A Woman’s Heart with Lisa Granger

Ever have a dream that seems to take much longer than you expected?It's easy to wonder if you've missed your opportunity, but God often uses the waiting to shape our hearts, strengthen our faith, and prepare us for something greater than we imagined.In this Gem from the Archives from 2024, bestselling author Gabrielle Meyer shares how her lifelong love of history and reading eventually grew into a writing career. Along the way, she faced rejection, criticism, and seasons of waiting, but the encouragement of faithful people in her life—and God's perfect timing—helped her continue pursuing the calling He had placed on her heart.Gabrielle also shares the inspiration behind the first novel in her beloved Timeless series, where history, faith, and unforgettable characters come together in stories that remind us God is always at work across every generation.Since this conversation was originally recorded, the Timeless series has grown to seven books, with another installment on the way. Gabrielle has also recently released To Dance with a Duke, with To Educate an Earl scheduled for release in October 2026.Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering Gabrielle's books for the first time, this conversation is a wonderful reminder that God is faithful to fulfill His purposes in His timing.About Gabrielle MeyerGabrielle Meyer lives on the banks of the Upper Mississippi River with her husband and four children. As a former employee of the Minnesota Historical Society, she developed a deep love for Minnesota's rich history, which inspires both her historical and contemporary novels. The Mississippi River serves as a constant source of inspiration, and readers will find a river flowing through each of her stories. When she's not writing, Gabrielle enjoys homeschooling her children, cheering them on at sporting and theatrical events, and gathering family and friends around her table.Connect with Gabrielle at https://gabriellemeyer.com/ .In This Episode:Trusting God's timing through seasons of waitingPersevering through rejection and criticismUsing the gifts God has given you to bless othersIf this episode encourages you, share it with a friend who may need the reminder that God is still writing their story—even in the waiting.For the complete summer reading list: https://www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading Because God has placed something precious in every woman's heart.

Need a little escape into a happily-ever-after? Sometimes life leaves us discouraged, overwhelmed, and questioning whether our dreams are worth pursuing. In this encouraging conversation, bestselling author Pepper Basham reminds us that God places unique gifts and passions in our hearts for a reason—and our calling is to be faithful with them, writing, creating, and serving for an audience of One.Although Pepper always loved reading and writing, she put those dreams on hold while building a career and raising a family. When God opened the door for her to write, she had to push past feelings of inadequacy and trust that He would use the stories He'd placed on her heart.This episode is a Gem from the Archives, originally recorded two years ago, and it's the perfect addition to this year's Summer Reading Series.Pepper Basham is an award-winning and bestselling author whose novels blend romance, faith, grace, and plenty of humor. Whether she's writing contemporary rom-coms or historical fiction, her stories often feature her beloved Appalachian roots and her lifelong affection for the United Kingdom. Since this interview originally aired, Pepper has released several fan favorites, including Some Like It Scot, A Brewed Awakening, and her latest novel, The Bachelor Spy. Readers can also look forward to her upcoming release, Pride and Practicality, arriving in November 2026.In this episode, you'll discover:Why it's never too late to pursue the dream God has placed in your heart.How to overcome the lies of "I'm not enough."The importance of creating for an audience of One.Encouragement to embrace joy, creativity, and God's timing.Whether you're looking for your next great read or need encouragement to take the next step in your own calling, this conversation will inspire you to trust God with the gifts He's given you.Learn more about Pepper and all of her books at pepperdbasham.com .You can get the summer reading list at www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading Because God has placed something precious in every woman's heart.

Have you ever felt trapped by anxiety or overwhelmed by fear? You're not alone—and neither was bestselling biblical fiction author Tessa Afshar.In this Gem from the Archives from our Summer Reading Series, Tessa shares her deeply personal journey from growing up in a nominally Muslim family in the Middle East to discovering Jesus in her twenties. She opens up about her years-long battle with anxiety, the transforming power of God's love, and how learning to trust Him brought lasting peace.Whether you're navigating anxious thoughts, longing to grow closer to God, or simply looking for an inspiring conversation with one of today's most beloved biblical fiction authors, this episode offers timeless encouragement and hope.Since this conversation first aired, Tessa has continued captivating readers with several new novels, including her acclaimed Queen Esther's Court series featuring The Queen's Cook and The Royal Artisan. Her newest novel, The Palace Spy, releases this November.In this episode, you'll discover:Tessa's remarkable journey to faith in JesusHow God met her in the midst of anxiety and fearThe inspiration behind writing biblical fictionTessa Afshar is an award-winning author whose novels have appeared on the Publishers Weekly and CBA bestseller lists and have been translated into 12 languages. She is the recipient of the ECPA Bronze Milestone Award, Christy Award, INSPY Award, and ECPA Christian Book Award for her Bible study, The Way Home. Tessa earned her Master of Divinity from Yale University and lives with her husband, where she enjoys experimenting with biblical recipes and attempting to keep her garden alive.Connect with Tessa: https://tessaafshar.com/ For the complete Summer Reading List and connect with Lisa: https://www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading Because God has placed something precious in every woman's heart."

