Blog Archives
Counterintuitive and Countercultural
New Star follows a Persian Magus as he risks everything to uncover the truth behind a mysterious celestial sign, blending biblical intrigue, spiritual longing, and historical peril in a richly imagined post-Nativity world. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Most of what we think we know about the Wise Men is tradition, not truth. Even when we read about them in the Gospel of Matthew, we skim over the verses because we think we already know their story. Those 2D, stained-glass figures deserve to be seen as 3D real people. Their story is compelling, and I wanted to convey it in a way that aligned with Scripture, culture, and world events of that time.
What inspired you to reimagine the story of the Magi, especially from such an emotionally intimate perspective?
The Parthian Empire tolerated many religions but had a national religion that the Magi society upheld and practiced. What would happen to the religious fabric of the empire if some Magi started to believe and practice something else? I feel that’s what happened to the Magi in real life. They went way out on a limb to believe something that was counterintuitive and countercultural. They risked their reputations, their careers, and more to pursue finding the prophesied Christ child. They had to weigh the risk and cost of their newfound belief.
How did you balance historical accuracy with creative storytelling when reconstructing the world of ancient Persia and Judea?
First and foremost, I remain true to the biblical narrative. That’s my north star for writing biblical fiction. Scriptures tell us what the Magi did, but not the reasons for their choices. To discern the “why” behind their story, I dug into historical records of that time to learn about the world they lived in. When Christ was born, the Roman and Parthian empires were the world’s biggest superpowers. They were often at odds with each other, and they ruled in dramatically different ways. Against that backdrop is the rich history of Magi society, an elite group of Persian priest-scholars that massively influenced the Parthian Empire’s religion, science, and government. The Magi served multiple religions while upholding their empire’s official religion. Understanding the world in which the Magi lived enabled me to write authentic scenes with believable reactions to the pressures they would have faced in pursuing a controversial study of a star linked to some foreign religious writings.
Akilah’s inner journey is so compelling—was his character influenced by any real historical figures or personal experiences?
Thank you for that high compliment. Akilah is not based on a specific person, but I think he universally reflects people’s experience when they question what they previously thought was true. New Star provides a safe space in which to do that.
New Star is the first book in the series The Magi’s Encounters. We know the Magi’s story didn’t end when they tried to circumvent Herod. Survival Secrets, which will release Sept. 24 of this year, is all about the Magi’s struggles to return home.
Author Links: GoodReads | New Star | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
When he and his colleagues uncover a few Jewish prophecies linking the star to an eternal king, Akilah becomes the target of Persia’s religious and governmental conflicts. Jailed for crimes he didn’t commit, Akilah must rely on questionable resources to free himself and reach Jerusalem.
Persia’s purists aren’t the only ones bent on keeping their country free of Jewish influences. As dangers at home and abroad plunge Akilah and his colleagues into three countries’ religious conflicts and circumstances beyond their imagining, Akilah realizes his knowledge of Jesus could potentially destroy Magi society and its power over Persia’s official religion and government. Untrusting of his Council, a thousand miles from aid, and bound in a potentially career-ending contract, Akilah must decide how far he will go to protect what he knows of Jesus—and whether the cost of his belief is worth the risk.
Redemption Over Shame
A Certain Man is a searing, lyrical reimagining of the woman at the well, following a fierce Samaritan woman’s battle for freedom, faith, and healing in a world that seeks to break her. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Actually, the inspiration came from the phrase that Jesus used to start several parables. “There was a certain man…” There are Bible scholars who teach that this was a sign to those listening that He was about to speak a true story of real people. I began to contemplate who these people would have been and what their back story would be. So the kernel of the story actually began with Samuel. Then my imaginings expanded to who he would have loved.
How did you balance historical authenticity with creative liberty, especially in reimagining familiar Gospel moments?
