them. I truly enjoyed writing both, yet I found myself missing the smiles and laughter that naturally accompany my lighter novels
So I’ve made a decision: my next romantic suspense will carry its share of intrigue and tension—but also a generous measure of warmth, humor, and hope.
About Amy
Amy Walsh is a fifth-grade teacher who loves bringing stories to life, whether she’s in the classroom, around a campfire, or at her keyboard. She’s a fan of kayaking, church singalongs, and family ping pong tournaments. Fueled by faith and a deep love of words, Amy writes to inspire joy and hope.
Grieving her father’s death, Natalie is stunned to discover Alexandra, the half-sister she never knew existed. Hoping to build a bridge, Natalie agrees to join her on a Lochs & Legends tour through Scotland. But amid misty castles and breathtaking glens, old wounds surface. Alexandra is charming, unpredictable… and hiding a lifetime of resentment. Before long, Natalie begins to wonder if she’s the villain in her sister’s story.
When Jonas—Natalie’s longtime friend and secret love—arrives unexpectedly, concerned about the “accidents” dogging her every step, buried emotions rise and tensions deepen. Then an eerie Scottish ballad about sisterly jealousy begins to mirror their journey with chilling accuracy.
Is Alexandra simply wounded… or truly dangerous?
Set in the rugged Highlands, this heartfelt Christian suspense novel weaves family secrets, unspoken love, and faith into a story where beauty and betrayal walk hand in hand—and where God’s grace may be the only path to healing.
The Cowbird’s Truth by Erin Greneaux — What happens when the most dangerous enemy turns out to be yourself? Maya and Everly continue their quest to find the missing Virtue Gems, and this time, their greatest challenge may be each other. When the evil Deceptra offers them surprising help, including a powerful stone, the sisters must decide whether they can trust her. (Children’s/Middle Grade, Independently Published)
Apple Butter Adventure by Jennifer E. Tirrell and Lisa M. Pritchard — Join four preteen cousins as they take their first steps toward becoming the kind of young men and women who can be trusted–brave, responsible, and ready to help–right here in the first book of a brand-new mystery series. (Children’s/Middle Grade, Turtledove Publishing)
The Case of the Midnight Mystery by Becca Wierwille — In this Christian mystery for kids, a girl and her canine sidekick must figure out why strange things keep happening at wilderness camp—in the middle of the night. (Children’s/Middle Grade, Independently Published)
Contemporary Romance:
Mesmerize by Darlene M. Corbett — She gave him up but hope to win him back through stories. Set against the backdrop of Las Vegas, Boston, and Dubai, a dazzling romance comes to life. Can a storyteller win back the love of her life through tales sprinkled with faith and love. (Contemporary Romance from WordCrafts Press)
A Texas Easter Blessing by Mindy Obenhaus — After his marriage fails, single father Ryder Sinclair returns to his hometown with his young son to care for his ailing mother. He’s surprised to run into his teenage crush, Kendall Hunt, whose career as a professional chef has been shaken by scandal. As the two work together to save an Easter event usually hosted by Ryder’s mother, Kendall finds herself longing for this sense of family with Ryder and little Shepard. But when she has a chance to go back to the life she once knew, will she choose the dream she’s spent years chasing…or the new dream that has taken hold of her heart? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Hearts on the Fly by Toni Shiloh — Jabari Hall has spent his entire life chasing victory on the ice–but one devastating hit leaves him benched, not just from hockey but from the future he thought he had. Now, as he struggles with deteriorating eyesight, his well-meaning teammates set him up on a date, hoping it will cheer him up–only the date they choose is none other than Val Elliott, his ex’s sister. Val never expected to be sitting across from Jabari, especially after the way he broke her sister’s heart. But when Jabari opens up about his diagnosis, Val’s guarded heart softens, and she offers him a listening ear. What begins as a simple friendship quickly turns into something more. (Contemporary Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])
Historical Biblical:
