Some of the most powerful stories in Scripture belong to people we know the least about. In this Summer Reading Series Gem from the Archives, bestselling biblical fiction author Heather Kaufman joins me to talk about her novel Before the King, inspired by Joanna, one of the women who faithfully followed Jesus.

Ever have a dream that seems to take much longer than you expected?

Need a little escape into a happily-ever-after? Sometimes life leaves us discouraged, overwhelmed, and questioning whether our dreams are worth pursuing. In this encouraging conversation, bestselling author Pepper Basham reminds us that God places unique gifts and passions in our hearts for a reason—and our calling is to be faithful with them, writing, creating, and serving for an audience of One.

Have you ever felt trapped by anxiety or overwhelmed by fear? You're not alone—and neither was bestselling biblical fiction author Tessa Afshar.

In this episode of A Woman’s Heart Summer Reading Series, Lisa Granger welcomes author, podcaster, coach, and speaker Rebecca George. Rebecca shares the journey behind her new children's book, Jasper Meets Sparkle, and the lessons she learned through the self-publishing process. From trusting God's timing and provision to overcoming fear and comparison, Rebecca offers encouragement for anyone pursuing a dream or calling God has placed on their heart.

Award-winning author Jamie Ogle joins me for this Summer Reading Series conversation to discuss her latest novel, Daughter of the Rebellion. Set in the Roman Empire, the story combines historical details with powerful themes of faith, courage, grace, and redemption.

Jamie shares how an unexpected research project on the origins of Valentine's Day led her from writing colonial-era fiction to exploring the fascinating world of ancient Rome. Our conversation explores the themes of guilt, shame, forgiveness, and the transformative power of God's love. Jamie also discusses the challenges faced by the early church and why those struggles remain relevant for believers today.

In addition, Jamie opens up about her own publishing journey, including years of rejection before finding the right agent. Her story is a powerful reminder to trust God's timing, persevere through setbacks, and allow Him to shape us through every season.

Key takeaways:

Jamie Ogle is an award-winning author of historical fiction filled with danger, courageous rebels, and deep faith. Inspired by family stories of grit, adventure, and perseverance, as well as missionary tales of courage and sacrifice, she developed a lifelong love of history and storytelling. Jamie studied English and writing at Iowa State University and lives in central Iowa with her husband and three children, where they enjoy gardening, beekeeping, homeschooling, and exploring the outdoors.

Connect with Jamie and learn more about her books at https://www.jamieogle.com/

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Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com 

What happens when God calls you to step out in faith and onto an unexpected path?

In this episode of A Woman's Heart, Lisa Granger welcomes bestselling author Jane Kirkpatrick to the Summer Reading Series. Jane shares her remarkable journey from clinical social worker and mental health professional to homesteader, rancher, and award-winning novelist. She opens up about a life-changing spiritual experience that led her and her husband to leave the familiar behind and embrace a challenging homesteading life on a remote Oregon ranch.

Jane also discusses how her writing career began unexpectedly, the inspiration behind her historical novels, and the powerful real-life stories that shape her fiction. From researching historical figures to exploring themes of faith, resilience, community, and healing, Jane offers encouragement for anyone navigating life's unexpected detours.

The conversation also highlights her latest novel, With the Enduring Tides, a compelling story inspired by real people and events along the Oregon coast.

3 Key Takeaways

About Jane Kirkpatrick

Jane Kirkpatrick is a New York Times and CBA bestselling, award-winning author of more than forty books. Her works have received numerous honors, including the WILLA Literary Award, the Carol Award for Historical Fiction, and five Will Rogers Gold Medallion Awards. Jane lives in Central Oregon with her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Rupert.

Learn more at https://jkbooks.com/

Summer Reading List

Looking for more inspiring reads this summer? Grab your free summer reading guide!

For more encouraging conversations that inspire women to pursue the passion God has placed in their hearts, visit LisaGranger.com.

Because God has placed something precious in every woman's heart.

What happens when God's plan looks different from the one you carefully mapped out?

On this episode of A Woman's Heart, Lisa Granger welcomes bestselling author Tracie Peterson, often called the Queen of Historical Christian Fiction. With more than 150 books to her name, Tracie shares her journey of discovering God's calling, navigating unexpected detours, and using storytelling as a ministry to encourage readers and share the hope of the Gospel.

Tracie discusses her latest novel and the powerful themes of forgiveness, purpose, and obedience woven throughout the story. Drawing from her own experiences, she reflects on seasons when God's plans differed from her expectations and how learning to remain flexible and faithful opened doors she never imagined.

