Writer in Residence + Giveaway

From beloved author Rhonda McKnight comes a new story of faith, history, and the power of legacy that merges the romance of The Bookshop Sisterhoodwith the rich low-country setting of Mary Alice Monroe.

Alexandra Chambers is a writer who has run out of words. Struggling with writers’ block and the pressure to secure a new book deal, she wins a week in a writer-friendly cabin through a drawing held at a local literacy center. When the noise of home threatens to drown out her words, Alexandra heads to the cabin. What she finds is far more than she expected–a vibrant community brimming with inspiration, a past steeped in history and culture, and a man who both intrigues and unsettles her.

Gabe Scott, a bestselling author and the former writer-in-residence, is everything Alexandra feels she’s not–acclaimed, award-winning, and unshakably confident. When their paths cross at the center, his literary brilliance and dedication to helping struggling Gullah students stir feelings Alexandra isn’t ready to confront. Though undeniably attracted to him, Alexandra wrestles with the fear that her books pale beside his celebrated work, and that Taylor, a pretty aspiring novelist, may be exactly the kind of writer who belongs in his world.

When a surprising discovery unearths family history no one expected, her muse is reignited. With the quiet wisdom of Ma Kate, an elderly Gullah cleaning woman, Alexandra finds the strength to forgive truths long withheld, embrace her voice, and write the story only she can tell.

My Review:

McKnight’s storytelling is exquisite – from word choice to depth of character to the inspirational elements – so emotionally impactful.

Having a writer heroine is a dream and I love the honest look we get at both the highs and lows of the publishing industry. This book celebrates the power of story both the written and the lived experience. It’s full of rich cultural history and the complexities of family life. The generational aftermath of dysfunction. Tender relationships threatened by truths long buried. How familial connections reach through decades to play a part in the present day. So profound and thought provoking!

Alex’s family mystery is fascinating. I was so invested in her genealogical pursuits and frustrated and impatient right along with her. But it’s also a journey of self-discovery as she struggles to find her place in the midst of change, both personal and professional.

There are so many inspiring words of wisdom from beloved characters, especially Miss Kate. An octogenarian wonder of resiliency and hope and good old fashioned common sense! Still smiling (and weeping a bit) over this noble lady’s life story. She plays a pivotal role in Alex’s reckoning with herself and her past.

And if all this scope for emotional drama doesn’t hook you, our hero Gabe most certainly will. Swoon! Alex is often discombobulated in his presence and it was so much fun to see that lighter side of her personality. Gabe isn’t in any hurry; his pursuit is slow, almost lazy, but oh so deliberate. And mercy, the teasing banter with sultry hints of tension are enough to spike an unsuspecting reader’s blood pressure. Be still my heart! Keep some smelling salts handy for the duration of the read.

Or listen, in my case. I so enjoyed Bahni Turpin’s narration. She became these characters, presenting all of them with unique easily identifiable voices. From Miss Kate’s wavering tremour to the the recalcitrant teenage voices of the students at the literacy centre, and everything in between. I especially appreciated hearing the hints of the Gullah language. Such an enriching listening experience. Would highly recommend the audio book to discerning listeners.

My thanks to Thomas Nelson, Zondervan Fiction Audio and Net Galley for providing me with an audio copy of this book.

GIVEAWAY OPPORTUNITY:

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: THIS BOOK DOES NOT RELEASE UNTIL SEPTEMBER 8

US –  paperback or ebook – winner’s choice 

Canada – paperback, ebook or audio — winner’s choice

International – ebook if you have a US Kindle account

If you would like a chance to win a copy of Writer in Residence, leave a comment below or email me at kavluvstoread AT yahoo DOT ca. If you add an email to your comment, remember to use AT and DOT instead of @ and . in order to protect yourself from spammers. If you enter the draw via email, please add the title to the subject line so it’s easy to spot your entry. Draw will be held and winner announced on Saturday August 29 2026.