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?
Key’s Secret by Jennifer Arrington and Albrey Arrington — A strange blue envelope greets the kids of Coral Canal right before Labor Day weekend. Inside it contains a riddle and a set of instructions. Nobody, not even their parents, seems to know who sent the riddle, and the children only have five days to solve it and send photographic proof. (Children’s/Middle Grade, Independently Published)
Contemporary Romance:
An Unexpected Texas Reunion by Heidi Main — After a traumatic experience, Brenna Park hopes that leading a youth summer camp with her emotional support dog, Lulu, will help ease her back into her life. Only, she didn’t expect to be sharing the responsibility with the man she left behind a decade ago. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Not Exactly Mr. Darcy by Carolyn Miller — What happens when history teacher Olivia Bennett travels to an English village and encounters a surly gardener at the nearby ailing Hartbury Hall? Can she find a way to thaw his heart and restore the Hall’s fortunes? (Contemporary Romance from Barbour Publishing)
The Gift of Mercy by Rena Bell Yeager — He’s the new wrangler, with a lot to lose. She’s the boss’s sister, with everything to gain. Will he win her love or lose it all – again? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
Christmas Wishes by Carmen Peone — They are so close… Can Christmas Dreams Come True? With conflicting dreams, and a wedding countdown ticking, can their love survive the season? (Contemporary Romance Novella from Iron Stream Media)
General Contemporary:
Every Voice Heard by Sarah Hanks, N.Y. Dunlap, and D.T. Powell — Three novellas about Church hurt and abuse. (General Contemporary, Independently Published)
Historical Romance:
Courting Love: Three-in-One Collection by Jodie Wolfe — Courting the Love sisters should be easy. With their surname, they should be primed for romance. But the three men tasked with wooing them have their hands full. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
A Christmas to Remember by Penny Zeller — He’s running from his past. She’s seeking a better future. Love in Time is a tender love story that reminds us that God’s timing is always perfect. (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)
Love in Time by Penny Zeller — When Otis MacCallum agrees to deliver much-needed food and medicine to the remote town of Hawthorne, Montana, he knows there’s a real possibility he’ll again see the woman who broke his heart. Belinda Finnigan had reasons for declining Otis’s proposal, but it still hasn’t lessened the pain of losing his friendship. When Otis arrives on her doorstep one wintry December day with food and medicine in hand, can two broken hearts be reconciled? Will theirs be a Christmas to remember? (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)
Romantic Suspense:
Mine by Sami A. Abrams — Escaping her past…means risking everything to stop a twisted obsession. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
A Killer in Texas by Jessica R. Patch — In the search for a murderer, the hunter becomes the prey… While guarding a person of interest in several homicides, bodyguard Libby Winters is attacked by the real serial killer. The Eye, as he’s known, has been stalking her for the past two months, and now he’s ready to make his next move. Determined not to repeat past mistakes, protection specialist Axel Spears vows to keep his partner safe and take down the man who murdered his wife. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired Suspense [Harlequin])
Hooked by Stephanie Sanders — What begins as a family trip to the Outer Banks spirals into fear as a stalker emerges from the shadows, forcing Lexi Martin to face her anxiety, navigate a complicated secret relationship, and find her way back to a faith she’s long abandoned. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:
Reyuul’s Redemption by David Liberto — Joern was once the Scourge of Cordiae—a reyuul whose dark magic was so terrifying that the god, Lohem, forged new weapons to stop him. After 400 years of evil, Joern’s now a deformed cleric confessing his sins before the very people he once terrorized. (Speculative Fiction/High Fantasy, Independently Published)
Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:
The Prodigal by L.D. Baldwin — Frank Martin searches for his estranged son while confronting his own war with God. (Historical Mystery)
Fields of Shadow and Glory: 1863 by Elizabeth Ann Boyles — Held captive in the shadows of the American Civil War, Tom, Terry, and Sara must exercise faith and courage if they are ever to arrive at their journey’s end. (Historical Romance)
The Basement Angel by LeeAnn Christian — A desperate man and a curious young girl form an unlikely friendship within the walls of a forbidden basement. (Contemporary Suspense)
