Since she burst on the publishing scene in 1997, Jacquelin Thomas has continued to make her mark. She recently shared insight into her writing journey.
Why did you decide to write Christian fiction?
I never chose to write Christian fiction, but the tone of my stories started to change—they were stories about people like me: flawed but had a heart for God. These were the types of stories I wanted to read, so it was then that I realized this pull to write stories with a faith element were an answered prayer. It was a calling.
How has the genre changed over the years?
For the most part, the mission remains the same: the Bible is the foundation upon which Christian fiction stories are based. The themes of these stories shed a light upon topics such as infertility, same-sex relationships, sexual and drug abuse, etc. Real issues that individuals deal with in the real world. The genre seeks to bring hope to the hopeless, minister to the heartbroken and wounded in spirit. It seeks to show God’s unwavering love for His children. Over the years, I’ve seen the tone of the books vary from sweet and clean to a more modern worldview.
What advice do you have for aspiring Christian fiction authors?
If seeking publication, please make sure your manuscripts fits within the publisher’s guidelines. Read books in the genre published by that particular house.
What has been the hardest part of your writing career?
The hardest part of my writing career was meeting deadlines after I lost my mother and my daughter. It was a challenging time for me. I know that it was my Heavenly Father who helped me finish those books.
What has been the best part of your writing career?
Every time I release a book is the best part of my career. I’ve been published since 1997, and it’s a blessing that I’m still able to write and sell books today. I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to write romance, young adult, Christian fiction, and now suspense. This is a very exciting time for me.
What’s something readers would be surprised to know about you?
Hmmm…. Probably that I’m a huge lover of history—wars in particular. Also that I have a large collection of books on weapons, American history, and military history.
Who are your favorite Christian fiction authors?
Stacy Hawkins Adams
Tia McCollors
Rhonda McKnight…. There are too many to name so I’ll just say that I love the genre as a whole and I’ve discovered some wonderful authors.
What books have you read lately and loved?
I haven’t had much time to read anything other than research books. My TBR pile is crazy, but I’m looking forward to reading during the holidays later this year. However, I did get a chance to read:
Something Good by Vanessa Miller
A Low Country Bride by Preslaysa Williams
Island Queen by Vanessa Riley
What books are you excited to read?
The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story by Nikole Hannah-Jones
A Sweet Lowcountry Proposal by Preslaysa Williams
Mercy by Love Belvin
Grace by Love Belvin
What’s next for you?
Her Marine Hero releases this week [August 28, 2022] with Harlequin Heartwarming, and my first cold case suspense [Evidence Uncovered] for Love Inspired will release October 2022.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
I have to thank the readers for 25 years of support.
To learn more about Jacquelin Thomas, visit her website or connect with her on social media.
email: [email protected]
web: jacquelin-thomas.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/jacquelinwrites
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jacquelin.thomas/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jacquelinthomas