A Deeper Well by Jill Eileen Smith — In ancient Israel, soon after Nessa is of marriageable age, her father gives her to a wealthy widowed friend, capitalizing on her beauty to bring in the highest bride-price he can find. Nessa is devastated, as she had begged to marry Lavi, who returned her love and saw more in her beyond her appearance. But Nessa’s betrothal leads to Lavi’s departure, compounding her grief, and she can never forget her forbidden first love. (Historical/Biblical from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])
Historical Romance:
Mail-Order Baroness by Misty M. Beller — Five sons of an English duke, all raised in the Rocky Mountains…James Balfour, the charming middle son of an English duke, is determined to prove he’s capable of taking leadership of his family’s Montana ranch as the next deadly winter approaches. With the household stretched to its limits, James crafts a clever plan to hire Rose Prescott—his childhood best friend—and to right an old wrong. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
Ambush of the Heart by Mary Connealy — As Owen Riley and his fellow Marshals escort Delaney Bridger, her brother, and an escaped prisoner to Fort Russell, a gang of outlaws ambushes them, bringing death and devastation to their party. With their lives on the line and the outlaws in pursuit, Owen directs the rest of his battered group to seek hiding at a remote ranch. After the attack leaves her brother Boone seriously injured, Delaney helps Owen, nursing Boone and a wounded Marshal back to health while danger looms ever closer. Despite the threat at their heels, romance sparks between Owen and Delaney as they fight for survival on their perilous trek to the fort. Can they overcome the obstacles and find a future together? (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing Group])
Undercover Wish by Danielle Grandinetti — CHICAGO, Ill., 1892—Stunt reporter Ali Di Stasio will risk anything to expose the truth and protect her fellow orphans, including rummaging through trash bins and putting herself in the crosshairs of the dangerous elite. After living on the streets, she knows every corner of her city, which means she can stay one step ahead of the cops, the powerful men who’d love to silence her before she can reveal their secrets, and the occasional wealthy bachelor wandering through her alleyways, lost and in danger of being mugged. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
To Find Where She Belongs by Robin Lee Hatcher — Guilt followed her across an ocean. Grace called her home. Desperate to leave Hooke Manor, Keely Boyle does what she feels she must in order to flee England for America, hoping to make a new life with the help of a man who befriended her years before. But when she arrives at Eden’s Gate, a large cattle ranch in the shadows of the Tetons, it is William Overstreet who offers her a fresh start. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
Risky Business by Kimberly Keagan — An American heiress. A British barrister with a need for speed. The London social season that changes everything. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
The Caregiver at Wounded Knee by Debby Lee — Rose Rushing Water, an Oglala Sioux trained back East in nursing, is torn between two brothers–one who seeks to appease the government and one who fights to cling to the old ways at all costs. Tribal policeman Nathaniel Gray Cloud struggles to keep peace on the reservation and support his sister, who is also desperate to hold on to family traditions. Can Rose and Nathaniel find a peace that comes only from God, or will they lose their families and their lives as tensions reach a boiling point at Wounded Knee Creek, South Dakota? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)
Texas Reclaimed by Sherry Shindelar — Cora Scott is determined to hold onto her family’s Texas ranch and provide a stable home for her young half-brother, Charlie, despite the mounting challenges of post-Civil War frontier life. But when a scheming creditor threatens to seize their land, she must accept help from Ben McKenzie, a former Yankee soldier sent by her late brother. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)
Mists Over the Channel Islands by Sarah Sundin — In World War II, Dr. Ivy Picot risks her life to treat men who have escaped from the German forced labor camps in her native Jersey. But when Dutch engineer Gerrit van der Zee sneaks maps of fortifications off the island, it could cost them both everything they love. (Historical Romance from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])
Mining for Love by Candice Sue Patterson — Petite, fierce, and respected by the men who work for her, Daisy Connelly rules her rare watermelon tourmaline mine in Newry, Maine, with an iron will. When profits begin to vanish and the local sheriff refuses to intervene, Daisy realizes someone is stealing from her—and that remaining an unmarried woman may make her an easy target. So she does the unthinkable. Daisy proposes a marriage of convenience to private investigator Samson Gray, hoping a sudden husband will draw the culprit into the open. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
