Talkshow Thursday: A Guest Post by MJ Elliott

 

Talkshow Thursday: 

A Guest Post by MJ Elliott

When I started writing The Hope of Inheritance, I had a solid direction. The story I wanted to write was beautiful, and the message was so clear that I never imagined it would change. When the prologue of the story was written in 2023, nothing compared to what it became. My vision was a character-driven adventure about what life in the early church was all about.

The story that revealed itself to me along the way was so much deeper. Character arcs that I mapped out were filled with people overcoming everything to win in the end. Every chapter led to the ultimate happy ending, and I thought it would be the easiest story I would ever write. If you have read The Hope of Inheritance, you know that is not how it all reads.

Instead, the story became a dark epic detailing many of the worst moments of that time. Every time I picked up a history book or an article to read, I found something even darker that I felt compelled to write into the story. Everything suddenly became more real. I found myself in tears many times just thinking about the pain and suffering the early believers endured because of their beliefs.

If you have read the story, you know how important Theophilus is to it. He didn't exist in The World of

Kedoshim until I was halfway through the outline. The letters that Luke writes in the story to him were only added in the last six months of writing the story. It changed the premise of what I was writing. Those letters became one of the most important aspects of the novel, and who writes a story with letters?

Even after he found his way into the story, there was a point where I wanted to send the narrator, Nathaniel, back to Caesarea with Theophilus and his family. In the end, something tugged at me to keep the focus on Rome. When I let that go and focused more on Rome, the entire plot with Lysias unraveled overnight. I read my devotions one night, and hours later, Lysias had become the antagonist.

His whole arc kept playing on repeat in my dreams. I did not know why his story mattered then, but now, his story even has a role in my next book. There were so many of these moments that shaped what The Hope of Inheritance became. In discovering them, I knew everyone mattered, even the characters most people would forget, like Rohn and the scribes.

These moments taught me much about the way the church lived and breathed during the reign of Nero, and there is so much more to learn. What I felt and imagined through many of the changes that found their way into this novel opened my eyes to an entirely unexpected world. Letting go of scenes I loved from the original manuscript gave me the freedom to explore deeper truths that others typically avoid.

In the end, the hope I meant for one or two characters to find throughout the story became the hope that this community of believers needed. Better yet, it reminded me of the hope I had lost. Sometimes battles are fought in the public eye, but more often they are fought within.

The Hope of Inheritance that the characters found in the closing narrative was not found in the ongoing wars taking place all around them; it came from something much more valuable: a faith-filled community coming together despite everything they endured. That is something our world could use a little more of, and that matters to the story being written through our own lives.

About The Hope of Inheritance

One Story Still Untold. Four Unlikely Authors. Together their Message will Speak to Many.

The city of Rome was a vast and beautiful place-- on the surface. That is until a great fire burned and destroyed most of it. Deep in a world hidden from those who would strike against them, four unlikely men work together to share a message of truth. This truth was spoken by those who were cut down because of the calling to go forth and preach. The message has always been clear; The hope of our inheritance is Christ living within each of us.

In the echoes of persecution, sorrow, and even death, this message still reigns supreme, but will the people listen? Only time will tell, but before anything, these four men must come together and unite a church separated by fear and suffering. Each one of these men has endured their own journey for such a time as this, and have been given a different message they were called to teach. Together, they must rebuild what has been lost as they face the painful circumstances of the world they have inherited from the founders of their faith.

Silas, Luke, John-Mark, and Timothy, all knew Peter and Paul and the message God spoke through them. The time for these four individuals to stand in the gap between faith and reality has finally come. Will they complete this mysterious letter before they are all killed just like those who came before them? This story is the epic journey these four brothers in Christ, and their scribe, experienced as God prepared their hearts to write that Letter and how HE led them through it. Are you ready for the Journey?

Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/4obz0gJ

About MJ Elliott

Matthew James Elliott (M.J. Elliott) is an award-winning, dedicated writer with a strong passion for spreading the word of Christ. Matthew has spent 15 years serving in different types of ministries, both as a volunteer and a minister of the Gospel. Although he was never ordained, his experiences have given him a deep understanding of what ministry is all about and how it has evolved over time. His degree in Biblical Studies is from Oklahoma Wesleyan University and emphasizes Pastoral Care, Christian Education, and Worship.

Matthew is happily married to Traci, and they have three delightful children: Leyla, Caleb, and Hannah, who bring them immense joy and inspiration. Matthew's books aspire to minister to believers with love, equip them for service in God's glory, and nurture the body of Christ with edification through His work. He hopes that all who read his content will feel the loving touch of God's encouragement and guidance.

Website: https://www.mjelliott-author.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WritingtheJourney

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/matthew-james-elliott

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16315033.Matthew_James_Elliott

Photo credits:

Author photo and book image: Courtesy MJ Elliott

Jordan Petra: Pixabay/Plukje

Jerusalem: Pixabay/IrinaUzv

On Tour! The Last Disciple

 

On Tour! The Last Disciple

About the Book

Book: The Last Disciple: Sharing the Gospel (The Last Disciple Book 5)

Author: Kurt Brouwer

Genre: Biblical Fiction

Release Date: December 19, 2025

Discover the Untold Story of Sharing the Gospel Message

John, the last disciple of Christ, holds the completed Gospel of John in his hand. But when an earthquake strikes, he and his two scribes, Emmaus and Avram, must fight fire and destruction to preserve the precious scroll.