The Songbird and the Surveyor by Denise Farnsworth — A marriage of protection. A past full of pain. In Georgia’s wild gold country, love might strike when it’s least expected. (Historical Romance)
Charlie’s Trip by David Hollenstein — He needs to prove his innocence, save his marriage, and definitely wants to find a way back into God’s embrace. (Biblical Suspense)
Washington Island Romance Series: Boxed Set by Annette M. Irby — This set includes Finding Love in Friday Harbor, Washington; Finding Love on Bainbridge Island, Washington; and Finding Love on Whidbey Island, Washington. (Contemporary Romance)
Even in This by Dianna Lanser — With a chance at first love and a recording contract pending, sixteen-year-old Miah Brennan stands on the riverbank of her future, awaiting permission to jump in. Weeks before 9/11, tragedy strikes in cruel succession, destroying her future and forcing her to make impossible choices. (General Contemporary)
Irish Rose Orphans’ Christmas by Susan G. Mathis — This heartwarming prequel sets the stage for the upcoming Irish Rose Orphans: A Thousand Islands Gilded Age Series, where seven spirited young women serve the islands’ elite! (General Historical)
A Place to Belong: Josephine’s Story by Heidi Gray McGill — A wounded Civil War veteran. An unwed mother with nowhere left to turn. In a town full of second chances, will a marriage of convenience become the love story neither dared hope for? (Historical Romance)
Haven for Love by Naomi Musch — A corporate marketer and camp owner find unexpected connection, while a landscaper and teacher navigate faith and forgiveness. (Contemporary Romance)
Dangerous Shadows by Gail Pallotta — A horrifying assault, a stalker, and a murdered gambler — is it possible to put the pieces together in Dangerous Shadows? (Romantic Suspense)
Fireman’s Lesson in Love by Mishael Austin Witty — A burned-out teacher and a smitten firefighter must uncover the truth behind a deadly arson before it destroys their nascent love. (Romantic Suspense)
Multi-published and bestselling author Patricia Bradley recently stopped by my blog to share some about her writing life.
Why did you start writing romantic suspense novels?
It’s what I’ve always read, starting with Mary Stuart and Airs Above the Ground.
What’s the hardest part of writing romantic suspense? Writing the romance part. It’s much easier to kill a character off than to get two of them together.
When do you find time to write?
With deadlines there is no “find time to write.” I have a daily word count for five days a week that I do before I do anything else. Unless there is something else I can’t avoid, like a doctor’s appointment. If I don’t have my weekly count on Friday, I work Saturday.
What is your favorite spot for reading or reflecting on your current work-in-progress?
On my deck, weather permitting. Otherwise, in my recliner in my great room.
How do you connect with your characters?
I’ll work on them for around a month before I start writing the story. I have to know some of their back story and what made them the person they are when the walk on the page. But I don’t truly connect with them until I start writing the story and put them into hot water. Then I find out who they really are.
What’s your go-to when you need a pick-me-up to keep writing?
Water. I drink lots of water. And an apple—it’s better than coffee to keep me alert.
How do you research ways to kill someone for your books?
I’ve researched poisons, arsenic in particular, and insulin as well as the kind of gun to use. I hope no one around me ever dies a suspicious death…
What did you want to be as a child (and did that dream come true)?
It’s funny, but I can’t remember ever wanting to be anything in particular. I was too busy playing Cowboys and Indians or imagining myself as Daniel Boone. I certainly never thought about being a writer—I was a reader, have been all my life.
What does your family think of your writing romantic suspense?
The wonder how I can have these evil thoughts and look so normal.
What is one of your favorite ways to connect with readers? My blog. I have a Mystery Question on Tuesday for them to solve. It is usually three true dumb criminal stories and one I made up. My readers guess which one I made up.
About Patricia USA Today best-selling author Patricia Bradley has penned eighteen Inspirational Romantic Suspense books set in the South. She and her two rescue kitties call Corinth, Mississippi home, and when she’s not writing, she likes to throw mud on a wheel to see what comes out.
When decorated FBI undercover agent Scott Sinclair suffers a gunshot wound in his right arm, the injury threatens his future career in the field. He is determined to regain his former job by training himself to use his left hand, and failure is not an option—especially when he’s unofficially pulled into an investigation.