I never want to sacrifice Scripture for story. So when Jesus is “onstage” in the Bible, I do not add to His words. But, for instance, the Bible says that Jesus stayed in Samaria for two days after He met the woman at the well. So then this period is open for fiction. Even so, I am careful that He does not teach something that is not found elsewhere in scripture. Sometimes, like the encounter with the woman at the well, the narrative is very sparse and seems to jump from topic to topic. So here I used Mara’s thoughts to try to “fill out” the story. Jesus of course knows her thoughts and answers her. The challenge is to stay authentic to the intent and meaning of scripture without making Jesus a two-dimensional character. He was fully human and fully divine… and that is compelling.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The book explores themes of faithfulness, loyalty, and freedom particularly for women in a culture that often considered them chattel. Further, the hero and heroine must learn to forgive others and each other, choose good over evil, and redemption over shame.
Mara’s journey is steeped in trauma and spiritual transformation. How did you approach writing those darker, more intimate scenes?
The times of the Bible were scandalous and treacherous. While I did not want to include any gratuitous violence or sexuality, I did want the story to ring true in a tasteful way that dealt with very real issues. While there are humorous and lighter moments I wanted the reader to be brought into the times as they were. I believe “there is nothing new under the sun” and that the struggles of my characters to speak to hearts today.
The woman at the well has often been considered to be a loose woman, a harlot. But Jesus says she had five husbands. It is only the sixth man who is not her husband. What would make her give up on marriage, give up the security of a husband supporting and protecting her? I tried to read between the lines of scripture and use research of the time period to flesh out a plausible back story for each of my characters.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Touch of Power
Touch of Power by D.M. Griffin is a compelling fictional retelling of the biblical narrative of the woman with the issue of blood. Set in an evocative historical backdrop, the story delves into Eliora’s struggles, pain, and redemption. From her early life as a spirited young woman to her transformative encounter with Christ, Griffin masterfully intertwines biblical themes with rich storytelling. The novel also explores faith, suffering, and the profound love of God as characters confront personal trials and societal expectations.
The writing style is immersive with moral undertones. For instance, the description of Eliora’s internal struggle with her illness and faith feels deeply personal yet slightly repetitive. One poignant scene involves Eliora realizing her worth beyond societal judgments, a theme mirrored beautifully in her interactions with Martha and her siblings. However, the pacing occasionally falters, especially during long monologues that, while poetic, slow the narrative’s momentum. The ideas explored in the book are timeless and meaningful. The transformation of Eliora, as she wrestles with abandonment and spiritual awakening, is deeply moving. Griffin’s depiction of secondary characters, such as Martha’s quiet strength or the cynical yet hopeful Tithe, adds depth to the narrative. The central message—faith in God’s timing and love—resonates powerfully, particularly in the climactic scene where Eliora’s healing signifies both physical and spiritual restoration. What I found most intriguing was the symbolic thread of divine sovereignty running throughout the novel. Griffin doesn’t shy away from exploring complex questions about human suffering and divine purpose.
Touch of Power is a thoughtful and inspiring read, particularly for those who enjoy faith-based fiction with a historical setting. It is perfect for readers seeking a blend of biblical storytelling, personal redemption, and spiritual encouragement. It leaves a lasting impression of God’s love and the power of faith to transform lives.
Pages: 444 | ASIN : B0CW1BF2XC
Galatians 6:9
In Due Season follows a fourteen-year-old boy who escapes a life of abuse by stowing away on a ship bound for the colonies, where he grows deeper in his Christian faith. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I like to “hook” my readers from page one of my stories, and an escape scene does just that. I’ve always been a fan of Charles Dickens, so I wanted to start with an “Oliver” twist by setting the story in a London workhouse. Five chapters later, he ends up in Williamsburg, Virginia, which is my favorite place to visit! I love the colonial era of American history, and with the Revolution taking place during the time of my story, there was a lot of action from which to draw. I also decided on the five major characters, all living in one household: James, the father, a loyalist with a debilitating disease; Bradley, his arrogant patriot son; Rebekah, James’ daughter embittered by her blindness and recent jilting by her fiance; Elizabeth, the newly orphaned housekeeper who is also tasked with the impossible job of helping Rebekah out of her self-pity, and John, the mistreated indentured servant. I had a general plot in mind, but with the characters’ differences and unique situations causing internal and external conflicts, they practically wrote the story themselves!
John endures many hardships and setbacks, but these only strengthen his faith as he moves forward. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development and the development of his faith?