The epic saga of the Last Disciple continues in this captivating new Christian historical novel from Kurt Brouwer.

Stand With John the Last Disciple of Christ

John had followed Jesus for three years. He saw the Son of God sacrifice his life on the Cross; he entered the empty tomb after Jesus rose from the grave; and he watched his Lord and Savior ascend to heaven from the Mount of Olives.

Now his mission is to share his eyewitness account of Jesus with believers throughout the Roman Empire. In the face of grave difficulties, God provides help from two surprising sources. Tiberius Celsus, a Roman officer and unlikely ally, brings a copy of the Gospel of John all the way from Ephesus to the believers in Antioch. And the Apostle Timothy helps John fulfill his divine mission of sharing the story of Christ with believers in Ephesus.

Temptation And Betrayal Plague Believers

John also faces human fear and frailty among believers. Archelaus, a wine merchant, resists temptation and returns to the faith. Diotrephes, a former church leader, betrays both his faith and his fellow believers.

If you’re struggling with doubt, searching for meaning, or are hungry to deepen your faith, The Last Disciple: Sharing the Gospel is the Christian novel you’ve been waiting for—biblically accurate fiction that strengthens and informs your faith.

Have you ever wondered what it truly cost to preserve, protect, and share Scripture? Do you long to experience the unwavering devotion of the early Christians? The Last Disciple: Sharing the Gospel will help you transform and renew your spiritual journey.

Don’t miss this fascinating tale of believers uniting to share the gospel message of salvation and the hope and promise of eternal life.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author

Kurt just released The Last Disciple: Sharing the Gospel on Amazon in both ebook and paperback versions. Amazon tagged it as the #1 New Release in Christian Classics & Allegories. This is the fifth book in the epic saga of the Apostle John, the last disciple of Christ.

By way of background, Kurt retired a few years back as the chairman and co-founder of an investment management / financial advisory firm in California. He spent 36 years in that industry, the last 27 in the firm he founded. Over that time, he also wrote two investment books and articles in publications ranging from Forbes to the San Francisco Chronicle to Pension World. But now that’s ancient history. Kurt lives a quiet life with his wife so he should be hanging out at the beach, playing golf, and taking it easy, right?

Well, he does all that from time to time, but what gets him fired up these days is writing The Last Disciple Series of Christian historical novels as well as penning periodic blog posts on his web site.

An Interview with Kurt:

What is your favorite thing about being a writer?

Having a never-ending string of tasks I need to have done last week or yesterday at the latest. But seriously, I love researching and writing about the first century Christians. Not just important Biblical characters like the Apostle John, but also ordinary people who lived and loved and believed in Jesus.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

Understanding the history of those days in the first century AD takes a great deal of time and effort. Studying those days can turn up confusing or even contradictory things. I often run into people who “know” a factoid about Sunday worship, Emperor Constantine, the life of Mary the mother of Jesus, or some other topic. As a famous president once said, “It’s not what you don’t know that hurts you; it’s what you know that ain’t so.” –President Ronald Reagan

As humans we are prone to erroneous thinking because we slap our own beliefs and thoughts and rules on people from earlier times.

Consider the lives and thoughts of two first century Christians–A Greek shepherd living near Laodicea in what is now Turkey versus a Messianic Jewish scholar living in Jerusalem. Their respective days of worship, types of prayer, chosen language, reading ability and much more would likely be quite different. Yet I have had people like to lump these folks into one batch. They all worshiped on the Sabbath (Saturday) or they were all pacifists like Jesus. Or, everyone knows Mary moved to Ephesus with John…

Can you share a real-life event that inspired your writing?

Early one morning when it was still dark outside, I was reading and researching books of the Bible. I read a short piece from BibleGateway.com that showed estimated dates when New Testament books were published. One thing struck me then and I couldn’t stop thinking about it. The Gospel of John was probably published fifty years or more after the Crucifixion of Christ! I could not stop wondering what John did all those years? Where did he live? Why did it take so long to write the fourth gospel? 

My fascination with the life of the Apostle John led me to seek answers to these questions and I found the Bible to be pretty limited on the actual life of John. Early Christians covered him, but they contradicted each other. I was frustrated because I really wanted to ‘know’ more about him. But knowing involved researching and also making decisions about what was likely true and what was not. However, in order to make those decisions, I need to know more, to research more, to really understand the lives of the first Christians. As I went forward, I felt called to create this series of Christian historical novels about John, the last disciple.

What was the best money you spent as a writer?

Buying books about John and the lives of the early Christians. I have a research resources appendix in each of my books that spells out my sources.

How do you come up with story lines/book topic?

