Keely Brooke Keith is the author of The Land Uncharted and Aboard Providence. Keely’s interest in writing began with a childhood fascination for maps—and her novels incorporate an unconventional blending of genres that The Christian Manifesto calls “a mix of science fiction and historical romance.” Keely also creates resources for writers, including The Writer’s Book Launch Guide and The Writer’s Purpose Journal.
She lives with her husband and their daughter on a hilltop south of Nashville.
What started you on your storytelling journey?
I began writing stories and poems at an early age. I had wonderful teachers and librarians, who shared their love of story with me, and a supportive family who’ve always encouraged me. They all inspired me. Daily, I’m driven to write for the sheer pleasure of it and my love for the craft.
Great novels always have a plot twist that makes the story even better. Have you ever experienced a real life “plot twist” that made your life better?
Indeed! In my mid-twenties, I thought I had my life details in perfect order. Everything got uprooted in a matter of months. Everything. But God had a plan. Not only did He draw me to Him and save my soul, He matched me with a godly husband and gave me a family.
Let’s talk about Aboard Providence (CrossRiver Media Group, October 2016). Please tell us about it.
Aboard Providence is a standalone, but it’s tied to my previous books in a unique way. In The Land Uncharted, we learned a little about the founders—the group of American families who settled the Land in the 1860s. Aboard Providence is the story of the founders leaving America, seen though the eyes of the only person who did not want to take that voyage.
God often uses our stories to teach us something when we’re writing them. What did you learn (about life, faith, and/or even yourself) in the process of writing this book?
I am learning where my boundaries are as a writer. God is so graciously enclosing me behind and before and laying His hand upon me (Psalm 139:5). He has given me boundaries out of His love for me and His purpose for my writing so my creativity will flourish and define my unique approach to storytelling.
I write stories about make believe people in an imaginary land who live in simplicity yet go through improbable situations that somehow parallel our lives. No matter the characters and the plot, my stories have the same theme. It is the core message the Lord has given me to share: You can trust God.
In The Land Uncharted, Lydia and Connor had to trust God’s sovereignty. In Uncharted Redemption, Levi and Mandy had to trust God’s forgiveness. In Uncharted Inheritance, Bethany and Everett had to trust God with their future. In Christmas with the Colburns, Lydia had to trust God with her family. When I went back in time to tell the history of the Land, the same theme flowed. In Aboard Providence, Jonah and Marian had to trust God’s unfailing provision.
A few fun questions…
When the words aren’t flowing—or when you want to celebrate if they are—what is your favorite comfort food and why?
When the words aren’t flowing, I go for a walk. When I want to celebrate, I call people who love to celebrate with me. But I can tell you some of my favorite foods are cashews, sweet potatoes, and Frosted Mini Wheat cereal.
What Bible passage or story best describes your journey of faith?
If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. ~ 2 Cor. 5:17
This website features musicians as well as writers. Do you have musical, as well as literary, talent?
I’m a bass guitar player. I’m on the worship team at church and also fill in for several area churches here in Nashville. I’ve played for over twenty years. I used to play in bands and for Christian artists, but writing has taken over the bulk of my limited spare time.
In the story that is your life, are you the strong, female lead; the girl next door; the mysterious woman behind dark glasses; the super heroine; or the little girl trying to walk in high heels?
Yes. All of the above. At the same time. Always. It’s very laborious.
I’m a dog lover. Please tell us about your pets, if any, or your favorite pet as a child.
Years ago I had a spirited cat named Uma. She only drank running water from the faucet, stole small items (pen caps, guitar picks, paper clips) and hid them under the bed, and if I left a loaf of bread on the kitchen counter, she’d cuddled with it.
Thanks, Keely! It’s great to have you as a guest at DivineDetour.
Thank you for having me!
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For more information about Keely, visit her website or on Facebook or Twitter.
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