Episodes

  • Interview with: Hannah Currie — Writing Royalty, Chronic Illness, and Romance with Purpose

    Interview with: Hannah Currie — Writing Royalty, Chronic Illness, and Romance with Purpose
    Apr 26 2025
    This episode dives deep into the heart behind Hannah Currie's medieval Christian romance series Crown of Promise. Hannah shares how a life-altering diagnosis rerouted her missionary dreams and unexpectedly opened the door to storytelling that ministers across the globe. From princesses struggling with hidden pain to heroes who would give up kingdoms for love, Hannah reveals how her characters reflect both her personal battles and her unshakable faith. We talk about chronic illness, writing vulnerable characters, and the beauty of romance rooted in God’s love. If you’ve ever felt unseen or wondered how God could use your brokenness, this one’s for you. Listen to the episode here. Meet Hannah Currie Australian author, Hannah Currie, loves God, family, people (in small numbers, let’s not go crazy here!) and writing. A book nerd from birth, she knows firsthand the difference a good book can make in a person’s life. Even, and especially, fiction. Her dream as a writer is to make people laugh, cry and maybe even swoon a little but mostly to remind them that no matter how dark life may get at times, because of God, there is always hope. She and her husband live with their three adorable kids in sunny Queensland, where it really is beautiful one day and perfect the next. Except, maybe, during heatwaves. They’re not so fun. Visit Hannah at her website The production by Fidele Youth Dance Company: Bring Her Home Follow Hannah Bible Verse for Encouragement Psalm 48:14 (NKJV)“For this is God, Our God forever and ever; He will be our guide Even to death.” Hannah's Book: Hold Her Close (Crown of Promise Series) Firstborn of King Lior and heir to the throne of Raedonleith, Lady Rose has always known what was expected of her—marry a prince, bear a child, continue the royal line. None of that involved confirmation weeks before her wedding that she’s barren. Nor her betrothed deserting her at the news. Through years of pain, bleeding and loss, her faith has kept her strong but this last blow strikes deep into her spirit. Rose knew she was broken. Now the rest of Raedonleith will too. More comfortable amid books than battles, Prince Nicholas of Belairisia is as surprised as anyone when he claims Lady Rose’s hand for himself upon first meeting. In front of every noble in Raedonleith. But neither does he regret it. Though it’s impulsive and out of character for the studious prince, there’s something in Rose’s fragile beauty that captivates Nicholas. She’s the treasure he’s searched his whole life to find. Armed with patience and hope, Nicholas determines to wait as long as it takes to prove his devotion. But when an attempt on Rose’s life forces King Lior’s hand, the two are thrust into a marriage neither of them are prepared for, and a journey through enemy territory which may end the relationship before it’s barely begun. Crown of Promise Series Get your copy today at White Crown Publishing, Amazon, or your favorite book site! *As an Amazon affiliate I may earn from qualifying purchases Get updates on our themed book giveaways Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list. Kelly’s Personal Update Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you! If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon. I'll share more updates by joining my free email list and you'll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up Follow me for updates
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    42 mins
  • Interview with Dani Pettrey: Romantic Suspense, Trusting God, and Writing Through the Storm