Tori Alexander is a passionate crime reporter and podcaster who has dedicated her life to seeking justice. Her relentless pursuit of the truth has freed a man from prison who was falsely convicted, making Tori an enemy of the killer. When her nephew is accused of murder, nothing can stop her from getting involved and clearing his name.
Soon after Tori and Scott reconnect on the case, shots are fired, leaving them to wonder which one of them has been targeted. As the investigation intensifies, so do the threats and the sparks between them, but Tori’s doubtful if she can extend grace and trust to Scott. They’ll have to combine their skills and rely on their growing relationship to outsmart the killer.
On this episode of “The Romantic Side of Suspense,” I’m chatting with Jennifer Pierce, who is a top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author. She lives in Arkansas where she’s busy raising two children and a husband. She’s a paralegal by trade and an author by free time. She’s fluent in sarcasm and Princess Bride quotes. Her love of books began with trips to the library with her grandmother. Please don’t ask her to name her favorite book—it’s like trying to pick her favorite child. And unicorns. She loved unicorns before they were cool.
When Jennifer wrote her first book, “I didn’t know what I was doing, but it kind of felt natural to me, this kind of storytelling. … I had a lot of crafting to learn, but the story was still there.”
Listen to the podcast for more from our interview, plus an excerpt from Trail of Suspicion by Jennifer Pierce. Excerpt and back cover copy read by Janda Sample of Janda Sample Storytelling.
A Daughter’s Choice by Kelly S. Irvin — Henrietta Miller loves animals—especially her goats. She wants to marry and have children someday, but right now her goal is to have her own business selling snacks made from goat’s milk and goat’s soaps. Against her the wishes of her father–who’s also the bishop—she applies for a job as a veterinary assistant to earn money. Then newcomer Nicholas Byler snatches the job out from under her—or so it seems to Hen. Now Nicholas is treating Hen’s beloved animals as if he knows more than her. Hen turns her frustrations toward expanding her business to include wool-producing goats, even while her aunt hatches matchmaking plans—with Nicholas Byler, no less. (Amish Romance from Barbour Publishing)
Biblical:
Loss and Loyalty – Moabites by Christine Dillon — What makes someone family—blood, love, or something more? Arielle believed she was an Israelite—until her brother confessed the truth: she was found as an infant on their doorstep in Moab. After tragedy strikes and the men of her household are snatched away, Arielle must leave the only land she’s ever known and any hope of finding her birth family to follow her adopted family to Bethlehem. (Biblical Fiction, Independently Published)
Contemporary Romance:
Clean Sweep by Julie Arduini — Sometimes the messiest moments lead to the most miraculous grace. A tender story of grace, second chances, and the kind of love that only grows when hearts surrender. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
Royal Runaway’s Holiday by Mandy Boerma — Can the princess and the reporter overcome the ancient laws and royal protocol standing between them, or is heartbreak the only outcome? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
A Christmas in Shady Springs by Sarah Anne Crouch — Set in the heart of small-town Arkansas, A Christmas in Shady Springs is a sweet Christian romance about love that holds fast, plans that fall apart, and grace that shines even brighter when everything else goes wrong. (Contemporary Romance from Scrivenings Press)
Clearing the Cowboy’s Name by Elle E. Kay — Accused of stealing her first edition Austen. Guilty of stealing her heart. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
Logan’s Legacy by Susan Anne Mason — He ran from commitment for years – until he met the one woman who made him want to stay. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
A Home for the Ranger by Audrey Wick — Texas park ranger Shane Hutton must choose his future: the opportunity he’s always wanted or the family he’s always needed. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Under the Mistletoe by Penny Zeller — A small-town adventure, unexpected romance, and Christmas cheer. He’s a nerdy tourist needing a vacation. She’s a bed and breakfast employee with a broken heart. Love is the last thing they expect to find this Christmas. (Contemporary Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)
Crime Mystery:
Eight Days Anxious by Luana Ehrlich — When ex-con Jason Brennan takes a senator hostage, Mylas Grey has eight days to find Brennan’s missing wife and daughter. If Mylas fails, the senator will lose his life. But things are much more complicated than that. As the clock ticks down, Mylas must navigate his way through a maze of political ambition, moral corruption, and judicial misconduct, challenging his investigative skills and newfound faith, but ultimately drawing him closer to Whitney. (Crime/Mystery, Independently Published)