I have just taken John’s life and extrapolated where he might have gone, what he did. I have a theme that runs through them–the books John wrote.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, April 17

Simple Harvest Reads, April 18 (Author Interview)

Artistic Nobody, April 19 (Author Interview)

Mrs. Ryan Moser’s Book and Movie Reviews, April 19

Guild Master, April 20 (Author Interview)

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 21

Fiction Book Lover, April 22 (Author Interview)

Books, Books, & More Books, April 23 (Author Interview)

A Modern Day Fairy Tale, April 24 (Author Interview)

Texas Book-aholic, April 25

Books Less Travelled, April 26 (Author Interview)

History, Hope & Happily Ever After, April 27 (Author Interview)

Mary Hake, April 27

Paula’s Pad of Inspiration, April 28 (Author Interview)

Lights in a Dark World, April 29

Stories By Gina, April 30 (Author Interview) 

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Kurt is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://gleam.io/ecRzf/the-last-disciple-sharing-the-gospel-celebration-tour-giveaway

Talkshow Thursday: An Interview with Liisa Eyerly

Talkshow Thursday:

An Interview with Liisa Eyerly 

I "met" Liisa a few months ago when she joined Heroes, Heroines, and History as a fellow blogger. She writes biblical fiction that is excellent! Grab a "cuppa" and get to know this intriguing lady.

What is your favorite thing about being a writer?

Research—hands down. Writing gives me permission to chase questions most people might casually wonder about but never pause to explore. That curiosity has carried me to Italy, Greece, and Ephesus in modern-day Türkiye, where apostles once lived and preached.

Layer by layer, I reconstruct Sabina’s first-century world through everyday details: spiced wine paired with flamingo-tongue appetizers, vibrantly dyed tunics, the echo of conversation in marble bathhouses. Studying artifacts in museums and walking ancient streets helps me sense the textures and rhythms of her world—and my hope is that readers sense them too.

What sort of research did you do, and was there an especially interesting tidbit you included?

One favorite resource is Biblical Archaeology Review. They reported on a small coin unearthed near

Jerusalem from the Jewish revolt of AD 67–71. Its inscription boldly anticipated a Jewish victory over Rome—a triumph that never came. That fragile piece of misplaced hope captivated me. I wove it into the opening scene of Obedient Unto Death, and it resurfaces in later books as a key clue. There’s something deeply satisfying about breathing story back into a forgotten artifact.

How did you learn to write?

Mostly by reading—constantly. Authors have unique styles, and over time, I learned from the ones I loved. I’ve attended writers’ conferences, filled shelves with books on structure and character arcs, and studied techniques for increasing tension and crafting strong openings. Writing is a lifelong apprenticeship. And it always circles back to the same advice: read, read, read.

Do you hear from your readers? What do they say?

Yes—and it never gets old. My newsletter community continues to grow, and thoughtful reviews on Goodreads and Amazon encourage me more than I can say. Readers tell me they’ve fallen in love with Sabina and appreciate a strong female protagonist navigating first-century Ephesus. I love hearing, “I didn’t see that twist coming!” But perhaps the most meaningful feedback is when readers say the stories helped them see early Christians—and familiar history—in a new light. If a mystery can both entertain and illuminate, I feel I’ve done my job.

What draws you to this time period?

My love of historical mysteries collided with my faith when I realized Roman-era novels rarely included Christian characters. Yet the New Testament pulses with drama, danger, betrayal, and a faith bold enough to defy an empire.

Who were the men and women willing to risk death rather than renounce their beliefs? Those questions wouldn’t leave me alone. When I couldn’t find the stories I wanted to read, I decided to write them.

Can you share a real-life event that inspired you?

A conversation with my son sparked something profound. He mentioned a friend who lost his faith after reading The Da Vinci Code. That moment showed me how powerful stories can be—not just to entertain, but to shape belief.

Authors like Francine Rivers, Taylor Caldwell, and Tosca Lee strengthened my faith through fiction. I began asking: if a secular mystery can unsettle faith, could a well-researched mystery strengthen it? That question became my assignment.

How do you come up with storylines?

I start with a cultural or religious tension point that won’t leave me alone and assign it to a character—often the victim. Then I ask: who has the most to lose if the truth comes out? In a mystery, that’s usually the killer. From there, I weave motives, red herrings, and emotional stakes around a beginning and an ending I already know.

How many books have you written, and which is your favorite?

Two novels in the Secrets of Ephesus series are published: Obedient Unto Death and Fortunes of Death. The third, Powers of Death, releases this August.

My favorite? Always the one I’m writing. The plotting, the scheming, the layering of clues—and the chance to dive deeper into history and the human heart—keep each new book fresh and exhilarating.

BOOK BLURB:

Winner of the Eric Hoffer First Horizon Award, Obedient Unto Death launches a gripping historical mystery series set in the perilous world of first-century Rome. In Fortunes of Death, fearless Christian sleuth Sabina returns—risking everything to expose murder, magic, and corruption beneath the empire’s glittering surface. With rich historical detail and powerful spiritual themes, author Liisa Eyerly delivers intrigue, danger, and hope in equal measure. Reviewer Deborah Anne raves: “Murder mystery—Intrigue—Love—Fellowship through Christ. This series has it all! Eyerly is wonderful! If you’re tired of boring—read this series! I love a good mystery!” Prepare to be hooked!

Crossriver Media:   https://www.crossrivermedia.com/product/fortunes-of-death/
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Di2gyQ
Website: http://www.LiisaEyerly.com
Author Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/liisa.eyerly

Photo credits:

Author photo and book images: courtesy of Liisa Eyerly

Shekels: Pixabay/Ri Bhutov

Petra Jordan Treasure House: Pixabay/Chiem Seherin

Fiction Friday: The Ephesus Pages

The Ephesus Pages

By MJ Elliott

I am so excited to write this post today. It has been a long time coming but the door for The Ephesus Pages: Mysteries in Ephesus is coming soon, and it’s better than it ever was before. To be honest and real for a moment, a big part of me never thought I’d be able to write and share this story.

As it was, everytime I tried to focus my attention on this second season, nothing went as planned. This weighed pretty heavily upon me. Whether it was struggles with my summer release, The Hope of Inheritance, the chaos of living life with ADHD, writer's block, or even the plot of this season, something was always there to pull me away from it.

That’s the beauty of being a self-publishing author, though. I don’t have a publisher forcing content; I can leave it in God’s hands and trust that those who truly matter… the readers… will be there when the door swings open. The way this season is turning out is something only God could have places in my chaos-driven mind, and I think you are going to find something truly memorable within its pages.

Before diving into the plot, I want to send a huge thank you to Linda Shenton Matchett for highlighting this post for me today! It was here that the world was introduced to part one, A Journey Begins, and it is only fitting that it is here that we introduce part two.

~~~

The Recap from Season One and What’s Next in Ephesus

• In Season One: A Journey Begins, the story began to unfold as John Mark left Barnabus behind in
  
  Cyprus in search of reconciliation with Paul, his former ministry mentor. His journey to Ephesus was a spiritual awakening, and we met figures like Titus, Apollos, and Luke along the way. In Ephesus, Aristarchus was introduced, struggling through his own faith awakening while serving in Paul's growing ministry.
• In Season Two: Mysteries in Ephesus, these two seemingly separate worlds collide in unexpected ways:
• The Conflict: Rumors of a man endowed with miracle-working powers flourish throughout the city and cause strife among believers, leading to mysteries unknown.
• John Mark’s Reconciliation: Continuing his journey from Cyprus, he is motivated to do everything in his power to reconcile with his former mentor Saul, now called Paul.
• Aristarchus’s Mystery of Faith: Diving into the mystery of John Mark, he is mentored by none other than Priscilla and Aquilla who are tasked with helping him find his way through his own struggle with the unknown.
• The Ministry Under Attack: Introducing Timothy, and a young man named Gaius, along with others; John Mark and Paul must find a way to overcome the strange rumors about the false god Artemis, and her priests. All while dealing with the exploits of Sceva and his sons before they have their way.

Darkness is seeking to overcome the light in every direction. Hope seems lost. Fear lurks around every corner, and John Mark has found himself divinely placed amid all of it for such a time as this.

~~~

The Road Ahead

Who are Sceva and his sons and what drives them? How will the believers respond to the chaos brewing everywhere in Ephesus? Will John Mark find the reconciliation he seeks? Will Aristarchus find a way to accept John Mark and overcome his own struggles with faith?

There is still so much of this story to tell before we find ourselves in the midst of the Riots of Ephesus that will conclude this epic story in Season Three. The struggles will be real, but the themes of faith and perseverance will shine through. Mystery looms everywhere and is woven into the very fabric of this season, and I can’t wait for you to read it.

I am aiming for an official release announcement soon, as the final date depends on my editor, and of course my own direction. I'll share that date exclusively with my email subscribers first! Sign up here to be the first to know when Mysteries in Ephesus finds its way into the public eye.

