Kimberley Woodhouse
https://kimberleywoodhouse.com
Author of: A Hope Unburied
T4JYM: Tell our readers a little about your latest book, A Hope Unburied, coming out later this month on September 24, 2024, and what they can expect from it.
KW: I am thrilled for this final book in my Treasures of the Earth series to be in readers’ hands on September 24. This whole series has focused on women in paleontology, and this particular novel is centered on a young woman, Eliza Mills, who is passionate about the Lord’s creation and showing off the dinosaur fossils at Dinosaur National Monument. Along the way, she runs into a mysterious ranch, treachery at the monument, and unexpected feelings for her friend, Devin. It was such a joy to write this book!
T4JYM: What’s next? What is in the works for you and what can readers be watching for since you have a new book launching?
KW: Well, in October, my 40th book, 70 North, releases. I can’t believe that I’ve written forty books. I’m so grateful to the Lord for His gift of story. After that releases, the holidays come quickly and I’m looking forward to time with my husband, my two kids, their spouses and my adorable grandbabies. Next year, the third book in the Jewels of Kalispell series (with Tracie Peterson) releases in May and in September, The Pianist (tentative title) releases in September.
T4JYM: How do you decide what to write about? How do you decide between historical fiction and contemporary fiction versus non-fiction?
KW: That’s a great question! For some of my books, the ideas have simmered for a long time. Mainly because I have a lot of curiosity about a lot of things! But sometimes I’ll ask my readers what interests them. Or if there’s a particular part of history that they feel hasn’t been tackled in Christian Fiction before. That is actually where the idea for the Treasures of the Earth series came from.
T4JYM: How much time and research goes into a book? And how do you ensure they are accurate?
KW: I think the most mathematical answer to the first part of your question is: lots. LOL. Writing about a place where people live currently, while also trying to honor history, can be tricky. And readers are not bashful to let you know when you’ve missed something (which I do appreciate!). Research for each book is at least six months on the front end and there is still more to do as I write. I do my best to meticulously research everything and also ask the Lord to help me keep all the details straight. I have friends who read my manuscripts and amazing editors who also help keep my storylines running smoothly. Writing a book really does take a village.
T4JYM: If you could spend 45 minutes with any person from the Bible (other than Jesus), what would it be and what would it look like?
KW: One of my life verses is James 1:2, “Consider it all joy, brothers when you endure trials of various kinds…” I think sitting down with James, asking him about what he experienced to write such profound truth would be amazing. (Knowing it was by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit above all!) But also, how did he finally come to believe in Jesus as the Messiah and as Lord after rejecting his half-brother. I think there would be an incredible story in there.
T4JYM: What kinds of books do you enjoy reading? What are you reading currently?
KW: I enjoy reading almost anything. I do love history and suspense – the two genres I write. But I also love books about drawing closer to God and deepening my faith and walk with Him. I’m currently reading six non-fiction books and three fiction 😉
T4JYM: Can you share a short testimony of something God has done in your life?
KW: If anyone has followed my career for any amount of time, you’ll hear me talk about my amazing husband and my two beautiful children, Josh and Kayla. Both kids suffered different health issues as children, but Kayla’s story has been one of incredible difficulty when she was diagnosed with Hereditary Sensory Autonomic Neuropathy (HSAN) which limits her ability to feel pain and regulate her body temperature. There is so much to this story but what I can say is watching your child suffer is incredibly difficult. Especially when you can’t fix it. There were so many doctors and specialists trying to figure out what was wrong. And there are many trials and struggles that come with a rare diagnosis. It gave me a unique view of how the Lord really loves us and carries us through tribulations and hardships. He taught me so much, but one thing I have held on to is how to find joy in Him no matter how hard the situation around me becomes. I’m so thankful for that.
T4JYM: Are you involved in ministry in your own church or anywhere else?
KW: I am! I lead worship at my church and do a few bible studies with friends. And of course, I know that my writing truly is the ministry the Lord has called me to.
T4JYM: What would you say to someone interested in publishing their work?
KW: Keep writing and keep a thick skin and a soft heart. It can be discouraging to get rejected and sometimes the editing process can be hard. But when you remember the team around you is trying to help you grow and hone your craft, that goes a long way toward accepting criticism that is actually constructive! Never lose your desire to grow and learn as a writer. And don’t be afraid to embrace the unique voice God has given you to share your part in His story.
T4JYM: Can you walk readers through what the process is from being inspired with a book idea to publication?
KW: It’s a long journey. There are many ideas that I have pitched to publishers that look completely different by the time they are books. Inspiration is all around us, but I think it’s the consistency of showing up to write, even when you don’t have a deadline, or don’t have a contract, that keeps creativity flowing. All writing involves research. I try to have as much of my research done before I write as possible. (But it doesn’t always work that way.) Like I said earlier, readers aren’t bashful about letting you know when you’ve missed something. So being as accurate as you can be is best. But each of us have a different way of writing and a different process. The biggest encouragement I can give is keep showing up, keep writing, get a good, honest team who will give you helpful feedback around you and celebrate the wins!
T4JYM: You are a member of various associations and groups, according to your website. How have these helped you grow as an author?
KW: There are so many talented authors in this world who love to share the gospel of Jesus through fiction. To be in the same spaces and rooms as them is an honor. To be able to drink from their well of wisdom and knowledge is not only inspirational but many times so practical. And to also be able to pour into other authors is a blessing. Being an author isn’t just about writing anymore either. You have to learn how to market yourself, work with a publisher, get a grasp on social media… the extra jobs that come with being a writer are many. So these groups and associations are so helpful in so many arenas. I encourage any author to do research and get involved. Sometimes it’s encouraging to meet people who are as weird as you are. 🙂
T4JYM: What advice would you give to the youth of this world?
KW: The Lord loves you and He truly does have a plan for your life. The things of this world are so shiny and draw our attention in so many different directions. But only Jesus truly satisfies. The Christian walk isn’t always easy, but Jesus is worth it. He is the true joy and satisfaction we are all looking for.
T4JYM: Any final thoughts you want to share?
KW: I think that’s it! Thank you for the chance to share some of my story and the faithfulness of God with your readers!
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