Created to Write

Nature, Grief and the Power of Personal Story

In this episode of Created to Write, Brisbane-based author and poet Diana Davidson brings a quietly profound perspective to the writing conversation, one rooted in nature, memory and the courage to document what hurts.

Her latest book Tickled Pink reflects her organic, pantser approach to creativity, allowing ideas to percolate naturally from simple observations and passing thoughts. It's faith-based writing that begins small and grows into something deeply universal.

The emotional heart of this conversation is Diana's experience documenting grief after losing her father, a pivotal moment that transformed her relationship with her craft and her own voice. For any new writer wondering whether their personal story is worth telling, Diana's answer is a resounding yes.

She also speaks practically about the discipline behind the art: meticulous editing, meeting deadlines, and embracing the solitary nature of writing with purpose. Because the best writing, she proves, bridges the gap between individual memory and shared human experience.

Diana Davison lives in Brisbane and is an author/poet. Her work has appeared in various short story and poetry anthology book publications plus online haiku journals. She was also long-listed in the Touchstone Individual Poetry Awards 2025. Diana remains inspired by nature, family and the constant changes life presents.

Diana Davison's book: https://amzn.to/4zS8XQY

Accidental Author, Global Impact: Summer Dey's Extraordinary Faith-Led Publishing Journey

In this episode of Created to Write, international bestselling author and ministry founder Summer Dey shares a publishing story that began with a single Facebook post and grew into something nobody saw coming.

A viral invitation to read the Bible together online blossomed into a massive global community, and Summer responded by creating what didn't yet exist: the first chronological Bible study journal. Ths faith-based writing was born entirely from obedience, and the impact has been worldwide.

Her practical advice for aspiring Christian authors is direct and actionable - invest in professional editing, design covers that stop the scroll, and never underestimate the power of filling a gap the market doesn't know it needs yet. For any beginner writer wondering where to start, Summer's accidental blueprint is surprisingly replicable.

Her mission extends well beyond books, encompassing atelevision series and a global commitment to helping others overcome fear through spiritual surrender. Creating with God, she proves, has no ceiling.

Her closing message to every creator sitting on a calling -obedience and courage are the only credentials you need.

Summer Dey is an award-winning TV Host & Producer, 6× bestselling author, and 2-Comma Club Award recipient, who has founded multiple 7-figure businesses. She has shared the stage with world-renowned leaders, including Les Brown, John Maxwell, Kevin Harrington, and several others. Founder of the Fear Into Faith Movement, her TV shows and ministry have exposed over 4+ million people to reading the Bible. Summer and her team lead Faith Activation e & mission trips where people get equipped to boldly walk out their faith and live & lead from their God-given identity and calling.

Books by Summer Dey: https://amzn.to/3Urt1tu

https://powertoforgive.com/

https://fearintofaith.com/

https://summerdey.com/

Are you a Christian writer holding onto a book idea that you haven’t sat down to finish? Life moves fast, and the world is already flooded with substandard books - we need authentic, faith-based, spirit-led stories now more than ever.

In this moving episode of Created to Write, host Michelle Dennis Evans opens up about personal loss, overcoming creative stagnation, and why your writing calling isn’t just for you - it’s meant to impact someone else’s life. Whether you are a beginner writer or an aspiring author, learn practical strategies to beat writer's block, stay consistent, and take your writing seriously.

If you are one of the many creatives ready to stop overthinking and start producing meaningful books, this episode will give you the exact push you need.

Books by Michelle Dennis Evans

Books by Guests on the Created to Write Podcast

What do you do when God calls you to write, but writing is your weakest skill? In this episode of the Created to Write Show, host Michelle Dennis Evans sits down with author, blogger, and podcaster Karen Roper to discuss stepping into your calling despite feeling unqualified. Karen shares her personal journey of battling self-doubt, relying on divine grace over natural talent, and discovering the profound power of community among Christian writers.

The conversation explores Karen's published works, including From Egypt to the Promised Land and From the Prison to the Palace, which examine emotional healing and legacy through the lens of biblical narrative. Karen also gives an inside look into her upcoming fiction project, Daughters of the King, which reimagines the lives of biblical women for modern readers. Whether you are an aspiring author facing imposter syndrome, an introvert seeking encouragement, or a creative looking to deepen your faith walk, this conversation offers practical wisdom and inspiration for your writing journey.

Listen in to discover how to trust God with your weak spots, embrace the supportive network around you, and step confidently into the work you were created to write. Be sure to connect with Karen Roper online, explore her books, and subscribe to the podcast for more inspiring conversations on faith, purpose, and the creative process.

Books by Karen Roper: https://amzn.to/46wYdtY

From Harlequin to Indie: Narelle Atkins on the Real Business of Christian Romance Writing

In this episode of Created to Write, prolific author and mentor Narelle Atkins pulls back the curtain on what it actually takes to build a sustainable career in Christian writing and she doesn't sugarcoat a thing.

Narelle's journey from traditional publishing with Harlequin to the world of independent publishing is a masterclass in adaptability, creative courage, and creating with God at everystage of the process. She knows both worlds intimately, and her insights are worth their weight in book sales.

For anyone beginning out as an aspiring author or new to writing and navigating the industry for the first time, her warnings about vanity publishing and predatory industry practices are essential listening. Pair that with her practical guidance on market research and cost-effective book production, and this episode becomes one of the mostuseful career conversations we've had on the show.

Narelle also speaks with rare honesty about managing creative blocks during personal hardship - a reminder that writing with purpose doesn't pause for difficult seasons, but it does require grace, community, and realistic expectations.

Whether you're dreaming of a traditional deal or going indie, Narelle's advice is clear: know your market, find your people, and never stop honing the craft.

A fun loving Aussie girl at heart, NARELLE ATKINS was born and raised on the beautiful northern beaches in Sydney, Australia. She has settled in Canberra with her husband and children. A lifelong romance reader, she found the perfect genre to write when she discovered inspirational romance. Narelle's contemporary stories of faith and romance are set in
Australia and international locations. In 2025 she launched her Fan Girling with Narelle podcast and YouTube show where she shares her love for books. Narelle offers mentoring services for writers. 

Website: https://narelleatkins.com
YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/@NarelleAtkinsAuthor

Are you waiting for permission to call yourself a writer or an author? In this episode of Created to Write, host Michelle Dennis Evans shares her personal journey of overcoming early criticism, rebuilding creative confidence after 15 years, and stepping into the identity God designed for you.

If you’ve struggled with self-doubt, lack of encouragement, or imposter syndrome, learn how to reframe your mindset, speak your creative dreams into reality, and take practical steps - like submitting to anthologies to become a published author.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why writing isn't just a skill, but a mindset you "put on."

• How to speak your goals into existence before feeling fully ready.

• Simple, actionable paths to becoming a published author.

• How to protect your creative vision when others discourage you.

Books by Michelle Dennis Evans

Books by Guests on the Created to Write Podcast

Are You Letting Fear Stop You From Writing the Book God Put on Your Heart?

In this episode of Created to Write, we sit down with Australian fantasy author Cathryn deVries to talk about crushing imposter syndrome, overcoming the fear of criticism, and finally getting your book into the world.

If you are a beginner writer or completely new to writing, navigating the creative world can feel incredibly isolating. Cathryn's journey from engineering and homeschooling to transforming a family Dungeons & Dragons game into an epic fantasy trilogy is proof that your background is never a barrier to your calling.

We dive deep into what it truly means to be a Christian writer practising faith-based writing — how to start creating with God, find your unique voice, and embrace writing with purpose. Whether you are searching for community among fellow Christian authors or practical tips on how to start without losing your mind, this episode will give you the confidence to step out of isolation and into your calling.

Tune in and silence your inner critic. It's time to write with God.

Cathryn deVries is a multi-award-winning fantasy and sci-fi author who explores themes of restorative justice, empowerment, earth/spirit connection, and finding the true self—inside an epic package of immersive world-building and clean romance. A former Air Force engineer and recovering perfectionist, she now homeschools her children, two of whom are on the autism spectrum. She and her family live in the Gold Coast Hinterland of Australia, where she enjoys living in a rainforest and pretending she’s an elf.