Romantic Suspense:
Deadly Rodeo Threat by Sami A. Abrams — A trail of missing women…leads him right into a killer’s trap. When his twin sister disappears, Navy SEAL Logan Russell’s search for her leads him deep into the woods, where he finds her best friend in the clutches of a masked assailant. Sheriff Isabelle Sinclair is determined to solve Lisa’s mysterious disappearance the night of her last rodeo—and someone will do anything to keep her from digging too deep (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired Suspense [Harlequin])
Deadly Currents by Elizabeth Goddard — Investigative journalist Cressida arrives in Hidden Bay after a worldwide journey to finish her late father’s manuscript on shipwrecks. As she tries to discover the story behind the “ghost ship” Specter’s Bounty, her only lead is a name her father left behind–Evelyn Monroe. As Cressida uncovers more about the ship, she quickly realizes that her research has placed her in the crosshairs of dangerous forces. (Romantic Suspense from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])
Asher by Melanie D. Snitker — Nova Sheridan’s world is shattered when a corporate conference becomes a hunting ground. With two of her colleagues murdered and a mysterious package left in her care, she finds herself in the crosshairs of a ruthless killer. Unsure of who to trust, Nova turns to her old college friend, Asher Durham, a seasoned security specialist. As they navigate a web of deception and danger, Nova and Asher must rely on their wits and each other to survive. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
A Royal Request by Paige Edwards — A forged signature. A splintering romance. And a stalker who won’t quit until death do they part. Anabelle thought the flowers were from her boyfriend… She was wrong. (Romantic Suspense from Balquidder Books)
Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:
The Restitching of Camille DuLaine by Lindsay A. Franklin — When Emlyn DuLaine accidentally bridges multiple storyworlds, she must untangle their collapsing realities—and rescue her long-lost sister Camille from a storybook trap—before a plan seventeen years in the making shatters the universe for good. (Speculative/Fantasy from Enclave Publishing [Oasis Family Media])
Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:
On Living Stone by Heather Kaufman — An unexpected romance and the gift of two sons, James and John, leave Salome hopeful and resolved to prove herself as a mother. Salome’s dreams are challenged, however, when her sons answer the call to follow Jesus of Nazareth. (Biblical/Historical)
Threads of Grace by Tara Baisden — When a January storm sends her new landlord to her door because of a roof leak, quilt shop owner Melanie Harper has no idea that this quiet, guarded doctor will unravel every careful protection she has spent years stitching around her heart. (Contemporary Romance)
Katie’s Cowboy by Ruth Kyser — Following in his father’s footsteps, C.J. Morgan is an FBI agent. Growing up, that was all he ever wanted to be. But when his grandfather passes away and C.J. returns to Bluecreek Ranch, he’s filled with doubts about his future. Then C.J. meets Katie Jo MacAllister… (Contemporary Romance)
Rebuilding His Trust by Jenna Mindel — Meredith and Jace, who’ve guarded their hearts because of past hurts, find the greatest gift of love. (Contemporary Romance)
The Lies We Trade by Kristine Delano — A high-powered Wall Street career, a beautiful family in a quiet suburban neighborhood―she seems to have everything. Which means she has everything to lose. (Contemporary Suspense)
Severed Ties by Taylor S. Newport — He’s left the past where it belongs. But then it comes knocking at his door. (Military Suspense)
Where Men Stand by Charlene Amsden — On his first day out of prison, Martin “Kage” Kincaid has to decide if he is going to live up to the Biblical principles he learned, or choose to walk away and let injustice prevail. (Romantic Suspense)
Award-winning author Melanie D. Snitker recently stopped by my blog to share some about her writing life.
Why do you like writing romantic suspense? I really enjoy writing romantic suspense because I like to keep my readers on the edge of their seat. I also strive to throw in at least one curveball to keep them guessing. The funny thing is, sometimes the characters do the same to me as they come to life!
