Essential Writing Tips

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

305: Cliffhangers That Keep Readers Hooked | Christian Fiction Writing Advice

Cliffhangers aren’t just for thrillers—they can make Christian fiction irresistible when done right. In this episode, Jen, Tina, and Jamie break down how to end chapters with tension, suspense, and faith-filled payoff without frustrating your audience—or compromising your message.

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

304: Pacing & Momentum: Crafting Your Story’s Pulse

Every story has a heartbeat—and as a writer, you control its rhythm. In this episode of the Christian Indie Writers Podcast, we’re diving into pacing and momentum. Together, they create the pulse that keeps your readers turning pages. Whether you’re writing Christian fiction, fantasy, romance, or mystery, this episode will give you the tools to balance speed with soul—so your stories engage the mind and stir the spirit.

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

303: Faith Meets Fantasy: Allegory in K-Pop Demon Hunter

Have you seen or heard of KPop Demon Hunters? It’s sweeping the nation right now. But, how can it help you become a better writer? This week on the podcast we’re talking Allegory and inspiration. If you want to write a good Allegory, you first need to be able to understand what one is. On today’s episode we’ll train you to spot Allegory, even if it seems like a bit of a stretch! In this thought-provoking episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we dive into the unexpected intersection of pop culture and Christian storytelling. Inspired by the K-Pop-themed graphic novel “KPop Demon Hunters”, we explore how allegory can be used as a powerful tool to reflect truth, faith, and spiritual warfare in fiction.

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

302: Underused POVs: Writing from the Side Character’s View

ired of the same old POV? In this episode, we explore how writing from a side character’s point of view can add depth, mystery, and fresh insight to your novel. Learn when and why to use this underused POV, how it supports unreliable narration, and ways it can strengthen your story’s spiritual and emotional impact.

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

301: Writing through Grief

In this heartfelt episode of the Christian Indie Writers Podcast, our hosts open up about navigating personal grief while trying to keep writing. From the brain fog and burnout that follow loss, to the surprising ways sorrow can shape our creative voice, we share honest stories, practical tips, and biblical encouragement for writing through hard seasons. We also reflect on the collective grief surrounding recent public tragedies, like the death of Charlie Kirk, and how cultural loss can weigh on writers too. Whether you’re mourning a loved one, grieving lost dreams, or just feeling stuck, this episode offers compassion, hope, and gentle strategies to help you keep your faith and your pen steady.

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

300: Celebrating 7 Years of Shenanigans with the Christian Indie Writers

Three hundred episodes. Seven years. Countless words, stories, and conversations. In this special milestone episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, the hosts take a heartfelt look back at the journey so far—sharing favorite memories, lessons learned, and the moments that shaped both the show and their writing lives. They’ll also look ahead to the future of the podcast, exploring what’s next for the community, the craft, and the calling that brought them together in the first place. Join us as we celebrate the past, embrace the present, and dream about what’s still to come.

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

299: Progress Check In for Writers

We’re halfway through the year—how’s your writing journey going? In this episode, we’ll pause to celebrate the progress you’ve made, reflect on your original writing goals, and reset your focus for the next six months. Whether you’ve published a book, drafted a few chapters, or just kept your creative spark alive, this is your chance to realign with what really matters.

You’ll learn:

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

298: Building a Strong Indie Author Network: Collaborating Without Compromise

Your indie author journey was never meant to be walked alone—but how do you find your people without losing your purpose?

In this episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.

297: Faith-Fueled Worldbuilding: What Does a Christian Magic System Look Like?

“Is your fantasy world leading readers closer to God, or just into the woods?” Christian fantasy authors often wrestle with a big question: Can I use magic in my stories without compromising biblical truth? In this episode, we break down how to create magic systems that are imaginative, compelling, and Christ-honoring.

Jenifer Carll-Tong is the best-selling author of historical Christian romances and co-host of the Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast.