In this episode of the Christian Romance Podcast, Kelly chats with author Ann Swindell about her journey from nonfiction to fiction writing and her passion for weaving gospel themes into compelling stories. Together, they discuss the spiritual and emotional challenges faced by Ellie, the protagonist in Ann’s historical fiction novel Christmas in the Castle Library, as she uncovers the mystery of a missing queen while wrestling with themes of body image, self-worth, and the transformative power of love. Ann also shares insights into blending real history with creative storytelling and her mission to empower women writers through her online ministry, Writing with Grace. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about finding strength in weakness, embracing your unique story, and discovering the redeeming love of God.

Listen to the episode here.

ANN SWINDELL writes stories that point to Christ’s presence in our day-to-day lives and the hope He brings to our hearts. She is the author of multiple books and the owner of Writing with Grace, where she teaches Christ-centered writing classes for women. Ann lives in West Michigan, and she enjoys adventuring with her family…usually with a cup of Earl Grey tea in hand. 

Visit Ann at her website: AnnSwindell.com

Check out Ann’s Writing With Grace ministry

Follow Ann

1 John 4:15, NKJV Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.

Matthew 6:25, NKJV Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?

Ellie Sawyer has always felt more comfortable with books than people, which explains why she’s a PhD history student neck deep in research and trying to complete her doctoral dissertation in time to graduate. But the final books she needs are half a world away in the tiny European kingdom of Lethersby, and the only time she can access the secretive Royal Castle Library is during the Christmas holiday.

Ellie is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery that has eluded Lethersby scholars for more than 100 hundred years by figuring out what happened to their long-lost queen, a young royal who disappeared shortly after the outbreak of the First World War. With the help of Mark, a handsome castle staff member who shares her love of history, she might be able to unravel the queen’s story. But Mark is keeping his own secret from her, and what they discover together could change everything for Ellie—and the entire kingdom.

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My debut novel, Finding Forevermore, is coming to Kickstarter on January 23rd, 2025! Click Notify Me on Launch to get updates when it goes live.

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