Whether you're a reader, writer, or someone seeking clarity about your next step, this conversation will encourage you to trust God's direction and remain open to His purpose for your life.

3 Key Takeaways from This Episode

Like the character Evie in Tracie's novel, many of us discover that God's calling doesn't always follow the path we envisioned. True fulfillment comes when we remain open and pliable to His leading rather than clinging to our own plans.

Tracie's writing career began through small opportunities and faithful obedience. She reminds us that God frequently works through seemingly insignificant steps to accomplish His greater purpose.

Through personal loss, family health challenges, and life's hardships, Tracie has experienced how God uses difficult seasons to strengthen faith, develop compassion, and equip us to minister to others.

About Tracie Peterson

Tracie Peterson gave her life to Jesus at the age of six. She knew from an early age that God was calling her to ministry, and writing for Him has allowed her to share the Gospel message while encouraging readers to place their hope in the Lord. Her motto in writing and in life is Soli Deo Gloria—"For God Alone the Glory." Often called the "Queen of Historical Christian Fiction," Tracie is an ECPA, CBA, and USA Today bestselling author of more than 150 books, most of them historical novels that combine compelling storytelling with faith-filled inspiration.

Connect with Tracie Peterson

Summer Reading List

Looking for more great Christian fiction and nonfiction recommendations this summer?

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If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. You can find more inspiring conversations and resources at www.lisagranger.com.

Because God has placed something precious in every woman's heart.

What stories have shaped your life—and which ones have yet to be told?

In this episode of A Woman's Heart, Lisa welcomes Christy Award-winning author Sara Brunsvold to discuss her novel, Atlas of Untold Stories. Sara shares the inspiration behind a story that follows a mother and her two grown daughters on a literary road trip through the Midwest, exploring themes of family legacy, healing, identity, and faith.

Drawing from her love of literature, her Midwestern roots, and her own journey as a writer, Sara offers insight into the powerful influence of family stories and the importance of creating space for meaningful conversations. Together, Lisa and Sara discuss the generational beliefs we inherit, the courage it takes to challenge limiting mindsets, and the beauty of pursuing God-given passions with purpose.

Listeners will be encouraged to reflect on the stories that have shaped them and consider how God may be writing a new chapter in their own lives.

Three Key Takeaways

Sara encourages readers to create space for vulnerable conversations with loved ones. Through patience, grace, and a willingness to listen, family stories that have remained hidden can become pathways to understanding and healing.

One of the memorable themes from Atlas of Untold Stories is the idea that "until the fear is quieted, the hope can't be heard." The novel explores how fear can shape generations and how faith helps us move forward into freedom and hope.

Sara shares her personal journey of becoming a novelist despite practical concerns and discouragement. She encourages listeners to keep God at the center of their dreams, seek His guidance, and trust Him with the outcome.

About Sara Brunsvold

Sara Brunsvold (pronounced Bruns—as in "bRUN"—vold as in "vOLD") is the Christy Award-winning author of The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip and The Divine Proverb of Streusel. She creates stories that boldly engage contemporary issues through the lens of hope and unshakable faith. Her passion is to connect with readers first through books and then through meaningful conversation. Sara lives with her family in Kansas.

Connect with Sara: https://sarabrunsvold.com/

Get your free Summer Reading list: www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading

Because God has placed something precious in every woman's heart.

On this episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa sits down with award-winning children’s author Liz A. Pitman to talk about identity in Christ, purpose, and helping children understand their God-given worth from an early age.

Liz shares the powerful story behind her beloved “Pete the Puzzle Piece” series and how a simple puzzle piece moment became the inspiration for a ministry focused on reminding children — and adults — that they are deeply loved, uniquely created, and valuable in God’s eyes.

Throughout the conversation, Liz opens up about overcoming doubt during the writing process, trusting God through challenges, and recognizing the “God winks” that confirmed she was walking in His purpose. She also encourages parents to intentionally build a strong spiritual foundation in their children’s lives by helping them understand their identity in Christ.

This uplifting conversation is a reminder that no matter your age, your value is not based on performance or comparison — you are God’s masterPIECE.

3 Key Takeaways

About Liz Pitman:

Liz A. Pitman is an award-winning author, speaker, and founder of Puzzle Piece Productions and Publications. Her award-winning book Where Is the Missing Puzzle Piece? encourages children and families to discover their identity, purpose, and worth in Christ, reminding every “puzzle piece” they are loved, valuable, and God’s masterPIECE. For more information about her books and resources, or to schedule Liz for a reading or speaking engagement, visit petethepuzzlepiece.com. 

For the Summer Reading List: www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading