Hello !

Wow, 2023 is already flying by! Last month I shared the exciting news about my fiction writing, and that, too, has taken off like a shot! I'm so excited about learning the craft of fiction and sharing the stories God is putting on my heart.  

Thank you to those who have responded to my email with encouragement for this new adventure! My first order of business in regard to including you in this journey is to share with you the premise of this novel to come! Here it is: 

Newlyweds Jake and Grace experience hardships that push them apart, her toward God and him into depression. Which force will win after a devastating crash leaves Jake no choice but to face his grief?

Now, mind you, this premise, just like the novel itself, is a work in progress and subject to change. But it's safe to say this is about a couple who didn't know God and, like so many of us, found Him when they needed Him most.

Last month I also put forth a call to action asking for your input regarding what you would like to learn about spiritual warfare so I could include it in my upcoming blog series. Responses are coming in, but I still want to hear more. You may respond to this email to submit your ideas, questions, experiences, or resources.

I look forward to hearing from you! 

Until then.

Janet Joanou Weiner is this month's Lady Lits Author Highlight!

Working with Janet over the past year and a half has been a delight! She has a way of brightening conversations and asking insightful questions. I've not read much historical fiction, but she has a way of bringing history to life in a captivating way, and she has piqued my interest and left me hungry for more. Even if historical fiction is not your jam, you may still find yourself frantically turning the pages of her books!

Janet is an American who has lived in France for over twenty years. She makes her home in the 500-year-old Château de Planque. She often wishes the walls would tell all the stories.

Janet lives in the south of France, in St. Hippolyte du Fort, nestled in the heart of the Cévennes region. History abounds, centered on the Huguenots and the persecution they suffered. Dramatic, true stories of courage and faith inspired her historical novel: Though Darkness Descend: Book 1, The Huguenot Resistance Series.

She’s hard at work on Book 2, also based on actual events: the Huguenots rising and fighting the authorities and a prophetic movement that occurred among the children and youth.

Hopefully, it will be out by the end of the year. Then on to Book 3, focused on the Nazi’s arrival in town, using the Château de Planque as headquarters. And, if she gets there, Book 4 will be a prequel based on the knight who lived in the Château in the 1540s.

Janet loves discussing Huguenot history, and the book’s themes of God’s goodness and presence in difficult circumstances. She welcomes sharing with book clubs, homeschool groups, podcasts, or individuals.

Though Darkness Descend

The Huguenot Resistance Series Book 1

Janet Joanou Weiner

Jeanne Tessier is unwilling to die for a faith she doesn’t possess. Where was God when she desperately needed him? In her darkest hour, he didn’t seem to hear or care.

Until now, Jeanne has hidden her lack of belief from her Huguenot community. But with the imminent threat of 1200 dragoon soldiers sent by King Louis XIV to suppress them, she faces upheaval in every way––including her hope of marrying Etienne.

Fighting for her way of life, she follows Etienne against his wishes and warning from her close friend Pierre. When the dragoons move into her home, the Château de Planque, Jeanne discovers where God is in suffering and death, who she truly is––and whom she truly loves.

My writing endeavor has never been about making money, so I will not post ads on my website or in my email. However, I will occasionally share works that I feel may interest you or people you know.

I love that you're here, and I hope you'll follow along in my fiction writing journey. If you know of someone working in missions or just beginning their journey, please feel free to share my web address, blog posts, and my books.