Which character's journey—John Mark's reconciliation or Aristarchus's investigation—are you most excited to follow in this new season? Let me know in the comments! 👇

~~~

Author Bio

Matthew (also known by his pen names M.J. Elliott and E.M. James) is an award-winning, dedicated writer with a deep passion for sharing the word of Christ. He is married and the proud father of three wonderful children who continually inspire his faith and creativity. Through his writing, Matthew seeks to minister with love, equip others with encouragement, and help readers encounter God in real and meaningful ways.

Photo Credits:

Author photo and Book Cover: MJ Elliott

Road: Pixabay/Simon

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back, Barbara Britton!

Talkshow Thursday: 

Welcome Back,Barbara M. Britton!

I'm thrilled to be hosting Barbara Britton again as she is one of my favorite authors. It's hard for me to pick my favorite. Grab a cup of your favorite beverage and get to know this talented author.

What was your inspiration for the story?

I’ve made a career of writing about little-known Bible stories, so when my husband preached on a Philistine friend of King David’s, I should have been all ears. It took me a year to finally write about Ittai the Gittite. Ittai is an exiled Philistine commander with hundreds of men. How they marched across Israel to King David’s palace in Jerusalem without starting a war is a mystery.

Ittai arrives as prince Absalom is plotting his father’s downfall. King David appears weary and weak when the rumors of rebellion reach him. Ittai is the perfect friend to King David and Ittai’s faith in God is surprising and breathtaking. I knew I had to craft a story with this little-known Bible hero.

King David has become popular due to the Amazon Prime series House of David.

I hadn’t seen the series until a friend raved about the episodes. My husband and I watched the first season. Streaming services like drama and tension, and I found a few times where the powers that be took liberties with the Bible. For example, Goliath was a tall man at around nine feet tall, but he was not the size of King Kong. Amazon makes Goliath taller than what we read in the Bible.

The series hasn’t arrived at the end of David’s reign, so I will be curious to see if Ittai the Gittite is in the cast. I have noticed a few Bible studies about David have been updated in 2025.

How does your job prepare you for being a novelist?

Teaching chapel lessons about Bible stories has helped me immensely in finding storylines. I discovered

new-to-me Bible heroes and heroines. I found wonderful young women who asked Moses to inherit their deceased father’s land (The daughters of Zelophehad) and daughters who helped Nehemiah rebuild Jerusalem’s wall (Daughters of Shallum). I don’t teach as often anymore since I am writing, but I find time to return to school and Sunday school to teach children about the Bible. I love when children and adults learn something new about the Bible or Jesus.

What are common traps for aspiring authors?

The traditional publishing business is slow. I received my first contract in 2015, and the novel wasn’t released until the end of 2016. Many people would ask me when my book was coming out because they believed the process took a few months--not years. Make sure to do the proper editing and revising to launch the best book possible.

After a book is released, there are months of promotion. My advice to authors is “It’s not a launch day, but a launch year.” Sometimes authors are tired of their stories after all the editing, reading, promoting, and speaking about the same characters and story. We still must market the book and engage with readers.

Enjoy the journey of launching a new book. Celebrate the success with family and friends because publishing is a stressful business.

Indie-publishing goes much faster than the traditional route because the author is the publisher and they can set timelines and release dates.

Why do you write in your genre of Biblical Fiction?

My love of discovering new Bible stories and learning more about God keeps me writing in Bible Times. You would think that in Christian Fiction that Bible stories would be a huge genre, but that’s not the case. Romance, Romantic Suspense, and Historical Romance rule the day. Fantasy and Science Fiction are on the rise. Biblical Fiction is becoming popular with the release of The Chosen.

Early on in my writing career, selling Bible stories was difficult. I’m thankful that the genre is receiving more love and readership.

What was the best money you spent as a writer?

Becoming a member of professional writing organizations and getting involved in the organizations was crucial to my career. I met fellow writers who became my friends, critique partners, readers, reviewers, and my cheering section. Professional organizations offer opportunities for learning the craft of writing and the business side of publishing. These organizations shine a light on your books and have leadership opportunities to further your knowledge of the industry. Networking is a key benefit of writing groups. Christian groups offer prayer support and encouragement in your faith walk. Christian groups also acknowledge our talent is given by the Creator.

What does your writing space look like?

My computer desk is cluttered with free notepads that come in the mail. I have story ideas and task lists strewn over the top of my desk. My cat sleeps in the corner and she is a cutie. When I feel stressed, I glance at Ginger.

What is your next project?

I am thrilled to be launching a Biblical Fiction Bible Study/Devotional on January 6, 2026. I write about stories from the Gospel of Mark showing how amazing Jesus is. I visited the Sea of Galilee in March of 2023 and was inspired by the ruins and history. Jesus walked and lived where I had the privilege to visit. “Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee” was one of the most rewarding, yet challenging, projects to write.

About Defending David:

When a quiet journey to Jerusalem turns tragic, newly orphaned Rimona must flee a kinsman set on selling her as a slave. Racing into the rocky hills outside of Hebron, Rimona is rescued by a Philistine commander journeying to Jerusalem with six-hundred warriors.

Exiled commander, Ittai the Gittite, is seeking refuge in the City of David. Protecting a frantic Hebrew woman is not in his leadership plan. Although, having a nobleman's niece in his caravan might prove useful for finding shelter in a foreign land.

Rimona and Ittai arrive in Jerusalem on the eve of a rebellion. In the chaos of an heir's betrayal, will they be separated forever, or can they defend King David and help the aging monarch control his rebellious son?

Purchase link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B092DVQ659

About Barbara:

Barbara M. Britton is a multi-published author of Christian Fiction. Her Tribes of Israel series brings little-known Bible characters to light. You can also travel to Whispering Creek, Tennessee with her sweet romance duology. Barbara has a nutrition degree from Baylor University but loves to dip healthy strawberries in chocolate. You can find out more about Barbara and her books on her website: http://www.barbarambritton.com