In this episode of A Woman’s Heart Summer Reading Series, Lisa Granger welcomes author, podcaster, coach, and speaker Rebecca George. Rebecca shares the journey behind her new children's book, Jasper Meets Sparkle, and the lessons she learned through the self-publishing process. From trusting God's timing and provision to overcoming fear and comparison, Rebecca offers encouragement for anyone pursuing a dream or calling God has placed on their heart.Rebecca also discusses how Jasper Meets Sparkle is designed to spark meaningful faith conversations within families and includes a unique field guide that helps children identify plants and animals featured throughout the story.3 Key Takeaways from This Episode1. Trust God's Timing Even When the Path Isn't ClearRebecca shares the challenges of self-publishing and the uncertainty that came with the process. Through every delay, decision, and financial risk, she learned to trust God's provision and timing, even when the outcome wasn't fully visible.2. Be Open-Handed with God's DirectionWhat started as a children's story grew into something much more, including a 16-page field guide designed to encourage exploration and family discussion. Rebecca reminds us that God's plans often exceed our expectations when we remain flexible and willing to follow His lead.3. Don't Let Fear, Comparison, or Insecurity Stop YouDrawing from her book Do The Thing, Rebecca encourages women to identify the specific obstacles keeping them from pursuing their calling. Whether it's fear, self-doubt, or comparison, taking one faithful step forward can make all the difference.About Rebecca GeorgeRebecca George is an author, podcaster, coach, and speaker whose greatest joy in life is discipling others to pursue their passions in a way that builds the Kingdom. In her free time, you can find her running outside, writing, or trying a new recipe with '90s country music playing in the background. Rebecca and her husband, Dustin, live in East Tennessee. • Instagram: @rebeccageorgeauthor• Website: www.radicalradiance.live • Jasper Meets Sparkle – Available at thejasperbooks.com Summer Reading GuideLooking for more great summer reads? Download Lisa's free Summer Reading Guide featuring authors and books discussed on the podcast this year and some previous guests. www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading 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:
God Can Use Waiting Seasons for Good
Grace Is Stronger Than Shame
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/
Get the 2026 Summer Reading List
Connect with Lisa: www.lisagranger.com 

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
Faith Often Requires Stepping Into the UnknownJane 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.
Your Detours May Become Your PurposeWhat seemed like an unexpected career shift eventually became the foundation for Jane's writing ministry and bestselling career.
Hope Is Found Through Faith, Family, and CommunityThrough 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/
Summer Reading List
Looking for more inspiring reads this summer? Grab your free summer reading guide!
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.

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
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.
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.
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
Summer Reading List
Looking for more great Christian fiction and nonfiction recommendations this summer?
Get your free Summer Reading List!
If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. You can find more inspiring conversations and resources at www.lisagranger.com.
Because God has placed something precious in every woman's heart.