    Interview with Dani Pettrey: Romantic Suspense, Trusting God, and Writing Through the Storm
    Apr 21 2025
    In this heart-filled episode, we’re joined by bestselling romantic suspense author Dani Pettrey as she opens up about her powerful writing journey, one that’s been shaped by faith, perseverance, and a life-shaking diagnosis. Dani shares how God met her in the hard moments and lovingly redirected her steps—not just as a writer, but as His daughter walking through uncertainty. She also gives us a peek into her brand-new release, Two Seconds Too Late—book 2 in her thrilling series. Whether you’re a reader, aspiring author, or someone walking through your own season of waiting, Dani’s story will speak directly to your heart. Listen to the episode here. Meet Dani Pettrey Dani Pettrey is the bestselling author of the COASTAL GUARDIANS, CHESAPEAKE VALOR, and ALASKAN COURAGE series. A two-time Christy Award finalist, Dani has won the National Readers’ Choice Award, Daphne du Maurier Award, HOLT Medallion, and Christian Retailing’s Best Award for suspense. She plots murder and mayhem from her home in the Washington, DC, metro area. Visit Dani at DaniPettrey.com. Follow Dani Bible Verse for Encouragement Psalm 27:1 (NKJV)The Lord is my light and my salvation;Whom shall I fear?The Lord is the strength of my life;Of whom shall I be afraid? Dani's New Book: Two Seconds Too Late A missing woman. Two hit men. When every second counts, who will survive?In the stark but beautiful wilds of northern New Mexico, a couples' retreat at a luxury resort turns into a chilling nightmare when a woman vanishes. Skip tracer Riley MacLeod and private investigator Greyson Chadwick pose as a couple to hunt for clues that might reveal the missing woman's location. Those leads uncover a harrowing truth: They're not the only ones looking for her. What begins as a normal tracking case turns into a deadly chase when they, too, become the hunted. As Riley and Greyson work together, their partnership ignites a tumultuous attraction, but Greyson's secrets prevent him from acting on his feelings for her, and Riley can't bring herself to fully trust him. Delving deeper into the case, they find themselves fighting not only for justice and the chance at a loving relationship . . . but also for their very survival. Get your copy today at Baker Book House or Amazon! *As an Amazon affiliate I may earn from qualifying purchases Get updates on our themed book giveaways Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list. Kelly’s Personal Update Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you! If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon. I'll share more updates by joining my free email list and you'll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up
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    37 mins
  • Interview with Janelle Leonard: Royal Romance, Real Identity & The Journey to Publishing Her Debut Novel

    Interview with Janelle Leonard: Royal Romance, Real Identity & The Journey to Publishing Her Debut Novel
    Apr 17 2025
    This episode with debut author Janelle Leonard is one for the books—literally and figuratively. Janelle shares the heart behind her debut Christian romance novel Northargyle Abbie, a modern retelling of Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey with a royal twist. We talk about what it’s really like growing up as a pastor’s daughter, navigating identity and self-worth, and how God used her imagination, her librarian gig, and a team of support to guide her to publication. Janelle opens up about writing characters who reflect her heart, building meaningful connections with teens through storytelling, and how even fiction can deliver faith-filled truth. This is a beautiful testimony of purpose, patience, and the power of being authentically you. Listen to the episode here. Meet Janelle Leonard Janelle Leonard is a Jane Austen fangirl with an overactive imagination who creates web-twisty plotlines from her home in Pennsylvania. When she’s not writing, reading, editing, drinking coffee, or working at an elementary school library, she’s finding creative ways to procrastinate. Janelle and her hubby have successfully raised three boys, losing lots of brain space to turbos and car talk. She is passionate about living authentically while serving and encouraging others to see their worth, using writing as a key to unlock worlds of possibility Visit Janelle's website Follow Janelle Bible Verse for Encouragement Romans 12:1 (NKJV)"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service." Psalms 121: 1-2 I will lift up my eyes to the hills— From whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. Janelle's New Book: Northargyle Abbie When Abigail Morgan, a naïve pastor’s daughter with an overactive imagination, inherits a cottage in Australia, she never imagines the story it will unlock. Armed with a museum studies degree and a penchant for daydreams, Abigail heads to Hyacinth Cottage to unravel the truth of her grandmother’s past—an unknown world of adventure, deception, and love. While sifting through letters, photographs, and hidden relics, Abigail meets Colter Wellesley, a charming local who helps her navigate the labyrinth of clues with a blend of wit and charm she struggles to resist. But Colter comes with secrets of his own. As their investigation and romance deepen, Abigail wonders if Colter is more tangled up in her grandmother’s mystery—and that of the princess who vanished more than sixty years ago—than she ever imagined. In this modern reimagining of Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey, the line between imagination and reality blurs, and every clue discovered could be the key to unlocking a royal legacy. Get your copy today on White Crown Publishing or Amazon! *As an Amazon affiliate I may earn from qualifying purchases Get updates on our themed book giveaways Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list. Kelly’s Personal Update Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you! If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon. I'll share more updates by joining my free email list and you'll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up
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    49 mins
  • Interview with Joanna Davidson Politano: Inheriting Mystery, Romance, and Faith at Blakely House

