Today’s post is a fun change-up from my usual content. I am very proud to introduce you to my talented friend, Kristin Shonkwiler, the author of “The Truth Behind the Lie.” My friendship with Kristin began our junior year of high school while attending the Chrysalis retreat together. After a few years apart we re-kindled our relationship this Fall and I believe God has blessed us both through it. Kristin’s first book was recently published and made available for purchase! I enjoyed reading it on the beach and would love for you all to give it a read! Let’s hear what the author has to say about it:
Hey Kristin! Would you tell the Still Waters Blog readers a little bit about yourself?
My name is Kristin Shonkwiler. I am 25 years old. I gradated from John Hardin High School in 2011 where I played basketball and softball. After high school I played basketball for Kentucky Christian University before transferring to Campbellsville University, where I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. My family is the best support system anyone could ever ask for and I’m blessed to call them mine. Writing is a passion I’ve had since the age of 17. I love creating new characters and realities. My love for writing became my safe haven through tough time and I will forever thank God for blessing me with this gift.
Becoming a published author by age 25 is quite impressive! How does it feel to accomplish this dream?
It still feels very unreal. I’ve been working towards this for a long time and a part of me feels like it is somewhat of a dream. God greatly blessed me by giving me even the smallest bit of talent to have my book published. I know I couldn’t have done any of this without God’s love and guidance. It’s something that I will remember for the rest of my life and it shows that God really does answers prayers. Sometimes you just have to be a little patient.
Tell us a little bit about your writing process… how long did it take and what was your favorite part?
To be honest my process looks like sitting down anywhere I can, putting on music and writing whatever comes to mind. Sometimes if I get stuck on one story, I’ll move on to another one I’m simultaneously working on, just to get out other ideas. It took me about 18 months to complete “The Truth Behind the Lie.” The part I enjoyed the most was going back to re-read everything once the book was completely finished. It was almost surreal to read through the whole book and see the story unfold that, for or so long, only existed in my head.
Will you give us a preview of what readers can expect from “The Truth Behind the Lie”?
I hope the readers will find something interesting about the story. I think that it truly has something for everyone. It’s a story about love, secrets, heartbreak and forgotten memories. The story centers around Kaden Wright and Allison Casey. Kaden is a Secret Service agent assigned to protect Allison and her father, Brian Casey, who is running for the United States presidency. Even from their first meeting, for reasons Allison can’t understand, she is attracted to Kaden who seems determined to keep her at a distance. Because of secrets in their past, in Kaden’s mind, keeping Allison away from him is the only way to keep her safe. For him, protecting her is the most important thing no matter his true feelings.
What do you hope readers will take away from your work?
The thing I want people to take away from this story is that pure and unconditional love exists. Sometimes people just have to be patient. Also, I would hope to encourage everyone that even in the darkest of times when it seems like there’s no light at the end of the tunnel, there is always someone who loves you enough to pull you back into the light. Sometimes the only thing you have to do is ask.
Where can we buy your book?!
Everyone can purchase the book online through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and iTunes. Simply type “The Truth Behind the Lie, Kristin Shonkwiler” into the search bar and you’ll find it! Or click here for a direct link –>> https://www.amazon.com/Truth-Behind-Lie-Kristin-Shonkwiler/dp/1641915617/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1530289634&sr=8-1&keywords=the+truth+behind+the+lies
Finally, I want to say thank you to my sweet friend Mallory Jenkins for helping me get the word out about my book. She truly is an amazing friend and I’m so glad God put her in my life. Also, I want to thank everyone who took the time to read this interview and if you decide to purchase my book, I hope you enjoy reading it. Thank you all!
And there you have it folks! “The Truth Behind the Lie” is an easy read, especially this summer while you’re laying by the pool or the beach! It is an exciting story full of friendship, suspense, mystery and a message that unconditional love wins every time. This book is appropriate (this is such a rare quality in today’s modern world) for readers of all ages… I could see myself enjoying it as much at 14 as I did at 24. Thank you, Kristin, for sharing your work with all of us! I am so proud of you!
Still Waters 