Follow Barbara on BookBub and be notified of her upcoming release: “Across the Lake: Traveling with Jesus Around the Sea of Galilee.” Arrives on January 6, 2026.

BookBub Link: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/barbara-m-britton
X: https://x.com/BarbaraMBritton
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063699481102

Photo credits:

Author Photo and book image: Barbara Britton

Bible: Pixabay/Petra Riddell

Group of people: Pixabay/StartUpStockPhotos

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back, Matthew Elliott!

Talkshow Thursday: 

Welcome Back, Matthew Elliott

An Exclusive First Look 

at The Hope of Inheritance

I’m thrilled to share the first look at my upcoming novel, The Hope of Inheritance, here on Linda’s website. This book has held a special place in my heart for several reasons. I can’t wait to share more details as I promote this story. This story will take readers on a journey that will introduce them to several characters near and dear to my heart. While the fictional, yet biblical, World of Kedoshim has already introduced a few of them, there is so much more to their story. I can’t wait to share everything but for now, here is your first look.

The Hope of Inheritance has been on my heart to write since I began releasing Finding Philemon in 2023. When I wrote the prologue to the book, it was so intense that it honestly terrified me that I could imagine what I wrote. The Roman world was on fire. Believers were being tortured in the worst way possible, and Nero really was a dark and horrible man. Each attempt to return to the story brought a fresh wave of my characters’ pain and emotional intensity I hadn’t expected and still couldn’t fully grasp.

The beauty of giving my writing to God is that he knew this would be the case. So, He gave me The

Cyprus Journal to write for 2024 instead. Eventually, He brought me back to The Hope of Inheritance, and it could not have been a better time for Him to do so. At its core, the story conveys the unwavering hope found in Jesus Christ by early church believers. Amid the pain and suffering the early church experienced during the reign of Nero, light shined in the darkest moments and people witnessed the love of God in action.

Whether facing earthquakes, unexplained sickness, having to leave loved ones behind, and even death, the resilient faith of the founding fathers and their torch-bearers changed the very essence of how believers found joy in the midst of the unimaginable. Deep in the shadow of everything that was happening, four brothers in Christ will strive to learn and grow in their faith. In doing so, the question remains; Will they live up to the example of those who came before them? That is no simple task. Founding Fathers like Peter and Paul, or Matthew and John, were purposeful in the message they shared with the world.

Timothy was a man placed in an impossible ministry, only to be ignored because of his age. Silas was a man who was always stuck in the shadows, writing letters for those he served. Luke, the ever-loving physician, was a man who endured the same suffering as Paul without the acknowledgment to go along with it. John Mark was a man who let fear drive his purpose in life. Together, each of their stories offers a specific message that many need to hear. As they work together to rebuild what was lost, it is their experiences that produce a mysterious letter to believers everywhere.
_______________

About Matthew: 

Matthew James Elliott (M.J. Elliott) is a dedicated writer with a strong passion for spreading the word of Christ. Matthew has spent 15 years serving in different types of ministries, both as a volunteer and a minister of the Gospel. Although he was never ordained, his experiences have given him a deep understanding of what ministry is all about and how it has evolved over time. His degree in Biblical Studies is from Oklahoma Wesleyan University and emphasizes Pastoral Care, Christian Education, and Worship.

Matthew is happily married to Traci and they have three delightful children: Leyla, Caleb, and Hannah, who bring them immense joy and inspiration. Matthew's books aspire to minister to believers with love, equip them for service in God's glory, and nurture the body of Christ with edification through His work. He hopes that all who read his content will feel the loving touch of God's encouragement and guidance.

About The Hope of Inheritance

One Story Still Untold. Four Unlikely Authors. Together their Message will Speak to Many.

The city of Rome was a vast and beautiful place-- on the surface. That is until a great fire burned and destroyed most of it. Deep in a world hidden from those who would strike against them, four unlikely men work together to share a message of truth. This truth was spoken by those who were cut down because of the calling to go forth and peach. The message has always been clear; The hope of our inheritance is Christ living within each of us.

In the echoes of persecution, sorrow, and even death, this message still reigns supreme, but will the people listen? Only time will tell, but before anything, these four men must come together and unite a church separated by fear and suffering. Each one of these men has endured their own journey for such a time as this, and have been given a different message they were called to teach. Together, they must rebuild what has been lost as they face the painful circumstances of the world they have inherited from the founders of their faith.

Pre-Order Link: https://amzn.to/4llftIU

Photo Credits:

Cyprus - Pixabay/Dimitris Vetsikas

Dome of the Rock - Pixabay/Walkerssk

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back, Matthew Elliott

Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back, Matthew Elliott

I'm thrilled to have Matthew Elliott visiting again. He writes biblical fiction that is sure to touch your heart. Grab a cup of your favorite beverage and get to know him.

When did you know you wanted to be an author?

As a child, I received an ADHD diagnosis, and my mother wanted to provide an outlet for my active imagination. With that in mind, she encouraged me to turn my active energy into stories. I started writing stories about superheroes, which helped calm my energy. Even though I somehow forgot most of my childhood, her inspiration has always been there to guide me along the way.

What is your favorite thing about being a writer?

I may have answered this before, but I love the research part of writing the stories I write today. Since I have ADHD, I get hyper-focused on it and forget any concept of time. I am thankful I have a lovely wife who keeps me on track and three beautiful children who need me to be a good father. Otherwise, I might never stop and smell the rain (or roses). Still, I am fascinated by connecting all the dots in history and scripture so that I can use my imagination to create the narratives I write.

How did you learn how to write?

I am also a dyslexic, which has always been a tremendous struggle for me. I’m reading a book series