    Interview with Joanna Davidson Politano: Inheriting Mystery, Romance, and Faith at Blakely House
    Apr 15 2025
    This episode with Joanna Davidson Politano dives deep into the world of Victorian-era romance with a twist of mystery and a lot of heart. Joanna shares how her background in medical writing surprisingly paved the way for her creative storytelling, and how being a discovery writer means letting God lead each plot twist. We chat about her latest novel, The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House—a story that’s equal parts adventure, invention, spiritual searching, and unexpected romance. From a quirky, possibly “smart” house to a scientist heroine with questions about faith, this episode is a journey of curiosity, redemption, and divine surprises. If you love stories where God shows up in the most unexpected ways, this one’s for you! Listen to the episode here. Meet Joanna Davidson Politano Joanna Davidson Politano is the award-winning author of Lady Jayne Disappears, A Rumored Fortune, Finding Lady Enderly, The Love Note, A Midnight Dance, The Lost Melody, and The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple. She loves tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives and is eager to hear anyone’s story. She lives with her husband and their children in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan. You can visit her online at JDPStories.com. Joanna's Prayer Promise Follow Joanna Bible Verse for Encouragement “But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, ‘Lord, save me!’ And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’”— Matthew 14:30–31 (NKJV) Joanna's New Book: The Curious Inheritance of Blakely House A clever young woman, a contested will, and an estate that does not easily give up its secrets.It is 1901 when clockmaker and tinker Sydney Forrester receives a most unusual inheritance. Blakely House, the island estate of an estranged uncle she's never met, seems almost alive, revealing and hiding its secrets at will. It is filled with remarkable inventions, including an intriguing unfinished automaton Sydney is itching to get her skilled hands on. The estate is also home to a number of peculiar people--including two men intent on removing this interloper from the island. Convinced that Sydney has something to do with their uncle's death, the late master's nephews contest the will and work against their cousin at every turn. Sydney finds a sometimes-ally in the estate's butler, an ex-adventurer who ran aground on the island years ago. But when a mysterious man washes ashore with a stunning surprise that upsets everything, Sydney must prove she has inherited the late master's brilliance as well as his property--or someone else will. Get your copy today at Baker Book House or Amazon! *As an Amazon affiliate I may earn from qualifying purchases Get updates on our themed book giveaways Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list. Kelly’s Personal Update Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you! If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon. I'll share more updates by joining my free email list and you'll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up
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    35 mins
  • Interview with Megan Schaulis: Reimagining Esther in a Dystopian World of Faith, Fire, and Fierce Romance

    Interview with Megan Schaulis: Reimagining Esther in a Dystopian World of Faith, Fire, and Fierce Romance
    Apr 9 2025
    In this powerhouse episode, author Megan Schaulis joins us to talk about her dystopian duology The Susa Chronicles, which reimagines the biblical story of Esther through the lens of YA, romance, and sci-fi adventure. We chat about her lightning-strike inspiration, hearing God’s call to write, and how a camper journey across America helped lay the foundation for her beautiful, faith-filled stories. What if Esther wasn't competing to become queen—but to be the king's bodyguard? Megan shares how her heroine, Novalis, lives in hiding because of her beliefs and must rely solely on the voice of Alpha—God—to survive in a world that feels stacked against her.Whether you're a fan of strong heroines, faith-filled allegories, or swoon-worthy clean romance, this is an episode that will inspire and ignite your spirit. Listen to the episode here. Meet Megan Schaulis After a year of traveling the country in a 100-square-foot camper with her husband, daughter, and dog, Megan Schaulis returned home and wrote her first novel. Megan has a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University and is a member of the ACFW. As a special education teacher, she helped young people fall in love with reading and writing. Today, she uses words in playful and creative ways at her branding agency. She lives in Abilene, Texas, where you’ll find her staying up way too late reading or hiking with her family. Visit Megan's website here Follow Megan Bible Verse for Encouragement Esther 4:14 (NKJV)“For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Megan's New Book: Proclaimer (Book 2, Susa Chronicles) The only way to save her people is to betray the king she vowed to protect. After winning her place as Chief Protector, Novalise is in more danger than ever. King Zadien seeks to destroy the Alphanites, and the only way Novalise can stop him is by winning a Request—one undeniable favor offered only to those who save the king from a deadly threat. With no imminent danger at hand, Novalise will have to commit treason to save her people. Zadien is finally stepping into his role as king. With his courageous new Chief Protector by his side, he’s determined to annihilate the traitors responsible for his father’s death. His romantic feelings for “Astra” haven’t faded, but pursuing her could leave his kingdom without a monarch. Is their fledgling relationship worth violating the law and risking his crown? As the clock counts down for her people, Novalise must choose between manipulating the king’s affection and trusting the voice in her heart to lead her. When all her plans crumble, will she hide behind her new identity as a Protector or find a way to rise in such a time as this? Get your copy today on Amazon, White Crown Publishing, or your favorite book retailer! *As an Amazon affiliate I may earn from qualifying purchases Get updates on our themed book giveaways Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list. Kelly’s Personal Update Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you! If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon. I'll share more updates by joining my free email list and you'll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up
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    38 mins
  • Interview with Laura Conaway: Writing Suspense with Heart, Faith, and Second Chances

