recent releases in Christian fiction

Bestselling author Kate Angelo recently stopped by my newsletter to share some about her writing life. Plus, she’s giving away one print copy of her most recent romantic suspense, Fire Line, exclusively for my newsletter readers. See below for details.

What’s the hardest part of writing romantic suspense?
The hardest part of writing romantic suspense is weaving together so many intricate threads: the pulse-pounding action, the slow-burn romance, the journey of faith, and the deep character growth for both the hero and heroine. Add to that the villain’s motivations, unexpected plot twists, and red herrings—it can feel like trying to create a masterpiece. Sometimes I feel like Monet, spending so much time meticulously painting the fine details of the story, scene by scene, that it’s hard to see the bigger picture until I step back.

Each element has to work in harmony, pulling readers to the edge of their seat while rooting for the characters to find love. It’s all about balance—letting the romance breathe without losing the suspenseful tension that keeps readers turning pages. That challenge is what I love most; it pushes me to dig deeper into my characters’ emotions and motivations, so their love story is as compelling as the danger they face.

When do you find time to write?
Finding time to write is definitely a balancing act, especially with all the traveling I do for work and my role as vice president of our nonprofit. Routine can be hard to maintain with so much going on, but I’ve learned to discipline myself to write and edit wherever I can, whether it’s early mornings, late nights, or even while waiting in airports. I see the word busy as “being under society’s yoke,” so I try to cut out as much of what society thinks I should do with my time. Instead, I focus on being intentional. I don’t waste much time on consumption—scrolling endlessly or getting lost in distractions—because I know that time is better spent creating. That’s been crucial for meeting deadlines and staying on top of my projects.

But don’t think I’m all work! I love spending time at the lake to relax, diving into a good book, or chatting with friends and family. At the end of the day, writing isn’t just a job—it’s my passion. And I make it a priority because those stories won’t tell themselves! Plus, I always remind myself that every small window of writing time adds up to something bigger.

What’s the weirdest way someone has died or been killed in your novels?
The weirdest death in my novels? Definitely the scene where a character falls from a hot air balloon. It was one of those moments where I could turn own fear of flying and heights into sheer terror. Suspense is all about those unexpected twists and that pulse-pounding question of, how are they going to get out of this!? The scene wasn’t just about the shock factor, though—it became a turning point in the story, forcing the characters to confront the very real threats they were facing.

What is one of your favorite ways to connect with readers?
First, I absolutely love connecting with readers in person—there’s nothing quite like meeting at book signings and meet-ups where I can hear thoughts and see smiles in real life. But my second favorite way to connect is through my newsletter. It’s more personal, like writing a letter to a friend, and I always make sure to give my newsletter subscribers the inside scoop. They get the updates first—like when my book is on sale, when a new title or cover is revealed, or when I sign a new contract. And it’s not one-sided—I encourage readers to reply directly to my emails, and I make it a point to respond as quickly as I can. It’s intimate, and I love that connection. Plus, through my newsletter, I can pray for my readers, which makes it even more special.

I also learned the hard way that my newsletter is the most reliable way to stay connected. One time, my social media got shut down, which was a huge nightmare! That experience taught me how important it is to have a direct line of communication with my readers that I control. I’m active on Facebook and Instagram and love engaging with readers there, but my newsletter is where I can really share behind-the-scenes insights and connect on a deeper level. If you’re looking for the best way to stay in touch, I’d love for you to subscribe—you’ll be the first to know everything!

What is absolutely essential for you to write?
For me, the essentials include coffee (always), water, and some background noise—like the hum of an airport, airplane, or coffee shop. There’s something about that ambient buzz that helps me focus. I’ve also had a lot of success with Zoom writing sprints using the Pomodoro method. Writing with others, even virtually, gives me that extra boost of accountability. Plus, breaking the writing time into sprints helps keep me productive and energized, especially on those long writing days!

What do you wish readers knew about the romantic suspense genre?
Romantic suspense isn’t just about the fast-paced action or the thrill of danger—it’s about heart lessons that run deeper than the physical side of romance. My stories focus on the truth that God created us for relationships and to serve others, especially through love and sacrifice. In my work with marriage ministry, I’ve seen firsthand how God restores broken relationships, which deeply influences how I write about love, forgiveness, and redemption.

I also come from a background of foster care and trauma, and that shapes the journeys my characters take. They aren’t just fighting external battles; they’re facing deep emotional wounds and learning how faith and love can heal. My stories reflect the hope that even in the darkest moments, God’s love—and the love we show one another—can provide light, healing, and courage. I wish readers knew how much depth there is to this genre, how it’s not just about suspense, but about heart transformation and that could be the biggest thrill of all.

About Kate
Kate is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author, Selah award winner, and Amazon Top 100 bestseller from southwest Missouri who works alongside her husband championing stronger marriages and families through their nonprofit. Both as an author and minister, she regularly teaches and speaks at conferences and events across the country with her husband. Having aged out of foster care, Kate brings a unique perspective to her writing, breathing life into flawed characters who find hope and healing amidst danger.

Connect w/Kate
Website: kateangelo.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kateangeloautho0072
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kateangeloauthor
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kate-angelo
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/kateangelo
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/kateangeloauthor

Fire Line by Kate Angelo

She was born to be a smokejumper…

As the niece of a legendary smokejumper, Nova Burns is tough as nails. When their crew chief Tucker Newman breaks his leg, Nova longs for the opportunity to helm the team, ready to take risks and prove herself. But there’s one risk she refuses to take—falling in love.

He’s living a lie…

Undercover Homeland agent Booth Wilder is seeking redemption. Scarred by a past explosion that took the life of his partner, Booth is hunting a rogue CIA faction known as the Brotherhood. Now, he’s determined to uncover their secrets and find a hidden nuclear weapon that could turn the world to ash.

Only problem…summer sparks have ignited between Booth and Nova. Nova is torn between her future as the smokejumping chief, her growing attraction to Booth, and the belief that he’s hiding something from her. Of course he is…Booth is hiding his true goal—unrooting the Brotherhood and returning to his life as a Homeland Security agent, a life that he’s not sure he really wants.

Then the wildfire threatens the home of the Jude County Firefighting team, and Nova doesn’t care what secrets he might be hiding—she needs everyone to save the town. But when the Brotherhood discovers Booth and his goals, the fight becomes personal. Now, Booth must choose between accomplishing his mission and saving the woman he’s come to love.

It’s a dangerous game of loyalty, betrayal, and pulse-pounding action in the fifth installment of the Chasing Fire: Montana series.