with my 12-year-old right now and she is a much faster reader than I am because I have to read each page three times before I can retain the information. With writing a story, I follow that same path; The story gets written three times before I even run it through my editing software. Learning to write as a child was no easy feat. In fact, I remember having to sit with a box around my desk to keep me focused, but I attribute my growth in that manner to well-trained and patient teachers who prayed I would find myself someday.

Do you hear from your readers? What do they say?

As with many other writers, I would love to hear from my readers and engage with them about my stories more often. There is not much of a place for that in the world because it’s so fast-paced. However, I encourage my readers to reach out to me regarding anything and often leave specific prompts in my emails for my readers that encourage their responses. When they do, I always love getting to know them a little better. I must admit, though, I’m old-fashioned when it comes to connecting with my readers. My emails are always personable and relational.

What does your writing space look like?

My writing space is very much a chaotic mess that only I understand. I use a stand-up desk most of the time and walls filled with posted notes that map out my stories, so I can visually connect with the landscape I am attempting to build. When I’m done with a book, all those posted notes go onto those presentation boards one might use at a school science fair. I also have a research desk with no less than eight different Bibles and three or four resource books. So… If I ever make a million dollars, I probably won’t be giving tours of my workspace. 😉

Can you share a real-life event that inspired your writing?

This is actually a very personal question for me because I use real-life examples from my past and present to give me more of a grasp on the emotions I am attempting to convey in my stories. I struggle to speak what’s in my heart. So my experiences, and often a good song, offer me something real and hopefully authentic to bring to life through one of my characters. My whole life, good and bad, inspires what I write and how I live out my faith.

What was your inspiration for the story?

The story I am highlighting in this post is called The Ephesus Pages: A Journey Begins, and it is ‘Part One’ of three that will connect to three other stories. One of which I have already written. One more is in progress, and then I will begin writing the last one later this year. The serial nature of the story—episodes instead of chapters—allows me to break it into seasons. The inspiration for this particular story was really the idea that I wanted to dive into the character of Paul. I wanted to know what happened throughout the three years he spent in Ephesus during the third misery journey, and how Paul may have changed through that experience. So, once I’ve written and released everything, I hope to have realistically captured both.

If you were to write a spin-off book about one of your secondary characters, which one would you choose and why?

I have written three stories so far in The World of Kedoshim, which you can read more about on my blog, and am pretty close to getting a first draft of my next one, The Hope of Inheritance. There is one character that I did not expect would have such a pivotal role in my stories when I first dreamed this world up, and that is Luke. Honestly, I never really gave him a second thought. Through all that I have done so far, and plan to do, I have developed a deep connection with the character. Luke is someone I would love to write a story specifically about. Who knows, maybe one day I will. 😉

What is your advice to fledgling writers?

I always love answering this question, because, for a time, I gave up on my dream of being a writer. I lost my drive for it and gave in to the pressures that come with being a writer. God had to do real work in my heart to get me back to where I am today. I will never claim that I have all the answers. In truth, my stories are still unfamiliar to the Biblical Fiction World, but I have learned to embrace the noise, so to speak. Regardless of whether I sell two copies of my stories or two hundred, I am doing what I believe I do. Please do not do what I did if you have a dream to write, pursue it, live it, and embrace it. Even if the only people who read your stories are the boss who felt sorry for you or the friend who just could not say no. God has given you something to write, so do it, and reach out if you want a little guidance.

_________________

The World of Kedoshim, The Ephesus Pages: A Journey Begins. ON SALE THROUGH 01/10/25: https://amzn.to/3ZS7s4l


One Man. His Continued Journey. Working to Build the Early Church.

Part I: A Journey Begins

John Mark carries the weight of his past on his shoulders, and there is one person he has never reconciled with. In an epic story surrounding the city of Ephesus, and the ministry of Paul during his three-year ministry there, life as we know it will change. Join John Mark as he embarks on a new journey seeking reconciliation. As he leaves all that he knows behind on the shores of Cyprus, John Mark will begin a new three-part journey that will test his faith, build him up, and reveal much about his past.

Amid his continuing journey, John Mark will encounter many unexpected circumstances. Who will he meet along the way and what lessons will he learn? Will this journey help him find the forgiveness he seeks? What about Paul in Ephesus? Who will he come across in his ministry there and what responsibilities will those serving alongside him have in the constantly changing work? Only time will tell. Are you ready to experience the next story in The World of Kedoshim?

Part II: Mysteries in Ephesus coming Winter 2025

Connect with Matthew:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WritingtheJourney
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/mj.elliott
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/mjelliott
Website: https://www.mjelliott-author.com

Fiction Friday: New Releases in Christian Fiction

November 2024 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

Contemporary Romance:

Matchmaking the Cowboy by Emily Conrad -- What’s a little covert matchmaking between friends? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published [ACFW QIP]

The Daze Before Christmas by Laurie Germaine -- She fled her old life for a new one. Trouble is, she can’t remember why she ran--and now God is prompting her to return. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Wishing for Mistletoe by Robin Lee Hatcher -- When the heart pens its own holiday romance, even a skeptic can find magic under the mistletoe. (Contemporary Romance from RobinSong, Inc.)

Faking the Shot by Carolyn Miller -- Faking the Shot is a fake-dating Christian romance and the fourth book in the Northwest Ice Christian hockey romance series. It can be read as a standalone, and is perfect for fans of banter-laden romance with hope, heart and humor. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Rediscovering Christmas by Mindy Obenhaus -- She feels she’s lost everything… Will love give her hope? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