    Interview with Laura Conaway: Writing Suspense with Heart, Faith, and Second Chances
    Apr 7 2025
    In this heartfelt episode, Kelly had the absolute joy of chatting with Laura Conaway—author of gripping romantic suspense and the woman behind the inspiring tagline “Triumph through Trials.” We dove into her newest release Rescue Duty, a powerful story filled with danger, redemption, and a second-chance romance between a fire and rescue squad member and an investigative reporter with a shared past. Laura opened up about her writing journey, her time with Sunrise Publishing under the mentorship of Lisa Phillips, and how her stories are deeply rooted in Scripture and led by the Holy Spirit. She also shared the emotional inspiration behind her foster care storyline and how a red thread led her straight to Jesus. If you're a fan of suspenseful stories woven with faith, hope, and healing, you don’t want to miss this one! Listen to the episode here. Meet Laura Conaway Bestselling and award-winning author, Laura Conaway, resides in Pennsylvania and creates stories with a healthy dose of suspense and happily-ever-afters while her characters discover triumph through trials. As a former librarian, she’s always searching for the next best read and loves solving mysteries like Nancy Drew. When she’s not inhaling sweet potato fries to motivate writing, Laura spends her time playing guitar and sharing about the Greatest Story written. Visit Laura's website Follow Laura on Social Media Comfort Cases Charitable Organization for Foster Kids: Link Here Bible Verse for Encouragement 1 Corinthians 15:56-57 (NKJV)“The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Laura's New Book: Rescued Duty After growing up in foster care, investigative reporter Naya Michél has learned there’s usually more to a situation than meets the eye. When she’s assigned a story about the current water contamination crisis in town, Naya is ready to show her boss she has what it takes to secure a promotion—especially since the events surrounding the story have personal ties to her childhood. When her investigation makes her the target of someone who wants the truth kept quiet, how far will Naya’s determination take her before the cost becomes too much? Rescue Squad firefighter and former foster kid Zack Stephens is ready to step up his game at work when his boss hands him a cold case for hazmat training. As Zack delves into the case, he uncovers a shocking revelation—his parents’ deaths weren’t accidental. Determined to find their murderer, Zack throws himself into the investigation. But he doesn’t expect his search to collide with Naya, the girl he promised to protect when they lived in foster care together. As threats mount and Naya is caught in the crosshairs, can Zack reconcile the mistakes of his past and find a killer before someone deals a lethal blow? And can the two of them learn to trust—and love—each other again despite the pain of their past? Get your copy today! Sunrise Publishing Amazon *As an Amazon affiliate I may earn from qualifying purchases Get updates on our themed book giveaways Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list. Kelly’s Personal Update Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you! If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon. I'll share more updates by joining my free email list and you'll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up
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    36 mins
  • Interview with Patricia Johns: Writing Amish Romance, Finding Redemption, and Co-Creating with God