What stories have shaped your life—and which ones have yet to be told?
In this episode of A Woman's Heart, Lisa welcomes Christy Award-winning author Sara Brunsvold to discuss her novel, Atlas of Untold Stories. Sara shares the inspiration behind a story that follows a mother and her two grown daughters on a literary road trip through the Midwest, exploring themes of family legacy, healing, identity, and faith.
Drawing from her love of literature, her Midwestern roots, and her own journey as a writer, Sara offers insight into the powerful influence of family stories and the importance of creating space for meaningful conversations. Together, Lisa and Sara discuss the generational beliefs we inherit, the courage it takes to challenge limiting mindsets, and the beauty of pursuing God-given passions with purpose.
Listeners will be encouraged to reflect on the stories that have shaped them and consider how God may be writing a new chapter in their own lives.
Three Key Takeaways
Untold stories can bring healing and deeper connection.
Sara encourages readers to create space for vulnerable conversations with loved ones. Through patience, grace, and a willingness to listen, family stories that have remained hidden can become pathways to understanding and healing.
Fear often silences hope.
One of the memorable themes from Atlas of Untold Stories is the idea that "until the fear is quieted, the hope can't be heard." The novel explores how fear can shape generations and how faith helps us move forward into freedom and hope.
God-honoring passions are worth pursuing.
Sara shares her personal journey of becoming a novelist despite practical concerns and discouragement. She encourages listeners to keep God at the center of their dreams, seek His guidance, and trust Him with the outcome.
About Sara Brunsvold
Sara Brunsvold (pronounced Bruns—as in "bRUN"—vold as in "vOLD") is the Christy Award-winning author of The Extraordinary Deaths of Mrs. Kip and The Divine Proverb of Streusel. She creates stories that boldly engage contemporary issues through the lens of hope and unshakable faith. Her passion is to connect with readers first through books and then through meaningful conversation. Sara lives with her family in Kansas.
Connect with Sara: https://sarabrunsvold.com/
Get your free Summer Reading list: www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading
Because God has placed something precious in every woman's heart.

On this episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa sits down with award-winning children’s author Liz A. Pitman to talk about identity in Christ, purpose, and helping children understand their God-given worth from an early age.
Liz shares the powerful story behind her beloved “Pete the Puzzle Piece” series and how a simple puzzle piece moment became the inspiration for a ministry focused on reminding children — and adults — that they are deeply loved, uniquely created, and valuable in God’s eyes.
Throughout the conversation, Liz opens up about overcoming doubt during the writing process, trusting God through challenges, and recognizing the “God winks” that confirmed she was walking in His purpose. She also encourages parents to intentionally build a strong spiritual foundation in their children’s lives by helping them understand their identity in Christ.
This uplifting conversation is a reminder that no matter your age, your value is not based on performance or comparison — you are God’s masterPIECE.
3 Key Takeaways
Your identity and worth are found in Christ, not in accomplishments or comparison.
God often confirms our purpose through small moments of encouragement and “God winks.”
Parents can help shape a child’s confidence and purpose by speaking truth and identity into their lives early.
About Liz Pitman:
Liz A. Pitman is an award-winning author, speaker, and founder of Puzzle Piece Productions and Publications. Her award-winning book Where Is the Missing Puzzle Piece? encourages children and families to discover their identity, purpose, and worth in Christ, reminding every “puzzle piece” they are loved, valuable, and God’s masterPIECE. For more information about her books and resources, or to schedule Liz for a reading or speaking engagement, visit petethepuzzlepiece.com. 
For the Summer Reading List: www.lisagranger.com/summer-reading

In this captivating Summer Reading Series episode of A Woman’s Heart, Lisa sits down with bestselling Christian Gothic novelist Jaime Jo Wright to explore the deeper themes behind her haunting and hope-filled stories. Jaime shares why she’s drawn to the Christian Gothic genre, how suspense and mystery can point readers toward faith, and the inspiration behind her newest novel, The Bookshop of 99 Doors.
The conversation dives into powerful topics including forgiveness, reconciliation, mental illness, PTSD, family dynamics, generational legacy, and navigating differences in faith and beliefs with grace and healthy boundaries. Jaime also reflects on the sacrifices and struggles military veterans face, and how God can work through difficult relationships and painful histories. There’s a nod to former Summer Reading author Pepper Basham.
This episode is full of wisdom, encouragement, and thoughtful conversation about how light can shine even through life’s darkest hallways.
3 Key Takeaways
Healthy boundaries and loving relationships can coexist, even when families or friends hold different beliefs and perspectives.
Our personal stories are deeply shaped by generational legacies, hidden struggles, and the people who came before us.
God can use creativity, storytelling, and even darker themes to reveal hope, healing, grace, and redemption.
About Jaime Jo Wright
Jaime Jo Wright is a coffee-fueled, cat-loving author who lives in the rural woodlands of Wisconsin with her family, six cats, an axolotl, and far too many houseplants. Known for her atmospheric Christian Gothic novels inspired by Edgar Allan Poe, Jaime blends mystery, suspense, and faith with stories that lead readers through dark hallways toward hope-filled endings.
Learn more at Jaime Wright Books
Conversation with Pepper Basham.
Get the Summer Reading list and connect with Lisa