Cathryn deVries books: https://amzn.to/4gva5Tb

Website: https://eclectaperennial.com

Instagram: @_eclecta_perennial_books

Facebook: Eclecta Perennial

Goodreads: Cathryn deVries

BookBub: Cathryn deVries

Why slowing down and going deep beats churning out mediocre books.

Pastor, Dad and Sci-Fi Author: Dave Hayes on writing wholesome fiction with Gospel depth. In this episode of Created to Write, author and pastor Dave Hayes brings a refreshingly grounded perspective to the world of Christian writing, one motivated not by platform or profit but by a desire to put good books in his own teenagers' hands.

His three self-published novels span science fiction, alien thrillers and role-playing fantasy, each shaped by a Christian author process built on the classic three-act framework. But Dave is quick to admit his characters don't always follow the plan, and some of the best moments come from letting them surprise him.

Faith runs deep in his storytelling. His protagonists tend toward humility and redemption, gospel themes woven naturally into genre fiction without feeling forced. It's faith-based writing that entertains first and transforms quietly.

His advice to every aspiring author is countercultural and wise, slow down, master the craft before rushing to publish, and remember that every large creative undertaking begins with a single step.

Dave Hayes writes fast-paced action-adventure full of friendship, honour, and quests that actually mean something.If you’re hunting for a book your teenager will actually finish, D. Hayes is exactly the author you’re looking for. His stories are built around things that matter: sacrifice, friendship, justice, and heroes worth following. They move fast, hit hard, and don’t let up — perfect for readers who need momentum to stay hooked. Based in regional Australia, Dave writes clean, values-driven adventures that parents trust and teenagers actually want to read. The kind of book that gets finished, then handed to a mate. When he’s not writing, he serves as a pastor in regional Australia. Dave sees his role as equipping God’s people to be ready and raring to serve Jesus.

Dave Hayes's books: https://amzn.to/4zLlDcp or https://thespeculativehayes.com

Dave's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@dave_hayes

Have you ever said, "I’ve got a book inside me," but felt completely stuck, overwhelmed, or afraid to start? You are not alone. In this episode of Created to Write, host Michelle Dennis Evans breaks down the hidden fears keeping aspiring authors stuck—from the fear of rejection and negative reviews to not knowing how to get your words published. Discover how to label your fears, replace doubt with scripture, and rewire your mindset using practical strategies like "Face Everything And Rise." Whether you need guidance on connecting with local writers' groups or shifting your internal dialogue through biblical truth, this episode provides the exact tools you need to move from a blank page to a finished manuscript. If you are ready to stop letting fear steal your story and start creating words that impact the world, press play and connect with Michelle today for author coaching.

Books by Michelle Dennis Evans

When 15-year-old Bethany Wake was diagnosed with a rare brain cancer, she faced her journey with extraordinary faith, hope, and beauty. During her battle, her mother Lynda Wake acted as her scribe, capturing her innermost thoughts in personal journals. After Bethany passed away, Lynda discovered a profound entry left by her daughter—a request to share what Jesus taught her through suffering so others might find hope.

In this moving episode of Created to Write, host Michelle Dennis Evans sits down with pastoral care worker and author Lynda Wake. Lynda shares how honoring her daughter's final wish led to the creation of her award-winning devotional journal, Heartbreakingly Beautiful, and her follow-up book, Waiting Well with Jesus.

Tune in as Lynda opens up about processing deep grief, overcoming author imposter syndrome, and discovering how God works through seasons of waiting. She also offers an exclusive preview of her upcoming book, Still Waiting with Jesus, and gives encouraging, practical advice for Christian writers navigating delay, doubt, and dry seasons in their calling.

Whether you are navigating severe loss, carrying a long-held dream, or seeking spiritual discipline in the quiet moments of life, this conversation will inspire you to trust God’s timing and write from a place of deep intimacy with Him.

Be sure to follow, rate, and review the show on Spotify so you never miss an inspiring conversation!

Lynda Wake's book: https://link.amazon/B0dKOEtnI