What happens when God's plan looks different from the one you carefully mapped out?

On this episode of A Woman's Heart, Lisa Granger welcomes bestselling author Tracie Peterson, often called the Queen of Historical Christian Fiction. With more than 150 books to her name, Tracie shares her journey of discovering God's calling, navigating unexpected detours, and using storytelling as a ministry to encourage readers and share the hope of the Gospel.

Tracie discusses her latest novel and the powerful themes of forgiveness, purpose, and obedience woven throughout the story. Drawing from her own experiences, she reflects on seasons when God's plans differed from her expectations and how learning to remain flexible and faithful opened doors she never imagined.

Whether you're a reader, writer, or someone seeking clarity about your next step, this conversation will encourage you to trust God's direction and remain open to His purpose for your life.

3 Key Takeaways from This Episode

1. God's Purpose May Look Different Than Your Expectations

Like the character Evie in Tracie's novel, many of us discover that God's calling doesn't always follow the path we envisioned. True fulfillment comes when we remain open and pliable to His leading rather than clinging to our own plans.

1. Obedience Often Opens Unexpected Doors

Tracie's writing career began through small opportunities and faithful obedience. She reminds us that God frequently works through seemingly insignificant steps to accomplish His greater purpose.

1. Difficult Seasons Can Deepen Our Faith and Ministry

Through personal loss, family health challenges, and life's hardships, Tracie has experienced how God uses difficult seasons to strengthen faith, develop compassion, and equip us to minister to others.

About Tracie Peterson

Tracie Peterson gave her life to Jesus at the age of six. She knew from an early age that God was calling her to ministry, and writing for Him has allowed her to share the Gospel message while encouraging readers to place their hope in the Lord. Her motto in writing and in life is Soli Deo Gloria—"For God Alone the Glory." Often called the "Queen of Historical Christian Fiction," Tracie is an ECPA, CBA, and USA Today bestselling author of more than 150 books, most of them historical novels that combine compelling storytelling with faith-filled inspiration.

Connect with Tracie Peterson

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Because God has placed something precious in every woman's heart.

Award-winning author Jamie Ogle joins me for this Summer Reading Series conversation to discuss her latest novel, Daughter of the Rebellion. Set in the Roman Empire, the story combines historical details with powerful themes of faith, courage, grace, and redemption.

Jamie shares how an unexpected research project on the origins of Valentine's Day led her from writing colonial-era fiction to exploring the fascinating world of ancient Rome. Our conversation explores the themes of guilt, shame, forgiveness, and the transformative power of God's love. Jamie also discusses the challenges faced by the early church and why those struggles remain relevant for believers today.

In addition, Jamie opens up about her own publishing journey, including years of rejection before finding the right agent. Her story is a powerful reminder to trust God's timing, persevere through setbacks, and allow Him to shape us through every season.

Key takeaways:

1. God Can Use Waiting Seasons for Good
2. Grace Is Stronger Than Shame
3. Following God Often Requires Courage

Jamie Ogle is an award-winning author of historical fiction filled with danger, courageous rebels, and deep faith. Inspired by family stories of grit, adventure, and perseverance, as well as missionary tales of courage and sacrifice, she developed a lifelong love of history and storytelling. Jamie studied English and writing at Iowa State University and lives in central Iowa with her husband and three children, where they enjoy gardening, beekeeping, homeschooling, and exploring the outdoors.

Connect with Jamie and learn more about her books at https://www.jamieogle.com/

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What happens when God calls you to step out in faith and onto an unexpected path?

In this episode of A Woman's Heart, Lisa Granger welcomes bestselling author Jane Kirkpatrick to the Summer Reading Series. Jane shares her remarkable journey from clinical social worker and mental health professional to homesteader, rancher, and award-winning novelist. She opens up about a life-changing spiritual experience that led her and her husband to leave the familiar behind and embrace a challenging homesteading life on a remote Oregon ranch.

Jane also discusses how her writing career began unexpectedly, the inspiration behind her historical novels, and the powerful real-life stories that shape her fiction. From researching historical figures to exploring themes of faith, resilience, community, and healing, Jane offers encouragement for anyone navigating life's unexpected detours.

The conversation also highlights her latest novel, With the Enduring Tides, a compelling story inspired by real people and events along the Oregon coast.

3 Key Takeaways

1. Faith Often Requires Stepping Into the Unknown Jane shares how a profound spiritual prompting led her family to leave a comfortable life and embrace the challenges of homesteading, trusting God one step at a time.
2. Your Detours May Become Your Purpose What seemed like an unexpected career shift eventually became the foundation for Jane's writing ministry and bestselling career.
3. Hope Is Found Through Faith, Family, and Community Through both history and personal experience, Jane highlights how people overcome life's "cellars of sorrow" by leaning on God and the support of others.

About Jane Kirkpatrick

Jane Kirkpatrick is a New York Times and CBA bestselling, award-winning author of more than forty books. Her works have received numerous honors, including the WILLA Literary Award, the Carol Award for Historical Fiction, and five Will Rogers Gold Medallion Awards. Jane lives in Central Oregon with her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Rupert.

Learn more at https://jkbooks.com/

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For more encouraging conversations that inspire women to pursue the passion God has placed in their hearts, visit LisaGranger.com.

Because God has placed something precious in every woman's heart.