DiAnn Mills ~ FamilyFiction Plus

As FamilyFiction's Historical Correspondent I was privileged to interview multi published author DiAnn Mills
for the third edition of the FamilyFiction magazine.

I can now share my complete interview with DiAnn on writing, Sudan and her latest novel, The Fire in Ember ~ enjoy!

What makes your latest character, Ember Farrer, unique?

Ember dreamed of a life free of physical and mental pain. She found the courage to escape her family’s abuse, but running didn’t release the shackles that kept her chained to her past. Ember had to reach deep inside for the faith and courage to face her problems and be rid of her fears forever.

In your research for The Fire in Ember, what was an interesting fact you discovered about the time period, people or Colorado?

The most noteworthy discovery was the people’s willingness to make sacrifices for those they loved. They shared their time, resources, faith, food, and whatever they had so others wouldn’t go without. Their unity of purpose is a trait we could use today.

How does writing an historical novel differ from a contemporary tale?

Historical novels involve a slower pace. Although the facts about the people and the setting are sometimes hard to find, history is unchanging. I find a historical is easier to write. A contemporary story involves the latest technology, world happenings, politics, and a complex world that changes moment-by-moment.

With over 50 books to your name, what continues to inspire you to write?

I have so many stories floating around in my head. Every time I hear an interesting tidbit of history or observe the media, a story begins to form. I don’t think I’ll ever run out of plot ideas.

God has blessed me with the gift of imagination and writing. The two form a dynamic that I can’t ignore.

What do you hope readers take away from your novels?

A common theme is for my characters to release those things from the past that hold them back from being all that God has purposed for them. Often they must forgive themselves or others before they can enjoy a life of peace.

You are passionate about the people of Sudan ~ please share how that came about

In 2002, I became aware of the plight of the Sudanese—their sufferings and their incredible faith. I was saddened to see how they were persecuted by the northern government for their Christianity. Their homes were destroyed, families killed, and daughters taken into slavery. During the writing of a nonfiction book, Lost Boy No More, I met many wonderful Sudanese who practiced their Christianity and worked to make their country a better place to live. I’ve visited Southern Sudan, and I’ve seen faith in action. I wrote the nonfiction book with Abraham Nhial, one of the Lost Boys, who is now the bishop of the Aweil Diocese in Southern Sudan.

I also wrote two novels about the persecuted southern Sudanese, When the Lion Roars and When the Nile Runs Red. These books reflected the lives of three people, who varied in their views about how the south should be free.

Relz Reviewz Extras

Character spotlight on Ember & John

Review of A Woman Called Sage

Interview with DiAnn

Visit DiAnn's website

Buy DiAnn's books at Amazon and Koorong

Read FamilyFiction's third edition