During this episode of “The Romantic Side of Suspense” podcast, you’ll hear from three authors about their romantic suspense books available this month. Here’s the list of authors and books for September 2026, with the book’s release date if not available now.
Author Rachelle Paige Campbell recently stopped by my blog to share some about her writing life.
Why did you start writing romantic suspense novels?
I’m relatively new to the genre. I started writing romantic suspense a few years ago. Summer Camp Cold Case is my first published romantic suspense novel. I’ll be releasing two more next year with Rowan Prose Publishing.
What’s the hardest part of writing romantic suspense?
Balancing the emotional moments with the life-or-death tension is the hardest part of writing romantic suspense. The characters can’t be running on adrenaline alone but finding the space for the romance (and making it believable) can be a challenge.
Why do you like writing romantic suspense?
I’m a fan of true crime, but often justice is elusive in real life. I like writing romantic suspense because I can give the bad guy the comeuppance he or she deserves.
Have you ever regretted killing off a character? Why?
I always regret when an innocent bystander gets killed in any book, mine included. But romantic suspense is fraught with peril for any character involved. Once a name is introduced, that person is no longer safe.
How do you pick the location/setting of your romantic suspense novels?
What a great question! I think location and time of year are important for creating the mood of any novel and both are fundamental for me before I start drafting.
Summer Camp Cold Case is (obviously) set in June in a fictional location in rural Wisconsin. This time of year has its own ambiance that can be both intriguing and terrifying. The warmer weather might lure a character to venture deeper into the woods. The false sense of security plays a big part in the danger in my novel.
What did you want to be as a child (and did that dream come true)?
As a child, I wanted to be a mom and a writer. I’m blessed that both of my dreams have come true. Having a family that supports my passion for storytelling keeps me going through the seasons of writer’s block and imposter syndrome.
What does your family think of your writing romantic suspense?
My family was surprised it took me so long to write it because of how much Dateline I’ve watched over the years. They are all very supportive of my creative endeavors.
What is one of your favorite ways to connect with readers?
I love meeting readers in person. I’ve been blessed to have opportunities to present at libraries, host signings and book stores, and attend author events. I *try* to post regularly on social media and my website, but nothing beats seeing people face to face and shaking their hand.
What is absolutely essential for you to write?
When I first started writing, and my children were little, I thought I had to have perfect conditions to fire up my creativity. That meant I often didn’t get around to writing until late in the evening when the house was quiet (if I was up early, my kids would get up with me), and I was exhausted. I started a brain training technique of writing to “coffee shop sounds” via an app. Within a month, I was able to instantly hear the low buzz of conversation and instantly get into “the zone.”
Now that my children are older, I can write more during the day. But I still use “coffee shop sounds” to tell my brain it’s time to work.
Who’s your favorite romantic suspense writer and why?
I love Jessica R. Patch. Her romantic suspense and thrillers keep me on the edge of my seat! I never guess the twists in her books. She’s phenomenal.
About Rachelle
Rachelle Paige Campbell writes bestselling contemporary romance novels filled with heart and hope. She believes love and laughter can change lives, and every story needs a happily ever after.
Connect w/Rachelle
Website: https://rachellepaigecampbell.com/
Twenty years ago, a tragedy shattered Emma Lynde’s world when her twin sister died as a counselor at summer camp.
Emma has returned for a reunion, ready to confront her worst nightmares and regain her lost memories. Sheriff Daniel Goodwin wanted a chance to see Emma again, after he solved her sister’s cold case. Emma’s return forces him to adjust his timeline and, with a killer tying up loose ends, he must act before she becomes the next victim. Can he get justice and a second chance with the one who got away?
On this special edition episode of “The Romantic Side of Suspense,” I’m talking with my fellow authors, Jayna Breigh and Kimberley Woodhouse, about our Christmas novella collection, The Last Noel. Learn more about our characters, villains, settings, and storylines about these Christmas-themed second chance romance with a dangerous twist!
The Last Noel is a riveting Christmas novella collection with suspense, intrigue, and second-chance romance.
“Do You See What I See?” by Sarah Hamaker
Oakleigh Wright’s estranged foster sister reappears late one night desperate to hand off her children. Oakleigh agrees to bring them to their aunt out of state, but her travels are intercepted by a ruthless gang. She turns to her ex, Joseph, for help. Will they rekindle their love as they uncover what the gang seeks?
“Do You Hear What I Hear?” by Jayna Breigh
Trial lawyer Elise Sinclair resigns herself to a lonely Christmas reviewing legal documents—until her renegade fiancé, Jack, reappears. He is jobless, broken, and seeking forgiveness. Can two battered hearts overcome secrets and restore their love?
“Do You Know What I Know?” by Kimberley Woodhouse
When Faith Thibodeaux returns to her Cajun-style food truck in Alaska after an accident, the last thing she expects is to find out that her ex-boyfriend is the executive chef of a new restaurant. When they return to their hometown over the holidays to fundraise, will the “friendly” competition restore their love or rip them apart forever?