General Contemporary:
Nearly Beloved by Kendra Broekhuis — Dylan Turner’s quiet life unravels on the day of her dad’s funeral—when she finds out he’s not her biological father. Determined to uncover the truth, she embarks on a cross-country journey, confronting family secrets and her own identity. (General Contemporary from Waterbrook/Multnomah [Penguin Random House])
Every Captive Freed by B.D. Lawrence, Shannon McNear, and Angela D. Shelton — Three Novellas about human trafficking. This collection is one of three dealing with “brave” topics Christians often face in the world today. (General Contemporary [Novella Collection], Independently Published)
General Historical:
Even If I Perish by Terrie Todd — Music teacher Mary Cornish volunteers to escort a group of 15 girls from England to Canada as part of Britain’s World War II child evacuation program. All is well aboard the SS City of Benares until September 17, 1940. With a storm brewing in the North Atlantic, a German U-boat releases its torpedo and breaches the ship’s hull. Do the Nazis know ninety children are on board? Based on a miraculous true story of courage in the face of impossible odds. (Historical from Mountain Brook Ink)
Historical Romance:
No Plan At All by Denise M. Colby — Two strangers. One journey. A love neither expected. Sometimes the best life is the one we never planned. A tender tale of courage, redemption, and love strong enough to change the course of two hearts forever. (Historical Romance from Scrivenings Press)
To Reveal a Reckless Love by Robin Lee Hatcher — When love feels reckless, faith can lead the way. A story of second chances, steadfast love, and the courage to follow where God leads. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)
Midnight Masquerade by Elle E. Kay — Two federal agents with trust issues must infiltrate a charity masquerade ball to stop a human trafficking operation that funds terrorism. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
Mac by Melanie D. Snitker — Fame has its price—and someone’s ready to collect. 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. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)
Trail of Mountain Secrets by Darlene L. Turner — Park archaeologist Violet Hoyt’s wilderness search for a missing family’s remains takes a deadly turn when a gunman mistakes her for someone else. The discovery of a grave of skulls reopens a cold case, and someone is determined to keep the truth hidden. With the help of K-9 handler Maverick Shaw and his human-remains-detector dog, Wolf, Violet must find the final family member—and evade the masked man who has targeted her. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:
First Glow of Illumination by Demi Griffin — Every ending leads to a beginning. All hope seems lost when darkness pushes against the light and the Realms are in danger of being swallowed up by the Shadow Realm. Will the Realm Warriors and Realm Binders wake up from their cultural stupor to defend what has been given them? What will it take for them to recognize their King, trust in his plan, and crown him victorious in the end? (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy, Independently Published)
Young Adult:
The One You See by Melissa Knight — Seventeen-year-old Miranda’s world involves wealth and Paris vacations while Zac comes with a past she will never understand, yet in a single lapse of judgement their worlds collide, leading Miranda to faith in the God who truly sees her. (Young Adult, Independently Published)
Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:
The Accident by Kenneth Bliss — A psi EMT responds to an accident which he discovers an “impossible” psi child and the dark agent sent to recover him. (Speculative Fiction)
To Have and to Hold by Deb L. Brown — When life doesn’t go according to plan, perfectionist Amelia must trade control for faith—and find joy in the beautiful mess of becoming a mother. (General Contemporary)
Riches Beyond Measure by Mary Connealy — When they leave the ranch in search of stolen treasure, will the spark between them survive the perils ahead? (Western Romance)
My Heart’s for You by Jan Rae Johnson — Kaitlyn Monroe is driven by two desires—find a job and find a soul mate. (Contemporary Romance)
That Was Me by Rick Tester — When you look back on your life, realize it was God… then suddenly discover why. (Mystery)
Pretzels & Pirouettes: The Baby is the Gift by Lynn U. Watson — Meet Clara’s great-great-great-granddaughter, motorcycle-riding, ballet-dancing Lyydi Jager. She’ll pirouette straight into your heart, and you’ll ride right into this Christmas pageant at Our Savior Church. (Contemporary Romance)
Allure of Elegance by R.F. Whong
About Patricia
On the Edge of Trust
Connect w/Jennifer