I love the character of John. He has suffered much, but because of a man who cares about his dire situation, he realizes God’s love for him and gives his heart to Christ. That decision, although he’s not perfect and struggles with anger, hurt, and bitterness, allows him to have the inner strength to face more difficulties. He grows in patience, love, and most importantly, the ability and desire to forgive.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Forgiveness is a major theme, not just in this book but in most of my stories. The title, In Due Season, is taken from the Scripture verse, Galatians 6:9 – “Be not weary in well doing, for in due season ye shall reap if ye faint not.” This is the promise Elizabeth clings to when the progress in helping Rebekah seems slow.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
I never intended for this to be more than a standalone book. However, it is now Book 1 in a trilogy. Book 2, Season of Uncertainty, is scheduled to be released on October 1st! It covers 1778-1781. I was amazed when researching for the book how many things relating to the American Revolution happened in and around Williamsburg. It’s made for a very exciting story! The beloved characters from Book 1 are back, and some new characters are introduced. (There’s some sweet romance, too, as in all my books, but, as usual, it takes a back seat to the main plot.)
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Website
In Due Season: A Story of Colonial Williamsburg
Set against the backdrop of colonial Williamsburg in the 1770s, In Due Season, by Sandi Rebert is an essential read for fans of Christian and historical romance. The narrative centers on John, who, after escaping a workhouse at the tender age of 14, discovers the love of Christ through a stranger’s life-saving act while stowed away on a ship. This profound encounter draws John closer to the Christian faith, but his newfound freedom is short-lived as he is sold as an indentured servant. Years later, his life takes a transformative turn when he meets Elizabeth, and together they grow in their Christian faith.
In Due Season is a beautifully crafted tale of salvation and finding solace in Christ. For John, who has endured a harsh life, God’s love initially seems an unreachable concept. Despite their vastly different upbringings, John and Elizabeth are united by tragic circumstances, and their shared faith becomes a strong bond. The book emphasizes key Christian values: kindness, courage, forgiveness, perseverance, and long suffering. I appreciated how it distinguished between mere church-going and living a true Christian lifestyle, illustrating how faith can be a profound source of comfort and strength during hardships. John’s struggles serve as a poignant reminder to Christians that in times of adversity, they can find solace in turning to God. It was heartwarming to witness each character’s journey to faith, their spiritual growth, and the realization that true freedom is found in God.
In Due Season, by Sandi Rebert, is a moving and inspiring novel that masterfully weaves together themes of faith, love, and perseverance. Through the trials and tribulations faced by John and Elizabeth, Rebert illustrates the transformative power of God’s love and the enduring strength found in faith. The rich historical setting, combined with the heartfelt narrative, makes this book a standout in the genre of Christian historical romance. Its simple yet compelling writing style ensures that readers are not only entertained but also deeply moved. This book is a testament to the enduring power of faith and love, making it a must-read for anyone seeking both inspiration and a captivating story.
Pages: 273 | ASIN : B08M127B83
Sketches from a Sunlit Heaven
Sarah Law’s Sketches from a Sunlit Heaven offers a multifaceted glimpse into the life of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, a French Carmelite nun who died in 1897 at the age of 24. This historical fiction is uniquely structured, narrated through the distinct voices of six characters—four sisters, one cousin, and a correspondent—who were close to Thérèse in her final years. These perspectives span several decades, from their youthful days to old age, marking the passage of time against the backdrop of two world wars and significant societal changes.
The novel employs a first-person narrative for each protagonist, presenting their stories in the present tense, which imbues the historical narrative with an immediate and compelling quality. This stylistic choice, while unusual, adds a vivid sense of unfolding drama to the narrative. Each character is richly drawn, with distinct voices that reflect their unique responses to life’s joys and hardships. As an artist, I found a particular resonance with Céline, whose passion for painting mirrors my own. The poetic language throughout the book enhances its atmospheric quality, leaving a lasting impression with beautifully crafted phrases such as “I see her as a timeless portrait, her pale face swathed in her white veil.”