Where do you get the inspiration for your plots? They come from a variety of places. Generally, I have way more ideas than time to write. For my novella, Fear the Shadows, the inspiration was a huge mansion in my town that has been empty for years. Every time I drove past it, I imagined different reasons for why it had been left behind and what might be hiding inside. That’s when I decided that my heroine was going to be an estate liquidator who is hired to inventory the contents of a mansion and uncovers a mystery that she and her friend, the chief of police, must solve together.
What did you want to be as a child (and did that dream come true)? When I was a child, there were three things I wanted to be more than anything else. First and foremost, I knew I wanted to be a mom someday. Secondly, I wanted to write books and become a published author. Finally, I had hoped to be a marine biologist and swim with sharks to study them. Two out of three of those dreams came true! As far as diving with sharks, I took SCUBA diving lessons in college. While I never saw sharks, there was something about being out in the ocean and completely vulnerable that made me realize I was okay with letting that dream go. Ha!
What is one of your favorite ways to connect with readers? My newsletter is my favorite way to connect with readers. I send one out weekly and always include news that isn’t directly related to my books. I’ve had a number of loyal readers who checked in with me when I had surgery last month or who ask how our special needs son is doing. It’s been such a wonderful community, and I’m so thankful for them! Many of them also follow me on Facebook, but I’ve found the newsletter is the best way to stay in touch.
What is absolutely essential for you to write? My house can be relatively chaotic. Regular time to write is hard to come by, which means I need to be able to focus quickly when I get it. I have a pair of noise-cancelling headphones that I wear when I write. Partly because it signals to my family that I’m working, but also because it helps me focus on what I’m doing. I usually have music playing through the headphones. It’s almost always either my playlist that I created specifically for writing, or it’s This is Eli Young Band: Greatest Hits.
What has been most rewarding about writing romantic suspense? One of the most rewarding things is having readers reach out to tell me that they couldn’t figure out who the bad guy is in my books. That, even though they had multiple suspects and guesses, I still managed to surprise them in the best way. That’s what I’m going for!
Which of your books is your favorite and why?
Frozen Jeopardy, the second book in my Danger in Destiny series, is one of my favorites. Officer Gabe Harrison, along with his K-9 partner (who happens to be named after my own dog, Loki) finds out that his veterinarian friend, Paige Wade, is in danger. I absolutely love the characters (human and dog alike). What was fun about this book is that I got to do a lot of research on how the police and K-9 officers work together. I even got to go on a ride along with a local officer and his K-9 partner, Barco. It was an amazing experience, and I really think it helped bring even more details to the book to strengthen the story.
About Melanie Melanie D. Snitker is a USA Today bestselling author who writes inspirational romantic suspense. She and her husband live in Texas with their two children, four dogs, two frogs, and a toad. When she’s not writing, Melanie enjoys gaming, building Lego, and spending time with her family.
Christian singer Sedona Reeves shines under the spotlight—until a relentless stalker lurking in the shadows turns her tour into a nightmare. Determined not to let fear steal her voice, she hires private security specialist Mac Durham, whose quiet strength and steady focus make her feel safe in ways she didn’t expect.
Mac approaches every assignment with unwavering discipline and a single goal: protect his client at all costs. But Sedona’s courage and vulnerability stir something he thought he’d long buried—feelings that threaten the clear lines he’s always drawn between duty and emotion.
As danger closes in and secrets come to light, Mac must rely on every skill, instinct, and ounce of resolve he has to protect the woman he’s realizing he can’t live without.