    Interview with Patricia Johns: Writing Amish Romance, Finding Redemption, and Co-Creating with God
    Apr 2 2025
    In this heartwarming episode, we sit down with the incredibly prolific and inspiring Patricia Johns, author of over 56 sweet romances—many set in the beloved world of Amish fiction. Patricia opens up about her journey from NICU nurse to full-time author, how her faith weaves through her storytelling, and the joy (and surprises) of co-writing with God. We chat about empty nests, writing through hard seasons, and how God meets us in every chapter of our lives. Plus, we get an inside look at her latest novel Green Pastures, a story about brokenness, sisterhood, and redemption in an Amish setting that feels both timeless and refreshingly real. Listen to the episode here. Meet Patricia Johns Patricia Johns is the author of over 56 inspirational, Amish, and sweet romance novels published through Harlequin Inc. and Bethany House Books. Her first romance through Harlequin came out in 2013, and since then she has grown to become a Publishers Weekly bestselling author with several new books coming out every year. She writes from Alberta, Canada, where she lives with her husband and son. Visit Patricia's website Follow Patricia Bible Verses for Encouragement Psalms 27:13 NKJV, I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living. I John 3:8, He who sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil. Patricia's New Book: Green Pastures Tabitha Schrock's return to Lancaster County shakes the foundations of her family and community. After her departure during rumspringa and a recent divorce, Tabitha faces the challenge of reintegrating into Amish society while pursuing her dream of working as a veterinarian. Meanwhile, her sister Amanda, whose own prospects were dimmed by Tabitha's leaving Shepherd's Hill, decides to seize her chance at love by pursuing a man with a shadowed past. And their youngest sister, Rose, despite her beauty and romantic hopes, faces the harsh realities of matrimony, grappling with the weight of vows made before Gott and her community. As the sisters navigate the intricacies of love, faith, and tradition, they are bound by their commitment to uphold their Amish way of life. But as they strive to keep their promises, how much are they willing to sacrifice to remain true to themselves and their community? Get your copy today! Amazon Baker Book House *As an Amazon affiliate I may earn from qualifying purchases Get updates on our themed book giveaways Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list. Kelly’s Personal Update Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you! If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon. I'll share more updates by joining my free email list and you'll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up
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    46 mins
  • Interview with Tracie Peterson: Finding Hope After Loss in Her New Book A Constant Love

    Interview with Tracie Peterson: Finding Hope After Loss in Her New Book A Constant Love
    Mar 31 2025
    In this heartfelt episode of The Christian Romance Podcast, bestselling author Tracie Peterson returns to share the story behind her new release, A Constant Love, part of the Hope of Cheyenne series. Tracie opens up about her incredible 30-year journey with Bethany House, the personal inspiration behind her latest book, and how faith has shaped her storytelling. Through deep conversations about grief, suicide, forgiveness, and God’s unshakeable love, Tracie reminds us that even in the darkest seasons, hope remains. Whether you’re walking through a storm or simply love a good redemption story, this episode is filled with encouragement, wisdom, and, yes—an unforgettable piece of pie. Trigger Warning: I want to gently let you know that today’s episode includes a brief discussion about suicide. If that’s a sensitive topic for you, please take care while listening or feel free to skip this one, we’re so grateful for you either way. If you or someone you know struggles with suicidal thoughts, please consider telling someone. Here is a great resource: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (U.S.):📞 Dial 988 or visit https://988lifeline.orgIf you or someone you love is struggling, you’re not alone. This free, confidential support is available 24/7. Listen to the episode here. Meet Tracie Peterson Tracie Peterson is the bestselling author of one-hundred forty-five novels, both historical and contemporary, with more than six million copies sold. She has won the ACFW Lifetime Achievement Award and the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award. Her avid research resonates in her many bestselling series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. Visit Tracie's website here Follow Tracie Bible Verse for Encouragement "For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."— Romans 8:38–39 (NKJV) Tracie's New Book: A Constant Love (Hope of Cheyenne Series, Book 1) In the aftermath of a devastating winter, Micah Hamilton and Charlotte Aldrich face the daunting task of rebuilding their lives and livelihoods. Grappling with grief and guilt, Micah retreats from the world, abandoning his father's dreams of a thriving ranch. Charlotte, harboring a lifelong love for Micah, is determined to help him rediscover hope and purpose. As their relationship deepens amidst shared heartache, unforeseen challenges arise. A jealous suitor threatens their budding romance, forcing Micah and Charlotte to confront their past and fight for their future. Their journey of healing and restoration unfolds against the backdrop of the burgeoning city of Cheyenne, weaving together themes of faith, perseverance, and the power of love. Get your copy today! Baker Book House Amazon *As an Amazon affiliate I may earn from qualifying purchases Get updates on our themed book giveaways Enter the most current book giveaway on ChristianRomancePodcast.com and sign up for our email list. Kelly’s Personal Update Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me during the Kickstarter! I’m so grateful for you! If you missed out on my debut novel Finding Forevermore on Kickstarter, no worries. You’ll have a chance to get the book at a later time once it officially launches across retailers like Amazon. I'll share more updates by joining my free email list and you'll get all kind of goodies! Visit my website here to sign up
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    38 mins
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