Today Toni Shiloh is with us to talk about her new book “The True Vine & Me”
Toni’s new book is a devotional Bible Study on John 15.
Can you tell us little about yourself to introduce you to our readers?
My name is Toni Shiloh and I primarily write Christian contemporary romance books. I love the fiction world and the ability to walk in another characters shoes. I’ve been married for almost twenty years thanks to my own insta-love trope. We have two high schoolers who keep us laughing.
What was your inspiration to write The True Vine and Me: A John 15 Bible Study?
I regularly teach at my church’s women’s Bible studies and when we dove into the book of John, I got chapter 15. The women enjoyed it so much they encouraged me to write a study. I asked for a deadline and voila, the study was created.
How different is it to write a Bible Study to a novel?
So different!! I’m used to making up a world to go around a message I hope the readers will get. And often times, I don’t know what that message will be until I reach the end of my first draft. With this Bible study, I knew the imagery I wanted to convey and the spiritual truths from the get go. I already had an outline and I’m usually the type to avoid that in my fiction writing. But it proved very useful in this format.
Who is this book aimed at?
I wrote specifically with women in mind, but it could be for anyone who wants to see just how our life parallels lessons found in an earthly vineyard.
Did you have to do any research for this book?
I did. I researched vineyards and some other sources to get a full picture. And of course, I used the Bible as my main source.
Did Writing the book impact you in any way?
Definitely. For one, it gave me a love for nonfiction and the truths you can learn in that medium. I wouldn’t mind writing another Bible study. But it also showed me how to rely on God for all of my insecurities that popped up over the course of writing this study.
What is your hope for readers reading this Bible study?
I pray that they find their identity in God and embrace themselves and how He made us to be. Unique, His, and with the ability to flourish in our setting.
Is there anything else you would like to add about this book?
Just a heartfelt thanks to my Wednesday morning ladies. They know who they are and I hope they know how much I appreciate their encouragement and prayerfulness.
Finally, can you tell us about your latest release. Where we can buy the novel and where can we find you on the web?
The True Vine and Me can be purchased as an ebook or paperback from your favorite retailers. I also just released a Christmas novella titled The Christmas Catch. All information for both books can be found on my site: tonishiloh.com. My social media links are listed there as well.