Not My Hero by Michelle Bolanger — She lost everything… except the chance to begin again. He has everything… except the freedom to follow his heart. “Not My Hero” is a modern retelling of the Biblical Book of Ruth. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)
What About the Song? by Rebecca Reed — What About the Song? is a kisses-only, faith-forward, contemporary Christian romance set in Nashville, perfect for readers who love equine therapy, wounded-hero, and music-driven slow-burn love stories. (Contemporary Romance from Moonsong Publishing)
Her Reluctant Amish Heart by Pamela Desmond Wright — When a reckless street race injures her brother, Anika Glick wants nothing to do with the man responsible—especially when he’s sentenced to help her family. But Elam Muller is desperate to prove he’s changed. As they work together on her family farm, Anika finds herself drawn to Elam’s remorse and kindness. But when they’re presented with one last risky race that could secure their future or destroy it all, everything they’ve built is put to the test. Will their growing love survive the pull of the past—or will it all come crashing down? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])
Keeping Thessalonica by Jenifer Jennings — In the port city of Thessalonica, Persis, a daughter of Persia and bondservant of Aristarchus, is forever changed when she encounters the teachings of Jesus and learns of His imminent return. (General Historical, Independently Published)
Sibella’s Stand by Naomi Musch — A woman on the New York frontier, whose husband has gone to fight, must use her wits to protect herself and a young girl when enemy forces arrive at her door. (General Historical, Independently Published)
A Contrary Betrothal by Denise Farnsworth — A Cherokee lieutenant, a colonel’s daughter, and a desperate fight to protect both land and love. (Formerly published as Bent Tree Bride). (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)
The Darling’s Daughter by Sydney Schmied — In 1912, Chillicothe, Ohio, a painter lands a job at a local theater in hopes of discovering the truth behind her stage actress mother’s murder, while enlisting the help of an architect battling his own secrets. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)
The Heiress and the Woodsman by Christine Hill Suntz — She’s a city-bred heiress chasing a brother in trouble. He’s a rugged settler with everything to lose. What begins as a desperate bargain becomes a journey of hope, healing, and a love neither saw coming. (Historical Romance from Tyndale House)
When the Silence Breaks by Elizabeth Goddard — A deathbed confession. A decades-old secret. A mountain that holds the answers–and danger closing in. (Romantic Suspense from Revell [Baker Publishing Group])
The Last Noel by Sarah Hamaker, Kimberley Woodhouse, and Jayna Breigh — The Last Noel is a riveting Christmas novella collection with suspense, intrigue, and second-chance romance. The stories are “Do You See What I See?,” (Hamaker) “Do You Hear What I Hear?” (Breigh) and “Do You Know What I Know?” (Woodhouse). (Romantic Suspense Novella Collection from Kregel Publications)
Jezebel’s Children by Lynne Basham Tagawa — Historian Geneva Fielding and physicist Peter Donatelli travel back in time to document the trial of Anne Hutchinson, but they find themselves caught in a web of politics, doctrinal disputes, and colonial intrigue. A dystopian time travel story where faith, gentle romance, and even humor overwhelm the dark elements. (Speculative/Time Travel from Blue Rock Press)
Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:
Disguised Love by Marie E. Bast — Disguised Love: An Inspirational Victorian-Era Sweet Marriage of Convenience Romance Set on the Western Frontier During the Cholera Epidemic. (Historical Romance)
The Robber and the Witness by Danielle Grandinetti — Wisconsin, 1931—When Gideon Lundgren agrees to escort his best friend’s sister to Manitowish Waters, plans go awry when she witnesses a robbery. (Historical Romance)
Passionate Pursuit by Pamela Jo Harstad — Difficult backgrounds in the midst of threatening life challenges make having a relationship and safety almost impossible. (Romantic Suspense)
Sweet Dare by Sally Jo Pitts — A research biologist and curious youngsters are accused of unleashing a curse when a honeymooning couple is unearthed in an Indian burial mound. (Romantic Suspense)
Sunset Pointe: The Baby Between Us by Brenda Poulos — On the day before her Senior Prom, Karla finds out that her boyfriend, Jonathan, has fathered a baby with her best friend, Missy. (General Contemporary)
Ribbons of Guilt by Laura Thomas — In the charming English village of Bramble Downs, threads of betrayal unravel the sickening truth as a ballerina’s family is stalked by a delusional murderer… (Romantic Suspense)
During this episode of “The Romantic Side of Suspense” podcast, you’ll hear from four authors about their romantic suspense books available this month. Here’s the list of authors and books for August 2026, with the book’s release date if not available now.
How Rachelle Paige Campbell Adjusted Her Writing Expectations 
August 2026 New Releases in Christian Fiction 
The Romantic Frustration of Sami Abrams