The 'Reader's Digest Condensed' show notes:

Katie welcomes bestselling Christian novelist T.I. Lowe to discuss addiction, second chances, and slow, messy transformation in her new Christian novel, South of Somewhere (releasing March 10). 

Unabridged show notes:

On this episode, we talk about Christian fiction, addiction recovery, and walking through a “thorn” season with biblical hope. First, Katie shares a short review of "Crime and Punishment" by Fyodor Dostoevsky — a classic exploration of guilt, conscience, and the slow burn of spiritual awakening.

Then Katie is joined by T. I. Lowe, author of the Christy Award–winning "Indigo Isle" and the new novel "South of Somewhere." If you’ve ever struggled with shame, walked with someone battling addiction, or wondered whether God still works in the “thorn” seasons of life — this episode will encourage your heart. His grace is enough!

In this episode:

Classic book review: Crime and Punishment

• Why this 19th-century Russian novel still grips modern readers
• The psychological toll of guilt and conscience
• The glimpse of redemption at the end (no spoilers)
• What this story reveals about morality and the human heart

Meet T.I. Lowe

• 21+ novels in Christian fiction
• Winner of the 2024 Christy Award for "Indigo Isle"
• Writing from coastal South Carolina
• Why she uses her initials (and discovering rapper T.I.!)

Writing from real-life grief

• The personal loss that shaped "South of Somewhere"
• Seeking understanding instead of judgment
• Writing from the addict’s point of view

Faith and slow transformation

• The importance of Christian community
• The church as a hospital
• 2 Corinthians 12 and the "thorn"

Romance, hope, and second chances

• A sweet next-door neighbor romance
• Redemption without unrealistic perfection
• The connection to South Carolina's state motto

Books mentioned:

• Crime and Punishment – Fyodor Dostoevsky
• South of Somewhere – T.I. Lowe
• Indigo Isle – T.I. Lowe

Scripture mentioned:

• Moses' hesitation and speech struggle: Exodus 4:10-17
• Paul's thorn: 2 Corinthians 12:6-10

Who this episode is for:

• Believers walking with someone battling addiction
• Readers who love Christian fiction
• Anyone in a “thorn” season
• Book clubs looking for meaningful discussion

Connect with T.I. Lowe:

• Instagram: @tilowe
• Facebook: T.I. Lowe
• Website: tilowe.com

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A question to reflect on:

What “thorn” season has God used to deepen your faith?