Fire Between Two Skies by R.F. Whong — Two eras. One relentless quest for truth amid desires and temptation. Across the centuries, two men are bound by parallel destinies that echo through time. Book 3 of this dual-time odyssey delves deep into the passions and struggles that connect their worlds. (Action/Adventure, Independently Published)
Amish (Contemporary and Romance):
Plain Jane’s Secret Admirer by Anne Blackburne — Jane must overcome her disappointment upon discovering that the man she’s loved since childhood is the same person who gave her a hated nickname in their school days; can she and Sam overcome her distrust and his guilt and shyness and find their way to a shared future? (Amish Romance from Barbour Publishing)
An Amish Second Chance by Beth Wiseman — Can Hope and Rueben share the secrets that they’ve held close to their hearts and have the second chance they long for? (Amish Contemporary, Independently Published)
Children’s Middle Grade /Chapter:
The Case of the Four-Legged Friend by Becca Wierwille — In this Christian mystery for kids, a girl must find a dog’s home before he’s sent to the animal shelter. (Children’s/Middle Grade, Independently Published)
General Historical:
What Loyalty Demands by Carol Ashby — When rebellion breaks out in Roman Britain, the protective British cousin of a Christian woman and the Roman tribune who wants a future with her discover how enmity born of conflicting loyalties can be overcome when believers serve as the peacemakers Jesus commanded them to be. (General Historical from Cerrillo Press)
Historical Romance:
Far Grander Than Paradise by Barbara Blythe — She needs to find her father. He needs to atone for his dead brother’s sins. Can they find what they seek on a voyage that takes them halfway around the world? (Historical Romance from Elk Lake Publishing)
Whispers in the Valley by Amanda Cabot — A woman whose life is in shambles. A man who’s fighting for his future. A decades-old mystery. Carr Valley will never be the same. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
Love Under Construction by Linda Shenton Matchett — Nadine Krause took in boarders to help her family climb out of debt after her father’s death. Business has gone well, and she’s earned enough to expand the house. When her brother’s friend agrees to take the job – the only man in town willing to work for a woman – sparks fly. But not the good kind. Or are they? (Historical Romance from Shortwave Press)
Romantic Suspense:
Hidden Talent by Bettie Boswell — When author Leah Beach is threated because of a new rescue mule she’s modeled one of her comic characters after, she seeks help from a reluctant body guard, Carlton Marsh, who soon discovers the threat is real. (Romantic Suspense from Mt. Zion Ridge Press)
Fighting for You by Robin Patchen — She’s running from her past. He’s protecting his future. Together, they must fight for what matters most. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
Trapped on the Alaskan Glacier by Megan Short — Forced into hiding after witnessing a double murder by an organized-crime gang, Beth Ryder’s identity is suddenly leaked online and a kill order is placed on her head. Her survival is now in the hands of US Marshal Jake Cruz, who is determined to keep her alive. But when it becomes clear that more than one group is targeting Beth, the stakes are higher than ever. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Deadly Secrets by Penny Zeller — Betrayal has consequences… Harper Amerson loves her job as a real estate agent. That is, until it becomes clear that someone is watching her. What happens when she attempts to sell the land someone doesn’t want sold? (Romantic Suspense from Maplebrook Publishing)
Speculative Fiction:
Cerulean Rose by Demi Griffin — A mysterious, in-depth re-telling of Cinderella. (Speculative/Romantic Fantasy, Independently Published)
Braving Fiery Waters by Sarah Hanks — Her husband died in a fire. Now she’s heading straight into one. Marina Stone planned an ideal family vacation, perfect for reconnecting with her two teenagers after their father’s death. But those plans go drastically away when she time sails to the White Cloud in the year 1849. Now she must face her greatest fears and complete a mystery mission before she can return to her life and children. (Speculative/Time Travel, Independently Published)
Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:
Love & Cheer – Holidays in Hallbrook by Elsie Davis — Talia Hunter’s promotion is riding on one flawless New Year’s Eve company gala. But when her caterer cancels at the eleventh hour, her career is on the line. And with her six-year-old daughter, Nicole, on a holiday school break, everything is more complicated as Talia tries to juggle life. She needs a miracle, except the only chef available on such a big party night is a man from her past…one she would rather avoid. (Contemporary Romance)
Eye of the Mind by Sara Davison — After witnessing a murder, firefighter Jules Adler must work with police sketch artist Dante de Marco to come up with a likeness of the killer before he tracks her down and silences her forever. (Romantic Suspense)
A Certain Mercy by Linda Dindzans MD — From the opulent danger of Herod’s court to the quiet refuge of Bethany, from the shadow of the Cross to the glory of the Resurrection, A Certain Mercy weaves a powerful story of forbidden love, devastating betrayal, and the transforming grace of Christ. (General Historical)
Colors of the Ocean by Cheryl Fitzgerald — A multi-generational story that follows thirteen-year-old Roxi on a transformative journey as she sails across the Pacific Ocean with grandparents she barely knows. Along the way she must navigate stormy conflicts in several relationships and within herself. (General Contemporary/Young Adult)
Into the Promised Land by Sarah Heatwole — Into the Promised Land is a tale of courage to forge a new path, as Andy and Sylvia navigate the balance between Amish tradition and the compelling call of forgiveness and freedom in Jesus, until their Amish community demands a choice between faith and belonging. (General Historical)
Multi-published and award-winning author R.F. Whong recently stopped by my newsletter to share about her writing life.
Why did you start writing romantic suspense novels? I want to explore different genres as a writer. Friends say my PhD in biochemistry belongs in suspense. Yet my heart belongs to romance. Both impulses shaped my novel Allure of Elegance, book 3 in the Paradise PA Mystery series.
What’s the weirdest way someone has died or been killed in your novels? In book 2 of the Paradise, PA Mystery series, someone dies from vitamin D analog poisoning. I believe it’s the first such case in a suspense novel.
How do you research ways to kill someone for your books? As a biochemist, meticulous research is second nature to me, whether I’m working on a scientific book or integrating creative concepts into a fictional narrative. Before beginning a book, I spend a considerable amount of time delving into relevant literature, both scientific and creative, to ensure a well-rounded understanding. The length of the research phase varies depending on the complexity of the topic, but it often spans several weeks. I also enjoy speaking with friends in different fields, which can offer new perspectives and enrich my work.
How do you pick the location/setting of your romantic suspense novels? During my student days, I dedicated a summer to serving as a volunteer at Ambassadors for Christ (AFC, a Christian organization) in the picturesque town of Paradise, Pennsylvania. Immersed in the serene beauty of this idyllic location, I often walked to nearby Amish farms to engage with their unique way of life and procure fresh eggs and various other necessities. I also discovered that the vast tract of land on which AFC now stands was originally owned by the Leaman family. In 1874, Charles Leaman and his wife answered the Lord’s calling and went to China to serve as missionaries. Charles’s two daughters, Mary and Lucy, later also served as missionaries in Nanjing.
Now, many years later, I serve as a board member at AFC and visit Paradise every year for the board meetings. I’m still in awe today about God’s wonderful work in the formation of AFC and the Leaman family’s legacy. They inspired me to write a book series set in Paradise. This book, the third in the series, sheds light on luxury goods in our world and how ordinary Christians deal with temptations.
What did you want to be as a child (and did that dream come true)? I always wanted to be a scientist. By God’s grace, the dream did come true for me.
About Ruth Ruth Wuwong has published 120-plus scientific books/papers (under her legal name) and several Christian fiction books under R. F. Whong. The Minnesota Anoka County Library has chosen her as a 2025 Featured Author. Her book, Echoes over Stormy Sea, won several awards, including the HOLT Medallion Contest.
Allure of Elegance by R.F. Whong In tribute to Agatha Christie, this modern mystery series weaves together atypical tales set in the idyllic Amish country of Paradise, Pa.
Two years ago, still haunted by the tragic events of September 11, Tina Sheng reluctantly served as a Christian summer camp counselor in Paradise. Now, she works as an insurance fraud investigator in nearby Lancaster and is pulled into a web of lies and luxury when a bold theft targets expensive designer items. Despite her training, she struggles with self-doubt and is swayed by the allure of the opulent world.
Tina’s company assigns her to look into the insurance claim. While she navigates the treacherous path between justice and desire, temptations taunt her. After a tragedy strikes a friend with whom she tries to share the gospel, her intensified search traps her in a secret network involving the mysterious Baroness Hermès, who specializes in procuring Birkin bags for wealthy clients.
Facing tough choices, can Tina break into a dangerous underground operation and emerge as a beacon of resilience?
The Sister’s Tour by Amy Walsh
About Melanie
Allure of Elegance by R.F. Whong