The novel’s dynamic structure, which alternates between characters’ viewpoints, offers brief yet insightful glimpses into each protagonist’s life before transitioning to the next. This approach invites readers to engage deeply, piecing together the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives that form the heart of the narrative. While it demands attentiveness, this method enriches the storytelling by providing a varied and comprehensive portrayal of the characters’ interconnected lives. Law weaves a tapestry of themes—illness, sin, Catholicism, prayer, love, war, loss, friendship, and family—against a convincingly depicted historical backdrop. The portrayal of letter writing and the impact of war is particularly effective in grounding the story in its period.
For those who appreciate historical fiction with a religious dimension and for readers drawn to emotionally charged, lyrical writing, Sketches from a Sunlit Heaven offers a memorable exploration of human resilience and the enduring power of memory. The novel’s unique structure and evocative prose are sure to leave a resounding impact.
Pages: 327 | ASIN : B0BHBVC4RN
The Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ
Redemption’s Promise follows an orphaned teenager in Jerusalem during the time when Christ died, who is adopted by a Roman and uses his new identity to help continue his father’s work. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I originally wrote Redemption’s Promise as a play for our church’s Easter program. I wanted something that would present the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ in a very dramatic, exciting, and original way. After our church presented it, I marketed the script to other churches through Dramatic Difference Publications, an in-house online publishing company I had started years before. When COVID struck in 2020, churches were no longer producing programs. It was then I decided to take my most popular dramas and turn them into novels! I expanded the story, adding details and emotions (that an audience would see while watching a stage play) as descriptions. The second half of the book was an addition to the original story, as were a few of the characters who became favorites of mine. They expanded the story and added extra plot twists and depth to the tale.
Jason hates everything the Roman empire stands for but must find a way to survive in this new situation and ends up on a soul-searching adventure. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
The main thing that keeps Jason going is his hope of discovering what happened to his mother and being there for her if he finds her. Another would be his love for his people, the Jews, and to continue his father’s quest to relieve them from Roman tyranny. The realization of Who the Messiah really is and why He came to earth adds another dimension and ultimately changes the course of several of the characters’ lives, including Jason’s.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The major theme, as in my other books, is forgiveness. There are also themes of courage to stand for what is right despite what others do or think, strength and perseverance amid what appears to be insurmountable difficulties, sacrifice (particularly the sacrifice Jesus made to enable redemption), and loyalty.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am working on a sequel to Redemption’s Promise. The title will be Redemption’s Victory and will continue the stories of the main characters and some of the minor ones, too. It will also weave in snatches from the life of the Apostle Paul. I hope to have it available by Easter, but time will tell. I’m also working on sequels for two other books and another biblical fiction novel.
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Redemption’s Promise
Redemption’s Promise by Sandi Rebert is a captivating delve into the realm of biblical fiction. Set in Jerusalem approximately 2000 years ago, the narrative unfolds through the eyes of a young protagonist named Jason. From the exhilarating onset, we encounter Jason in the throes of evasion, desperately trying to escape Roman soldiers. But the stakes ascend swiftly as he is confronted with a heart-wrenching decision: what does it truly mean to choose life?
Rebert artfully intertwines Jason’s journey with the seminal events marking Jesus’s life, including His miracles and crucifixion. The brilliance lies in the gradual unveiling of their connection, allowing readers to ponder and anticipate its intricate weave within the broader tapestry of the tale.
One of the standout features of this work is the adept integration of biblical verses that seamlessly align with the unfolding plot. Rebert provides a historical lens, presenting the Romans through the eyes of the Jewish community. While the narrative is fictional, it provokes deep reflection. In a world where Jesus is largely celebrated, Redemption’s Promise serves as a poignant reminder of the contentious views held by the religious leaders of His time, prompting readers to critically engage with the subject of resurrection.
Marrying suspense with spiritual introspection, this book beckons its readers to not only immerse themselves in its riveting plot but also to delve deeper into the intricacies of biblical events. I recommend Redemption’s Promise to fans of biblical fiction and to those intrigued by the myriad possibilities that might have colored the epoch of Jesus’s death and resurrection.
Pages: 276 | ASIN : B09SB8ZWY9
LITERARY TITAN 