A Kringle Family Christmas by Miriam Thor -- When Bethany Kringle's brother unexpectedly comes home for Christmas with his friend, Jay, in tow, Bethany shelves her plan to skip the holiday, and instead, with a little help from Jay, makes it a Christmas to remember. (Contemporary Romance from Pelican Book Group)

Guarding Her Christmas Secret by Jill Weatherholt -- 'Tis the season for second chances and a special puppy. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Contemporary/Women’s Fiction:

Maddie by Dawn Kinzer -- Messages scrawled in a century-old cookbook and the residents of a tourist town in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains add important ingredients to the life recipe an ER travel nurse is searching for. (Contemporary/Women’s Fiction, Independently Published)

Historical Romance:
Pretending to be the Mountain Man’s Wife by Misty M. Beller -- In the wild mountains of the Montana Territory, the Coulter ranch is a place of family, second chances…and a hidden fortune. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Courting the Country Preacher by Angela K. Couch, Carolyn Miller, Naomi Musch, Kari Trumbo -- Four inexperienced preachers face a myriad of challenges including those who figure a man of the cloth needs a wife. Can they meet the expectations of “helpful” congregants and be true to their hearts? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

An Unexpected Catch by Abbey Downey -- Can she count on the pitcher to save her dream, or will his secret destroy their futures? (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Investigation of a Journalist by Danielle Grandinetti -- A story of love and second chances when secrets come full circle in this suspenseful conclusion to the Harbored in Crow’s Nest series. (Historical Romance from Hearth Spot Press)

The Library by Edwina Kiernan -- How can someone keep the peace when there’s never been any peace to keep? (Historical Romance from Moliant Publishing)

Seeking Simon by Susan Pope Sloan -- When a mysterious stranger claims to be her fiancé, the fight to save her land turns into a battle for her heart. (Historical Romance from Wild Heart Books)

Abigail’s Pursuit by Jodie Wolfe -- With the Civil War raging, Abigail is on the verge of losing everything, and the other seeks forgiveness from the family he can’t find. Can two wounded hearts find their way back home? (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Beyond the Horizon by Penny Zeller -- She's desperate to keep her job. He's desperate for solitude. What is God's plan in this complicated situation? (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

Mystery/Crime:

Seven Days Off: A Mylas Grey Mystery by Luana Ehrlich -- Private Investigator Mylas Grey can’t take seven days off—not when an ex-con gives him information that could help him locate a missing school counselor. (Historical Romance from Potter’s Word Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:

Bayou Beginnings by Robin Caroll -- In a romantic suspense Louisiana mystery that is set amid historical events, two very different people must come together to survive. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

His Last Text by Rebecca Lake -- A romantic anniversary dinner. A heartfelt message. Then silence. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Deadly Christmas Inheritance by Jessica R. Patch -- This holiday, an unexpected gift could be lethal. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired Suspense [Harlequin])

Speculative Fiction/Allegory:

Here Lyeth by Johanna Frank -- Answers are buried beneath a grave marker. Only it happens to be her own. (Speculative/Allegory, Independently Published)

 




Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

River of Peril by Sandra Merville Hart -- A Civil War volunteer nurse is shocked to learn that her Confederate soldier beau came to her ward overnight with a head wound--and doesn't remember her. (Historical Romance)

A Christmas Gift by Annette M. Irby -- A stateside farmer. An international boy-next-door model. And the Christmas reunion that brings them back together. (Contemporary Romance)

Murder by Half by Dony Jay -- A troubled detective with a blue-collar background and an Ivy League degree must risk everything to solve the murder of his high-profile attorney friend—and do so before more people die. (Crime/Suspense)

Sea Thrifts & Thistles by Ruth Kyser -- After the unexpected deaths of her parents in a plane crash, Heather Conners makes a discovery that turns her world upside down. (Contemporary Romance)

Where Secrets Lie by Rebecca Lake -- Some secrets refuse to stay buried… (Romantic Suspense)

The Perfect Getaway by Nancy Lavo -- Riley is tired of looking over her shoulder. Can she trust the small-town superhero with her secret, or will the loyalty she admires in him bring danger to her door? (Contemporary Romance)

On the Right Track by Shaen Layle -- On The Right Track is the eighth book in the Mysteries of Cobble Hill Farm Series. (Cozy Mystery)

Julia’s Joy by Susan G. Mathis -- She came to claim her inheritance, but the mysterious scarred lighthouse keeper makes her question all her plans. (Historical Romance)

Why the Nations Rage by Aidan Meerman -- Casey Cole is three hundred years old but expects to be dead in as many seconds. The brutal regime that governs his home crushes all forms of dissent... and he's about to put his neck out. (Biblical Suspense/Thriller)

The Lost Daughter’s Irishman by Carolyn Miller -- She wants to find a way to live again; he wants to close a deal and move on, until sparks fly and these opposites attract. (Contemporary Romance)

Christmas in Nutfield by Robin Patchen -- Come home to Nutfield in these two Christmas novellas, featuring Daniel Nolan, the little boy from Innocent Lies, all grown up, and Caro Neely, from Convenient Lies. (Contemporary Romance)

When Love Overcomes by Denice Perkins -- Having everything we want and a plan for our future doesn't prevent God from abruptly sending our lives in a whole other direction and showing us even greater happiness. (Contemporary Romance)

’Tis the Time, ‘Tis the Season by Chris Posti -- Three women in their late fifties learn that change is possible at any age. (General Contemporary)

The Cowboy’s Forgotten Love by Tina Radcliffe -- He finally found the love of his life. Now if only he could remember… (Contemporary Romance)

A Country Christmas Collection by Davalynn Spencer -- Two Holiday Novellas, each a complete romance with cowboys, a second chance at love, and a feel-good, happily-ever-after! (Contemporary Romance)

Tangled Promises by Lynn U. Watson -- Thunderous applause extinguishes her dream and ignites her worst nightmare. (Historical Romance)

Neurifact by Kenneth Dale Watts -- A neurological AI tool observes and assesses a unique brainwave phenomenon associated with one F-35C pilot's impulsive action and arrives at a spiritually based finding. (Military Thriller/Suspense)

To Touch the Earth by Kristy Werner -- Love calls her home. But can love last forever? (Contemporary Romance)